Kota Bharu, Kelantan Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics
How much can you earn on Airbnb in Kota Bharu, Kelantan? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $2,773 per year — at a $55 nightly rate, 20.0% occupancy, and a $11 RevPAR that reflects a wider gap between nightly rates and realized revenue that rewards occupancy-focused strategies.
Kota Bharu's 439 active listings and selective demand that rewards strong listing quality and pricing strategy position it as a midsize vacation rental market. Supply grew 90.0% over the past year, yet revenue and nightly rates both trended upward — a signal that traveler demand is outpacing new inventory rather than being diluted by it. For hosts, pricing power remains intact even as competition increases.
Regulation is low with minimal registration requirements, pointing to an operator-friendly environment. The data points to a market where fundamentals reward execution — the right property, priced well, in the right neighborhood still outperforms.
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What Are the Key Airbnb Metrics in Kota Bharu?
In Kota Bharu, the headline Airbnb metrics are $2,773 in average annual revenue,20.0% occupancy, $55 ADR, and $11 in RevPAR, and guests book about 30 days in advance.
How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Kota Bharu?
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Kota Bharu is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Seasonality significantly impacts earnings. Our analysis, based on data from the past 12 months, shows that the peak revenue month for STRs in Kota Bharu is typically September, while February often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Kota Bharu across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $787+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $494 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $274 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $144, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Kota Bharu
What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Kota Bharu?
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Kota Bharu STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Septembersees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while February experiences the lowest (low season). Effective strategies, like adjusting minimum stays or offering promotions, can boost occupancy during slower periods. Here's how different property tiers perform in Kota Bharu:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 43%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 30% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 18%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 10% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Kota Bharu
What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Kota Bharu?
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Kota Bharu involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Kota Bharu typically peaks in March and dips lowest during April. Leveraging Airbnb dynamic pricing tools or strategies based on this seasonality can significantly boost revenue. Here's a look at the typical nightly rates achieved:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) command rates of $87+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $65 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $51 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $38 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Kota Bharu
What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Kota Bharu?
RevPAR in Kota Bharu is currently $11. Because RevPAR combines nightly rates with realized occupancy, it is one of the cleanest ways to compare how efficiently listings turn demand into revenue across the market.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see $6 RevPAR.
- Typical properties (Median) generate $10 RevPAR.
- Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $14 RevPAR.
- Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $21 RevPAR.
Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Kota Bharu
RevPAR Insights for Kota Bharu
- The average RevPAR in Kota Bharu is $11. This metric combines nightly rates with realized occupancy, making it one of the best single-number indicators of market efficiency.
- The gap between the top 10% ($21) and bottom 25% ($6) is $15, suggesting a relatively compressed market where operational differences yield moderate returns.
- RevPAR peaks in Sep and bottoms out in Jan, mirroring the broader seasonal demand pattern and suggesting opportunities for dynamic pricing.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Track your own RevPAR monthly against these Kota Bharu benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $10, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
- Top-quartile listings achieve $14+ RevPAR through a combination of competitive pricing, strong reviews, and strategic amenities. Target this tier through incremental improvements.
- Use RevPAR rather than revenue alone when comparing properties of different sizes — it normalizes for available nights and gives a more accurate picture of performance.
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When Is the Peak Season for Airbnb in Kota Bharu?
Kota Bharu's peak Airbnb season falls in September, July, March, while the softest stretch is January, February, November. Overall, the market shows moderate seasonality with distinct peak and low periods, which should guide pricing, minimum stays, and cash-flow planning.
Peak Season (September, July, March)
- Revenue averages $451 per month
- Occupancy rates average 25.2%
- Daily rates average $59
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $362 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 21.4%
- Daily rates hold near $58
Low Season (January, February, November)
- Revenue drops to average $303 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 19.6%
- Daily rates adjust to average $59
Seasonality Insights for Kota Bharu
- The Airbnb seasonality pattern in Kota Bharu shows moderate seasonality with distinct peak and low periods. While the sections above show seasonal averages, it is also insightful to look at the extremes:
- During the high season, the absolute peak month showcases Kota Bharu's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $466, occupancy reaching 27.1%, and ADRs peaking at $62.
- Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $293, occupancy could drop to 18.6%, and ADRs may adjust to $56.
- Understanding both the seasonal averages and these monthly peaks and troughs in revenue, occupancy, and ADR is crucial for maximizing your Airbnb profit potential in Kota Bharu.
Seasonal Strategies for Maximizing Profit
- Peak Season: Maximize revenue through premium pricing and potentially longer minimum stays. Ensure high availability and consider tightening cancellation policies to reduce last-minute gaps.
- Low Season: Offer competitive pricing, extended-stay discounts, and flexible cancellation policies. Target off-season travelers like remote workers, budget-conscious guests, and travelers with flexible schedules.
- Shoulder Seasons: Implement dynamic pricing that bridges peak and low rates. Target weekend travelers, local events, and business visitors. Slightly more flexible terms than peak season can help maintain occupancy without deep discounting.
- Regularly analyze your own performance against these Kota Bharu seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.
Do You Need a License for Airbnb in Kota Bharu?
Low regulation and minimal registration activity in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, Malaysia point to an operator-friendly environment. That said, even low-regulation markets may have tax collection requirements, safety standards, or HOA rules that affect short-term rental operations. Always verify the latest short-term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Kota Bharu to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2026, based on 0% licensed listings)
What Are the Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Kota Bharu?
Location within Kota Bharu matters. Even in a midsize market, the difference between neighborhoods can mean a material gap in occupancy, nightly rate, and overall Airbnb revenue. Below are 8 areas where short-term rental activity and guest interest are concentrated — along with the reasons each neighborhood appeals to travelers.
| Neighborhood / Area | Why Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal) | Key Attractions & Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| Kampung Kraftangan | Cultural hub showcasing traditional crafts and local heritage. Attracts tourists interested in local art and culture, making it a good location for cultural Airbnb stays. | Kampung Kraftangan, Siti Khadijah Market, Kelantan State Museum, Batu Caves, Handicraft Village |
| Pantai Cahaya Bulan | Famous beach location known for its stunning sunsets and beach activities. Ideal for tourists looking to relax by the beach with various water sports and dining options available. | Pantai Cahaya Bulan Beach, Beachfront Restaurants, Fishing Village, Water Sports Activities, Sunset Viewing Spots |
| Kota Bharu City Centre | The vibrant heart of Kota Bharu with easy access to shopping, dining, and local attractions. Perfect for travelers wanting to be in the center of it all. | Kota Bharu Central Market, Siti Khadijah Market, Kota Bharu Mall, Bus Station, Local eateries |
| Kampung Durian Burung | A tranquil village area showcasing rural Kelantan. Great for those wanting an authentic local experience away from city life. | Rice Fields, Traditional Villages, Local Homestays, Nature Walks, Cultural Experiences |
| Jalan Langgar | Known for its historical landmarks and old-world charm. A good area for tourists interested in the history of Kota Bharu and its architecture. | Wakaf Siti Khadijah, Istana Jahar, Kadok Palace, Sultan Muhammad IV Stadium |
| Pasir Mas | Nearby town known for its local markets and food scene. It draws visitors looking to experience the local lifestyle and gastronomy. | Pasir Mas Market, Local Food Stalls, Traditional Crafts |
| Tumpat | A district known for its proximity to the Thai border and local cultural experiences. It attracts visitors interested in exploring nearby attractions. | Pengkalan Kubor, Cultural Festivals, Buddhist Temples |
| Gua Musang | A bit farther from Kota Bharu, known for its limestone caves and eco-tourism. Ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers. | Gua Musang Caves, Nature Trails, Temenggor Lake |
With 8 distinct neighborhoods showing meaningful short-term rental activity, Kota Bharu offers diversification within a single market. Investors can tailor their strategy — from high-turnover tourist zones to quieter residential areas that attract longer stays and remote workers.
What Types of Properties Are on Airbnb in Kota Bharu?
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Kota Bharu
- The Kota Bharu Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 90.9% of the 439 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Kota Bharu, Apartment/Condo properties are the most common (52.6%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 38% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- The presence of 7.7% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
- Smaller segments like others, outdoor/unique (combined 1.6%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Kota Bharu Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Kota Bharu
- The dominant room capacity in Kota Bharu is 1 bedroom listings, making up 27.8% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 1 bedroom and 3 bedrooms properties represent 52.2% of the active Airbnb listings in Kota Bharu, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 39.6% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Kota Bharu.
Kota Bharu Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Kota Bharu
- The most common guest capacity trend in Kota Bharu vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (32.8%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 8+ guests and 4 guests dominate the Kota Bharu STR market, accounting for 53.8% of listings.
- 50.1% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Kota Bharu.
- On average, properties in Kota Bharu are equipped to host 5.4 guests.
How Do Listings in Kota Bharu Compare on Quality?
Listing quality in Kota Bharu can be approximated through presentation depth, bedroom count, and how often hosts disclose exact locations. These signals show how professionally the local supply base is merchandised.
Listing Quality Insights for Kota Bharu
- At 20.5 photos per listing on average, Kota Bharu hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
- 25.3% of listings show their exact location. Lower disclosure rates can increase booking hesitation — guests want to know exactly where they are staying.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Enable exact location if possible — it removes a common source of guest uncertainty and can improve your listing's position in map-based searches.
- Use these quality indicators as a self-audit checklist. Listings that exceed the Kota Bharu averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.
What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Kota Bharu?
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Kota Bharu
- Essential amenities in Kota Bharu that guests expect include: Air conditioning, Free parking on premises, TV. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Wifi, Iron, Kitchen are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
- Warning: Wifi is not universally provided but is considered essential globally. Ensure reliable Wifi is offered.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Kota Bharu: Air conditioning, Free parking on premises, TV.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Air conditioning, Free parking on premises, TV.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Wifi or Iron to increase appeal.
- Highlight unique or less common amenities you offer (e.g., hot tub, dedicated workspace, EV charger) in your listing description and photos.
- Regularly check competitor amenities in Kota Bharu to stay competitive.
Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Kota Bharu?
Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Kota Bharu, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.
| Amenity | Prevalence | Revenue With | Revenue Without | Revenue Uplift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Wifi | 87.5% | $3,005 | $1,150 | 161.4% |
Barbecue utensilsHigh opportunity | 1.6% | $6,936 | $2,705 | 156.4% |
Fire pitHigh opportunity | 2.7% | $6,265 | $2,674 | 134.2% |
TV | 95.7% | $2,843 | $1,224 | 132.3% |
Free parking on premises | 95.9% | $2,829 | $1,447 | 95.5% |
Board games | 1.1% | $4,879 | $2,748 | 77.5% |
Outdoor shower | 14.8% | $4,193 | $2,526 | 66.0% |
Kitchen | 74.5% | $3,083 | $1,867 | 65.1% |
BBQ grill | 22.1% | $3,953 | $2,438 | 62.2% |
Oven | 4.8% | $4,344 | $2,694 | 61.3% |
Revenue Impact Insights for Kota Bharu
- Wifi tops the revenue impact list with a 161.4% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $3,005 vs. $1,150 without it.
- High-opportunity amenities — Barbecue utensils, Fire pit — combine revenue uplift above 100% with prevalence under 10%, meaning most competitors haven't adopted them yet.
- Wifi, TV, Free parking on premises — while widespread — still correlate with meaningful revenue gains, making them table stakes rather than true differentiators.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Prioritize adding Barbecue utensils — it has the best combination of high revenue impact and low market saturation in Kota Bharu.
- Focus your upgrade budget on amenities in the top half of this table. Below-median amenities may improve guest experience but contribute less to revenue growth.
- Highlight revenue-impacting amenities prominently in your listing title, photos, and description — guests can't value what they don't notice.
Dive Deeper: Advanced Kota Bharu STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Kota Bharu. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsKota Bharu Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for Kota Bharu
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Kota Bharu consists of primarily domestic travelers (87%), often arriving from nearby Kuala Lumpur, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Malay.
- Domestic travelers account for 87.2% of guests.
- Key international markets include Malaysia (87.2%) and Singapore (2.2%).
- Top languages spoken are English (44.1%) followed by Malay (39.3%).
- A significant demographic segment is the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group, representing 50% of guests.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Target domestic marketing efforts towards travelers from Kuala Lumpur and Selangor.
- Tailor amenities and listing descriptions to appeal to the dominant Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) demographic (e.g., highlight fast WiFi, smart home features, local guides).
- Highlight unique local experiences or amenities relevant to the primary guest profile.
- Consider seasonal promotions aligned with peak travel times for key origin markets.
What Are Airbnb Guest Ratings in Kota Bharu?
Listings in Kota Bharu average 4.7 out of 5 overall, with about 27.2 reviews per active listing and 15.3% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.
Rating Breakdown by Category
Guest Rating Insights for Kota Bharu
- An average rating of 4.7 places Kota Bharu in solid territory. Most guests leave satisfied, though there is room for hosts to push toward the top tier.
- The strongest subcategory is Communication (4.81), while Cleanliness (4.62) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
- 15.3% of listings carry the Guest Favorite badge, a strong trust signal that can meaningfully lift click-through and booking rates.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Focus improvement efforts on Cleanliness — even small gains in the weakest subcategory can lift overall ratings and search ranking.
- Encourage guests to leave reviews after checkout. Listings with more reviews rank higher in search results and convert browsers into bookers more effectively.
- With only 15.3% of listings earning Guest Favorite status, hosts who consistently exceed expectations have a clear competitive advantage.
Kota Bharu Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Kota Bharu
- The most common availability pattern in Kota Bharu falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 85.9% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 99.6% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
- For booked days, the 31-90 days range is most frequent in Kota Bharu (41.5%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 0.7% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.
How Far in Advance Do Guests Book Airbnb in Kota Bharu?
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Kota Bharu
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Kota Bharu is 30 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during March (average 46 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in December (average 17 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Spring (33 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (24 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (30 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Kota Bharu.
- For March stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 46 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Spring season well in advance (at least 33 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Kota Bharu averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Kota Bharu?
Guests in Kota Bharu stay about 2.9 nights on average, generating roughly 5,695 reservations and 13 bookings per listing in the latest AirROI dataset. The most common check-in time is 3:00 PM and check-out is 12:00 PM.
Monthly Length of Stay in Kota Bharu
Check-in Time Distribution
Check-out Time Distribution
Stay Pattern Insights for Kota Bharu
- Very short stays drive high turnover. Cleaning costs, consumable restocking, and check-in coordination become significant operational factors at this frequency.
- 13 bookings per listing is a manageable pace that balances revenue with operational overhead.
- Stay lengths peak in Jul (4.1 nights) and shorten in Oct (2.1 nights). Adjust minimum-night requirements seasonally to match.
Recommendations for Hosts
- With shorter average stays, focus on streamlining turnover. Self-check-in, reliable cleaning crews, and pre-staged amenities can reduce per-booking operational costs.
- Set your check-in time to match or beat the market standard of 3:00 PM. Offering early check-in flexibility can be a low-cost differentiator.
- Monitor length-of-stay seasonality to adjust minimum-night requirements — longer minimums during peak periods maximize revenue while shorter minimums fill gaps in shoulder seasons.
Kota Bharu Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
405 listings
92.3% of total
2 Nights
26 listings
5.9% of total
30+ Nights
8 listings
1.8% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Kota Bharu is 1 Night, adopted by 92.3% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
- A strong majority (98.2%) of the Kota Bharu Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.
- Dedicated monthly rentals (30+ nights) represent a small niche (1.8%), possibly an untapped area for hosts.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 1 Night minimum stay, as 92.3% of Kota Bharu hosts use this setting.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Kota Bharu.
Kota Bharu Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Limited
1 listings
0.2% of total
Flexible
266 listings
60.7% of total
Moderate
102 listings
23.3% of total
Firm
54 listings
12.3% of total
Strict
15 listings
3.4% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Kota Bharu
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Kota Bharu is Flexible, used by 60.7% of listings.
- The market strongly favors guest-friendly terms, with 84.0% of listings offering Flexible or Moderate policies. This suggests guests in Kota Bharu may expect booking flexibility.
- Strict cancellation policies are quite rare (3.4%), potentially making listings with this policy less competitive unless justified by high demand or property type.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Consider adopting a Flexible policy to align with the 60.7% market standard in Kota Bharu.
- Given the high prevalence of Flexible policies (60.7%), offering this can enhance booking appeal, especially during shoulder seasons.
- Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 3.4% of listings use it. Evaluate if potential revenue protection outweighs possible lower booking rates.
- Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Kota Bharu.
How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Kota Bharu?
Cleaning fees in Kota Bharu are meaningful operating levers, not just pass-through charges. What matters most is how often hosts charge them, how high they run relative to market norms, and how large a share of gross revenue they consume.
Cleaning Fee Insights for Kota Bharu
- Only 34.9% of listings charge a cleaning fee, suggesting that most hosts in Kota Bharu bundle cleaning costs into the nightly rate.
- The average cleaning fee of $9 is close to the median ($9), suggesting a relatively consistent fee structure across the market.
- Cleaning fees represent 4.6% of gross revenue on average — a modest component of the overall booking price.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Price your cleaning fee competitively against the Kota Bharu median of $9. Fees significantly above market norms can deter bookings, especially for shorter stays.
- Monitor competitor cleaning fees regularly. Airbnb's search algorithm factors in total price, so a well-calibrated cleaning fee can improve your listing's ranking.
What Do the Top Airbnb Listings in Kota Bharu Look Like?
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Kota Bharubased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
HF PCB Homestay Private Pool
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Netflix Two Bedroom Troika Kota Bharu Homestay 118
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms
Troika Kota Bharu Penthouse L35
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Ruma Jalan Raja Dewa - Kota Bharu
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Cherita Homestay (8-10 Pax, 4R 3BR, Fully Aircond)
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Netflix Two Bedroom Troika Kota Bharu Homestay 182
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms
Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.
Who Are the Top Airbnb Hosts in Kota Bharu?
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Kota Bharu based on the number of properties managed and estimated total revenue over the past year. Analyze their scale and performance metrics.
| Host Name | Properties | Grossing Revenue | Stay Reviews | Avg Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cheong | 36 | $135,609 | 628 | 4.81/5.0 |
| Ricky | 22 | $92,175 | 724 | 4.61/5.0 |
| Troika Kota Bharu Homestay | 5 | $51,351 | 265 | 4.75/5.0 |
| Kelmedic | 6 | $43,549 | 68 | 4.62/5.0 |
| Joy | 28 | $37,025 | 444 | 4.53/5.0 |
| Eternity | 3 | $21,811 | 427 | 4.89/5.0 |
| Nurul Syafikah | 10 | $17,788 | 366 | 4.67/5.0 |
| Syarif | 4 | $17,114 | 159 | 4.75/5.0 |
| Fara | 4 | $16,045 | 109 | 4.96/5.0 |
| Mohd Zakwan | 2 | $16,035 | 21 | 4.76/5.0 |
Analyzing the strategies of top hosts, such as their property selection, pricing, and guest communication, can offer valuable lessons for optimizing your own Airbnb operations in Kota Bharu.
Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Kota Bharu?
Kota Bharu has a relatively balanced host base.
Host Profile Insights for Kota Bharu
- A 31.2% Superhost share is healthy — enough experienced operators to anchor quality without making the market impenetrable for newcomers.
- 8.4% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
- 59.0% of listings use Airbnb's simplified pricing (host-only fee), where the host pays the entire platform service fee and the guest sees one all-in price with no separate Airbnb service charge. High adoption signals a professional, PMS-connected host base — Airbnb mandates simplified pricing for software-connected listings.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Earning Superhost status can significantly improve search ranking and guest trust. Focus on maintaining high response rates, low cancellations, and strong reviews.
- Consider enabling Instant Book — it reduces booking friction and Airbnb's algorithm tends to favor Instant Book listings in search results.
- With 15.9% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
- Benchmark your host metrics against these Kota Bharu averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.
How Does Kota Bharu's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?
How does the Kota Bharu Airbnb market stack up against its neighbors? Compare key performance metrics like average monthly revenue, ADR, and occupancy rates in surrounding areas to understand the broader regional STR landscape.
Compared with Pulau Perhentian Kecil, Kota Bharu has 39 percentage points lower occupancy and about $49 lower ADR. That helps frame whether this market is winning more on demand, pricing, or both.
| Market | Active Properties | Monthly Revenue | Daily Rate | Avg. Occupancy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pulau Perhentian Kecil | 10 | $1,179 | $104.15 | 59% |
| Kampung Rhu Muda | 10 | $769 | $77.42 | 34% |
| Besut | 11 | $603 | $100.45 | 39% |
| Kampung Seberang Takir Hulu | 12 | $509 | $67.89 | 24% |
| Gong Dato | 15 | $457 | $82.93 | 30% |
| Kampung Tanjung Angsa | 26 | $369 | $146.28 | 24% |
| Kuala Terengganu | 359 | $351 | $77.29 | 21% |
| Kampung Air Leleh | 19 | $340 | $70.48 | 21% |
| Betong | 32 | $321 | $77.35 | 16% |
| Kampung Seberang Takir | 17 | $302 | $68.37 | 22% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Kota Bharu
These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Kota Bharu.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Kota Bharu?
Kota Bharu hosts earn about $2,773 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $55 and RevPAR of $11. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Kota Bharu, Kelantan, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Kota Bharu market, April 2025 to March 2026.
What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Kota Bharu?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Kota Bharu is 20.0%. September is the strongest month and February is the softest, so hosts should expect demand to move meaningfully throughout the year rather than stay flat.
What is the average Airbnb daily rate in Kota Bharu?
Listings in Kota Bharu average $55 per night. The broader pricing spread also matters: lower-performing listings cluster closer to the lower quartiles, while premium homes can price materially above the city average when demand spikes or listing quality stands out.
How many Airbnb listings are active in Kota Bharu?
Kota Bharu currently has about 439 active Airbnb listings in AirROI's market dataset. That supply count helps explain how competitive the market is, how much depth there is for benchmarking, and whether the market behaves like a niche destination or a scaled urban market.
How strict are short-term rental regulations in Kota Bharu?
AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Kota Bharu as Low. The dataset also shows about 0.2% of listings with registration evidence. That is a market signal, not legal advice, so hosts should still confirm current licensing and compliance rules locally before listing.
What is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Kota Bharu?
RevPAR in Kota Bharu is about $11. That metric combines pricing and occupancy into one efficiency number, so it is often a better quick benchmark than ADR alone when investors want to compare how well listings convert nightly rates into realized revenue.
Is Airbnb profitable in Kota Bharu?
Occupancy of 20.0% means Kota Bharu is a more selective market. Profitability is achievable but requires careful cost management, premium positioning, or targeting longer stays to reduce turnover. Average annual revenue is $2,773, but individual returns depend on property type, location within the city, and the host's operating efficiency.
How far in advance do guests book Airbnb in Kota Bharu?
The average booking lead time in Kota Bharu is about 30 days — a moderate lead time that gives hosts planning visibility while still benefiting from last-minute bookings. Hosts who understand their market's booking cadence can adjust minimum stays and pricing windows accordingly.
What are the best neighborhoods for Airbnb in Kota Bharu?
Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Kota Bharu include Kampung Kraftangan, Pantai Cahaya Bulan, Kota Bharu City Centre. Each area attracts different guest profiles — from business travelers to leisure visitors — so the best location depends on the property type and target audience a host is aiming for. See the full neighborhood breakdown above.
What type of property performs best on Airbnb in Kota Bharu?
entire_home listings make up 90.9% of the active supply in Kota Bharu. The most common configuration does not always mean the most profitable — operators who identify underserved property types or bedroom counts can sometimes outperform the market average by filling a gap in local supply.
How does Kota Bharu compare to nearby Airbnb markets?
Among neighboring markets, Pulau Perhentian Kecil posts $14,145 in average annual revenue with 58.6% occupancy, compared to Kota Bharu's $2,773 and 20.0%. Comparing nearby markets helps investors understand whether a destination's performance reflects local demand or broader regional trends.
What is the average length of stay in Kota Bharu?
The average Airbnb stay length in Kota Bharu is about 2.9 nights. That matters for turnover, cleaning operations, and pricing strategy because shorter stays increase changeovers while longer stays can smooth occupancy and reduce operational friction.
What is the average Airbnb guest rating in Kota Bharu?
Airbnb listings in Kota Bharu average 4.7 out of 5 overall. About 15.3% of listings carry the guest favorite badge, which suggests a meaningful share of inventory is competing on review quality rather than price alone.
Which amenities boost Airbnb revenue in Kota Bharu?
Wifi and Barbecue utensils are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Kota Bharu. In AirROI's latest dataset, listings with these amenities outperform those without on average revenue, which makes amenities analysis useful for prioritizing investment and listing upgrades.
Do Airbnb hosts charge cleaning fees in Kota Bharu?
Yes. About 34.9% of active Airbnb listings in Kota Bharu charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $9. The more important operating benchmark is how much of gross revenue that fee consumes, not just the absolute dollar amount.
What percentage of Airbnb hosts are Superhosts in Kota Bharu?
At 31.2%, there is a healthy mix of experienced and newer hosts — earning Superhost status can still provide a meaningful visibility boost.
About AirROI Market Data
AirROI tracks over 20 million properties across 190+ countries and maintains 15+ years of historical performance data, making it one of the deepest Airbnb and STR intelligence platforms available. The analytics pipeline aggregates listing-level data monthly — revenue, occupancy, nightly rates, RevPAR, guest demographics, booking patterns, and competitive supply — so investors and operators can benchmark any market against its own history and against neighboring destinations.
Real estate investors, property managers, financial institutions, hedge funds, tourism boards, hospitality consultants, tech platforms, and academic researchers rely on AirROI data to underwrite acquisitions, optimize pricing, model macro trends, and conduct peer-reviewed research. Data is available through in-depth market reports like this one and the Airbnb API with 22 endpoints and an Airbnb MCP Server for AI agents.
AirROI proprietary analytics as of 2026-03-31. Metrics reflect trailing twelve-month aggregates from active listings. Revenue figures are market averages, not projections. Neighborhood descriptions are AI-generated and reviewed for accuracy. For full methodology, see the data methodology page.