Santa Cruz, Madeira Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics
How much can you earn on Airbnb in Santa Cruz, Madeira? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $38,922 per year — at a $213 nightly rate, 55.9% occupancy, and a $124 RevPAR that reflects moderate rate-to-revenue efficiency with room to optimize.
Santa Cruz's 516 active listings and solid booking activity throughout the year position it as a midsize vacation rental market. Supply grew 51.8% 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 high and 95% of listings show active registration — compliance is the cost of entry. 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 Santa Cruz?
In Santa Cruz, the headline Airbnb metrics are $38,922 in average annual revenue,55.9% occupancy, $213 ADR, and $124 in RevPAR, and guests book about 78 days in advance.
How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Santa Cruz?
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz is typically August, while March often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Santa Cruz across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $8,078+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $3,905 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $2,534 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,527, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Santa Cruz
What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Santa Cruz?
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Santa Cruz STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Augustsees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while March 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 Santa Cruz:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 92%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 82% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 64%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 40% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Santa Cruz
What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Santa Cruz?
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Santa Cruz involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Santa Cruz typically peaks in August and dips lowest during November. 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 $404+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $204 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $137 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $101 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Santa Cruz
What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Santa Cruz?
RevPAR in Santa Cruz is currently $124. 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 $55 RevPAR.
- Typical properties (Median) generate $76 RevPAR.
- Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $117 RevPAR.
- Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $235 RevPAR.
Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Santa Cruz
RevPAR Insights for Santa Cruz
- The average RevPAR in Santa Cruz is $124. 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% ($235) and bottom 25% ($55) is $180, indicating significant performance disparity driven by property quality, pricing strategy, and location.
- RevPAR peaks in Aug and bottoms out in Mar, mirroring the broader seasonal demand pattern and suggesting opportunities for dynamic pricing.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Track your own RevPAR monthly against these Santa Cruz benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $76, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
- Top-quartile listings achieve $117+ 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 Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz's peak Airbnb season falls in August, July, April, while the softest stretch is January, March, November. Overall, the market shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy, which should guide pricing, minimum stays, and cash-flow planning.
Peak Season (August, July, April)
- Revenue averages $5,274 per month
- Occupancy rates average 72.5%
- Daily rates average $216
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $4,001 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 60.7%
- Daily rates hold near $203
Low Season (January, March, November)
- Revenue drops to average $2,915 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 43.2%
- Daily rates adjust to average $200
Seasonality Insights for Santa Cruz
- Airbnb seasonality in Santa Cruz is pronounced. Revenue swings sharply between peak and low months, which means pricing strategy, minimum-stay settings, and cash reserves all need to account for extended slower periods.
- During the high season, the absolute peak month showcases Santa Cruz's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $5,568, occupancy reaching 73.5%, and ADRs peaking at $223.
- Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $2,724, occupancy could drop to 38.9%, and ADRs may adjust to $188.
- 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 Santa Cruz.
Seasonal Strategies for Maximizing Profit
- Peak Season: Maximize revenue through premium pricing. In a high-regulation market like Santa Cruz, ensure your permit covers the number of nights you plan to book — some jurisdictions cap annual rental days.
- Low Season: Even in a market with solid annual occupancy, the slower months benefit from competitive pricing and flexible check-in/check-out windows. Target remote workers and extended-stay travelers who value value over peak-season amenities.
- 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.
- In a highly seasonal market like Santa Cruz, building a cash reserve during the top months is essential for covering fixed costs during the slow period. Automated pricing tools can help capture demand shifts in real time.
Do You Need a License for Airbnb in Santa Cruz?
Yes, Santa Cruz, Madeira, Portugal enforces high STR regulations and 95% of active listings show registration evidence — indicating that enforcement is active and compliance is a prerequisite for operating legally. Hosts entering this market should budget for permit fees, inspections, and potential occupancy tax obligations as part of their startup costs. Always verify the latest short-term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Santa Cruz to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2026, based on 95% licensed listings)
What Are the Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Santa Cruz?
Location within Santa Cruz 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Funchal | The capital city of Madeira, known for its beautiful coastal views, botanical gardens, and historic sites. It's a top destination for tourists looking for a mix of relaxation and culture. | Madeira Botanical Garden, CR7 Museum, Funchal Mercado dos Lavradores, Cable Car to Monte, Levadas walking trails |
| Câmara de Lobos | A picturesque fishing village located close to Funchal, known for its local wine and stunning natural landscapes. It attracts visitors who enjoy authentic Madeira experiences. | Cabo Girão Skywalk, Church of Our Lady of Remedies, Whale watching tours, Madeira Wine Lodge, Scenic coastal walks |
| Ponta do Sol | The sunniest place on the island, offering stunning sunsets and beautiful beaches. Popular for its relaxing atmosphere and romantic getaways. | Praia da Ponta do Sol, Ponta do Sol promenade, Levada walks, Local restaurants, Sunset viewing points |
| Santana | Famous for its traditional A-framed houses and lush nature. It's ideal for tourists looking for cultural experiences and outdoor activities. | Santana folk houses, Levada do Caldeirão Verde, Madeira Theme Park, Natural swimming pools, Cultural festivals |
| Paul do Mar | A charming seaside village known for its strong wave conditions, attracting surfers and nature lovers. A quieter option for an authentic Madeira experience. | Surfing spots, Beachfront restaurants, Levada walks, Natural landscapes, Tranquil atmosphere |
| Machico | One of the historical towns in Madeira, known for its beautiful beach and the iconic Pico do Facho. It offers rich history and outdoor activities. | Machico beach, Pico do Facho viewpoint, Historical sites, Levada do Caniçal, Diving and snorkeling |
| Calheta | Home to the only sandy beach in Madeira, known for its marina and water sports. Great for families and beach lovers. | Calheta beach, Calheta Marina, Sugar cane factory, Local art galleries, Boat trips |
| Monte | A lovely hilltop village offering stunning views over Funchal, home to the famous Monte Palace and tropical gardens. Popular for cable car rides and botanical beauty. | Monte Palace, Tropical Garden, Cable Car rides to Funchal, Church of Our Lady of Monte, Toboggan rides |
Because Santa Cruz has a high regulation profile, confirming that short-term rental permits are available in your target neighborhood is a critical first step before committing to a property purchase. Regulation can vary at the neighborhood or district level even within the same city.
What Types of Properties Are on Airbnb in Santa Cruz?
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Santa Cruz
- The Santa Cruz Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 90.9% of the 516 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Santa Cruz, Apartment/Condo properties are the most common (56.4%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 39.7% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- Smaller segments like outdoor/unique, hotel/boutique, others (combined 3.9%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Santa Cruz Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Santa Cruz
- The dominant room capacity in Santa Cruz is 2 bedrooms listings, making up 36.6% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 2 bedrooms and 1 bedroom properties represent 67.0% of the active Airbnb listings in Santa Cruz, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 23.1% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Santa Cruz.
Santa Cruz Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Santa Cruz
- The most common guest capacity trend in Santa Cruz vacation rentals is listings accommodating 4 guests (30.8%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely small families or groups.
- Properties designed for 4 guests and 2 guests dominate the Santa Cruz STR market, accounting for 50.8% of listings.
- 27.2% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Santa Cruz.
- On average, properties in Santa Cruz are equipped to host 4.0 guests.
How Do Listings in Santa Cruz Compare on Quality?
Listing quality in Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz
- At 31.2 photos per listing on average, Santa Cruz hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
- 33.7% 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 Santa Cruz averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.
What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Santa Cruz?
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Santa Cruz
- Essential amenities in Santa Cruz that guests expect include: Wifi, TV. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Kitchen, Hair dryer, First aid kit are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Santa Cruz: Wifi, TV.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi, TV.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Kitchen or Hair dryer 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 Santa Cruz to stay competitive.
Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Santa Cruz?
Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Santa Cruz, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.
| Amenity | Prevalence | Revenue With | Revenue Without | Revenue Uplift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Kitchen | 94.0% | $40,831 | $9,047 | 351.3% |
Baby bath | 11.4% | $109,816 | $29,769 | 268.9% |
Bed linens | 84.1% | $43,058 | $17,030 | 152.8% |
Dishwasher | 40.5% | $59,215 | $25,106 | 135.9% |
Dishes and silverware | 86.0% | $42,307 | $18,048 | 134.4% |
Washer | 85.1% | $42,547 | $18,254 | 133.1% |
Coffee maker | 77.5% | $44,461 | $19,820 | 124.3% |
Hair dryer | 89.7% | $41,249 | $18,596 | 121.8% |
Single level home | 17.6% | $70,115 | $32,243 | 117.5% |
Oven | 72.1% | $45,788 | $21,184 | 116.1% |
Revenue Impact Insights for Santa Cruz
- Kitchen tops the revenue impact list with a 351.3% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $40,831 vs. $9,047 without it.
- Kitchen, Bed linens, Dishes and silverware, Washer, Hair dryer — while widespread — still correlate with meaningful revenue gains, making them table stakes rather than true differentiators.
Recommendations for Hosts
- 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 Santa Cruz STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Santa Cruz. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsSanta Cruz Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for Santa Cruz
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Santa Cruz consists of predominantly international visitors (96%), with top international origins including Germany, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or French.
- Domestic travelers account for 4.2% of guests.
- Key international markets include France (20.6%) and Germany (16.9%).
- Top languages spoken are English (40.3%) followed by French (15.3%).
- A significant demographic segment is the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group, representing 50% of guests.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Focus marketing internationally, particularly towards travelers from Germany.
- 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 Santa Cruz?
Listings in Santa Cruz average 4.74 out of 5 overall, with about 53.4 reviews per active listing and 23.1% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.
Rating Breakdown by Category
Guest Rating Insights for Santa Cruz
- An average rating of 4.74 places Santa Cruz in solid territory. Most guests leave satisfied, though there is room for hosts to push toward the top tier.
- The strongest subcategory is Communication (4.82), while Value (4.67) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
- 23.1% 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 Value — 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 23.1% of listings earning Guest Favorite status, hosts who consistently exceed expectations have a clear competitive advantage.
Santa Cruz Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Santa Cruz
- The most common availability pattern in Santa Cruz falls within the 91-180 days range, representing 32.9% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 47.9% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
- For booked days, the 181-270 days range is most frequent in Santa Cruz (33.3%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 53.8% 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 Santa Cruz?
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Santa Cruz
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Santa Cruz is 78 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during August (average 101 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 54 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Summer (89 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (65 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (78 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Santa Cruz.
- For August stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 101 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 89 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Santa Cruz averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Santa Cruz?
Guests in Santa Cruz stay about 6.1 nights on average, generating roughly 14,369 reservations and 27.8 bookings per listing in the latest AirROI dataset. The most common check-in time is 3:00 PM and check-out is 11:00 AM.
Monthly Length of Stay in Santa Cruz
Check-in Time Distribution
Check-out Time Distribution
Stay Pattern Insights for Santa Cruz
- A mid-range stay length points to leisure-driven demand — weekend getaways and short vacations. Hosts should optimize for quick turnover efficiency while keeping the guest experience smooth.
- At 27.8 bookings per listing, the turnover rate is high. Hosts with streamlined operations (self-check-in, automated messaging, reliable cleaners) have a structural advantage.
- Stay lengths peak in Aug (6.8 nights) and shorten in Oct (5.6 nights). Adjust minimum-night requirements seasonally to match.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Leverage the longer-stay pattern by offering weekly discounts — even 5-10% off can convert browsing into bookings for guests considering an extended stay.
- 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.
Santa Cruz Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
79 listings
15.3% of total
2 Nights
21 listings
4.1% of total
3 Nights
66 listings
12.8% of total
4-6 Nights
146 listings
28.3% of total
7-29 Nights
12 listings
2.3% of total
30+ Nights
192 listings
37.2% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Santa Cruz is 30+ Nights, adopted by 37.2% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
- Very short stays (1-2 nights) are less common (19.4%), suggesting hosts prefer slightly longer bookings to optimize turnover.
- A significant segment (37.2%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Santa Cruz, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 37.2% of Santa Cruz hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 15.3% currently do.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 37.2% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Santa Cruz.
Santa Cruz Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Limited
42 listings
8.1% of total
Super Strict 60 Days
10 listings
1.9% of total
Super Strict 30 Days
39 listings
7.6% of total
Flexible
83 listings
16.1% of total
Moderate
101 listings
19.6% of total
Firm
191 listings
37% of total
Strict
50 listings
9.7% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Santa Cruz
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Santa Cruz is Firm, used by 37% of listings.
- There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (35.7%) and stricter (46.7%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.
- Strict cancellation policies are quite rare (9.7%), potentially making listings with this policy less competitive unless justified by high demand or property type.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Consider adopting a Firm policy to align with the 37% market standard in Santa Cruz.
- Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 9.7% 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 Santa Cruz.
How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Santa Cruz?
Cleaning fees in Santa Cruz 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 Santa Cruz
- 81.8% of listings charge a cleaning fee, making it standard practice in Santa Cruz. Guests expect it and factor it into their booking decisions.
- The gap between the average ($136) and median ($75) cleaning fee indicates some high-end properties are pulling the average up considerably.
- Cleaning fees represent 9.2% of gross revenue on average — a modest component of the overall booking price.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Price your cleaning fee competitively against the Santa Cruz median of $75. 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 Santa Cruz Look Like?
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Santa Cruzbased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Reis Magos V by An Island Apart
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Beach House - By Wehost
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Reis Magos IV by An Island Apart
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms
Caniço VII by An Island Apart
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Garajau VI by An Island Apart
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms
Garajau I by An Island Apart
Entire Place • 3 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 Santa Cruz?
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Santa Cruz 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| André Loja | 23 | $5,648,431 | 1320 | 4.64/5.0 |
| LovelyStay | 17 | $763,895 | 620 | 4.69/5.0 |
| OurMadeira | 6 | $574,285 | 281 | 4.89/5.0 |
| GuestReady | 8 | $551,144 | 526 | 4.60/5.0 |
| Homie | 15 | $548,390 | 450 | 4.70/5.0 |
| Atlantic Holiday | 11 | $406,675 | 505 | 4.65/5.0 |
| Carlota | 1 | $387,002 | 81 | 4.86/5.0 |
| Leonardo | 10 | $300,571 | 1486 | 4.80/5.0 |
| Holidu | 5 | $272,700 | 138 | 4.53/5.0 |
| Galmi | 6 | $227,006 | 288 | 4.66/5.0 |
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 Santa Cruz.
Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz has a relatively balanced host base.
Host Profile Insights for Santa Cruz
- A 36.2% Superhost share is healthy — enough experienced operators to anchor quality without making the market impenetrable for newcomers.
- 26.6% of listings are professionally managed, reflecting a market still dominated by individual hosts.
- 4.7% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
- 77.9% 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 18.0% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
- Benchmark your host metrics against these Santa Cruz averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.
Top Professional Management Companies in Santa Cruz
These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in Santa Cruz, ranked by total revenue across their portfolio. Their performance metrics offer a benchmark for what institutional-level hosting looks like in this market.
| Company | Listings | Revenue | ADR | Occ. | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| An Island Apart | 23 | $5,648,431 | $877 | 77.9% | 4.64/5 |
| LovelyStay | 17 | $763,895 | $266 | 67.0% | 4.69/5 |
| OurMadeira | 6 | $574,285 | $661 | 67.1% | 4.89/5 |
| GuestReady | 8 | $551,144 | $360 | 58.6% | 4.60/5 |
| Homie | 15 | $548,390 | $168 | 61.2% | 4.70/5 |
| Atlantic Holiday | 11 | $406,675 | $137 | 74.3% | 4.65/5 |
| Carlota | 1 | $387,002 | $1,513 | 66.2% | 4.86/5 |
| Holidu | 5 | $272,700 | $634 | 35.4% | 4.53/5 |
| Galmi | 6 | $227,006 | $166 | 70.9% | 4.66/5 |
| Amr | 7 | $219,770 | $215 | 47.4% | 4.68/5 |
Management Company Insights for Santa Cruz
- The leading management company, An Island Apart, operates 23 listings with $5,648,431 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in Santa Cruz.
- Top managers average 10 properties each, suggesting professional management in Santa Cruz still operates at a relatively boutique scale.
- Professionally managed listings in the top tier average 4.69/5 in guest ratings — suggesting room for quality improvement even among larger operators.
Recommendations
- Study how top management companies price, position, and maintain their portfolios — their ADR and occupancy rates reflect strategies refined across dozens of listings.
- If you're considering hiring a property manager, compare their portfolio performance against these benchmarks before committing.
How Does Santa Cruz's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?
How does the Santa Cruz 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 Ponta do Sol, Santa Cruz has 7 percentage points lower occupancy and about $15 higher ADR. That helps frame whether this market is winning more on demand, pricing, or both.
| Market | Active Properties | Monthly Revenue | Daily Rate | Avg. Occupancy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arco da Calheta | 17 | $6,827 | $467.12 | 50% |
| Funchal | 2,440 | $4,299 | $268.81 | 58% |
| Ribeira Brava | 258 | $3,677 | $209.83 | 61% |
| Câmara de Lobos | 141 | $3,649 | $242.91 | 60% |
| Ponta do Sol | 320 | $3,501 | $198.11 | 63% |
| Calheta | 1,031 | $3,097 | $206.94 | 58% |
| Estreito da Calheta | 19 | $3,013 | $207.69 | 55% |
| São Vicente | 282 | $2,724 | $178.72 | 59% |
| Porto Santo | 179 | $2,430 | $243.80 | 43% |
| Canhas | 10 | $2,394 | $165.93 | 61% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Santa Cruz
These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Santa Cruz.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz hosts earn about $38,922 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $213 and RevPAR of $124. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Santa Cruz, Madeira, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Santa Cruz market, April 2025 to March 2026.
What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Santa Cruz?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Santa Cruz is 55.9%. August is the strongest month and March 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 Santa Cruz?
Listings in Santa Cruz average $213 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 Santa Cruz?
Santa Cruz currently has about 516 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 Santa Cruz?
AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Santa Cruz as High. The dataset also shows about 95.2% 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 Santa Cruz?
RevPAR in Santa Cruz is about $124. 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 Santa Cruz?
At 55.9% occupancy, Santa Cruz can be profitable — but margins depend heavily on operating costs, property acquisition price, and how well hosts optimize pricing across seasons. Average annual revenue is $38,922, 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 Santa Cruz?
The average booking lead time in Santa Cruz is about 78 days — a longer planning horizon typical of destination or vacation markets where travelers book well in advance. Hosts who understand their market's booking cadence can adjust minimum stays and pricing windows accordingly.
What are the best neighborhoods for Airbnb in Santa Cruz?
Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Santa Cruz include Funchal, Câmara de Lobos, Ponta do Sol. 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 Santa Cruz?
entire_home listings make up 90.9% of the active supply in Santa Cruz. 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 Santa Cruz compare to nearby Airbnb markets?
Among neighboring markets, Arco da Calheta posts $81,924 in average annual revenue with 49.6% occupancy, compared to Santa Cruz's $38,922 and 55.9%. 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 Santa Cruz?
The average Airbnb stay length in Santa Cruz is about 6.1 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 Santa Cruz?
Airbnb listings in Santa Cruz average 4.74 out of 5 overall. About 23.1% 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 Santa Cruz?
Kitchen and Baby bath are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Santa Cruz. 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 Santa Cruz?
Yes. About 81.8% of active Airbnb listings in Santa Cruz charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $136. 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 Santa Cruz?
At 36.2%, 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.