Malibu, California Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics
How much can you earn on Airbnb in Malibu, California? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $108,731 per year — at a $1,299 nightly rate, 35.3% occupancy, and a $411 RevPAR that reflects a wider gap between nightly rates and realized revenue that rewards occupancy-focused strategies.
Malibu's 242 active listings and moderate demand with room for well-positioned listings to outperform position it as a midsize vacation rental market. Supply has held steady while nightly rates moved higher — a market where hosts who optimize for bookability can unlock the full value of rising rates. Balancing rate strategy with occupancy is the key lever, and hosts who get it right will outperform.
Regulation is high and 86% of listings show active registration — compliance is the cost of entry. For data-driven hosts, the opportunity lies in reading these signals and positioning accordingly.
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What Are the Key Airbnb Metrics in Malibu?
In Malibu, the headline Airbnb metrics are $108,731 in average annual revenue,35.3% occupancy, $1,299 ADR, and $411 in RevPAR, and guests book about 41 days in advance.
How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Malibu?
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Malibu 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 Malibu is typically August, while January often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Malibu across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $29,785+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $17,964 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $8,828 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $4,239, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Malibu
What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Malibu?
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Malibu STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Augustsees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while April 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 Malibu:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 76%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 59% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 37%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 18% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Malibu
What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Malibu?
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Malibu involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Malibu typically peaks in June and dips lowest during October. 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 $2,772+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $1,638 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $923 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $510 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Malibu
What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Malibu?
RevPAR in Malibu is currently $411. 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 $164 RevPAR.
- Typical properties (Median) generate $299 RevPAR.
- Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $573 RevPAR.
- Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $936 RevPAR.
Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Malibu
RevPAR Insights for Malibu
- The average RevPAR in Malibu is $411. 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% ($936) and bottom 25% ($164) is $772, indicating significant performance disparity driven by property quality, pricing strategy, and location.
- RevPAR peaks in Aug 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 Malibu benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $299, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
- Top-quartile listings achieve $573+ 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 Malibu?
Malibu's peak Airbnb season falls in August, July, June, while the softest stretch is January, February, April. Overall, the market shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy, which should guide pricing, minimum stays, and cash-flow planning.
Peak Season (August, July, June)
- Revenue averages $17,045 per month
- Occupancy rates average 44.4%
- Daily rates average $1,279
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $12,495 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 39.7%
- Daily rates hold near $1,243
Low Season (January, February, April)
- Revenue drops to average $10,252 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 34.1%
- Daily rates adjust to average $1,233
Seasonality Insights for Malibu
- Airbnb seasonality in Malibu 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 Malibu's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $18,771, occupancy reaching 49.6%, and ADRs peaking at $1,294.
- Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $9,276, occupancy could drop to 30.7%, and ADRs may adjust to $1,205.
- Lower occupancy paired with meaningful seasonality means hosts in Malibu need to maximize every peak-season booking and seriously consider whether off-season pricing adjustments or minimum-stay changes can capture incremental revenue.
Seasonal Strategies for Maximizing Profit
- Peak Season: Maximize revenue through premium pricing. In a high-regulation market like Malibu, ensure your permit covers the number of nights you plan to book — some jurisdictions cap annual rental days.
- 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.
- In a highly seasonal market like Malibu, 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 Malibu?
Yes, Malibu, California, United States enforces high STR regulations and 86% 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 Malibu to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2026, based on 86% licensed listings)
What Are the Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Malibu?
Location within Malibu 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Malibu Colony | Exclusive beach community known for its luxurious beachfront homes and celebrity residents. Ideal for high-end travelers seeking privacy and stunning ocean views. | Malibu Beach, Malibu Pier, El Matador State Beach, Adamson House, Zuma Beach |
| Point Dume State Beach | Scenic area with stunning coastal views and natural beauty. Attracts nature lovers and families looking for beach access and outdoor activities. | Point Dume Nature Preserve, Dume Cove Park, Malibu Lagoon State Beach, Westward Beach |
| Eastern Malibu | Quieter area with beautiful homes and proximity to the Malibu coastline. Great for families and those looking for peace and tranquility by the beach. | Malibu Creek State Park, Tapia Park, La Costa Beach |
| Pacific Palisades | Close to Malibu with a beautiful coastal setting and upscale properties. Popular with those wanting to experience the best of both Malibu and Los Angeles. | Will Rogers State Historic Park, Palisades Park, Pacific Palisades Village |
| Malibu Surfrider Beach | Famous surf spot known for its consistent waves and beach culture. Attracts surfers and beachgoers looking for an authentic surf experience. | Surfrider Beach, Malibu Surfing Association, Western Malibu Beach |
| Big Rock Beach | Charming beach area with residential homes. Ideal for families and those looking for less crowded beaches while still enjoying Malibu's beauty. | Big Rock Beach, Malibu Lagoon, Nearby shopping and dining |
| Broad Beach | Known for its private residences and serene atmosphere. Attracts those seeking a more tranquil beach experience with stunning ocean views. | Broad Beach, Tranquil environment |
| Malibu Road | Picturesque coastal road with beachfront properties and stunning views. A popular choice for both short-term rentals and vacation homes. | Malibu Road Beach, Ocean views, Near top local restaurants |
Because Malibu 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 Malibu?
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Malibu
- The Malibu Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 97.9% of the 242 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Malibu, House properties are the most common (62%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 62% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- The presence of 6.2% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
- Smaller segments like others, unique stays (combined 3.7%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Malibu Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Malibu
- The dominant room capacity in Malibu is 1 bedroom listings, making up 24.4% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 1 bedroom and 3 bedrooms properties represent 45.1% of the active Airbnb listings in Malibu, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 54.6% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Malibu.
Malibu Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Malibu
- The most common guest capacity trend in Malibu vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (39.3%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Malibu STR market, accounting for 59.1% of listings.
- 60.3% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Malibu.
- On average, properties in Malibu are equipped to host 5.7 guests.
How Do Listings in Malibu Compare on Quality?
Listing quality in Malibu 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 Malibu
- At 51.9 photos per listing on average, Malibu hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
- 29.3% 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 Malibu averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.
What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Malibu?
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Malibu
- Essential amenities in Malibu that guests expect include: Wifi, TV, Kitchen, Heating, Smoke alarm, Essentials, Free parking on premises, Dishes and silverware, Hair dryer, Carbon monoxide alarm. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Malibu: Wifi, TV, Kitchen, Heating, Smoke alarm, Essentials, Free parking on premises, Dishes and silverware, Hair dryer, Carbon monoxide alarm.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi, TV, Kitchen, Heating, Smoke alarm, Essentials, Free parking on premises, Dishes and silverware, Hair dryer, Carbon monoxide alarm.
- 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 Malibu to stay competitive.
Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Malibu?
Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Malibu, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.
| Amenity | Prevalence | Revenue With | Revenue Without | Revenue Uplift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Washer | 87.6% | $122,595 | $10,761 | 1039.2% |
Dryer | 86.4% | $122,812 | $19,549 | 528.2% |
Patio or balcony | 87.2% | $119,535 | $35,196 | 239.6% |
Free parking on premises | 97.9% | $110,278 | $35,412 | 211.4% |
Outlet coversHigh opportunity | 2.1% | $319,107 | $104,293 | 206.0% |
Dedicated workspace | 76.4% | $127,783 | $46,895 | 172.5% |
Carbon monoxide alarm | 95.5% | $111,952 | $41,089 | 172.5% |
Cleaning products | 62.8% | $141,501 | $53,386 | 165.1% |
Stove | 84.3% | $120,491 | $45,601 | 164.2% |
Coffee maker | 90.1% | $115,855 | $44,023 | 163.2% |
Revenue Impact Insights for Malibu
- Washer tops the revenue impact list with a 1039.2% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $122,595 vs. $10,761 without it.
- High-opportunity amenities — Outlet covers — combine revenue uplift above 100% with prevalence under 10%, meaning most competitors haven't adopted them yet.
- Washer, Dryer, Patio or balcony, Free parking on premises, Carbon monoxide alarm, Stove, Coffee maker — while widespread — still correlate with meaningful revenue gains, making them table stakes rather than true differentiators.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Prioritize adding Outlet covers — it has the best combination of high revenue impact and low market saturation in Malibu.
- 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 Malibu STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Malibu. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsMalibu Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for Malibu
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Malibu consists of primarily domestic travelers (90%), often arriving from nearby Los Angeles, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
- Domestic travelers account for 90.3% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (90.3%) and United Kingdom (2.1%).
- Top languages spoken are English (62.6%) followed by Spanish (13.3%).
- 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 Los Angeles and New York.
- 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 Malibu?
Listings in Malibu average 4.86 out of 5 overall, with about 99 reviews per active listing and 41.3% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.
Rating Breakdown by Category
Guest Rating Insights for Malibu
- With an overall rating of 4.86, Malibu listings meet an exceptionally high bar. Guests consistently report strong satisfaction, which drives repeat bookings and referral traffic.
- The strongest subcategory is Location (4.93), while Value (4.73) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
- 41.3% 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 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.
Malibu Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Malibu
- The most common availability pattern in Malibu falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 50% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 84.7% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
- For booked days, the 91-180 days range is most frequent in Malibu (33.9%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 17.0% 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 Malibu?
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Malibu
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Malibu is 41 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during May (average 62 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in January (average 25 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Spring (46 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (29 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (41 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Malibu.
- For May stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 62 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Spring season well in advance (at least 46 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Malibu averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Malibu?
Guests in Malibu stay about 4.9 nights on average, generating roughly 5,710 reservations and 24 bookings per listing in the latest AirROI dataset. The most common check-in time is 4:00 PM and check-out is 10:00 AM.
Monthly Length of Stay in Malibu
Check-in Time Distribution
Check-out Time Distribution
Stay Pattern Insights for Malibu
- 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 24 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 (5.1 nights) and shorten in Feb (3.3 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 4:00 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.
Malibu Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
35 listings
14.5% of total
2 Nights
43 listings
17.8% of total
3 Nights
31 listings
12.8% of total
4-6 Nights
16 listings
6.6% of total
7-29 Nights
16 listings
6.6% of total
30+ Nights
101 listings
41.7% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Malibu is 30+ Nights, adopted by 41.7% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
- A significant segment (41.7%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Malibu, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 41.7% of Malibu hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 14.5% currently do.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 41.7% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Malibu.
Malibu Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Super Strict 60 Days
6 listings
2.5% of total
Super Strict 30 Days
15 listings
6.2% of total
Limited
7 listings
2.9% of total
Flexible
21 listings
8.7% of total
Moderate
31 listings
12.9% of total
Firm
86 listings
35.7% of total
Strict
75 listings
31.1% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Malibu
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Malibu is Firm, used by 35.7% of listings.
- A majority (66.8%) of hosts in Malibu utilize Firm or Strict policies, indicating a market where hosts prioritize booking security.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Consider adopting a Firm policy to align with the 35.7% market standard in Malibu.
- With 31.1% using Strict terms, this is a viable option in Malibu, particularly for high-value properties or during peak demand periods.
- Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Malibu.
How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Malibu?
Cleaning fees in Malibu 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 Malibu
- 91.7% of listings charge a cleaning fee, making it standard practice in Malibu. Guests expect it and factor it into their booking decisions.
- The gap between the average ($2,287) and median ($300) cleaning fee indicates some high-end properties are pulling the average up considerably.
- Cleaning fees represent 7.2% of gross revenue on average — a modest component of the overall booking price.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Price your cleaning fee competitively against the Malibu median of $300. 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 Malibu Look Like?
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Malibubased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
The Surf Lodge by Stay Awhile Villas
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Malibu Dunes by Fieldtrip | Private Beach Backyard
Entire Place • 7 bedrooms
Malibu Oceana Bleu by Stay Awhile Villas
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Luxury Malibu Beach Front Home
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Casa Maria by Oraklus
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Malibu Cove Colony Beach by Stay Awhile Villas
Entire Place • 5 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 Malibu?
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Malibu 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stay Awhile | 35 | $5,872,075 | 2385 | 4.91/5.0 |
| The Malibu Suites | 15 | $1,543,946 | 5215 | 4.83/5.0 |
| Marc | 7 | $1,376,847 | 1368 | 4.89/5.0 |
| Sebastian | 3 | $903,036 | 944 | 4.83/5.0 |
| The Maimon Group | 4 | $863,513 | 35 | 4.57/5.0 |
| Oraklus | 5 | $807,661 | 170 | 4.87/5.0 |
| Bess | 8 | $663,840 | 1530 | 4.76/5.0 |
| Martin | 3 | $597,020 | 37 | 4.92/5.0 |
| Fieldtrip | 1 | $522,861 | 7 | 4.71/5.0 |
| Sara | 3 | $491,748 | 633 | 4.96/5.0 |
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 Malibu.
Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Malibu?
Malibu is a quality-focused market, with a high Superhost share and fairly mature operating standards.
Host Profile Insights for Malibu
- With 64.5% Superhosts, Malibu has an experienced host base that sets high guest expectations. New entrants should plan for competitive quality standards.
- 15.7% of listings are professionally managed, reflecting a market still dominated by individual hosts.
- 3.3% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
- 66.1% 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
- Consider enabling Instant Book — it reduces booking friction and Airbnb's algorithm tends to favor Instant Book listings in search results.
- With 42.6% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
- Benchmark your host metrics against these Malibu averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.
Top Professional Management Companies in Malibu
These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in Malibu, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stay Awhile | 35 | $5,872,075 | $1,580 | 36.6% | 4.91/5 |
| Oraklus | 5 | $807,661 | $1,024 | 39.3% | 4.87/5 |
| Fieldtrip | 1 | $522,861 | $4,227 | 33.5% | 4.71/5 |
| Vivian | 2 | $406,116 | $3,769 | 26.4% | 5.00/5 |
| Sarāy | 1 | $260,153 | $1,443 | 46.3% | 4.64/5 |
| AvantStay Malibu | 1 | $221,489 | $1,323 | 56.6% | 4.85/5 |
| Julian | 4 | $218,275 | $2,026 | 14.4% | 4.90/5 |
| AvantStay Los Angeles | 1 | $178,984 | $1,084 | 44.2% | 4.83/5 |
| Rico And Cinzia | 2 | $105,766 | $885 | 38.6% | 4.91/5 |
| Open Air | 2 | $62,790 | $508 | 31.1% | 4.87/5 |
Management Company Insights for Malibu
- The leading management company, Stay Awhile, operates 35 listings with $5,872,075 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in Malibu.
- Top managers average 5 properties each, suggesting professional management in Malibu still operates at a relatively boutique scale.
- Professionally managed listings in the top tier average 4.85/5 in guest ratings — demonstrating that scale and quality can coexist.
Recommendations
- With only 15.7% of listings professionally managed, there may be an opportunity to differentiate through more structured operations and consistent guest experiences.
- 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 Malibu's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?
How does the Malibu 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 La Palma, Malibu has 20 percentage points lower occupancy and about $751 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montecito | 129 | $10,113 | $956.33 | 49% |
| Newport Beach | 1,269 | $9,163 | $768.95 | 46% |
| La Palma | 10 | $8,752 | $548.10 | 55% |
| Manhattan Beach | 260 | $7,883 | $585.18 | 52% |
| Avalon | 246 | $7,004 | $709.07 | 38% |
| Summerland | 85 | $6,878 | $511.92 | 50% |
| Toro Canyon | 33 | $6,477 | $726.84 | 41% |
| Rancho Santa Fe | 32 | $6,213 | $963.92 | 35% |
| Unincorporated Santa Monica Mountains | 114 | $6,070 | $694.08 | 38% |
| Santa Paula | 17 | $5,827 | $509.31 | 47% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Malibu
These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Malibu.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Malibu?
Malibu hosts earn about $108,731 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $1,299 and RevPAR of $411. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Malibu, California, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Malibu market, April 2025 to March 2026.
What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Malibu?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Malibu is 35.3%. August is the strongest month and January 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 Malibu?
Listings in Malibu average $1,299 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 Malibu?
Malibu currently has about 242 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 Malibu?
AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Malibu as High. The dataset also shows about 85.5% 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 Malibu?
RevPAR in Malibu is about $411. 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 Malibu?
Occupancy of 35.3% means Malibu 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 $108,731, 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 Malibu?
The average booking lead time in Malibu is about 41 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 Malibu?
Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Malibu include Malibu Colony, Point Dume State Beach, Eastern Malibu. 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 Malibu?
entire_home listings make up 97.9% of the active supply in Malibu. 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 Malibu compare to nearby Airbnb markets?
Among neighboring markets, Montecito posts $121,351 in average annual revenue with 48.9% occupancy, compared to Malibu's $108,731 and 35.3%. 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 Malibu?
The average Airbnb stay length in Malibu is about 4.9 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 Malibu?
Airbnb listings in Malibu average 4.86 out of 5 overall. About 41.3% 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 Malibu?
Washer and Dryer are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Malibu. 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 Malibu?
Yes. About 91.7% of active Airbnb listings in Malibu charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $2,287. 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 Malibu?
A 64.5% Superhost rate signals a highly competitive market where review quality and responsiveness are table stakes, not differentiators.
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.