Des Moines, Iowa Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics
How much can you earn on Airbnb in Des Moines, Iowa? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $20,737 per year — at a $172 nightly rate, 43.4% occupancy, and a $73 RevPAR that reflects moderate rate-to-revenue efficiency with room to optimize.
Des Moines's 524 active listings and moderate demand with room for well-positioned listings to outperform position it as a midsize vacation rental market. Supply grew 95.5% 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 Des Moines?
In Des Moines, the headline Airbnb metrics are $20,737 in average annual revenue,43.4% occupancy, $172 ADR, and $73 in RevPAR, and guests book about 42 days in advance.
How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Des Moines?
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Des Moines 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 Des Moines is typically June, while February often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Des Moines across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $4,541+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $3,013 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $1,873 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $954, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Des Moines
What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Des Moines?
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Des Moines STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Junesees 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 Des Moines:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 77%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 62% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 42%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 24% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Des Moines
What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Des Moines?
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Des Moines involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Des Moines typically peaks in June 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 $289+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $196 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $135 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $94 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Des Moines
What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Des Moines?
RevPAR in Des Moines is currently $73. 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 $38 RevPAR.
- Typical properties (Median) generate $65 RevPAR.
- Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $94 RevPAR.
- Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $130 RevPAR.
Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Des Moines
RevPAR Insights for Des Moines
- The average RevPAR in Des Moines is $73. 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% ($130) and bottom 25% ($38) is $91, suggesting a relatively compressed market where operational differences yield moderate returns.
- RevPAR peaks in Jun 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 Des Moines benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $65, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
- Top-quartile listings achieve $94+ 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 Des Moines?
Des Moines's peak Airbnb season falls in June, July, August, while the softest stretch is January, February, March. Overall, the market shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy, which should guide pricing, minimum stays, and cash-flow planning.
Peak Season (June, July, August)
- Revenue averages $3,143 per month
- Occupancy rates average 54.6%
- Daily rates average $171
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $2,120 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 42.7%
- Daily rates hold near $158
Low Season (January, February, March)
- Revenue drops to average $1,676 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 34.5%
- Daily rates adjust to average $168
Seasonality Insights for Des Moines
- Airbnb seasonality in Des Moines 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 Des Moines's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $3,239, occupancy reaching 56.9%, and ADRs peaking at $172.
- Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $1,581, occupancy could drop to 34.2%, and ADRs may adjust to $141.
- 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 Des Moines.
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.
- In a highly seasonal market like Des Moines, 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 Des Moines?
Des Moines, Iowa, United States currently shows a low regulation profile despite having 524 active listings. Larger markets with light regulation can attract new supply quickly, but that also means regulatory frameworks may evolve as local governments respond to growth — staying informed protects your investment. Always verify the latest short-term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Des Moines to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2026, finding no licensed listings among those analyzed)
What Are the Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Des Moines?
Location within Des Moines 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Des Moines | The heart of the city, Downtown Des Moines is bustling with activity, featuring major office buildings, shops, and restaurants. It's perfect for both business travelers and tourists who want to experience urban life. | Iowa State Capitol, Principal Park, Des Moines Art Center, Meredith Corporation, Pappajohn Sculpture Park |
| East Village | A vibrant neighborhood just east of Downtown, East Village is known for its trendy boutiques, restaurants, and proximity to cultural attractions. It's a favorite among younger travelers and locals alike. | State Historical Museum of Iowa, Historic East Village, Shopping along East Grand Avenue, Local eateries and bars, Des Moines Social Club |
| West Des Moines | A suburban area that's rapidly growing and has plenty of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It's ideal for families and those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere while still close to urban amenities. | Valley Junction, Jordan Creek Town Center, Raccoon River Park, Local parks, Entertainment venues |
| South Side | Known for its diverse community and family-friendly atmosphere, the South Side offers more affordable accommodation options and is close to various parks and recreational areas. | Saylorville Lake, Gray's Lake Park, Local dining options, Shopping centers, Community events |
| Beaverdale | A charming neighborhood known for its historic homes and walkable streets. Beaverdale attracts families and visitors looking for a suburban feel with easy access to city amenities. | Beaverdale Library, Local coffee shops, Parks and community events, Neighborhood theaters, Dining options |
| Ingersoll Park | A desirable neighborhood with a mix of historic and modern homes, Ingersoll Park is known for its local shops and restaurants, making it an attractive spot for those who enjoy a vibrant community. | Ingersoll Avenue restaurants, Shopping boutiques, Parks, Cultural events, Nearby nightlife |
| North End | This area is undergoing revitalization and offers affordable accommodation. It's a good choice for investment as it becomes increasingly attractive to young professionals and artists. | Local artistic communities, Parks, Cultural festivals, Affordable dining, Growing local businesses |
| Drake University Area | Around Drake University, this area is frequented by students and university visitors. It offers a youthful vibe and is ideal for short-term rentals targeting students and visiting families. | Drake University, Des Moines Botanical Center, Local cafes, Student activities, Cultural events |
With 8 distinct neighborhoods showing meaningful short-term rental activity, Des Moines 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 Des Moines?
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Des Moines
- The Des Moines Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 87.2% of the 524 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Des Moines, House properties are the most common (54.6%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 54.6% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- Smaller segments like hotel/boutique, others, outdoor/unique, unique stays (combined 3.5%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Des Moines Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Des Moines
- The dominant room capacity in Des Moines is 1 bedroom listings, making up 27.3% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 1 bedroom and 2 bedrooms properties represent 53.1% of the active Airbnb listings in Des Moines, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 29.6% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Des Moines.
Des Moines Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Des Moines
- The most common guest capacity trend in Des Moines vacation rentals is listings accommodating 4 guests (20.8%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely small families or groups.
- Properties designed for 4 guests and 8+ guests dominate the Des Moines STR market, accounting for 39.7% of listings.
- 36.8% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Des Moines.
- On average, properties in Des Moines are equipped to host 4.4 guests.
How Do Listings in Des Moines Compare on Quality?
Listing quality in Des Moines 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 Des Moines
- At 25.5 photos per listing on average, Des Moines hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
- 18.3% 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 Des Moines averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.
What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Des Moines?
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Des Moines
- Essential amenities in Des Moines that guests expect include: Wifi, Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, TV, Kitchen, Heating. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Hot water, Coffee maker, Refrigerator are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Des Moines: Wifi, Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, TV, Kitchen, Heating.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi, Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, TV, Kitchen, Heating.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Hot water or Coffee maker 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 Des Moines to stay competitive.
Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Des Moines?
Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Des Moines, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.
| Amenity | Prevalence | Revenue With | Revenue Without | Revenue Uplift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Heating | 96.4% | $21,404 | $2,993 | 615.1% |
TV | 97.5% | $21,075 | $7,424 | 183.9% |
Arcade gamesHigh opportunity | 3.4% | $53,280 | $19,579 | 172.1% |
Smoke alarm | 98.5% | $20,931 | $8,210 | 154.9% |
Outdoor playgroundHigh opportunity | 2.5% | $45,761 | $20,100 | 127.7% |
Hot water | 90.3% | $21,873 | $10,200 | 114.4% |
Hot tubHigh opportunity | 5.3% | $40,959 | $19,595 | 109.0% |
Ping pong tableHigh opportunity | 2.5% | $41,185 | $20,216 | 103.7% |
Game consoleHigh opportunity | 3.1% | $40,381 | $20,118 | 100.7% |
Life size games | 2.3% | $39,941 | $20,286 | 96.9% |
Revenue Impact Insights for Des Moines
- Heating tops the revenue impact list with a 615.1% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $21,404 vs. $2,993 without it.
- High-opportunity amenities — Arcade games, Outdoor playground, Hot tub — combine revenue uplift above 100% with prevalence under 10%, meaning most competitors haven't adopted them yet.
- Heating, TV, Smoke alarm, Hot water — while widespread — still correlate with meaningful revenue gains, making them table stakes rather than true differentiators.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Prioritize adding Arcade games — it has the best combination of high revenue impact and low market saturation in Des Moines.
- 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 Des Moines STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Des Moines. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsDes Moines Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for Des Moines
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Des Moines consists of primarily domestic travelers (97%), often arriving from nearby Des Moines, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
- Domestic travelers account for 97.3% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (97.3%) and Canada (0.5%).
- Top languages spoken are English (75%) followed by Spanish (11.4%).
- 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 Des Moines and Minneapolis.
- 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 Des Moines?
Listings in Des Moines average 4.76 out of 5 overall, with about 84.3 reviews per active listing and 36.5% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.
Rating Breakdown by Category
Guest Rating Insights for Des Moines
- An average rating of 4.76 places Des Moines in solid territory. Most guests leave satisfied, though there is room for hosts to push toward the top tier.
- The strongest subcategory is Communication (4.89), while Value (4.72) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
- 36.5% 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.
Des Moines Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Des Moines
- The most common availability pattern in Des Moines falls within the 181-270 days range, representing 40.1% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 79.4% 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 Des Moines (41.4%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 21.5% 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 Des Moines?
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Des Moines
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Des Moines is 42 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during July (average 71 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in January (average 22 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Summer (62 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (27 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (42 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Des Moines.
- For July stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 71 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 62 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Des Moines averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Des Moines?
Guests in Des Moines stay about 5.3 nights on average, generating roughly 13,956 reservations and 26.6 bookings per listing in the latest AirROI dataset. The most common check-in time is 4:00 PM and check-out is 11:00 AM.
Monthly Length of Stay in Des Moines
Check-in Time Distribution
Check-out Time Distribution
Stay Pattern Insights for Des Moines
- 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 26.6 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 Jun (5.4 nights) and shorten in Feb (3.5 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 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.
Des Moines Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
245 listings
46.8% of total
2 Nights
94 listings
17.9% of total
3 Nights
20 listings
3.8% of total
4-6 Nights
10 listings
1.9% of total
7-29 Nights
29 listings
5.5% of total
30+ Nights
126 listings
24% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Des Moines is 1 Night, adopted by 46.8% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
- A strong majority (64.7%) of the Des Moines Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.
- A significant segment (24%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Des Moines, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 1 Night minimum stay, as 46.8% of Des Moines hosts use this setting.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 24% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Des Moines.
Des Moines Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Super Strict 60 Days
2 listings
0.4% of total
Super Strict 30 Days
2 listings
0.4% of total
Limited
13 listings
2.5% of total
Flexible
82 listings
15.7% of total
Moderate
141 listings
27% of total
Firm
219 listings
41.9% of total
Strict
64 listings
12.2% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Des Moines
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Des Moines is Firm, used by 41.9% of listings.
- A majority (54.1%) of hosts in Des Moines 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 41.9% market standard in Des Moines.
- Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 12.2% 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 Des Moines.
How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Des Moines?
Cleaning fees in Des Moines 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 Des Moines
- 86.1% of listings charge a cleaning fee, making it standard practice in Des Moines. Guests expect it and factor it into their booking decisions.
- The gap between the average ($162) and median ($85) cleaning fee indicates some high-end properties are pulling the average up considerably.
- Cleaning fees represent 12.0% of gross revenue on average — a significant line item that impacts total guest cost and competitiveness.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Price your cleaning fee competitively against the Des Moines median of $85. Fees significantly above market norms can deter bookings, especially for shorter stays.
- Consider whether bundling the cleaning fee into a slightly higher nightly rate might improve conversion, since many guests filter by total price and separate fees can feel punitive.
- 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 Des Moines Look Like?
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Des Moinesbased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Urban Oasis with Pool & Hot Tub + Fast WiFi
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
6 Bedroom/3 Bath/10 beds @ Waterbury White House!
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
The Lux-Lodge,Hot Tub, Game room, Movie Theater.
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Summer House DSM
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Gardens on Grand
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Heartland BNB~Hot Tub~Sauna~fire table~2 kings
Entire Place • 4 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 Des Moines?
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Des Moines 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sheryl | 40 | $634,563 | 886 | 4.46/5.0 |
| Dan | 17 | $626,683 | 1645 | 4.84/5.0 |
| Seth | 8 | $369,011 | 739 | 4.80/5.0 |
| Berhane | 19 | $360,212 | 1005 | 4.58/5.0 |
| Michael | 14 | $281,508 | 519 | 4.63/5.0 |
| Anna And Blake | 7 | $279,633 | 411 | 4.79/5.0 |
| Jesse | 6 | $265,070 | 598 | 4.92/5.0 |
| Sleepover | 26 | $255,604 | 1161 | 4.56/5.0 |
| DSM Stays | 3 | $205,448 | 587 | 4.98/5.0 |
| Matt | 8 | $201,495 | 506 | 4.56/5.0 |
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 Des Moines.
Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Des Moines?
Des Moines is a quality-focused market, with a high Superhost share and fairly mature operating standards.
Host Profile Insights for Des Moines
- With 51.7% Superhosts, Des Moines has an experienced host base that sets high guest expectations. New entrants should plan for competitive quality standards.
- 13.9% of listings are professionally managed, reflecting a market still dominated by individual hosts.
- 5.9% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
- 73.9% 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
- Consider enabling Instant Book — it reduces booking friction and Airbnb's algorithm tends to favor Instant Book listings in search results.
- With 33.2% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
- Benchmark your host metrics against these Des Moines averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.
Top Professional Management Companies in Des Moines
These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in Des Moines, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sheryl | 40 | $634,563 | $264 | 37.4% | 4.46/5 |
| Dan | 17 | $626,683 | $170 | 56.9% | 4.84/5 |
| Berhane | 19 | $360,212 | $132 | 53.8% | 4.58/5 |
| Anna And Blake | 7 | $279,633 | $219 | 53.0% | 4.79/5 |
| Elijah | 4 | $178,476 | $252 | 47.4% | 4.80/5 |
| Josiah | 7 | $156,402 | $228 | 33.9% | 4.76/5 |
| Kalen | 1 | $98,611 | $505 | 55.0% | 4.83/5 |
| Alex | 1 | $59,363 | $308 | 50.6% | 4.91/5 |
| Abby | 1 | $59,349 | $258 | 62.8% | 4.90/5 |
| Dallas | 2 | $56,371 | $141 | 57.1% | 4.88/5 |
Management Company Insights for Des Moines
- The leading management company, Sheryl, operates 40 listings with $634,563 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in Des Moines.
- Top managers average 10 properties each, suggesting professional management in Des Moines still operates at a relatively boutique scale.
- Professionally managed listings in the top tier average 4.78/5 in guest ratings — demonstrating that scale and quality can coexist.
Recommendations
- With only 13.9% 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 Des Moines's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?
How does the Des Moines 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 West Des Moines, Des Moines has 6 percentage points lower occupancy and about $24 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Urbandale | 33 | $2,880 | $304.37 | 44% |
| West Des Moines | 103 | $2,526 | $195.57 | 49% |
| Windsor Heights | 11 | $2,187 | $178.46 | 47% |
| Winterset | 14 | $2,159 | $167.23 | 48% |
| Ankeny | 56 | $2,145 | $209.02 | 41% |
| Ames | 104 | $2,130 | $220.81 | 39% |
| Altoona | 13 | $1,947 | $222.54 | 38% |
| Pella | 47 | $1,937 | $187.17 | 41% |
| Bethany | 14 | $1,934 | $198.45 | 35% |
| Waukee | 30 | $1,918 | $182.40 | 41% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Des Moines
These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Des Moines.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Des Moines?
Des Moines hosts earn about $20,737 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $172 and RevPAR of $73. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Des Moines, Iowa, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Des Moines market, April 2025 to March 2026.
What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Des Moines?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Des Moines is 43.4%. June 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 Des Moines?
Listings in Des Moines average $172 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 Des Moines?
Des Moines currently has about 524 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 Des Moines?
AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Des Moines as Low. The dataset also shows about 0.0% 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 Des Moines?
RevPAR in Des Moines is about $73. 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 Des Moines?
At 43.4% occupancy, Des Moines 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 $20,737, 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 Des Moines?
The average booking lead time in Des Moines is about 42 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 Des Moines?
Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Des Moines include Downtown Des Moines, East Village, West Des Moines. 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 Des Moines?
entire_home listings make up 87.2% of the active supply in Des Moines. 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 Des Moines compare to nearby Airbnb markets?
Among neighboring markets, Urbandale posts $34,565 in average annual revenue with 43.6% occupancy, compared to Des Moines's $20,737 and 43.4%. 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 Des Moines?
The average Airbnb stay length in Des Moines is about 5.3 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 Des Moines?
Airbnb listings in Des Moines average 4.76 out of 5 overall. About 36.5% 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 Des Moines?
Heating and TV are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Des Moines. 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 Des Moines?
Yes. About 86.1% of active Airbnb listings in Des Moines charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $162. 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 Des Moines?
A 51.7% 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.