Empire, Michigan Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics
How much can you earn on Airbnb in Empire, Michigan? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $31,154 per year — at a $348 nightly rate, 43.1% occupancy, and a $157 RevPAR that reflects moderate rate-to-revenue efficiency with room to optimize.
With just 39 active listings, Empire is a micro-market where moderate demand with room for well-positioned listings to outperform. Supply grew 39.3% 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. In a market this size, differentiated listings with strong reviews can capture outsized returns relative to the competition.
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What Are the Key Airbnb Metrics in Empire?
In Empire, the headline Airbnb metrics are $31,154 in average annual revenue,43.1% occupancy, $348 ADR, and $157 in RevPAR, and guests book about 90 days in advance.
How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Empire?
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Empire 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 Empire is typically July, while February often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Empire across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $8,101+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $5,381 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $3,422 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $2,074, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Empire
What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Empire?
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Empire STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Julysees 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 Empire:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 69%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 56% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 39%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 23% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Empire
What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Empire?
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Empire involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Empire typically peaks in July 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 $507+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $397 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $312 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $254 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Empire
What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Empire?
RevPAR in Empire is currently $157. 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 $98 RevPAR.
- Typical properties (Median) generate $139 RevPAR.
- Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $198 RevPAR.
- Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $246 RevPAR.
Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Empire
RevPAR Insights for Empire
- The average RevPAR in Empire is $157. 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% ($246) and bottom 25% ($98) is $149, indicating significant performance disparity driven by property quality, pricing strategy, and location.
- RevPAR peaks in Jul and bottoms out in Feb, mirroring the broader seasonal demand pattern and suggesting opportunities for dynamic pricing.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Track your own RevPAR monthly against these Empire benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $139, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
- Top-quartile listings achieve $198+ 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 Empire?
Empire's peak Airbnb season falls in July, August, June, 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 (July, August, June)
- Revenue averages $7,300 per month
- Occupancy rates average 59.1%
- Daily rates average $369
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $3,457 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 38.1%
- Daily rates hold near $327
Low Season (January, February, March)
- Revenue drops to average $2,054 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 24.5%
- Daily rates adjust to average $351
Seasonality Insights for Empire
- Airbnb seasonality in Empire 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 Empire's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $9,195, occupancy reaching 70.8%, and ADRs peaking at $381.
- Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $1,501, occupancy could drop to 20.1%, and ADRs may adjust to $297.
- 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 Empire.
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 Empire, 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 Empire?
Low regulation and minimal registration activity in Empire, Michigan, United States point to an operator-friendly environment. That said, even low-regulation markets may have tax collection requirements, safety standards, or HOA rules that affect short-term rental operations. Always verify the latest short-term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Empire 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 Empire?
With a compact short-term rental market, Empire gives early-mover hosts an advantage in the right neighborhoods. The areas listed below are where guest demand and local attractions converge — a useful lens for investors evaluating whether to enter this market and where to position their listing.
| Neighborhood / Area | Why Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal) | Key Attractions & Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| Empire Beach | A beautiful, sandy beach along Lake Michigan known for its stunning sunsets and recreational activities. It's a desirable location for families and couples looking for a tranquil getaway. | Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Empire Beach, Empire Bluff Trail, Crystal Lake, Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theater |
| Downtown Empire | The charming downtown area features quaint shops, local dining, and community events. It's a great spot for travelers wanting to explore local culture and recreational opportunities. | Empire Town Hall, Local restaurants and cafes, Annual festivals, Nearby vineyards, Art galleries |
| Sleeping Bear Dunes | A nationally recognized area that attracts outdoor enthusiasts for its stunning vistas and hiking opportunities. Perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers visiting the area. | Sleeping Bear Dunes, Dune Climb, Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, Old Mission Point Lighthouse, Coastal hiking trails |
| Crystal Lake | Renowned for its clear waters and sandy shores, Crystal Lake is popular for summer vacations and water sports. Great for families and those seeking lakefront relaxation. | Crystal Lake beach, Fishing and boating, Public parks, Scenic walking trails, Local dining spots |
| Platte River | A lovely river area known for kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Attracts nature lovers and those looking for a serene outdoor experience. | Platte River State Fish Hatchery, Canoeing and kayaking routes, Nearby hiking trails, Scenic picnic spots, Wildlife observation |
| Fennville | A up-and-coming area known for its proximity to Lake Michigan and local farms. It appeals to foodies and those who appreciate rural Michigan charm. | Fennville Winery, Local farmers markets, Near Lake Michigan, Golf courses, Wineries |
| Lake Leelanau | Famous for its picturesque lakes and vineyards, this area is perfect for wine tourism and picturesque summertime visits. | Lake Leelanau beaches, Wine tasting tours, Scenic views, Boating and fishing, Quiet retreats |
| Leelanau State Park | An ideal area for outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and nature excursions. It attracts those who love to immerse themselves in nature's beauty. | Leelanau Lighthouse, Hiking trails, Campgrounds, Wildlife viewing areas, Photography spots |
With 8 distinct neighborhoods showing meaningful short-term rental activity, Empire 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 Empire?
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Empire
- The Empire Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 82.1% of the 39 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Empire, House properties are the most common (66.7%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 66.7% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- The presence of 17.9% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
- Smaller segments like outdoor/unique (combined 2.6%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Empire Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Empire
- The dominant room capacity in Empire is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 28.2% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
- Together, 3 bedrooms and 2 bedrooms properties represent 53.8% of the active Airbnb listings in Empire, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 41.1% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Empire.
Empire Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Empire
- The most common guest capacity trend in Empire vacation rentals is listings accommodating 6 guests (25.6%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 6 guests and 8+ guests dominate the Empire STR market, accounting for 51.2% of listings.
- 51.2% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Empire.
- On average, properties in Empire are equipped to host 5.0 guests.
How Do Listings in Empire Compare on Quality?
Listing quality in Empire 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 Empire
- At 31.5 photos per listing on average, Empire hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
- 10.3% 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 Empire averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.
What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Empire?
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Empire
- Essential amenities in Empire that guests expect include: Smoke alarm, Free parking on premises, TV, Wifi. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Heating, Carbon monoxide alarm, Essentials are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Empire: Smoke alarm, Free parking on premises, TV, Wifi.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Heating or Carbon monoxide alarm 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 Empire to stay competitive.
Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Empire?
Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Empire, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.
| Amenity | Prevalence | Revenue With | Revenue Without | Revenue Uplift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Baking sheet | 48.7% | $49,070 | $14,134 | 247.2% |
Cooking basics | 56.4% | $42,566 | $16,385 | 159.8% |
Cleaning products | 43.6% | $47,551 | $18,483 | 157.3% |
Toaster | 59.0% | $40,899 | $17,146 | 138.5% |
Wine glasses | 56.4% | $41,326 | $17,990 | 129.7% |
Dishwasher | 51.3% | $42,140 | $19,589 | 115.1% |
Hair dryer | 76.9% | $35,501 | $16,663 | 113.1% |
Patio or balcony | 33.3% | $47,872 | $22,795 | 110.0% |
Conditioner | 30.8% | $48,382 | $23,497 | 105.9% |
Kitchen | 79.5% | $34,653 | $17,594 | 97.0% |
Revenue Impact Insights for Empire
- Baking sheet tops the revenue impact list with a 247.2% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $49,070 vs. $14,134 without it.
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 Empire STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Empire. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsEmpire Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for Empire
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Empire consists of primarily domestic travelers (99%), often arriving from nearby Chicago, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
- Domestic travelers account for 98.8% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (98.8%) and DC (0.8%).
- Top languages spoken are English (77.8%) followed by Spanish (9.9%).
- 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 Chicago and Ann Arbor.
- 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 Empire?
Listings in Empire average 4.83 out of 5 overall, with about 40.8 reviews per active listing and 48.7% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.
Rating Breakdown by Category
Guest Rating Insights for Empire
- With an overall rating of 4.83, Empire listings meet an exceptionally high bar. Guests consistently report strong satisfaction, which drives repeat bookings and referral traffic.
- The strongest subcategory is Location (4.96), while Value (4.68) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
- 48.7% 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.
Empire Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Empire
- The most common availability pattern in Empire falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 53.8% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 89.7% 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 Empire (35.9%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 10.3% 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 Empire?
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Empire
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Empire is 90 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during August (average 123 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in March (average 24 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Summer (112 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 (90 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Empire.
- For August stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 123 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 112 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Empire averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Empire?
Guests in Empire stay about 5.6 nights on average, generating roughly 696 reservations and 17.8 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 Empire
Check-in Time Distribution
Check-out Time Distribution
Stay Pattern Insights for Empire
- 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.
- 17.8 bookings per listing is a manageable pace that balances revenue with operational overhead.
- Stay lengths peak in Apr (11.3 nights) and shorten in Feb (3.2 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.
Empire Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
4 listings
10.3% of total
2 Nights
8 listings
20.5% of total
3 Nights
1 listings
2.6% of total
4-6 Nights
3 listings
7.7% of total
7-29 Nights
1 listings
2.6% of total
30+ Nights
22 listings
56.4% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Empire is 30+ Nights, adopted by 56.4% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
- A significant segment (56.4%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Empire, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 56.4% of Empire hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 10.3% currently do.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 56.4% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Empire.
Empire Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Super Strict 60 Days
2 listings
5.1% of total
Super Strict 30 Days
7 listings
17.9% of total
Flexible
1 listings
2.6% of total
Moderate
10 listings
25.6% of total
Firm
18 listings
46.2% of total
Strict
1 listings
2.6% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Empire
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Empire is Firm, used by 46.2% of listings.
- There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (28.2%) and stricter (48.8%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.
- Strict cancellation policies are quite rare (2.6%), 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 46.2% market standard in Empire.
- Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 2.6% 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 Empire.
How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Empire?
Cleaning fees in Empire 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 Empire
- 76.9% of listings charge a cleaning fee, making it standard practice in Empire. Guests expect it and factor it into their booking decisions.
- The average cleaning fee of $221 is close to the median ($201), suggesting a relatively consistent fee structure across the market.
- Cleaning fees represent 11.7% 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 Empire median of $201. 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 Empire Look Like?
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Empirebased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Coho Cottage, Village of Empire MI, Steps from SBD
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Empire Blue House w/ Hot Tub
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Empire Beach House - Renovated. Lake Michigan.
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
NEW! Coastal Cottage - Blocks from Beach
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
My Roam'n Empire - Super Cute with Toys!
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Glenview Hideaway - located on Little Glen Lake
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 Empire?
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Empire 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holly | 6 | $145,737 | 135 | 4.84/5.0 |
| Irina | 1 | $90,482 | 32 | 4.97/5.0 |
| Donna | 1 | $89,729 | 193 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Left Coast Vacation Rentals | 2 | $89,492 | 17 | 4.86/5.0 |
| Haley | 1 | $80,163 | 16 | 4.94/5.0 |
| Jody | 2 | $76,556 | 312 | 4.99/5.0 |
| Agape Vacation Rentals | 1 | $59,222 | 7 | 4.71/5.0 |
| Katie | 1 | $57,781 | 21 | 4.95/5.0 |
| Elizabeth | 2 | $55,593 | 151 | 4.93/5.0 |
| Michelle | 1 | $54,728 | 33 | 4.82/5.0 |
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 Empire.
Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Empire?
Empire is a quality-focused market, with a high Superhost share and fairly mature operating standards.
Host Profile Insights for Empire
- With 53.8% Superhosts, Empire has an experienced host base that sets high guest expectations. New entrants should plan for competitive quality standards.
- 33.3% of listings are professionally managed, indicating a mature, competitive market with institutional players.
- 17.9% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
- 69.2% 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 25.6% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
- Benchmark your host metrics against these Empire averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.
Top Professional Management Companies in Empire
These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in Empire, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Left Coast Vacation Rentals | 2 | $89,492 | $569 | 30.5% | 4.86/5 |
| Agape Vacation Rentals | 1 | $59,222 | $396 | 41.6% | 4.71/5 |
| Vacasa Michigan | 4 | $32,644 | $388 | 28.6% | 4.65/5 |
| Rental Management One | 1 | $30,339 | $395 | 55.3% | 4.77/5 |
| Nicole Marie | 2 | $27,397 | $411 | 40.7% | 4.67/5 |
| Vacasa Michigan | 3 | $11,775 | $449 | 14.2% | 4.84/5 |
Management Company Insights for Empire
- The leading management company, Left Coast Vacation Rentals, operates 2 listings with $89,492 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in Empire.
- Top managers average 2 properties each, suggesting professional management in Empire still operates at a relatively boutique scale.
- Professionally managed listings in the top tier average 4.75/5 in guest ratings — demonstrating that scale and quality can coexist.
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 Empire's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?
How does the Empire 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 Greilickville, Empire has 7 percentage points lower occupancy and about $159 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Greilickville | 37 | $6,015 | $506.78 | 50% |
| Friendship Township | 13 | $6,010 | $481.22 | 49% |
| Town of Jacksonport | 13 | $5,313 | $523.44 | 41% |
| Blair Township | 51 | $5,212 | $521.06 | 45% |
| Town of Nasewaupee | 32 | $5,065 | $433.42 | 45% |
| Rowleys Bay | 18 | $5,011 | $429.16 | 49% |
| Town of Sturgeon Bay | 17 | $4,901 | $447.75 | 49% |
| Wilson Township | 14 | $4,834 | $485.67 | 34% |
| Sister Bay | 97 | $4,757 | $446.30 | 44% |
| Norton Shores | 55 | $4,751 | $455.80 | 45% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Empire
These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Empire.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Empire?
Empire hosts earn about $31,154 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $348 and RevPAR of $157. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Empire, Michigan, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Empire market, April 2025 to March 2026.
What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Empire?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Empire is 43.1%. July 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 Empire?
Listings in Empire average $348 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 Empire?
Empire currently has about 39 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 Empire?
AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Empire 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 Empire?
RevPAR in Empire is about $157. 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 Empire?
At 43.1% occupancy, Empire 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 $31,154, 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 Empire?
The average booking lead time in Empire is about 90 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 Empire?
Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Empire include Empire Beach, Downtown Empire, Sleeping Bear Dunes. 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 Empire?
entire_home listings make up 82.1% of the active supply in Empire. 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 Empire compare to nearby Airbnb markets?
Among neighboring markets, Greilickville posts $72,180 in average annual revenue with 50.2% occupancy, compared to Empire's $31,154 and 43.1%. 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 Empire?
The average Airbnb stay length in Empire is about 5.6 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 Empire?
Airbnb listings in Empire average 4.83 out of 5 overall. About 48.7% 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 Empire?
Baking sheet and Cooking basics are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Empire. 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 Empire?
Yes. About 76.9% of active Airbnb listings in Empire charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $221. 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 Empire?
A 53.8% 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.