Flathead County, Montana Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics

Source: AirROIReviewed by Jun Zhou, Founder @ AirROI
Updated:

How much can you earn on Airbnb in Flathead County, Montana? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $27,315 per year — at a $265 nightly rate, 50.5% occupancy, and a $150 RevPAR that reflects moderate rate-to-revenue efficiency with room to optimize.

With just 35 active listings, Flathead County is a micro-market where solid booking activity throughout the year. Supply grew 52.2% year over year, and the market is recalibrating around a new competitive baseline. This is the stage where hosts who invest in amenities, guest experience, and dynamic pricing build durable advantages that compound as the market matures.

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.

What Are the Key Airbnb Metrics in Flathead County?

In Flathead County, the headline Airbnb metrics are $27,315 in average annual revenue,50.5% occupancy, $265 ADR, and $150 in RevPAR, and guests book about 85 days in advance.

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$265
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Flathead County.
Occupancy Rate(?)
50.5%
High demand. Good booking frequency.
Avg. Annual Revenue(?)
$27,315
Average annual income for an Airbnb listing in Flathead County. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
RevPAR(?)
$150
Revenue per available rental night, combining occupancy and ADR into one efficiency metric.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
-2.6%
Slight decrease (-2.6%) vs. last year.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
35
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.
Avg. Booking Lead Time(?)
85 days
How far in advance guests typically book in Flathead County. Longer lead times indicate planned travel; shorter ones suggest last-minute demand.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
March
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Flathead County.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
May
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Flathead County.
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How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Flathead County?

Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Flathead County 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 Flathead County is typically March, while May often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Flathead County across different performance tiers:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $11,500+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $8,464 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $4,710 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $3,956, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Flathead County

What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Flathead County?

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Flathead County STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Marchsees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while December 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 Flathead County:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 74%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 64% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 48%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 33% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Flathead County

What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Flathead County?

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Flathead County involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Flathead County typically peaks in December 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 $492+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $376 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $183 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $121 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Flathead County

What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Flathead County?

RevPAR in Flathead County is currently $150. 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 $50 RevPAR.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate $90 RevPAR.
  • Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $244 RevPAR.
  • Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $291 RevPAR.

Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Flathead County

RevPAR Insights for Flathead County

  • The average RevPAR in Flathead County is $150. 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% ($291) and bottom 25% ($50) is $241, indicating significant performance disparity driven by property quality, pricing strategy, and location.
  • RevPAR peaks in Mar and bottoms out in May, mirroring the broader seasonal demand pattern and suggesting opportunities for dynamic pricing.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Track your own RevPAR monthly against these Flathead County benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $90, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
  • Top-quartile listings achieve $244+ 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 Flathead County?

Flathead County's peak Airbnb season falls in March, February, January, while the softest stretch is May, October, November. Overall, the market shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy, which should guide pricing, minimum stays, and cash-flow planning.

Peak Season (March, February, January)
  • Revenue averages $14,002 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 64.7%
  • Daily rates average $280
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $5,132 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 51.8%
  • Daily rates hold near $268
Low Season (May, October, November)
  • Revenue drops to average $2,931 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 32.0%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $257

Seasonality Insights for Flathead County

  • Airbnb seasonality in Flathead County 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 Flathead County's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $19,921, occupancy reaching 90.3%, and ADRs peaking at $290.
  • Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $2,632, occupancy could drop to 25.2%, and ADRs may adjust to $241.
  • 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 Flathead County.

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 Flathead County, 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 Flathead County?

Low regulation and minimal registration activity in Flathead County, Montana, 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 Flathead County 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 Flathead County?

With a compact short-term rental market, Flathead County 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.

Best neighborhoods for Airbnb in Flathead County
Neighborhood / AreaWhy Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal)Key Attractions & Landmarks
Kalispell
Kalispell is the largest city in Flathead County and serves as a gateway to Glacier National Park. Its local amenities and proximity to natural attractions make it a prime spot for tourists and travelers.
Glacier National Park, Flathead Lake, Hockaday Museum of Art, Kalispell Grand Hotel, Conrad Mansion
Whitefish
A charming resort town near Whitefish Mountain, known for skiing in the winter and lake activities in summer. Whitefish offers a vibrant community and a mix of outdoor adventures and local culture.
Whitefish Mountain Resort, Whitefish Lake, Downtown Whitefish, Whitefish Bike Park, Stumptown Historical Museum
Bigfork
Located on the shoreline of Flathead Lake, Bigfork is a quaint village with artistic charm, appealing to tourists looking for a serene lakeside experience with activities year-round.
Bigfork Bay, Flathead Lake State Park, Bigfork Summer Playhouse, Giant Springs State Park, Local Art Galleries
Lakeside
Situated on the west shore of Flathead Lake, Lakeside is perfect for water activities, offering scenic views and a relaxing atmosphere for visitors wanting to escape.
Flathead Lake, Lakeside Park, Wild Horse Island, Local Restaurants and Shops, Boating and Fishing
Coram
Coram is a small community located near the entrance to Glacier National Park, ideal for travelers wanting quick access to the park's stunning landscapes and outdoor activities.
Glacier National Park, Local microbreweries, Daisy Pass, Hungry Horse Dam, Outdoor Recreation
Montana City
This area offers a cozy, small-town feel and is conveniently located near major attractions, making it a desirable location for those who prefer a quieter stay close to popular sites.
Local Parks, Historic Sites, Recreation Areas nearby, Quick access to Kalispell and Whitefish, Community Events
Eureka
A smaller town located in the northeastern part of Flathead County, Eureka is known for its outdoor recreational opportunities and is a hidden gem for guests looking for a peaceful retreat.
Lake Koocanusa, Golf Courses, Kootenai Falls, Local Breweries, Outdoor Adventures
Polebridge
A rustic settlement near the North Fork of the Flathead River, Polebridge serves as an entry point to the remote areas of Glacier National Park, ideal for eco-tourists and adventure seekers.
Glacier National Park, Polebridge Mercantile, North Fork Beer Company, Scenic Views, Hiking Trails

With 8 distinct neighborhoods showing meaningful short-term rental activity, Flathead County 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 Flathead County?

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Flathead County

  • The Flathead County Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 94.3% of the 35 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Flathead County, Outdoor/Unique properties are the most common (68.6%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 22.9% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • Smaller segments like hotel/boutique (combined 2.9%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Flathead County Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Flathead County

  • The dominant room capacity in Flathead County is 1 bedroom listings, making up 40% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 1 bedroom and 2 bedrooms properties represent 68.6% of the active Airbnb listings in Flathead County, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.

Flathead County Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Flathead County

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Flathead County vacation rentals is listings accommodating 4 guests (31.4%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely small families or groups.
  • Properties designed for 4 guests and 2 guests dominate the Flathead County STR market, accounting for 60.0% of listings.
  • 25.7% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Flathead County.
  • On average, properties in Flathead County are equipped to host 4.0 guests.

How Do Listings in Flathead County Compare on Quality?

Listing quality in Flathead County 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.

Average Photos per Listing(?)
25
More photos correlate with higher conversion rates.
Average Beds per Listing(?)
3.3
Reflects the capacity profile of the local supply.
Exact Location Enabled(?)
31.4%
Builds guest trust and improves booking confidence.

Listing Quality Insights for Flathead County

  • At 25 photos per listing on average, Flathead County hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
  • 31.4% 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 Flathead County averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.

What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Flathead County?

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Flathead County

  • Essential amenities in Flathead County that guests expect include: Free parking on premises. Lacking these (this) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Hot water, Fire extinguisher, Bed linens are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
  • Warning: Wifi is not universally provided but is considered essential globally. Ensure reliable Wifi is offered.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Flathead County: Free parking on premises.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Hot water or Fire extinguisher 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 Flathead County to stay competitive.

Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Flathead County?

Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Flathead County, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.

AmenityPrevalenceRevenue WithRevenue WithoutRevenue Uplift
Smoke alarm
71.4%$35,559$6,706430.2%
Heating
77.1%$33,528$6,345428.4%
Room-darkening shades
25.7%$66,507$13,749383.7%
Dishwasher
25.7%$64,843$14,325352.7%
Ceiling fan
28.6%$60,080$14,209322.8%
Dryer
25.7%$62,773$15,041317.3%
Refrigerator
48.6%$44,762$10,837313.0%
Wine glasses
37.1%$51,459$13,048294.4%
Coffee maker
51.4%$42,786$10,934291.3%
Oven
48.6%$44,006$11,551281.0%

Revenue Impact Insights for Flathead County

  • Smoke alarm tops the revenue impact list with a 430.2% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $35,559 vs. $6,706 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 Flathead County STR Market Data (2026)

Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Flathead County. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.

Explore Advanced Metrics

Flathead County Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)

Guest Origin: Domestic vs. International
Top 5 Cities of Origin
Top 5 Countries of Origin
Top 5 Languages Spoken
Guest Age Distribution (Birth Decade)

Guest Profile Summary for Flathead County

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Flathead County consists of primarily domestic travelers (94%), often arriving from nearby Seattle, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 94.4% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (94.4%) and Canada (1%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (73.8%) followed by Spanish (5.8%).
  • 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 Seattle and Chicago.
  • 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 Flathead County?

Listings in Flathead County average 4.87 out of 5 overall, with about 29 reviews per active listing and 51.4% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.

Rating Breakdown by Category

Guest Rating Insights for Flathead County

  • With an overall rating of 4.87, Flathead County listings meet an exceptionally high bar. Guests consistently report strong satisfaction, which drives repeat bookings and referral traffic.
  • The strongest subcategory is Cleanliness (4.92), while Value (4.75) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
  • 51.4% 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.

Flathead County Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Flathead County

  • The most common availability pattern in Flathead County falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 60% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 97.1% 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 Flathead County (40%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 2.9% 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 Flathead County?

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Flathead County

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Flathead County is 85 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during April (average 194 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in January (average 6 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Spring (102 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (39 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (85 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Flathead County.
  • For April stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 194 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • During January, focus on last-minute booking availability and promotions, as guests book with very short notice (6 days avg.).
  • Target marketing efforts for the Spring season well in advance (at least 102 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Flathead County averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Flathead County?

Guests in Flathead County stay about 4.5 nights on average, generating roughly 701 reservations and 20 bookings per listing in the latest AirROI dataset. The most common check-in time is 3:00 PM and check-out is 10:00 AM.

Monthly Length of Stay in Flathead County

Check-in Time Distribution

Check-out Time Distribution

Stay Pattern Insights for Flathead County

  • 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 20 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 Apr (14.5 nights) and shorten in Jan (2 nights). Adjust minimum-night requirements seasonally to match.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • With shorter average stays, focus on streamlining turnover. Self-check-in, reliable cleaning crews, and pre-staged amenities can reduce per-booking operational costs.
  • Set your check-in time to match or beat the market standard of 3:00 PM. Offering early check-in flexibility can be a low-cost differentiator.
  • Monitor length-of-stay seasonality to adjust minimum-night requirements — longer minimums during peak periods maximize revenue while shorter minimums fill gaps in shoulder seasons.

Flathead County Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (31.4%)

1 Night

11 listings

31.4% of total

2 Nights (17.1%)

2 Nights

6 listings

17.1% of total

3 Nights (17.1%)

3 Nights

6 listings

17.1% of total

30+ Nights (34.3%)

30+ Nights

12 listings

34.3% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Flathead County is 30+ Nights, adopted by 34.3% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
  • A significant segment (34.3%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Flathead County, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 34.3% of Flathead County hosts use this setting.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 34.3% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Flathead County.

Flathead County Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)

Super Strict 60 Days

1 listings

2.9% of total

Super Strict 30 Days (17.1%)

Super Strict 30 Days

6 listings

17.1% of total

Flexible

1 listings

2.9% of total

Moderate (14.3%)

Moderate

5 listings

14.3% of total

Firm (28.6%)

Firm

10 listings

28.6% of total

Strict (34.3%)

Strict

12 listings

34.3% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Flathead County

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Flathead County is Strict, used by 34.3% of listings.
  • A majority (62.9%) of hosts in Flathead County utilize Firm or Strict policies, indicating a market where hosts prioritize booking security.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Strict policy to align with the 34.3% market standard in Flathead County.
  • With 34.3% using Strict terms, this is a viable option in Flathead County, particularly for high-value properties or during peak demand periods.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Flathead County.

How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Flathead County?

Cleaning fees in Flathead County 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.

Average Cleaning Fee
$128
Median Cleaning Fee
$100
Listings Charging a Fee
97.1%
Fee as Revenue Share
11.9%

Cleaning Fee Insights for Flathead County

  • 97.1% of listings charge a cleaning fee, making it standard practice in Flathead County. Guests expect it and factor it into their booking decisions.
  • The gap between the average ($128) and median ($100) cleaning fee indicates some high-end properties are pulling the average up considerably.
  • Cleaning fees represent 11.9% 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 Flathead County median of $100. 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 Flathead County Look Like?

Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Flathead Countybased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.

Glacier Homestead Estates - Sweeping Mountain View

Glacier Homestead Estates - Sweeping Mountain View

Entire Place • 8 bedrooms

$215,056
Revenue
72.6%
Occupancy
$737.52
Daily Rate
1. The Ridge At Glacier | Highlander Cabin #1

1. The Ridge At Glacier | Highlander Cabin #1

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$62,258
Revenue
74.0%
Occupancy
$350.09
Daily Rate
2. The Ridge At Glacier | Highlander Cabin #2

2. The Ridge At Glacier | Highlander Cabin #2

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$58,604
Revenue
70.0%
Occupancy
$356.28
Daily Rate
Luxury Glacier Retreat Near Whitefish Skiing

Luxury Glacier Retreat Near Whitefish Skiing

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$52,641
Revenue
37.1%
Occupancy
$511.78
Daily Rate
3. The Ridge At Glacier | Alpine Cabin #3

3. The Ridge At Glacier | Alpine Cabin #3

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$48,135
Revenue
83.7%
Occupancy
$272.62
Daily Rate
Canyon Cabin at ThunderbirdRidge

Canyon Cabin at ThunderbirdRidge

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$45,626
Revenue
77.8%
Occupancy
$392.17
Daily Rate

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 Flathead County?

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Flathead County based on the number of properties managed and estimated total revenue over the past year. Analyze their scale and performance metrics.

Top Airbnb hosts in Flathead County by revenue
Host NamePropertiesGrossing RevenueStay ReviewsAvg Rating
GVR Montana1$215,056504.98/5.0
Jessica4$211,3511234.91/5.0
Robert4$165,142834.99/5.0
Brent1$52,641854.94/5.0
Clay And Brooke3$45,7291014.95/5.0
Amy5$43,4252144.88/5.0
William3$39,319294.62/5.0
Melanie1$38,308474.85/5.0
Mandy1$26,361135.00/5.0
Anne1$25,2221365.00/5.0

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 Flathead County.

Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Flathead County?

Flathead County is a quality-focused market, with a high Superhost share and fairly mature operating standards.

Superhosts
65.7%
Professional Management
11.4%
Cohosted Listings
54.3%
Instant Book Enabled
2.9%
Simplified Pricing
65.7%

Host Profile Insights for Flathead County

  • With 65.7% Superhosts, Flathead County has an experienced host base that sets high guest expectations. New entrants should plan for competitive quality standards.
  • 11.4% of listings are professionally managed, reflecting a market still dominated by individual hosts.
  • 2.9% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
  • 65.7% 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 54.3% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
  • Benchmark your host metrics against these Flathead County averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.

Top Professional Management Companies in Flathead County

These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in Flathead County, ranked by total revenue across their portfolio. Their performance metrics offer a benchmark for what institutional-level hosting looks like in this market.

Top Airbnb management companies in Flathead County
CompanyListingsRevenueADROcc.Rating
GVR Montana1$215,056$73872.6%4.98/5
William5$11,444$16114.0%4.63/5

Management Company Insights for Flathead County

  • The leading management company, GVR Montana, operates 1 listings with $215,056 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in Flathead County.
  • Top managers average 3 properties each, suggesting professional management in Flathead County still operates at a relatively boutique scale.
  • Professionally managed listings in the top tier average 4.8/5 in guest ratings — demonstrating that scale and quality can coexist.

Recommendations

  • With only 11.4% 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 Flathead County's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?

How does the Flathead County 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 Glacier, Flathead County has 7 percentage points lower occupancy and about $135 lower ADR. That helps frame whether this market is winning more on demand, pricing, or both.

Airbnb markets near Flathead County — performance comparison
MarketActive PropertiesMonthly RevenueDaily RateAvg. Occupancy
West Glacier89$4,268$400.0758%
Whitefish1,035$4,148$465.6240%
Somers78$3,495$415.4746%
Area B (Lake Koocanusa)23$3,402$405.5341%
Lakeside138$3,159$430.0439%
Dayton14$3,131$438.8843%
Columbia Falls552$2,995$328.4250%
Martin City49$2,968$268.0556%
Area A (Upper Flathead/Elk Valley)237$2,912$299.4837%
Glacier County15$2,832$319.5052%

Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Flathead County

These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Flathead County.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Flathead County?

Flathead County hosts earn about $27,315 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $265 and RevPAR of $150. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Flathead County, Montana, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Flathead County market, April 2025 to March 2026.

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Flathead County?

The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Flathead County is 50.5%. March is the strongest month and May 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 Flathead County?

Listings in Flathead County average $265 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 Flathead County?

Flathead County currently has about 35 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 Flathead County?

AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Flathead County 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 Flathead County?

RevPAR in Flathead County is about $150. 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 Flathead County?

At 50.5% occupancy, Flathead County 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 $27,315, 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 Flathead County?

The average booking lead time in Flathead County is about 85 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 Flathead County?

Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Flathead County include Kalispell, Whitefish, Bigfork. 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 Flathead County?

entire_home listings make up 94.3% of the active supply in Flathead County. 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 Flathead County compare to nearby Airbnb markets?

Among neighboring markets, West Glacier posts $51,216 in average annual revenue with 58.5% occupancy, compared to Flathead County's $27,315 and 50.5%. 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 Flathead County?

The average Airbnb stay length in Flathead County is about 4.5 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 Flathead County?

Airbnb listings in Flathead County average 4.87 out of 5 overall. About 51.4% 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 Flathead County?

Smoke alarm and Heating are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Flathead County. 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 Flathead County?

Yes. About 97.1% of active Airbnb listings in Flathead County charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $128. 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 Flathead County?

A 65.7% 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.

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