Whitefish, Montana Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics
How much can you earn on Airbnb in Whitefish, Montana? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $49,776 per year — at a $466 nightly rate, 40.0% occupancy, and a $199 RevPAR that reflects moderate rate-to-revenue efficiency with room to optimize.
With 1,035 active listings and moderate demand with room for well-positioned listings to outperform, Whitefish is an established vacation rental market. Supply grew 47.4% 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 Whitefish?
In Whitefish, the headline Airbnb metrics are $49,776 in average annual revenue,40.0% occupancy, $466 ADR, and $199 in RevPAR, and guests book about 81 days in advance.
How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Whitefish?
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Whitefish 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 Whitefish is typically July, while April often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Whitefish across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $12,578+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $7,297 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $4,281 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $2,225, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Whitefish
What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Whitefish?
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Whitefish STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Julysees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while November 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 Whitefish:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 72%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 55% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 35%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 20% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Whitefish
What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Whitefish?
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Whitefish involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Whitefish 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 $867+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $547 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $359 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $250 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Whitefish
What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Whitefish?
RevPAR in Whitefish is currently $199. 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 $104 RevPAR.
- Typical properties (Median) generate $156 RevPAR.
- Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $237 RevPAR.
- Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $386 RevPAR.
Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Whitefish
RevPAR Insights for Whitefish
- The average RevPAR in Whitefish is $199. 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% ($386) and bottom 25% ($104) is $282, indicating significant performance disparity driven by property quality, pricing strategy, and location.
- RevPAR peaks in Jul and bottoms out in Apr, mirroring the broader seasonal demand pattern and suggesting opportunities for dynamic pricing.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Track your own RevPAR monthly against these Whitefish benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $156, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
- Top-quartile listings achieve $237+ 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 Whitefish?
Whitefish's peak Airbnb season falls in July, August, June, while the softest stretch is April, May, November. 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 $9,323 per month
- Occupancy rates average 55.0%
- Daily rates average $518
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $5,658 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 36.2%
- Daily rates hold near $469
Low Season (April, May, November)
- Revenue drops to average $2,844 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 26.6%
- Daily rates adjust to average $391
Seasonality Insights for Whitefish
- Airbnb seasonality in Whitefish 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 Whitefish's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $11,719, occupancy reaching 64.6%, and ADRs peaking at $552.
- Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $2,438, occupancy could drop to 23.3%, and ADRs may adjust to $375.
- Lower occupancy paired with meaningful seasonality means hosts in Whitefish need to maximize every peak-season booking and seriously consider whether off-season pricing adjustments or minimum-stay changes can capture incremental revenue.
Seasonal Strategies for Maximizing Profit
- Peak Season: Maximize revenue through premium pricing 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 Whitefish, 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 Whitefish?
Whitefish, Montana, United States currently shows a low regulation profile despite having 1,035 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 Whitefish to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2026, based on 0% licensed listings)
What Are the Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Whitefish?
Whitefish is a large short-term rental market, and performance varies significantly by location within the city. The neighborhoods below are among the most active areas for Airbnb hosts — each with distinct guest demographics, demand drivers, and local attractions. Use this as a starting point for neighborhood-level investment analysis in Whitefish, Montana.
| Neighborhood / Area | Why Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal) | Key Attractions & Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Whitefish | The vibrant heart of Whitefish, full of local shops, restaurants, and cafes. A prime location for guests wanting to experience the local culture and easy access to outdoor adventures. | Whitefish Mountain Resort, Whitefish Lake, Nature trails, Local breweries, Shopping and dining options |
| Whitefish Mountain Resort | Popular ski destination in winter and hiking area in summer. Attracts visitors year-round for outdoor activities, making it a prime spot for vacation rentals. | Skiing and snowboarding, Hiking trails, Zipline tours, Mountain biking, Adventure park |
| Big Mountain | Known for its stunning views and outdoor activities, Big Mountain attracts nature lovers and adventure seekers year-round, ideal for Airbnb hosting. | Lone Pine State Park, Beautiful hiking trails, Mountain biking, Scenic views of Flathead Valley |
| Whitefish Lake | A serene area that offers water activities and relaxation. Guests can enjoy swimming, fishing, and boating, making it a sought-after rental location in summer. | Swimming beaches, Boating and kayaking, Fishing opportunities, Picnic areas |
| The Glacier Area | Located near Glacier National Park, this area draws visitors looking to explore the park's natural beauty and wildlife, ideal for nature and adventure enthusiasts. | Glacier National Park, St. Mary Lake, Wildlife viewing, Hiking trails |
| Lake Blanc | A hidden gem for those seeking tranquility and stunning scenery. This area attracts visitors seeking a peaceful getaway in nature. | Hiking trails, Scenic lake views, Fishing, Wildflower viewing |
| Columbia Falls | Close to Glacier National Park and the Flathead River, this small town is an ideal place for those wanting easy access to outdoor activities and adventures. | Glacier National Park, Flathead River activities, Local dining, Nature trails |
| Martin City | A quaint area near the Flathead River, perfect for those wanting a combination of outdoor activities and small-town charm, popular among travelers exploring nearby parks. | Access to Flathead River, Historic sites, Local eateries, Scenic drives |
With 8 distinct neighborhoods showing meaningful short-term rental activity, Whitefish 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 Whitefish?
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Whitefish
- The Whitefish Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 98.6% of the 1,035 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Whitefish, House properties are the most common (47.8%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 47.8% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- Smaller segments like hotel/boutique, others, unique stays (combined 4.1%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Whitefish Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Whitefish
- The dominant room capacity in Whitefish is 2 bedrooms listings, making up 27.7% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 2 bedrooms and 3 bedrooms properties represent 53.1% of the active Airbnb listings in Whitefish, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 48.2% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Whitefish.
Whitefish Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Whitefish
- The most common guest capacity trend in Whitefish vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (38%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Whitefish STR market, accounting for 62.1% of listings.
- 66.4% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Whitefish.
- On average, properties in Whitefish are equipped to host 6.0 guests.
How Do Listings in Whitefish Compare on Quality?
Listing quality in Whitefish 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 Whitefish
- At 38.7 photos per listing on average, Whitefish hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
- 35.7% of listings show their exact location. Lower disclosure rates can increase booking hesitation — guests want to know exactly where they are staying.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Enable exact location if possible — it removes a common source of guest uncertainty and can improve your listing's position in map-based searches.
- Use these quality indicators as a self-audit checklist. Listings that exceed the Whitefish averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.
What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Whitefish?
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Whitefish
- Essential amenities in Whitefish that guests expect include: Free parking on premises, Wifi, Heating, Smoke alarm, TV, Kitchen, Refrigerator, Fire extinguisher. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Coffee maker, Dishes and silverware are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Whitefish: Free parking on premises, Wifi, Heating, Smoke alarm, TV, Kitchen, Refrigerator, Fire extinguisher.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Free parking on premises, Wifi, Heating, Smoke alarm, TV, Kitchen, Refrigerator, Fire extinguisher.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Coffee maker or Dishes and silverware 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 Whitefish to stay competitive.
Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Whitefish?
Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Whitefish, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.
| Amenity | Prevalence | Revenue With | Revenue Without | Revenue Uplift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Hair dryer | 89.6% | $53,697 | $16,122 | 233.1% |
Cooking basics | 84.8% | $55,519 | $17,663 | 214.3% |
Movie theaterHigh opportunity | 0.5% | $145,832 | $49,310 | 195.7% |
Dryer | 87.1% | $54,223 | $19,878 | 172.8% |
Washer | 88.0% | $53,848 | $19,861 | 171.1% |
Air conditioning | 84.9% | $54,938 | $20,693 | 165.5% |
Dishes and silverware | 94.3% | $51,605 | $19,516 | 164.4% |
Children's playroomHigh opportunity | 2.5% | $120,992 | $47,941 | 152.4% |
Dishwasher | 85.9% | $54,084 | $23,546 | 129.7% |
Pool tableHigh opportunity | 2.8% | $110,151 | $48,036 | 129.3% |
Revenue Impact Insights for Whitefish
- Hair dryer tops the revenue impact list with a 233.1% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $53,697 vs. $16,122 without it.
- High-opportunity amenities — Movie theater, Children's playroom, Pool table — combine revenue uplift above 100% with prevalence under 10%, meaning most competitors haven't adopted them yet.
- Hair dryer, Cooking basics, Dryer, Washer, Air conditioning, Dishes and silverware, Dishwasher — while widespread — still correlate with meaningful revenue gains, making them table stakes rather than true differentiators.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Prioritize adding Movie theater — it has the best combination of high revenue impact and low market saturation in Whitefish.
- 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 Whitefish STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Whitefish. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsWhitefish Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for Whitefish
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Whitefish 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 94.1% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (94.1%) and Canada (3.4%).
- Top languages spoken are English (76.8%) followed by Spanish (10.1%).
- 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 Missoula.
- 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 Whitefish?
Listings in Whitefish average 4.85 out of 5 overall, with about 42.3 reviews per active listing and 41.3% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.
Rating Breakdown by Category
Guest Rating Insights for Whitefish
- With an overall rating of 4.85, Whitefish listings meet an exceptionally high bar. Guests consistently report strong satisfaction, which drives repeat bookings and referral traffic.
- The strongest subcategory is Location (4.91), while Value (4.73) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
- 41.3% of listings carry the Guest Favorite badge, a strong trust signal that can meaningfully lift click-through and booking rates.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Focus improvement efforts on Value — even small gains in the weakest subcategory can lift overall ratings and search ranking.
- Encourage guests to leave reviews after checkout. Listings with more reviews rank higher in search results and convert browsers into bookers more effectively.
Whitefish Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Whitefish
- The most common availability pattern in Whitefish falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 51.6% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 90.2% 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 Whitefish (39.8%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 10.7% 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 Whitefish?
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Whitefish
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Whitefish is 81 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during July (average 111 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in November (average 42 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Summer (94 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Fall (62 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (81 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Whitefish.
- For July stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 111 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 94 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Whitefish averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Whitefish?
Guests in Whitefish stay about 5.5 nights on average, generating roughly 20,108 reservations and 19.4 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 Whitefish
Check-in Time Distribution
Check-out Time Distribution
Stay Pattern Insights for Whitefish
- 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.
- 19.4 bookings per listing is a manageable pace that balances revenue with operational overhead.
- Stay lengths peak in May (5.5 nights) and shorten in Nov (4 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.
Whitefish Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
66 listings
6.4% of total
2 Nights
195 listings
18.8% of total
3 Nights
106 listings
10.2% of total
4-6 Nights
31 listings
3% of total
7-29 Nights
44 listings
4.3% of total
30+ Nights
593 listings
57.3% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Whitefish is 30+ Nights, adopted by 57.3% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
- A significant segment (57.3%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Whitefish, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 57.3% of Whitefish hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 6.4% currently do.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 57.3% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Whitefish.
Whitefish Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Limited
8 listings
0.8% of total
Super Strict 30 Days
252 listings
24.4% of total
Super Strict 60 Days
204 listings
19.7% of total
Flexible
65 listings
6.3% of total
Moderate
83 listings
8% of total
Firm
321 listings
31% of total
Strict
101 listings
9.8% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Whitefish
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Whitefish is Firm, used by 31% of listings.
- There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (14.3%) and stricter (40.8%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.
- Strict cancellation policies are quite rare (9.8%), 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 31% market standard in Whitefish.
- Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 9.8% 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 Whitefish.
How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Whitefish?
Cleaning fees in Whitefish 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 Whitefish
- 93.2% of listings charge a cleaning fee, making it standard practice in Whitefish. Guests expect it and factor it into their booking decisions.
- The gap between the average ($400) and median ($252) 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 Whitefish median of $252. 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 Whitefish Look Like?
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Whitefishbased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Good Medicine Lodge Whole House
Entire Place • 10 bedrooms
Back Forty Lodge w/ Cabin, Spa, Fire Pit & BBQ
Entire Place • 7 bedrooms
Grand Alpine Lodge, Ski In/Out, Hot Tub, Sleeps 20
Entire Place • 7 bedrooms
Whitefish Outpost: Rustic Luxury-Ski Big Mountain
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Luxury Cabins by Whitefish Golf Course (Sleeps 24)
Entire Place • 10 bedrooms
Wood Run Ski Haus - Gorgeous Ski-In/Ski-Out Home!
Entire Place • 7 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 Whitefish?
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Whitefish 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Retreats (W) | 73 | $5,621,486 | 1109 | 4.78/5.0 |
| Glacier | 56 | $4,245,456 | 3368 | 4.92/5.0 |
| Matthew | 41 | $2,987,170 | 883 | 4.87/5.0 |
| Stumptown | 81 | $2,773,651 | 2307 | 4.82/5.0 |
| Stay Montana | 36 | $1,992,476 | 211 | 4.71/5.0 |
| I Love Whitefish By Stay Monta | 29 | $1,558,017 | 175 | 4.79/5.0 |
| Montana Home Vacations By Stay | 22 | $1,503,750 | 333 | 4.91/5.0 |
| Crystal | 28 | $1,389,008 | 873 | 4.81/5.0 |
| Whitefish Mountain | 66 | $1,210,119 | 196 | 4.60/5.0 |
| Lakeshore Rentals | 29 | $1,137,203 | 607 | 4.86/5.0 |
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 Whitefish.
Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Whitefish?
Whitefish is a quality-focused market, with a high Superhost share and fairly mature operating standards.
Host Profile Insights for Whitefish
- With 73.4% Superhosts, Whitefish has an experienced host base that sets high guest expectations. New entrants should plan for competitive quality standards.
- 57.4% of listings are professionally managed, indicating a mature, competitive market with institutional players.
- 5.9% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
- 69.8% 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 12.9% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
- Benchmark your host metrics against these Whitefish averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.
Top Professional Management Companies in Whitefish
These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in Whitefish, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Natural Retreats (W) | 73 | $5,621,486 | $649 | 37.2% | 4.78/5 |
| Glacier | 56 | $4,245,456 | $436 | 48.8% | 4.92/5 |
| Matthew | 41 | $2,987,170 | $626 | 41.8% | 4.87/5 |
| Stumptown | 81 | $2,773,651 | $418 | 32.0% | 4.82/5 |
| Stay Montana | 36 | $1,992,476 | $690 | 37.6% | 4.71/5 |
| I Love Whitefish By Stay Monta | 29 | $1,558,017 | $682 | 35.6% | 4.79/5 |
| Montana Home Vacations By Stay | 22 | $1,503,750 | $810 | 36.8% | 4.91/5 |
| Crystal | 28 | $1,389,008 | $390 | 50.1% | 4.81/5 |
| Whitefish Mountain | 66 | $1,210,119 | $447 | 20.6% | 4.60/5 |
| Lakeshore Rentals | 29 | $1,137,203 | $343 | 43.8% | 4.86/5 |
Management Company Insights for Whitefish
- The leading management company, Natural Retreats (W), operates 73 listings with $5,621,486 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in Whitefish.
- Top managers average 46 properties each, pointing to a market where portfolio scale is a meaningful competitive factor.
- Professionally managed listings in the top tier average 4.81/5 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 Whitefish's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?
How does the Whitefish 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, Whitefish has 18 percentage points lower occupancy and about $66 higher ADR. That helps frame whether this market is winning more on demand, pricing, or both.
| Market | Active Properties | Monthly Revenue | Daily Rate | Avg. Occupancy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| West Glacier | 89 | $4,268 | $400.07 | 58% |
| Somers | 78 | $3,495 | $415.47 | 46% |
| Area B (Lake Koocanusa) | 23 | $3,402 | $405.53 | 41% |
| Lakeside | 138 | $3,159 | $430.04 | 39% |
| Dayton | 14 | $3,131 | $438.88 | 43% |
| Columbia Falls | 552 | $2,995 | $328.42 | 50% |
| Martin City | 49 | $2,968 | $268.05 | 56% |
| Area A (Upper Flathead/Elk Valley) | 237 | $2,912 | $299.48 | 37% |
| Glacier County | 15 | $2,832 | $319.50 | 52% |
| Kalispell | 531 | $2,759 | $300.71 | 47% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Whitefish
These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Whitefish.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Whitefish?
Whitefish hosts earn about $49,776 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $466 and RevPAR of $199. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Whitefish, Montana, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Whitefish market, April 2025 to March 2026.
What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Whitefish?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Whitefish is 40.0%. July is the strongest month and April 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 Whitefish?
Listings in Whitefish average $466 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 Whitefish?
Whitefish currently has about 1,035 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 Whitefish?
AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Whitefish as Low. The dataset also shows about 0.1% 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 Whitefish?
RevPAR in Whitefish is about $199. 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 Whitefish?
Occupancy of 40.0% means Whitefish is a more selective market. Profitability is achievable but requires careful cost management, premium positioning, or targeting longer stays to reduce turnover. Average annual revenue is $49,776, 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 Whitefish?
The average booking lead time in Whitefish is about 81 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 Whitefish?
Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Whitefish include Downtown Whitefish, Whitefish Mountain Resort, Big Mountain. 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 Whitefish?
entire_home listings make up 98.6% of the active supply in Whitefish. 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 Whitefish compare to nearby Airbnb markets?
Among neighboring markets, West Glacier posts $51,216 in average annual revenue with 58.5% occupancy, compared to Whitefish's $49,776 and 40.0%. 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 Whitefish?
The average Airbnb stay length in Whitefish is about 5.5 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 Whitefish?
Airbnb listings in Whitefish average 4.85 out of 5 overall. About 41.3% of listings carry the guest favorite badge, which suggests a meaningful share of inventory is competing on review quality rather than price alone.
Which amenities boost Airbnb revenue in Whitefish?
Hair dryer and Cooking basics are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Whitefish. 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 Whitefish?
Yes. About 93.2% of active Airbnb listings in Whitefish charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $400. 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 Whitefish?
A 73.4% 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.