Cary, North Carolina Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics
How much can you earn on Airbnb in Cary, North Carolina? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $30,018 per year — at a $200 nightly rate, 48.6% occupancy, and a $99 RevPAR that reflects moderate rate-to-revenue efficiency with room to optimize.
Cary's 277 active listings and moderate demand with room for well-positioned listings to outperform position it as a midsize vacation rental market. Supply grew 71.0% 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 Cary?
In Cary, the headline Airbnb metrics are $30,018 in average annual revenue,48.6% occupancy, $200 ADR, and $99 in RevPAR, and guests book about 40 days in advance.
How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Cary?
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Cary 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 Cary is typically June, while January often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Cary across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $6,019+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $4,386 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $2,990 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,548, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Cary
What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Cary?
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Cary STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Junesees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while January 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 Cary:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 84%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 72% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 53%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 31% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Cary
What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Cary?
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Cary involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Cary typically peaks in March 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 $322+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $241 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $176 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $121 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Cary
What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Cary?
RevPAR in Cary is currently $99. 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 $54 RevPAR.
- Typical properties (Median) generate $98 RevPAR.
- Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $133 RevPAR.
- Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $168 RevPAR.
Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Cary
RevPAR Insights for Cary
- The average RevPAR in Cary is $99. 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% ($168) and bottom 25% ($54) is $113, indicating significant performance disparity driven by property quality, pricing strategy, and location.
- RevPAR peaks in Jun and bottoms out in Jan, mirroring the broader seasonal demand pattern and suggesting opportunities for dynamic pricing.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Track your own RevPAR monthly against these Cary benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $98, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
- Top-quartile listings achieve $133+ 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 Cary?
Cary's peak Airbnb season falls in June, July, October, while the softest stretch is January, February, March. Overall, the market shows moderate seasonality with distinct peak and low periods, which should guide pricing, minimum stays, and cash-flow planning.
Peak Season (June, July, October)
- Revenue averages $3,833 per month
- Occupancy rates average 57.1%
- Daily rates average $195
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $3,230 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 51.3%
- Daily rates hold near $193
Low Season (January, February, March)
- Revenue drops to average $2,718 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 44.9%
- Daily rates adjust to average $201
Seasonality Insights for Cary
- The Airbnb seasonality pattern in Cary shows moderate seasonality with distinct peak and low periods. While the sections above show seasonal averages, it is also insightful to look at the extremes:
- During the high season, the absolute peak month showcases Cary's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $4,017, occupancy reaching 60.9%, and ADRs peaking at $208.
- Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $2,624, occupancy could drop to 42.5%, and ADRs may adjust to $182.
- 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 Cary.
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.
- Regularly analyze your own performance against these Cary seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.
Do You Need a License for Airbnb in Cary?
Low regulation and minimal registration activity in Cary, North Carolina, 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 Cary to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2026, based on 0% licensed listings)
What Are the Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Cary?
Location within Cary matters. Even in a midsize market, the difference between neighborhoods can mean a material gap in occupancy, nightly rate, and overall Airbnb revenue. Below are 8 areas where short-term rental activity and guest interest are concentrated — along with the reasons each neighborhood appeals to travelers.
| Neighborhood / Area | Why Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal) | Key Attractions & Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Cary | The bustling center of Cary with easy access to shops, restaurants, and local events. Ideal for travelers who want to experience the community vibe and convenience of Cary. | Cary Arts Center, The Perfect Place, Downtown Park, Local breweries, Cary Town Hall |
| Cary Towne Center | A key commercial area providing shopping and dining options, attracting visitors who seek comfort and convenience close to amenities. | Cary Towne Center Mall, Cinemark Cary, Restaurants, Retail shops, Entertainment options |
| Parkside Town Commons | A growing shopping and dining destination that appeals to both local residents and visitors, perfect for families and leisure travelers. | Parkside Town Commons shopping center, Restaurants, Indoor play areas, Nearby parks, Outdoor activities |
| Koka Booth Amphitheatre | Popular venue for concerts and events, drawing crowds and tourists, especially during the summer festival season. | Koka Booth Amphitheatre, Outdoor concerts, Cary Arts events, Annual festivals, Nature trails |
| Middle Creek | A suburban neighborhood ideal for families looking for a quiet stay with access to parks and local activities, suitable for longer-term rentals. | Middle Creek Community Park, Local schools, Nature trails, Family-friendly environment, Outdoor sports available |
| MacGregor Downs | Upscale residential area known for its golf courses and scenic views, attracting guests looking for a more luxurious stay. | MacGregor Downs Country Club, Lakes, Scenic drives, Golfing, Nearby fine dining |
| West Cary | A growing area home to several new developments, appealing to families and business travelers with its proximity to major highways and tech companies. | Local parks, Shopping centers, Tech business proximity, Community events, Family amenities |
| Bonds Grove | Quieter, residential area away from the hustle and bustle, attractive to visitors seeking peace and retreats while still being near Cary's attractions. | Rural charm, Nature parks, Walking trails, Community feel, Close to downtown |
With 8 distinct neighborhoods showing meaningful short-term rental activity, Cary 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 Cary?
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Cary
- The Cary Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 82.7% of the 277 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Cary, House properties are the most common (81.9%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 81.9% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- Smaller segments like others, hotel/boutique, outdoor/unique (combined 5.4%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Cary Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Cary
- The dominant room capacity in Cary is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 30% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
- Together, 3 bedrooms and 2 bedrooms properties represent 52.0% of the active Airbnb listings in Cary, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 52.7% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Cary.
Cary Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Cary
- The most common guest capacity trend in Cary vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (28.5%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Cary STR market, accounting for 47.6% of listings.
- 52.3% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Cary.
- On average, properties in Cary are equipped to host 5.0 guests.
How Do Listings in Cary Compare on Quality?
Listing quality in Cary 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 Cary
- At 31.8 photos per listing on average, Cary hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
- 28.2% 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 Cary averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.
What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Cary?
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Cary
- Essential amenities in Cary that guests expect include: Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, Wifi, Free parking on premises, Heating, TV. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Hot water, Kitchen, Microwave are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Cary: Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, Wifi, Free parking on premises, Heating, TV.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, Wifi, Free parking on premises, Heating, TV.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Hot water or Kitchen 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 Cary to stay competitive.
Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Cary?
Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Cary, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.
| Amenity | Prevalence | Revenue With | Revenue Without | Revenue Uplift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Heating | 97.1% | $30,702 | $7,017 | 337.5% |
Hair dryer | 87.0% | $32,313 | $14,653 | 120.5% |
Washer | 90.6% | $31,597 | $14,774 | 113.9% |
Hot water | 92.8% | $31,181 | $15,073 | 106.9% |
Dryer | 87.0% | $32,168 | $15,627 | 105.8% |
Dishes and silverware | 90.6% | $31,536 | $15,364 | 105.3% |
Children's playroomHigh opportunity | 4.3% | $58,309 | $28,737 | 102.9% |
Kitchen | 91.7% | $31,333 | $15,500 | 102.2% |
Theme room | 2.2% | $58,734 | $29,382 | 99.9% |
TV | 96.4% | $30,545 | $15,941 | 91.6% |
Revenue Impact Insights for Cary
- Heating tops the revenue impact list with a 337.5% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $30,702 vs. $7,017 without it.
- High-opportunity amenities — Children's playroom — combine revenue uplift above 100% with prevalence under 10%, meaning most competitors haven't adopted them yet.
- Heating, Hair dryer, Washer, Hot water, Dryer, Dishes and silverware, Kitchen, TV — while widespread — still correlate with meaningful revenue gains, making them table stakes rather than true differentiators.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Prioritize adding Children's playroom — it has the best combination of high revenue impact and low market saturation in Cary.
- 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 Cary STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Cary. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsCary Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for Cary
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Cary consists of primarily domestic travelers (95%), often arriving from nearby Charlotte, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
- Domestic travelers account for 95.2% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (95.2%) and DC (1.1%).
- Top languages spoken are English (72.1%) followed by Spanish (11%).
- 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 Charlotte and Cary.
- 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 Cary?
Listings in Cary average 4.87 out of 5 overall, with about 77.8 reviews per active listing and 58.5% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.
Rating Breakdown by Category
Guest Rating Insights for Cary
- With an overall rating of 4.87, Cary listings meet an exceptionally high bar. Guests consistently report strong satisfaction, which drives repeat bookings and referral traffic.
- The strongest subcategory is Communication (4.94), while Value (4.82) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
- 58.5% of listings carry the Guest Favorite badge, a strong trust signal that can meaningfully lift click-through and booking rates.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Focus improvement efforts on Value — even small gains in the weakest subcategory can lift overall ratings and search ranking.
- Encourage guests to leave reviews after checkout. Listings with more reviews rank higher in search results and convert browsers into bookers more effectively.
Cary Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Cary
- The most common availability pattern in Cary falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 32.1% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 62.1% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
- For booked days, the 181-270 days range is most frequent in Cary (31.8%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 38.3% 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 Cary?
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Cary
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Cary is 40 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during May (average 58 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in January (average 24 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Spring (47 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (30 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (40 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Cary.
- For May stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 58 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Spring season well in advance (at least 47 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Cary averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Cary?
Guests in Cary stay about 6.6 nights on average, generating roughly 7,792 reservations and 28.1 bookings per listing in the latest AirROI dataset. The most common check-in time is 4:00 PM and check-out is 11:00 AM.
Monthly Length of Stay in Cary
Check-in Time Distribution
Check-out Time Distribution
Stay Pattern Insights for Cary
- 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 28.1 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 Jan (6.7 nights) and shorten in Apr (4.7 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.
Cary Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
51 listings
18.4% of total
2 Nights
76 listings
27.4% of total
3 Nights
27 listings
9.7% of total
4-6 Nights
17 listings
6.1% of total
7-29 Nights
20 listings
7.2% of total
30+ Nights
86 listings
31% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Cary is 30+ Nights, adopted by 31% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
- A significant segment (31%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Cary, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 31% of Cary hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 18.4% currently do.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 31% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Cary.
Cary Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Super Strict 60 Days
2 listings
0.7% of total
Limited
8 listings
2.9% of total
Super Strict 30 Days
1 listings
0.4% of total
Flexible
58 listings
20.9% of total
Moderate
89 listings
32.1% of total
Firm
97 listings
35% of total
Strict
22 listings
7.9% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Cary
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Cary is Firm, used by 35% of listings.
- There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (53.0%) and stricter (42.9%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.
- Strict cancellation policies are quite rare (7.9%), 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 35% market standard in Cary.
- Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 7.9% 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 Cary.
How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Cary?
Cleaning fees in Cary 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 Cary
- 88.8% of listings charge a cleaning fee, making it standard practice in Cary. Guests expect it and factor it into their booking decisions.
- The gap between the average ($328) and median ($150) 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 Cary median of $150. 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 Cary Look Like?
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Carybased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
The Mulberry on Trinity Woods
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Luxe Cary Retreat | Sleeps 12 | Fire Pit
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
HOT TUB/Dog & Family/Near Pickleball/Heated Pool
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Outdoor Oasis - Pool, Hot Tub, Fireplace, Kitchen
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Onyx Haus: Large Group Luxe Stay w/ 3 King Beds!
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Spacious Living | King Main Level | Walk to DTCary
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.
Who Are the Top Airbnb Hosts in Cary?
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Cary 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lisa | 7 | $287,821 | 314 | 4.88/5.0 |
| Molly | 6 | $278,494 | 216 | 4.86/5.0 |
| Amanda | 4 | $244,330 | 261 | 4.96/5.0 |
| Wennie | 2 | $169,630 | 179 | 4.93/5.0 |
| Richie | 1 | $135,472 | 69 | 4.90/5.0 |
| Gayla | 3 | $133,667 | 546 | 4.90/5.0 |
| Ian | 3 | $120,116 | 352 | 4.76/5.0 |
| Evolve | 5 | $112,265 | 74 | 4.68/5.0 |
| Coveted Hospitality | 5 | $110,008 | 110 | 4.38/5.0 |
| Ellie | 2 | $109,114 | 252 | 5.00/5.0 |
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 Cary.
Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Cary?
Cary is a quality-focused market, with a high Superhost share and fairly mature operating standards.
Host Profile Insights for Cary
- With 66.8% Superhosts, Cary has an experienced host base that sets high guest expectations. New entrants should plan for competitive quality standards.
- 9.7% of listings are professionally managed, reflecting a market still dominated by individual hosts.
- 2.2% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
- 79.1% of listings use Airbnb's simplified pricing (host-only fee), where the host pays the entire platform service fee and the guest sees one all-in price with no separate Airbnb service charge. High adoption signals a professional, PMS-connected host base — Airbnb mandates simplified pricing for software-connected listings.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Consider enabling Instant Book — it reduces booking friction and Airbnb's algorithm tends to favor Instant Book listings in search results.
- With 36.8% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
- Benchmark your host metrics against these Cary averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.
Top Professional Management Companies in Cary
These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in Cary, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Molly | 6 | $278,494 | $340 | 40.4% | 4.86/5 |
| Gayla | 3 | $133,667 | $183 | 67.7% | 4.90/5 |
| Evolve | 5 | $112,265 | $235 | 54.3% | 4.68/5 |
| Coveted Hospitality | 5 | $110,008 | $186 | 40.1% | 4.38/5 |
| Dee | 1 | $79,028 | $439 | 46.8% | 4.86/5 |
| Landing | 5 | $72,691 | $152 | 47.6% | 4.50/5 |
| Shanna | 1 | $55,591 | $452 | 32.5% | 4.92/5 |
| Andy & Cathy | 1 | $48,323 | $414 | 35.4% | 5.00/5 |
| Xiaoshan | 1 | $29,553 | $341 | 26.6% | 4.78/5 |
| Megan | 1 | $20,623 | $208 | 46.8% | 4.48/5 |
Management Company Insights for Cary
- The leading management company, Molly, operates 6 listings with $278,494 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in Cary.
- Top managers average 3 properties each, suggesting professional management in Cary still operates at a relatively boutique scale.
- Professionally managed listings in the top tier average 4.74/5 in guest ratings — demonstrating that scale and quality can coexist.
Recommendations
- With only 9.7% of listings professionally managed, there may be an opportunity to differentiate through more structured operations and consistent guest experiences.
- Study how top management companies price, position, and maintain their portfolios — their ADR and occupancy rates reflect strategies refined across dozens of listings.
- If you're considering hiring a property manager, compare their portfolio performance against these benchmarks before committing.
How Does Cary's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?
How does the Cary 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 Cedar Point, Cary has 3 percentage points higher occupancy and about $137 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wrightsville Beach | 497 | $4,671 | $547.10 | 39% |
| Littleton | 133 | $4,183 | $505.75 | 37% |
| Macon | 44 | $4,010 | $532.40 | 35% |
| Cedar Point | 30 | $3,818 | $336.18 | 46% |
| Bracey | 51 | $3,799 | $488.65 | 35% |
| Henrico | 77 | $3,654 | $493.55 | 38% |
| Emerald Isle | 508 | $3,652 | $410.13 | 42% |
| North Topsail Beach | 944 | $3,645 | $452.61 | 38% |
| Surf City | 738 | $3,486 | $403.75 | 39% |
| Boydton | 26 | $3,346 | $376.89 | 36% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Cary
These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Cary.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Cary?
Cary hosts earn about $30,018 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $200 and RevPAR of $99. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Cary, North Carolina, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Cary market, April 2025 to March 2026.
What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Cary?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Cary is 48.6%. June is the strongest month and January is the softest, so hosts should expect demand to move meaningfully throughout the year rather than stay flat.
What is the average Airbnb daily rate in Cary?
Listings in Cary average $200 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 Cary?
Cary currently has about 277 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 Cary?
AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Cary as Low. The dataset also shows about 0.4% 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 Cary?
RevPAR in Cary is about $99. 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 Cary?
At 48.6% occupancy, Cary 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 $30,018, 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 Cary?
The average booking lead time in Cary is about 40 days — a moderate lead time that gives hosts planning visibility while still benefiting from last-minute bookings. Hosts who understand their market's booking cadence can adjust minimum stays and pricing windows accordingly.
What are the best neighborhoods for Airbnb in Cary?
Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Cary include Downtown Cary, Cary Towne Center, Parkside Town Commons. 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 Cary?
entire_home listings make up 82.7% of the active supply in Cary. 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 Cary compare to nearby Airbnb markets?
Among neighboring markets, Wrightsville Beach posts $56,046 in average annual revenue with 38.9% occupancy, compared to Cary's $30,018 and 48.6%. 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 Cary?
The average Airbnb stay length in Cary is about 6.6 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 Cary?
Airbnb listings in Cary average 4.87 out of 5 overall. About 58.5% of listings carry the guest favorite badge, which suggests a meaningful share of inventory is competing on review quality rather than price alone.
Which amenities boost Airbnb revenue in Cary?
Heating and Hair dryer are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Cary. 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 Cary?
Yes. About 88.8% of active Airbnb listings in Cary charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $328. 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 Cary?
A 66.8% 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.