Sapphire, North Carolina Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics
How much can you earn on Airbnb in Sapphire, North Carolina? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $27,312 per year — at a $338 nightly rate, 29.1% occupancy, and a $106 RevPAR that reflects a wider gap between nightly rates and realized revenue that rewards occupancy-focused strategies.
Sapphire's 205 active listings and selective demand that rewards strong listing quality and pricing strategy position it as a midsize vacation rental market. Supply grew 65.3% over the past year, yet revenue and nightly rates both trended upward — a signal that traveler demand is outpacing new inventory rather than being diluted by it. For hosts, pricing power remains intact even as competition increases.
Regulation is low with minimal registration requirements, pointing to an operator-friendly environment. 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 Sapphire?
In Sapphire, the headline Airbnb metrics are $27,312 in average annual revenue,29.1% occupancy, $338 ADR, and $106 in RevPAR, and guests book about 63 days in advance.
How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Sapphire?
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Sapphire 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 Sapphire is typically July, while March often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Sapphire across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $7,816+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $4,991 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $2,597 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,151, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Sapphire
What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Sapphire?
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Sapphire STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Julysees 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 Sapphire:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 61%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 44% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 28%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 14% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Sapphire
What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Sapphire?
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Sapphire involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Sapphire 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 $581+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $420 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $282 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $207 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Sapphire
What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Sapphire?
RevPAR in Sapphire is currently $106. Because RevPAR combines nightly rates with realized occupancy, it is one of the cleanest ways to compare how efficiently listings turn demand into revenue across the market.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see $38 RevPAR.
- Typical properties (Median) generate $84 RevPAR.
- Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $154 RevPAR.
- Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $211 RevPAR.
Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Sapphire
RevPAR Insights for Sapphire
- The average RevPAR in Sapphire is $106. 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% ($211) and bottom 25% ($38) is $173, indicating significant performance disparity driven by property quality, pricing strategy, and location.
- RevPAR peaks in Jul and bottoms out in Mar, mirroring the broader seasonal demand pattern and suggesting opportunities for dynamic pricing.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Track your own RevPAR monthly against these Sapphire benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $84, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
- Top-quartile listings achieve $154+ 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 Sapphire?
Sapphire's peak Airbnb season falls in July, August, October, while the softest stretch is January, February, March. Overall, the market shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy, which should guide pricing, minimum stays, and cash-flow planning.
Peak Season (July, August, October)
- Revenue averages $5,391 per month
- Occupancy rates average 45.3%
- Daily rates average $345
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $3,312 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 29.7%
- Daily rates hold near $332
Low Season (January, February, March)
- Revenue drops to average $2,181 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 19.8%
- Daily rates adjust to average $335
Seasonality Insights for Sapphire
- Airbnb seasonality in Sapphire 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 Sapphire's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $6,195, occupancy reaching 51.3%, and ADRs peaking at $360.
- Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $2,148, occupancy could drop to 18.2%, and ADRs may adjust to $298.
- Lower occupancy paired with meaningful seasonality means hosts in Sapphire 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 Sapphire, 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 Sapphire?
Low regulation and minimal registration activity in Sapphire, 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 Sapphire 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 Sapphire?
Location within Sapphire 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Lake Toxaway | A picturesque lake area known for its outdoor activities such as fishing, kayaking, and hiking. Ideal for vacationers seeking a serene natural retreat. | Lake Toxaway, Toxaway Falls, Panthertown Valley, Gorges State Park, Whitewater Falls |
| Cashiers | Charming village in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains, popular for its charming shops and proximity to natural attractions. Great for families and couples looking for a getaway. | Cashiers Farmers Market, Lake Glenville, Whiteside Mountain, Scaly Mountain Outdoor Center, Frolictown Falls |
| Highlands | A quaint mountain town known for its upscale dining, shopping, and beautiful surroundings. Attracts tourists looking for a sophisticated mountain experience. | Highlands Botanical Garden, Dry Falls, Whiteside Mountain, Highlands Playhouse, Lake Sequoyah |
| Sapphire Valley | Renowned for year-round outdoor recreation including skiing in winter and hiking in summer. A hotspot for adventure-seekers. | Sapphire Valley Ski Resort, Sapphire Valley Golf Club, Gorges State Park, Lake Sapphire, Tuckaseegee River |
| Brevard | Known as the 'Land of Waterfalls', Brevard attracts nature lovers and hikers with its scenic trails and stunning waterfalls. Suitable for eco-tourism. | Dupont State Recreational Forest, Transylvania County Library, Brevard Music Center, Looking Glass Falls, Pisgah National Forest |
| Walhalla | Historic town with a charming German heritage, serving as a gateway to the Blue Ridge Mountains. Perfect for cultural and nature tourism. | Walhalla Heritage Museum, Stumphouse Tunnel Park, Walhalla State Park, Oconee Bells, Lake Hartwell |
| Franklin | Nestled in the Smoky Mountains, Franklin is a vibrant town with cultural attractions, outdoor activities, and a rich history. Great for travelers seeking a mix of adventure and history. | Franklin Gem and Mineral Museum, The Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts, Nantahala National Forest, Cowee Mountain Ruby Mine, Macon County Historical Society |
| Cullowhee | Home to Western Carolina University and surrounded by natural beauty, Cullowhee attracts both students and nature enthusiasts looking for hiking and exploration. | Western Carolina University, Nantahala National Forest, High Falls, Lake Glenville, Great Smoky Mountains National Park |
With 8 distinct neighborhoods showing meaningful short-term rental activity, Sapphire 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 Sapphire?
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Sapphire
- The Sapphire Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 99% of the 205 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Sapphire, House properties are the most common (62%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 62% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- Smaller segments like hotel/boutique, others (combined 2.0%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Sapphire Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Sapphire
- The dominant room capacity in Sapphire is 2 bedrooms listings, making up 26.3% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 2 bedrooms and 3 bedrooms properties represent 52.2% of the active Airbnb listings in Sapphire, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 57.6% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Sapphire.
Sapphire Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Sapphire
- The most common guest capacity trend in Sapphire vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (43.9%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Sapphire STR market, accounting for 75.6% of listings.
- 77.6% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Sapphire.
- On average, properties in Sapphire are equipped to host 6.3 guests.
How Do Listings in Sapphire Compare on Quality?
Listing quality in Sapphire 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 Sapphire
- At 40.5 photos per listing on average, Sapphire hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
- 31.7% 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 Sapphire averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.
What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Sapphire?
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Sapphire
- Essential amenities in Sapphire that guests expect include: Free parking on premises, Wifi, Air conditioning, TV, Heating, Smoke alarm, Kitchen, Washer. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Dryer, Hot water are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Sapphire: Free parking on premises, Wifi, Air conditioning, TV, Heating, Smoke alarm, Kitchen, Washer.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Free parking on premises, Wifi, Air conditioning, TV, Heating, Smoke alarm, Kitchen, Washer.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Dryer or Hot water 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 Sapphire to stay competitive.
Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Sapphire?
Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Sapphire, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.
| Amenity | Prevalence | Revenue With | Revenue Without | Revenue Uplift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Washer | 95.1% | $28,347 | $7,126 | 297.8% |
Dryer | 91.2% | $29,184 | $7,862 | 271.2% |
Kitchen | 97.6% | $27,792 | $8,115 | 242.5% |
High chair | 13.7% | $66,593 | $21,098 | 215.6% |
EV chargerHigh opportunity | 4.4% | $72,816 | $25,222 | 188.7% |
Babysitter recommendationsHigh opportunity | 4.4% | $69,989 | $25,352 | 176.1% |
Hot water | 91.2% | $28,892 | $10,896 | 165.2% |
Pack ’n play/Travel crib | 22.4% | $52,457 | $20,037 | 161.8% |
Children's playroomHigh opportunity | 4.4% | $65,816 | $25,544 | 157.7% |
Board games | 42.4% | $42,126 | $16,390 | 157.0% |
Revenue Impact Insights for Sapphire
- Washer tops the revenue impact list with a 297.8% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $28,347 vs. $7,126 without it.
- High-opportunity amenities — EV charger, Babysitter recommendations, Children's playroom — combine revenue uplift above 100% with prevalence under 10%, meaning most competitors haven't adopted them yet.
- Washer, Dryer, Kitchen, Hot water — while widespread — still correlate with meaningful revenue gains, making them table stakes rather than true differentiators.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Prioritize adding EV charger — it has the best combination of high revenue impact and low market saturation in Sapphire.
- 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 Sapphire STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Sapphire. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsSapphire Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for Sapphire
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Sapphire consists of primarily domestic travelers (98%), often arriving from nearby Atlanta, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
- Domestic travelers account for 98.1% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (98.1%) and DC (0.5%).
- Top languages spoken are English (71.4%) followed by Spanish (11.6%).
- 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 Atlanta and Charlotte.
- 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 Sapphire?
Listings in Sapphire average 4.85 out of 5 overall, with about 24.7 reviews per active listing and 33.2% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.
Rating Breakdown by Category
Guest Rating Insights for Sapphire
- With an overall rating of 4.85, Sapphire listings meet an exceptionally high bar. Guests consistently report strong satisfaction, which drives repeat bookings and referral traffic.
- The strongest subcategory is Location (4.9), while Value (4.79) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
- 33.2% 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.
Sapphire Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Sapphire
- The most common availability pattern in Sapphire falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 65.9% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 94.7% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
- For booked days, the 31-90 days range is most frequent in Sapphire (32.7%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 5.9% 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 Sapphire?
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Sapphire
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Sapphire is 63 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during November (average 90 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 36 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Summer (76 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Spring (46 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (63 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Sapphire.
- For November stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 90 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 76 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Sapphire averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Sapphire?
Guests in Sapphire stay about 5 nights on average, generating roughly 2,749 reservations and 13.4 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 Sapphire
Check-in Time Distribution
Check-out Time Distribution
Stay Pattern Insights for Sapphire
- 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.
- 13.4 bookings per listing is a manageable pace that balances revenue with operational overhead.
- Stay lengths peak in Jul (7 nights) and shorten in Feb (3.1 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 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.
Sapphire Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
14 listings
6.8% of total
2 Nights
62 listings
30.2% of total
3 Nights
45 listings
22% of total
4-6 Nights
11 listings
5.4% of total
7-29 Nights
1 listings
0.5% of total
30+ Nights
72 listings
35.1% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Sapphire is 30+ Nights, adopted by 35.1% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
- A significant segment (35.1%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Sapphire, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 35.1% of Sapphire hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 6.8% currently do.
- A 2-night minimum appears standard (30.2%). Consider this for weekends or peak periods.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 35.1% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Sapphire.
Sapphire Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Limited
9 listings
4.4% of total
Super Strict 60 Days
6 listings
2.9% of total
Super Strict 30 Days
9 listings
4.4% of total
Flexible
13 listings
6.3% of total
Moderate
63 listings
30.7% of total
Firm
67 listings
32.7% of total
Strict
38 listings
18.5% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Sapphire
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Sapphire is Firm, used by 32.7% of listings.
- A majority (51.2%) of hosts in Sapphire utilize Firm or Strict policies, indicating a market where hosts prioritize booking security.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Consider adopting a Firm policy to align with the 32.7% market standard in Sapphire.
- Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Sapphire.
How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Sapphire?
Cleaning fees in Sapphire 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 Sapphire
- 74.6% of listings charge a cleaning fee, making it standard practice in Sapphire. Guests expect it and factor it into their booking decisions.
- The gap between the average ($281) and median ($232) cleaning fee indicates some high-end properties are pulling the average up considerably.
- Cleaning fees represent 13.2% 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 Sapphire median of $232. 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 Sapphire Look Like?
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Sapphirebased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Windy Hill, A Luxurious Estate
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
High Heaven! A Mountain top dream home on 13 acres
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Luxe Mountain Escape near Lonesome Valley!
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Chic Sapphire Lodge | Epic Mtn Views | Sleeps14
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Wonderful mountain cottage with amazing view!
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Luxury Cabin with Amenities!
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 Sapphire?
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Sapphire 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Evolve | 27 | $1,084,909 | 606 | 4.82/5.0 |
| Savanah | 5 | $320,230 | 168 | 4.93/5.0 |
| Evolve | 7 | $219,090 | 245 | 4.80/5.0 |
| Susan | 1 | $192,657 | 4 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Anna | 3 | $158,083 | 68 | 4.99/5.0 |
| Kim | 2 | $150,689 | 105 | 4.98/5.0 |
| Donna | 1 | $135,458 | 38 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Royal Shell | 7 | $123,653 | 9 | Not Rated |
| Yonder | 3 | $117,499 | 18 | 4.93/5.0 |
| Jill | 1 | $117,131 | 16 | 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 Sapphire.
Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Sapphire?
Sapphire leans more toward professional operations than casual hosting, which usually raises the competitive bar for new entrants.
Host Profile Insights for Sapphire
- A 37.1% Superhost share is healthy — enough experienced operators to anchor quality without making the market impenetrable for newcomers.
- 33.7% of listings are professionally managed, indicating a mature, competitive market with institutional players.
- 6.8% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
- 55.6% 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
- Earning Superhost status can significantly improve search ranking and guest trust. Focus on maintaining high response rates, low cancellations, and strong reviews.
- Consider enabling Instant Book — it reduces booking friction and Airbnb's algorithm tends to favor Instant Book listings in search results.
- With 12.7% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
- Benchmark your host metrics against these Sapphire averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.
Top Professional Management Companies in Sapphire
These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in Sapphire, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Evolve | 27 | $1,084,909 | $356 | 36.1% | 4.82/5 |
| Savanah | 5 | $320,230 | $478 | 32.2% | 4.93/5 |
| Evolve | 7 | $219,090 | $338 | 36.0% | 4.80/5 |
| Royal Shell | 7 | $123,653 | $611 | 18.4% | N/A |
| Yonder | 3 | $117,499 | $526 | 37.1% | 4.93/5 |
| RoomPicks Accommodations | 8 | $70,958 | $244 | 20.3% | 4.44/5 |
| Stephanie | 1 | $50,359 | $335 | 55.8% | 5.00/5 |
| Vacasa North Carolina | 8 | $36,010 | $442 | 12.5% | 4.55/5 |
| Todd | 1 | $35,484 | $362 | 43.0% | 4.87/5 |
| Galax Rentals | 1 | $31,127 | $253 | 35.0% | 4.97/5 |
Management Company Insights for Sapphire
- The leading management company, Evolve, operates 27 listings with $1,084,909 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in Sapphire.
- Top managers average 7 properties each, suggesting professional management in Sapphire still operates at a relatively boutique scale.
- 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 Sapphire's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?
How does the Sapphire 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 Buncombe County, Sapphire has 17 percentage points lower occupancy and about $15 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sevier County | 68 | $7,270 | $590.21 | 43% |
| Gilmer County | 26 | $5,823 | $483.16 | 40% |
| Buncombe County | 12 | $4,926 | $352.36 | 46% |
| Sevierville | 6,226 | $4,861 | $384.75 | 46% |
| Union Mills | 15 | $4,813 | $459.55 | 40% |
| Sautee | 13 | $4,694 | $436.69 | 41% |
| Epworth | 77 | $4,680 | $425.77 | 39% |
| Fannin County | 44 | $4,507 | $464.80 | 36% |
| Six Mile | 57 | $4,481 | $466.47 | 42% |
| Gatlinburg | 3,554 | $4,458 | $367.24 | 44% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Sapphire
These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Sapphire.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Sapphire?
Sapphire hosts earn about $27,312 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $338 and RevPAR of $106. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Sapphire, North Carolina, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Sapphire market, April 2025 to March 2026.
What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Sapphire?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Sapphire is 29.1%. July is the strongest month and March 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 Sapphire?
Listings in Sapphire average $338 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 Sapphire?
Sapphire currently has about 205 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 Sapphire?
AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Sapphire 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 Sapphire?
RevPAR in Sapphire is about $106. 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 Sapphire?
Occupancy of 29.1% means Sapphire 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 $27,312, 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 Sapphire?
The average booking lead time in Sapphire is about 63 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 Sapphire?
Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Sapphire include Lake Toxaway, Cashiers, Highlands. 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 Sapphire?
entire_home listings make up 99.0% of the active supply in Sapphire. 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 Sapphire compare to nearby Airbnb markets?
Among neighboring markets, Sevier County posts $87,245 in average annual revenue with 43.1% occupancy, compared to Sapphire's $27,312 and 29.1%. Comparing nearby markets helps investors understand whether a destination's performance reflects local demand or broader regional trends.
What is the average length of stay in Sapphire?
The average Airbnb stay length in Sapphire is about 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 Sapphire?
Airbnb listings in Sapphire average 4.85 out of 5 overall. About 33.2% 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 Sapphire?
Washer and Dryer are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Sapphire. 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 Sapphire?
Yes. About 74.6% of active Airbnb listings in Sapphire charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $281. 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 Sapphire?
At 37.1%, there is a healthy mix of experienced and newer hosts — earning Superhost status can still provide a meaningful visibility boost.
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.