Sullivan's Island, South Carolina Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics
How much can you earn on Airbnb in Sullivan's Island, South Carolina? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $81,662 per year — at a $899 nightly rate, 39.0% occupancy, and a $378 RevPAR that reflects moderate rate-to-revenue efficiency with room to optimize.
With just 22 active listings, Sullivan's Island is a micro-market where moderate demand with room for well-positioned listings to outperform. Supply grew 10.0% 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. In a market this size, differentiated listings with strong reviews can capture outsized returns relative to the competition.
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What Are the Key Airbnb Metrics in Sullivan's Island?
In Sullivan's Island, the headline Airbnb metrics are $81,662 in average annual revenue,39.0% occupancy, $899 ADR, and $378 in RevPAR, and guests book about 121 days in advance.
How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Sullivan's Island?
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Sullivan's Island 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 Sullivan's Island is typically July, while February often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Sullivan's Island across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $30,062+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $16,036 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $7,913 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $3,729, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Sullivan's Island
What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Sullivan's Island?
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Sullivan's Island STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Augustsees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while December experiences the lowest (low season). Effective strategies, like adjusting minimum stays or offering promotions, can boost occupancy during slower periods. Here's how different property tiers perform in Sullivan's Island:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 77%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 69% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 43%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 19% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Sullivan's Island
What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Sullivan's Island?
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Sullivan's Island involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Sullivan's Island typically peaks in June and dips lowest during February. 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 $1,898+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $1,321 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $663 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $456 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Sullivan's Island
What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Sullivan's Island?
RevPAR in Sullivan's Island is currently $378. 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 $131 RevPAR.
- Typical properties (Median) generate $267 RevPAR.
- Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $532 RevPAR.
- Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $904 RevPAR.
Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Sullivan's Island
RevPAR Insights for Sullivan's Island
- The average RevPAR in Sullivan's Island is $378. 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% ($904) and bottom 25% ($131) is $773, indicating significant performance disparity driven by property quality, pricing strategy, and location.
- RevPAR peaks in Jul 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 Sullivan's Island benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $267, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
- Top-quartile listings achieve $532+ 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 Sullivan's Island?
Sullivan's Island's peak Airbnb season falls in July, August, June, while the softest stretch is January, February, 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 $17,692 per month
- Occupancy rates average 56.6%
- Daily rates average $1,024
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $11,808 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 43.8%
- Daily rates hold near $924
Low Season (January, February, November)
- Revenue drops to average $7,721 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 33.6%
- Daily rates adjust to average $839
Seasonality Insights for Sullivan's Island
- Airbnb seasonality in Sullivan's Island 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 Sullivan's Island's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $20,571, occupancy reaching 60.6%, and ADRs peaking at $1,075.
- Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $7,165, occupancy could drop to 31.1%, and ADRs may adjust to $819.
- Lower occupancy paired with meaningful seasonality means hosts in Sullivan's Island 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 Sullivan's Island, 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 Sullivan's Island?
Low regulation and minimal registration activity in Sullivan's Island, South 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 Sullivan's Island 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 Sullivan's Island?
With a compact short-term rental market, Sullivan's Island gives early-mover hosts an advantage in the right neighborhoods. The areas listed below are where guest demand and local attractions converge — a useful lens for investors evaluating whether to enter this market and where to position their listing.
| Neighborhood / Area | Why Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal) | Key Attractions & Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| Front Beach | This area is known for its easy access to the beach and is a favorite among families and vacationers looking to enjoy the sea and sun. The lively atmosphere and nearby amenities attract many tourists. | The Beach, Sullivan's Island Lighthouse, Parks and Recreation Areas, Local Restaurants, Historic Fort Moultrie, Water Sports Activities |
| Middle Street | A charming street filled with local shops and eateries, Middle Street offers a more laid-back vibe while still being close to the beach. Ideal for tourists wanting to experience local culture and cuisine. | Local Boutiques, Sullivan's Island Cafe, Folly Beach Adventure Park, Historic Sites, Local Art Galleries, Shaded Parks |
| East Isle of Palms | Known for its upscale homes and proximity to the water, this area appeals to travelers looking for a luxurious getaway. Its exclusive feel and beautiful surroundings make it a prime location for Airbnb hosts. | Isle of Palms County Park, Water Sports Rentals, Dining Options with Ocean Views, Golf Courses, Botanical Gardens |
| Ocean Boulevard | This location provides stunning ocean views and direct beach access. It's ideal for those seeking a relaxing atmosphere with the convenience of beachside living. | Beautiful Beaches, Beachfront Restaurants, Scenic Walkways, Fishing Opportunities, Water Activities |
| Station 18 | This area offers a quieter, family-friendly environment with easy access to the main attractions of Sullivan's Island. Perfect for those looking for a peaceful retreat near the shore. | Marine Education Center, Family-Friendly Beaches, Community Parks, Historical Markers, Local Events |
| Sullivan's Island Park | A local favorite, this park provides a natural escape with trails and picnic areas. Hosts can attract nature lovers and families looking for a unique outdoor experience. | Nature Trails, Picnic Areas, Wildlife Viewing, Historical Landmarks, Fun Community Events |
| The Sullivan's Island Lighthouse Area | Famous for its historic lighthouse and the picturesque views, this area is perfect for those seeking a blend of history and scenic beauty. Ideal for couples and photographers. | Sullivan's Island Lighthouse, Historical Fort Moultrie, Scenic Ocean Views, Photography Spots, Walking Trails |
| Community Center Area | A central location that hosts community events and gatherings. This area attracts travelers looking for a more local experience while being close to the beach. | Community Events, Local Markets, Sports Facilities, Family-Friendly Activities, Public Amenities |
With 8 distinct neighborhoods showing meaningful short-term rental activity, Sullivan's Island 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 Sullivan's Island?
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Sullivan's Island
- The Sullivan's Island Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 100% of the 22 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Sullivan's Island, House properties are the most common (77.3%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 77.3% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- Smaller segments like outdoor/unique (combined 4.5%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Sullivan's Island Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Sullivan's Island
- The dominant room capacity in Sullivan's Island is 4 bedrooms listings, making up 40.9% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
- Together, 4 bedrooms and 5+ bedrooms properties represent 63.6% of the active Airbnb listings in Sullivan's Island, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 81.8% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Sullivan's Island.
Sullivan's Island Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Sullivan's Island
- The most common guest capacity trend in Sullivan's Island vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (77.3%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 8+ guests and 4 guests dominate the Sullivan's Island STR market, accounting for 95.5% of listings.
- 81.8% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Sullivan's Island.
- On average, properties in Sullivan's Island are equipped to host 7.2 guests.
How Do Listings in Sullivan's Island Compare on Quality?
Listing quality in Sullivan's Island 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 Sullivan's Island
- At 39.4 photos per listing on average, Sullivan's Island hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
- 27.3% of listings show their exact location. Lower disclosure rates can increase booking hesitation — guests want to know exactly where they are staying.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Enable exact location if possible — it removes a common source of guest uncertainty and can improve your listing's position in map-based searches.
- Use these quality indicators as a self-audit checklist. Listings that exceed the Sullivan's Island averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.
What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Sullivan's Island?
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Sullivan's Island
- Essential amenities in Sullivan's Island that guests expect include: TV, Kitchen, Wifi, Dishwasher, Iron, Coffee maker, Dishes and silverware, Free parking on premises, Refrigerator, Air conditioning. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Sullivan's Island: TV, Kitchen, Wifi, Dishwasher, Iron, Coffee maker, Dishes and silverware, Free parking on premises, Refrigerator, Air conditioning.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: TV, Iron, Coffee maker, Dishes and silverware, Free parking on premises, Refrigerator, Air conditioning.
- 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 Sullivan's Island to stay competitive.
Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Sullivan's Island?
Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Sullivan's Island, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.
| Amenity | Prevalence | Revenue With | Revenue Without | Revenue Uplift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Shower gel | 22.7% | $198,793 | $47,212 | 321.1% |
Pool | 22.7% | $195,242 | $48,256 | 304.6% |
Cleaning products | 31.8% | $164,477 | $43,015 | 282.4% |
Coffee | 31.8% | $164,148 | $43,168 | 280.3% |
Hot water kettle | 40.9% | $144,496 | $38,161 | 278.6% |
Freezer | 45.5% | $136,203 | $36,211 | 276.1% |
Outdoor dining area | 45.5% | $135,058 | $37,165 | 263.4% |
Conditioner | 45.5% | $128,570 | $42,572 | 202.0% |
Baking sheet | 54.5% | $115,872 | $40,610 | 185.3% |
Carbon monoxide alarm | 54.5% | $115,828 | $40,663 | 184.8% |
Revenue Impact Insights for Sullivan's Island
- Shower gel tops the revenue impact list with a 321.1% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $198,793 vs. $47,212 without it.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Focus your upgrade budget on amenities in the top half of this table. Below-median amenities may improve guest experience but contribute less to revenue growth.
- Highlight revenue-impacting amenities prominently in your listing title, photos, and description — guests can't value what they don't notice.
Dive Deeper: Advanced Sullivan's Island STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Sullivan's Island. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsSullivan's Island Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for Sullivan's Island
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Sullivan's Island consists of primarily domestic travelers (94%), often arriving from nearby Charlotte, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or French.
- Domestic travelers account for 94.0% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (94%) and DC (3.6%).
- Top languages spoken are English (72.4%) followed by French (10.3%).
- 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 Atlanta.
- 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 Sullivan's Island?
Listings in Sullivan's Island average 4.84 out of 5 overall, with about 26.8 reviews per active listing and 13.6% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.
Rating Breakdown by Category
Guest Rating Insights for Sullivan's Island
- With an overall rating of 4.84, Sullivan's Island listings meet an exceptionally high bar. Guests consistently report strong satisfaction, which drives repeat bookings and referral traffic.
- The strongest subcategory is Location (4.98), while Value (4.71) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
- 13.6% 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.
- With only 13.6% of listings earning Guest Favorite status, hosts who consistently exceed expectations have a clear competitive advantage.
Sullivan's Island Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Sullivan's Island
- The most common availability pattern in Sullivan's Island falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 72.7% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 72.7% 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 Sullivan's Island (36.4%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 27.2% 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 Sullivan's Island?
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Sullivan's Island
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Sullivan's Island is 121 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during March (average 142 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 43 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Spring (125 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (57 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (121 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Sullivan's Island.
- For March stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 142 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Spring season well in advance (at least 125 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Sullivan's Island averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Sullivan's Island?
Guests in Sullivan's Island stay about 6.6 nights on average, generating roughly 413 reservations and 18.8 bookings per listing in the latest AirROI dataset. The most common check-in time is 4:00 PM and check-out is 10:00 AM.
Monthly Length of Stay in Sullivan's Island
Check-in Time Distribution
Check-out Time Distribution
Stay Pattern Insights for Sullivan's Island
- 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.
- 18.8 bookings per listing is a manageable pace that balances revenue with operational overhead.
- Stay lengths peak in Apr (7.5 nights) and shorten in Feb (2.6 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.
Sullivan's Island Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
3 Nights
4 listings
18.2% of total
4-6 Nights
5 listings
22.7% of total
7-29 Nights
4 listings
18.2% of total
30+ Nights
9 listings
40.9% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Sullivan's Island is 30+ Nights, adopted by 40.9% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
- A significant segment (40.9%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Sullivan's Island, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 40.9% of Sullivan's Island hosts use this setting.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 40.9% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Sullivan's Island.
Sullivan's Island Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Super Strict 60 Days
4 listings
18.2% of total
Super Strict 30 Days
7 listings
31.8% of total
Flexible
1 listings
4.5% of total
Firm
8 listings
36.4% of total
Strict
2 listings
9.1% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Sullivan's Island
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Sullivan's Island is Firm, used by 36.4% of listings.
- There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (4.5%) and stricter (45.5%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.
- Strict cancellation policies are quite rare (9.1%), 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 36.4% market standard in Sullivan's Island.
- Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 9.1% 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 Sullivan's Island.
How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Sullivan's Island?
Cleaning fees in Sullivan's Island 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 Sullivan's Island
- 86.4% of listings charge a cleaning fee, making it standard practice in Sullivan's Island. Guests expect it and factor it into their booking decisions.
- The gap between the average ($1,054) and median ($455) cleaning fee indicates some high-end properties are pulling the average up considerably.
- Cleaning fees represent 10.5% 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 Sullivan's Island median of $455. 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 Sullivan's Island Look Like?
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Sullivan's Islandbased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Haven by AvantStay | Luxury Beachfront Retreat
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Raven by AvantStay | Entertainers Dream Escape
Entire Place • 9 bedrooms
Ion by AvantStay | Walk to the Beach + Attractions
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Ocean Blvd 112 - Sunset Point
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Sullivan's Island, SC, Beach House Rental
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Sullivan’s Beach Getaway on Island's Main St
Entire Place • 1 bedroom
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 Sullivan's Island?
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Sullivan's Island 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| AvantStay Charleston | 3 | $942,786 | 118 | 4.77/5.0 |
| Scott | 3 | $220,061 | 284 | 4.86/5.0 |
| Charleston Coast | 2 | $122,228 | 3 | Not Rated |
| Carroll Realty Vacations | 3 | $108,158 | 26 | 4.87/5.0 |
| Rachel | 1 | $97,999 | 50 | 4.72/5.0 |
| Joyner | 1 | $85,580 | 12 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Jill | 1 | $59,376 | 2 | Not Rated |
| Sandra | 1 | $45,383 | 3 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Nora | 1 | $35,265 | 3 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Bill | 1 | $19,158 | 10 | 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 Sullivan's Island.
Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Sullivan's Island?
Sullivan's Island leans more toward professional operations than casual hosting, which usually raises the competitive bar for new entrants.
Host Profile Insights for Sullivan's Island
- A 40.9% Superhost share is healthy — enough experienced operators to anchor quality without making the market impenetrable for newcomers.
- 72.7% of listings are professionally managed, indicating a mature, competitive market with institutional players.
- 9.1% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
- 54.5% 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 13.6% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
- Benchmark your host metrics against these Sullivan's Island averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.
Top Professional Management Companies in Sullivan's Island
These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in Sullivan's Island, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AvantStay Charleston | 3 | $942,786 | $1,184 | 66.6% | 4.77/5 |
| Scott | 3 | $220,061 | $523 | 56.1% | 4.86/5 |
| Charleston Coast | 2 | $122,228 | $1,383 | 37.5% | N/A |
| Carroll Realty Vacations | 3 | $108,158 | $746 | 26.3% | 4.87/5 |
| Joyner | 1 | $85,580 | $1,471 | 64.9% | 5.00/5 |
| Beachside By AvantStay | 1 | $15,913 | $945 | 14.0% | 4.67/5 |
| Vacasa South Carolina | 1 | $14,472 | $478 | 19.5% | 4.66/5 |
| Vacasa South Carolina | 1 | $12,271 | $556 | 14.4% | 4.76/5 |
| ITrip Charleston Beaches | 1 | $4,121 | $195 | 22.8% | 4.75/5 |
Management Company Insights for Sullivan's Island
- The leading management company, AvantStay Charleston, operates 3 listings with $942,786 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in Sullivan's Island.
- Top managers average 2 properties each, suggesting professional management in Sullivan's Island still operates at a relatively boutique scale.
- Professionally managed listings in the top tier average 4.79/5 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 Sullivan's Island's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?
How does the Sullivan's Island 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 Mount Pleasant, Sullivan's Island has 14 percentage points lower occupancy and about $587 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Isle of Palms | 1,012 | $7,321 | $764.81 | 42% |
| Folly Beach | 901 | $7,179 | $604.47 | 46% |
| Talahi Island | 41 | $6,021 | $368.19 | 50% |
| Charleston | 1,839 | $5,628 | $408.29 | 52% |
| Okatie | 10 | $5,565 | $527.26 | 42% |
| Ocean Isle Beach | 504 | $4,963 | $614.58 | 37% |
| Kiawah Island | 625 | $4,596 | $647.38 | 33% |
| Mount Pleasant | 452 | $4,456 | $312.67 | 53% |
| Tybee Island | 1,354 | $4,357 | $437.68 | 41% |
| Wilmington Island | 114 | $3,774 | $337.02 | 45% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Sullivan's Island
These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Sullivan's Island.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Sullivan's Island?
Sullivan's Island hosts earn about $81,662 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $899 and RevPAR of $378. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Sullivan's Island, South Carolina, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Sullivan's Island market, April 2025 to March 2026.
What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Sullivan's Island?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Sullivan's Island is 39.0%. July is the strongest month and February is the softest, so hosts should expect demand to move meaningfully throughout the year rather than stay flat.
What is the average Airbnb daily rate in Sullivan's Island?
Listings in Sullivan's Island average $899 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 Sullivan's Island?
Sullivan's Island currently has about 22 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 Sullivan's Island?
AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Sullivan's Island 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 Sullivan's Island?
RevPAR in Sullivan's Island is about $378. 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 Sullivan's Island?
Occupancy of 39.0% means Sullivan's Island 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 $81,662, 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 Sullivan's Island?
The average booking lead time in Sullivan's Island is about 121 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 Sullivan's Island?
Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Sullivan's Island include Front Beach, Middle Street, East Isle of Palms. 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 Sullivan's Island?
entire_home listings make up 100.0% of the active supply in Sullivan's Island. 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 Sullivan's Island compare to nearby Airbnb markets?
Among neighboring markets, Isle of Palms posts $87,848 in average annual revenue with 42.1% occupancy, compared to Sullivan's Island's $81,662 and 39.0%. 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 Sullivan's Island?
The average Airbnb stay length in Sullivan's Island 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 Sullivan's Island?
Airbnb listings in Sullivan's Island average 4.84 out of 5 overall. About 13.6% 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 Sullivan's Island?
Shower gel and Pool are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Sullivan's Island. 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 Sullivan's Island?
Yes. About 86.4% of active Airbnb listings in Sullivan's Island charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $1,054. 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 Sullivan's Island?
A 40.9% 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.