Lahad Datu Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Sabah, Malaysia

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-06-01

Is Airbnb profitable in Lahad Datu in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Lahad Datu, Sabah, Malaysia to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Lahad Datu, based on AirROI data from June 2024 to May 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 21 active listings.

Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Lahad Datu, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Lahad Datu Airbnb data is crucial. Understanding the local regulations is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Let's dive into the specifics.

Key Lahad Datu Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$55
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Lahad Datu.
Occupancy Rate(?)
24.7%
Lower demand, potentially seasonal or market factors at play.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$3,186
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Lahad Datu. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
5.8%
Positive growth (5.8%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
December
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Lahad Datu.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
June
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Lahad Datu.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Moderate
Regulation details vary. Check local government sources.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
21
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Lahad Datu (2025)

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $812+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $549 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $343 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $176, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Lahad Datu

Lahad Datu Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Lahad Datu STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Septembersees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while June 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 Lahad Datu:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 47%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 33% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 22%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 12% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Lahad Datu

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Lahad Datu (2025)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Lahad Datu involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Lahad Datu typically peaks in May and dips lowest during September. 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 $75+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $65 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $53 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $34 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Lahad Datu

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Lahad Datu (2025)

Peak Season (December, September, January)
  • Revenue averages $548 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 33.6%
  • Daily rates average $55
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $440 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 24.4%
  • Daily rates hold near $57
Low Season (June, October, November)
  • Revenue drops to average $250 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 18.3%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $54

Seasonality Insights for Lahad Datu

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Lahad Datu shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy. While the sections above show seasonal averages, it's also insightful to look at the extremes:
  • During the high season, the absolute peak month showcases Lahad Datu's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $590, occupancy reaching a high of 39.3%, and ADRs peaking at $59.
  • Conversely, the slowest single month of the year, typically falling within the low season, marks the market's lowest point. In this month, revenue might dip to $73, occupancy could drop to 10.0%, and ADRs may adjust down to $53.
  • 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 Lahad Datu.

Seasonal Strategies for Maximizing Profit

  • Peak Season: Maximize revenue through premium pricing and potentially longer minimum stays. Ensure high availability.
  • Low Season: Offer competitive pricing, special promotions (e.g., extended stay discounts), and flexible cancellation policies. Target off-season travelers like remote workers or budget-conscious guests.
  • Shoulder Seasons: Implement dynamic pricing that balances peak and low rates. Target weekend travelers or specific events. Offer slightly more flexible terms than peak season.
  • Regularly analyze your own performance against these Lahad Datu seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Lahad Datu (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Lahad Datu? This section highlights key areas, outlining why they are attractive for hosts and guests, along with notable local attractions. Consider these locations based on your target guest profile and investment strategy.

Neighborhood / AreaWhy Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal)Key Attractions & Landmarks
Danum Valley
A pristine rainforest and a biodiversity hotspot, perfect for eco-tourists and nature lovers seeking adventure and wildlife experiences.
Danum Valley Conservation Area, Borneo Rainforest Lodge, Birdwatching, Canopy Walkway, Hiking Trails
Lahad Datu Town
The main urban area with essential amenities and services, attractive to business travelers and those exploring the region.
Lahad Datu Mosque, Taman Sedia, Lahad Datu Heritage Museum, Local Markets, Restaurants
Silam
Known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities, ideal for travelers looking for a relaxing retreat with scenic views.
Silam Peak, Nature Trails, Local Coffee Shops, Wildlife Watching
Tawau Hills Park
A beautiful park offering outdoor activities and nature experiences, appealing to families and nature enthusiasts.
Hiking Trails, Waterfalls, Birdwatching, Camping Areas
Tabin Wildlife Reserve
A popular spot for wildlife enthusiasts seeking to see endangered species in their natural habitat, great for eco-tourism.
Wildlife Safari, Nature Trails, Birdwatching, Night Tours
Kawag River
A scenic river area ideal for fishing and relaxation, attracting those looking for a peaceful getaway.
Fishing Spots, Canoeing, Picnic Areas, Scenic Views
Bukit Garam
A quiet village area known for its local culture and community feel, suitable for those wanting a unique local experience.
Local Farmers' Markets, Cultural Experiences, Nature Walks
Deramakot Forest Reserve
An area of rich biodiversity, appealing to eco-tourists and researchers interested in conservation and nature studies.
Wildlife Sightings, Guided Nature Tours, Forest Trails

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Lahad Datu (2025)

With 19% of listings showing registration in 2025, understanding potential Airbnb license requirements is crucial in Lahad Datu. Always verify the latest short term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Lahad Datu to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 19% licensed listings)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Lahad Datu (2025)

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

The DreamHouse Homestay, Condo

The DreamHouse Homestay, Condo

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$7,141
Revenue
57.6%
Occupancy
$79.08
Daily Rate
TarHOMESTAY

TarHOMESTAY

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$6,864
Revenue
40.4%
Occupancy
$51.47
Daily Rate
Cozy Home with swimming pool

Cozy Home with swimming pool

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$5,982
Revenue
35.3%
Occupancy
$57.74
Daily Rate
SDC Suite Home II

SDC Suite Home II

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$5,399
Revenue
29.8%
Occupancy
$59.91
Daily Rate
M&M Homestay Palm Garden

M&M Homestay Palm Garden

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$4,872
Revenue
27.8%
Occupancy
$62.28
Daily Rate
Royal Homestay Palm Garden

Royal Homestay Palm Garden

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$4,765
Revenue
34.2%
Occupancy
$51.06
Daily Rate

Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.

Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in Lahad Datu (2025)

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

Host NamePropertiesGrossing RevenueStay ReviewsAvg Rating
Host #1823949322$13,1231N/A/5.0
Audrey2$9,82194.83/5.0
Mah2$8,83664.75/5.0
Eunice1$6,864264.81/5.0
Host #4578220851$4,7651N/A/5.0
Host #5163371771$4,4310N/A/5.0
Host #5265904922$4,1571N/A/5.0
Host #4828369411$2,8231N/A/5.0
Rasiah1$2,5001N/A/5.0
Nurul1$2,47654.40/5.0

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 Lahad Datu.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Lahad Datu STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

Lahad Datu Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Lahad Datu

  • The Lahad Datu Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 90.5% of the 21 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Lahad Datu, House properties are the most common (42.9%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 42.9% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • The presence of 14.3% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.

Lahad Datu Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Lahad Datu

  • The dominant room capacity in Lahad Datu is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 57.1% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
  • Together, 3 bedrooms and 2 bedrooms properties represent 76.1% of the active Airbnb listings in Lahad Datu, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 71.4% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Lahad Datu.

Lahad Datu Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Lahad Datu

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Lahad Datu vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (47.6%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Lahad Datu STR market, accounting for 76.2% of listings.
  • 76.2% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Lahad Datu.
  • On average, properties in Lahad Datu are equipped to host 6.2 guests.

Lahad Datu Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Lahad Datu

  • The most common availability pattern in Lahad Datu falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 90.5% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 100.0% 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 Lahad Datu (57.1%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.

Lahad Datu Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (90.5%)

1 Night

19 listings

90.5% of total

30+ Nights (9.5%)

30+ Nights

2 listings

9.5% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Lahad Datu is 1 Night, adopted by 90.5% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A strong majority (90.5%) of the Lahad Datu Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 1 Night minimum stay, as 90.5% of Lahad Datu hosts use this setting.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 9.5% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Lahad Datu.

Lahad Datu Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Flexible (53.8%)

Flexible

7 listings

53.8% of total

Moderate (30.8%)

Moderate

4 listings

30.8% of total

Firm (7.7%)

Firm

1 listings

7.7% of total

Strict (7.7%)

Strict

1 listings

7.7% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Lahad Datu

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Lahad Datu is Flexible, used by 53.8% of listings.
  • The market strongly favors guest-friendly terms, with 84.6% of listings offering Flexible or Moderate policies. This suggests guests in Lahad Datu may expect booking flexibility.
  • Strict cancellation policies are quite rare (7.7%), potentially making listings with this policy less competitive unless justified by high demand or property type.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Flexible policy to align with the 53.8% market standard in Lahad Datu.
  • Given the high prevalence of Flexible policies (53.8%), offering this can enhance booking appeal, especially during shoulder seasons.
  • Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 7.7% 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 Lahad Datu.

Lahad Datu STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Lahad Datu

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Lahad Datu is 23 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during June (average 96 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in October (average 8 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (42 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Fall (11 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (23 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Lahad Datu.
  • For June stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 96 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • During October, focus on last-minute booking availability and promotions, as guests book with very short notice (8 days avg.).
  • Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 42 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Lahad Datu averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Lahad Datu (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Lahad Datu

  • Essential amenities in Lahad Datu that guests expect include: Air conditioning, TV, Wifi. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Essentials, Kitchen, Free parking on premises are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Lahad Datu: Air conditioning, TV, Wifi.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Essentials 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 Lahad Datu to stay competitive.

Lahad Datu Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)

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

Guest Profile Summary for Lahad Datu

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Lahad Datu consists of predominantly international visitors (80%), with top international origins including Australia, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Malay.
  • Domestic travelers account for 20.0% of guests.
  • Key international markets include Malaysia (20%) and Australia (13.3%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (39.3%) followed by Malay (17.9%).
  • A significant demographic segment is the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group, representing 50% of guests.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Focus marketing internationally, particularly towards travelers from Australia.
  • 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.

Nearby Short-Term Rental Market Comparison

How does the Lahad Datu 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.

MarketActive PropertiesMonthly RevenueDaily RateAvg. Occupancy
Semporna274$656$118.6627%
Tawau72$297$59.5523%
Sandakan149$262$52.4625%

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