Port Elizabeth Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Eastern Cape, South Africa
Is Airbnb profitable in Port Elizabeth in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, South Africa to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Port Elizabeth, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 40 active listings.
Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Port Elizabeth, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Port Elizabeth Airbnb data is crucial. Leveraging the low regulation environment is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Let's dive into the specifics.
Key Port Elizabeth Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview
Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Port Elizabeth (2025)
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Port Elizabeth 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 Port Elizabeth is typically December, while July often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Port Elizabeth across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $1,621+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $859 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $323 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $153, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Port Elizabeth
Port Elizabeth Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Port Elizabeth STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Decembersees 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 Port Elizabeth:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 68%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 38% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 21%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 10% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Port Elizabeth
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Port Elizabeth (2025)
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Port Elizabeth involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Port Elizabeth typically peaks in December and dips lowest during May. 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 $159+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $81 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $51 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $39 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Port Elizabeth
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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Port Elizabeth (2025)
Peak Season (December, January, November)
- Revenue averages $843 per month
- Occupancy rates average 34.3%
- Daily rates average $85
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $562 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 28.1%
- Daily rates hold near $83
Low Season (June, July, October)
- Revenue drops to average $470 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 22.6%
- Daily rates adjust to average $83
Seasonality Insights for Port Elizabeth
- The Airbnb seasonality in Port Elizabeth 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 Port Elizabeth's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $1,004, occupancy reaching a high of 40.1%, and ADRs peaking at $87.
- 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 $445, occupancy could drop to 21.3%, and ADRs may adjust down to $81.
- 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 Port Elizabeth.
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 Port Elizabeth seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.
Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Port Elizabeth (2025)
Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Port Elizabeth? 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 / Area | Why Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal) | Key Attractions & Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| The Anchorage | A beautiful waterfront area with picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for families and tourists seeking relaxation by the ocean. | Sardinia Bay Beach, The Boardwalk Mall, Sardinia Bay Nature Reserve, Cape Recife Nature Reserve, Shark Rock Pier |
| Summerstrand | This suburb is known for its stunning beaches and proximity to the university. Popular with both students and holidaymakers, making it a great area for short-term rentals. | Summerstrand Beach, Nelson Mandela University, The Boardwalk, Humewood Beach, Dolphin Beach |
| Walmer | A tree-lined suburb that offers a mix of residential calm and close proximity to shops and restaurants. Attracts business travelers looking for comfortable accommodations. | Walmer Park Shopping Centre, The Walmer Golf Club, Lunar Park, Local eateries and cafes, Shamwari Game Reserve (nearby) |
| Colleen Glen | A more rural area with stunning natural scenery, ideal for eco-tourism and attracting visitors looking for adventure and nature excursions. | Colleen Glen Beach, Addo Elephant National Park (close by), Tsitsikamma National Park (day trips), Horseback riding trails, Bird watching opportunities |
| Central | The vibrant urban heart of Port Elizabeth, offering a mix of history and modern amenities. Perfect for those wanting a city experience with accessibility to local attractions. | Donkin Reserve, Port Elizabeth City Hall, St. George's Park, market stalls and local shops, Cultural institutions |
| Humewood | Known for its beaches and close proximity to the main attractions of Port Elizabeth, making it a popular choice for both tourists and locals alike. | Humewood Beach, Bayworld, Cape Town Fish Market, The Boardwalk Casino, Splash Waterworld |
| Greenacres | A quieter suburb that is conveniently located near shopping areas, making it a good option for travelers looking for comfort and accessibility to amenities. | Greenacres Shopping Centre, Local parks, Access to main transport routes, Close to dining options, Entertainment venues |
| Kamma Park | A developing area with new residential projects, attracting a mix of families and young professionals. It's becoming a go-to neighborhood for long-term stays and rentals. | Nearby nature reserves, Community parks, Family-friendly environment, Shopping centers, Dining experiences |
Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Port Elizabeth (2025)
While Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, South Africa currently shows low STR regulations, specific Airbnb license requirements might still exist or change. Always verify the latest short term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Port Elizabeth to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2025, finding no licensed listings among those analyzed)
Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Port Elizabeth (2025)
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Port Elizabethbased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Tranquil getaway near #1 beach in town
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms
Beautiful Cottage with a view over Maitlands Beach
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms
#1 ranked TREEHOUSE in SA with amazing views 🏝
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms
Settle Inn Self Catering Accommodation - Unit 1
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
FOREST COTTAGE with beautiful Forest views
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Settle Inn Selfcatering Accommodation - Unit 2
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.
Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in Port Elizabeth (2025)
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Port Elizabeth 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kim | 3 | $42,043 | 2055 | 4.81/5.0 |
| Alf | 4 | $41,777 | 220 | 4.93/5.0 |
| Maud | 1 | $24,126 | 130 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Mario | 1 | $23,795 | 45 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Glynis | 2 | $10,401 | 141 | 4.91/5.0 |
| Karen | 4 | $10,195 | 404 | 4.84/5.0 |
| Charlene | 5 | $8,507 | 731 | 4.67/5.0 |
| Suzette | 2 | $6,527 | 48 | 4.96/5.0 |
| Tania | 3 | $5,952 | 106 | 4.82/5.0 |
| Brenda | 1 | $3,883 | 7 | 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 Port Elizabeth.
Dive Deeper: Advanced Port Elizabeth STR Market Data (2025)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Port Elizabeth. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsPort Elizabeth Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Port Elizabeth
- The Port Elizabeth Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 70% of the 40 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Port Elizabeth, House properties are the most common (35%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 35% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
Port Elizabeth Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Port Elizabeth
- The dominant room capacity in Port Elizabeth is 1 bedroom listings, making up 35% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 1 bedroom and 3 bedrooms properties represent 55.0% of the active Airbnb listings in Port Elizabeth, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 25.0% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Port Elizabeth.
Port Elizabeth Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Port Elizabeth
- The most common guest capacity trend in Port Elizabeth vacation rentals is listings accommodating 2 guests (22.5%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely couples or solo travelers.
- Properties designed for 2 guests and 4 guests dominate the Port Elizabeth STR market, accounting for 42.5% of listings.
- 15.0% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Port Elizabeth.
- On average, properties in Port Elizabeth are equipped to host 3.0 guests.
Port Elizabeth Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Port Elizabeth
- The most common availability pattern in Port Elizabeth falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 75% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 90.0% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
- For booked days, the 1-30 days range is most frequent in Port Elizabeth (40%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 10.0% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.
Port Elizabeth Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
27 listings
67.5% of total
2 Nights
8 listings
20% of total
3 Nights
1 listings
2.5% of total
4-6 Nights
1 listings
2.5% of total
7-29 Nights
1 listings
2.5% of total
30+ Nights
2 listings
5% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Port Elizabeth is 1 Night, adopted by 67.5% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
- A strong majority (87.5%) of the Port Elizabeth 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 67.5% of Port Elizabeth hosts use this setting.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Port Elizabeth.
Port Elizabeth Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)
Non-refundable
7 listings
17.9% of total
Refundable
9 listings
23.1% of total
Flexible
8 listings
20.5% of total
Moderate
7 listings
17.9% of total
Firm
5 listings
12.8% of total
Strict
3 listings
7.7% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Port Elizabeth
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Port Elizabeth is Refundable, used by 23.1% of listings.
- There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (38.4%) and stricter (20.5%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.
- 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 Refundable policy to align with the 23.1% market standard in Port Elizabeth.
- 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 Port Elizabeth.
Port Elizabeth STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Port Elizabeth
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Port Elizabeth is 50 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during October (average 100 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in August (average 29 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Fall (68 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Summer (33 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (50 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Port Elizabeth.
- For October stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 100 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Fall season well in advance (at least 68 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Port Elizabeth averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Port Elizabeth (2025)
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Port Elizabeth
- Essential amenities in Port Elizabeth that guests expect include: Free parking on premises, Essentials. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Hangers, Wifi, Hot water are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
- Warning: Wifi is not universally provided but is considered essential globally. Ensure reliable Wifi is offered.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Port Elizabeth: Free parking on premises, Essentials.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Essentials.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Hangers or Wifi 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 Port Elizabeth to stay competitive.
Port Elizabeth Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)
Guest Profile Summary for Port Elizabeth
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Port Elizabeth consists of a mix of domestic (57%) and international guests, often arriving from nearby Cape Town, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Afrikaans.
- Domestic travelers account for 56.5% of guests.
- Key international markets include South Africa (56.5%) and United Kingdom (8.1%).
- Top languages spoken are English (51.8%) followed by Afrikaans (15.3%).
- A significant demographic segment is the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group, representing 50% of guests.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Balance marketing efforts between domestic and international channels based on the guest mix.
- 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 Port Elizabeth 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.
| Market | Active Properties | Monthly Revenue | Daily Rate | Avg. Occupancy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blue Crane Route Local Municipality | 18 | $2,336 | $424.61 | 22% |
| Seaview | 52 | $1,197 | $113.76 | 38% |
| Kouga Local Municipality | 925 | $789 | $132.44 | 30% |
| Kou-Kamma Local Municipality | 92 | $724 | $99.29 | 30% |
| Ndlambe Local Municipality | 345 | $679 | $114.48 | 28% |
| Sundays River Valley Local Municipality | 73 | $660 | $86.70 | 30% |
| Gqeberha | 856 | $537 | $68.38 | 34% |
| Makana Local Municipality | 107 | $475 | $67.08 | 30% |
| Colchester | 30 | $448 | $81.57 | 23% |
| Nkonkobe Local Municipality | 85 | $447 | $71.69 | 24% |