Carmel-by-the-Sea Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in California, United States

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-06-01

Is Airbnb profitable in Carmel-by-the-Sea in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Carmel-by-the-Sea, based on AirROI data from June 2024 to May 2025, reveals key trends in the market of 326 active listings.

Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Carmel-by-the-Sea, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$652
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Occupancy Rate(?)
46.4%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$88,056
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
7.6%
Positive growth (7.6%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
August
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
February
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
326
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Carmel-by-the-Sea (2025)

Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea is typically August, while February often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Carmel-by-the-Sea across different performance tiers:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $21,280+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $13,580 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $7,031 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $3,560, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Carmel-by-the-Sea Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 82%+ 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 49%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 26% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Carmel-by-the-Sea

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Carmel-by-the-Sea (2025)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Carmel-by-the-Sea involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Carmel-by-the-Sea typically peaks in May and dips lowest during November. 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 $1,257+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $799 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $469 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $304 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Carmel-by-the-Sea

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Carmel-by-the-Sea (2025)

Peak Season (August, July, April)
  • Revenue averages $12,601 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 57.0%
  • Daily rates average $667
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $9,740 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 47.2%
  • Daily rates hold near $647
Low Season (January, February, November)
  • Revenue drops to average $7,832 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 40.8%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $642

Seasonality Insights for Carmel-by-the-Sea

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Carmel-by-the-Sea shows moderate seasonality with distinct peak and low periods. 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $13,809, occupancy reaching a high of 60.4%, and ADRs peaking at $733.
  • 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 $7,422, occupancy could drop to 38.5%, and ADRs may adjust down to $608.
  • 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea.

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Carmel-by-the-Sea (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea? 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
Carmel Beach
Renowned for its stunning coastline and picturesque sunsets. A sought-after spot for tourists looking for a serene beach experience with access to art galleries and dining.
Carmel Beach, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Carmel Mission Basilica, 17-Mile Drive, Carmel River State Beach, Carmel Plaza
Downtown Carmel
Charming area filled with boutique shops, restaurants, and galleries. Ideal for visitors wanting to explore the unique culture and art of Carmel.
Carmel Art Association, Golden Bough Playhouse, Carmel Valley Ranch Golf Course, Carmel Mission, The Happy Landing Spot
Carmel Valley
Offers a tranquil rural setting with beautiful vineyards and outdoor activities. Perfect for travelers looking for a getaway that combines wine tasting and nature.
Carmel Valley Vineyards, Holman Ranch, Carmel Valley River, Palo Corona Regional Park, Garzas Creek
Mission Trail Park
A beautiful natural area with hiking trails and wildlife. Great for nature lovers who want to experience the outdoors while still being close to Carmel's attractions.
Mission Trail Park, San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo Mission, Lovers Point Park, Carmel Pine Cone
Pebble Beach
Luxury community known for its golf courses and scenic views. Attracts high-end travelers and golf enthusiasts looking for an upscale experience.
Pebble Beach Golf Links, 17 Mile Drive, Cypress Point, Spanish Bay, Bird Rock
Big Sur
Just a short drive from Carmel, this stunning coastal region offers breathtaking views and hiking. Ideal for guests seeking majestic landscapes and outdoor adventures.
Big Sur River, Pfeiffer Beach, Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park, McWay Falls, Bixby Creek Bridge
Glen Oaks
A cozy neighborhood featuring charming hotels and eateries. Perfect for guests who prefer a homey atmosphere in proximity to main attractions.
Glen Oaks Big Sur, Café Carmel, The Cottage Restaurant, Parker-Lusseau Pastries, Golden Triangle Shopping Center
Carpenter Street
A peaceful residential area emerging with vacation rentals, offering a quiet retreat while still being steps away from downtown attractions.

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Carmel-by-the-Sea (2025)

While Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, United States 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 4% licensed listings)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Carmel-by-the-Sea (2025)

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

3902 Pacific Zen - Stunning Oceanfront Luxury Home

3902 Pacific Zen - Stunning Oceanfront Luxury Home

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$681,198
Revenue
62.5%
Occupancy
$3229.14
Daily Rate
Lx 70 contemporary luxury estate earth and sky

Lx 70 contemporary luxury estate earth and sky

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$606,924
Revenue
69.0%
Occupancy
$2657.80
Daily Rate
Premier Coastal Getaway in Carmel

Premier Coastal Getaway in Carmel

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$545,539
Revenue
82.2%
Occupancy
$1803.88
Daily Rate
Lx37 weathertop ranch in Carmel

Lx37 weathertop ranch in Carmel

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$537,753
Revenue
45.0%
Occupancy
$2609.92
Daily Rate
Fairway View + Ocean View Penthouse + Clubroom

Fairway View + Ocean View Penthouse + Clubroom

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$471,703
Revenue
57.2%
Occupancy
$2459.92
Daily Rate
3911 Point Lobos View - Modern, Ocean View, Hot Tu

3911 Point Lobos View - Modern, Ocean View, Hot Tu

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$372,476
Revenue
65.7%
Occupancy
$1647.51
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 Carmel-by-the-Sea (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Carmel-by-the-Sea 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
Sanctuary Vacation Rentals32$3,752,8666874.83/5.0
Carmel Coast Estate17$2,501,3406674.95/5.0
Sean4$1,760,3611204.76/5.0
Alex6$995,468945.00/5.0
Steve7$959,2362314.97/5.0
Kent3$896,4671434.95/5.0
Kyle12$848,7412074.87/5.0
Bobby7$769,5742904.93/5.0
Glen1$545,5391994.94/5.0
Saddle Mountain12$535,24516554.72/5.0

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 Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Carmel-by-the-Sea STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

Carmel-by-the-Sea Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Carmel-by-the-Sea

  • The Carmel-by-the-Sea Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 92.9% of the 326 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Carmel-by-the-Sea, 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.
  • The presence of 10.4% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.

Carmel-by-the-Sea Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Carmel-by-the-Sea

  • The dominant room capacity in Carmel-by-the-Sea is 1 bedroom listings, making up 31.3% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 1 bedroom and 2 bedrooms properties represent 55.2% of the active Airbnb listings in Carmel-by-the-Sea, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 38.9% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Carmel-by-the-Sea Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Carmel-by-the-Sea

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Carmel-by-the-Sea vacation rentals is listings accommodating 2 guests (24.2%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely couples or solo travelers.
  • Properties designed for 2 guests and 4 guests dominate the Carmel-by-the-Sea STR market, accounting for 46.9% of listings.
  • 42.6% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
  • On average, properties in Carmel-by-the-Sea are equipped to host 4.8 guests.

Carmel-by-the-Sea Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Carmel-by-the-Sea

  • The most common availability pattern in Carmel-by-the-Sea falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 37.7% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 69.6% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
  • For booked days, the 91-180 days range is most frequent in Carmel-by-the-Sea (30.7%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 31.9% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Carmel-by-the-Sea Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (16.1%)

1 Night

49 listings

16.1% of total

2 Nights (25.6%)

2 Nights

78 listings

25.6% of total

3 Nights (6.9%)

3 Nights

21 listings

6.9% of total

4-6 Nights (4.3%)

4-6 Nights

13 listings

4.3% of total

7-29 Nights (10.2%)

7-29 Nights

31 listings

10.2% of total

30+ Nights (37%)

30+ Nights

113 listings

37% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Carmel-by-the-Sea is 30+ Nights, adopted by 37% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
  • A significant segment (37%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Carmel-by-the-Sea, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 37% of Carmel-by-the-Sea hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 16.1% currently do.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 37% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Carmel-by-the-Sea Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Super Strict 60 Days (16.9%)

Super Strict 60 Days

48 listings

16.9% of total

Super Strict 30 Days

14 listings

4.9% of total

Flexible (6.7%)

Flexible

19 listings

6.7% of total

Moderate (17.3%)

Moderate

49 listings

17.3% of total

Firm (24.6%)

Firm

70 listings

24.6% of total

Strict (29.6%)

Strict

84 listings

29.6% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Carmel-by-the-Sea

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Carmel-by-the-Sea is Strict, used by 29.6% of listings.
  • A majority (54.2%) of hosts in Carmel-by-the-Sea utilize Firm or Strict policies, indicating a market where hosts prioritize booking security.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Strict policy to align with the 29.6% market standard in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

Carmel-by-the-Sea STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Carmel-by-the-Sea

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Carmel-by-the-Sea is 54 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during April (average 70 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in March (average 42 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (61 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (49 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (54 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Carmel-by-the-Sea.
  • For April stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 70 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 61 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Carmel-by-the-Sea averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Carmel-by-the-Sea (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Carmel-by-the-Sea

  • Essential amenities in Carmel-by-the-Sea that guests expect include: Wifi, Heating, Smoke alarm, Hot water. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like TV, Carbon monoxide alarm, 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea: Wifi, Heating, Smoke alarm, Hot water.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi, Heating, Smoke alarm, Hot water.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like TV or Carbon monoxide alarm 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea to stay competitive.

Carmel-by-the-Sea 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Carmel-by-the-Sea consists of primarily domestic travelers (92%), often arriving from nearby San Francisco, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 92.3% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (92.3%) and United Kingdom (2.2%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (65.1%) followed by Spanish (11.5%).
  • 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 San Francisco and Los Angeles.
  • 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 Carmel-by-the-Sea 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
Carmel Point15$12,795$986.0853%
Del Monte Forest109$9,020$912.6246%
Moss Beach35$8,481$628.9752%
Carmel34$7,087$544.7449%
Castroville19$6,931$516.4549%
Stinson Beach95$6,886$717.1044%
Avila Beach88$6,555$570.0440%
Muir Beach10$6,450$423.2856%
Pleasure Point100$6,237$494.7551%
Montara27$6,194$426.0253%

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