Malibu Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in California, United States
Is Airbnb profitable in Malibu in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Malibu, California, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Malibu, based on AirROI data from June 2024 to May 2025, reveals key trends in the market of 383 active listings.
Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Malibu, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Malibu Airbnb data is crucial. Navigating the high regulation landscape is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Let's dive into the specifics.
Key Malibu Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview
Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Malibu (2025)
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Malibu 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 Malibu is typically July, while January often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Malibu across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $28,616+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $17,484 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $9,678 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $4,849, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Malibu
Malibu Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Malibu 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 Malibu:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 76%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 56% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 37%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 19% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Malibu
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Malibu (2025)
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Malibu involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Malibu typically peaks in May and dips lowest during October. 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 $2,950+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $1,751 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $932 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $523 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Malibu
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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Malibu (2025)
Peak Season (July, August, June)
- Revenue averages $19,205 per month
- Occupancy rates average 51.9%
- Daily rates average $1,289
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $12,013 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 38.5%
- Daily rates hold near $1,275
Low Season (January, February, May)
- Revenue drops to average $9,374 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 29.7%
- Daily rates adjust to average $1,317
Seasonality Insights for Malibu
- The Airbnb seasonality in Malibu 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 Malibu's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $21,419, occupancy reaching a high of 55.8%, and ADRs peaking at $1,405.
- 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 $8,390, occupancy could drop to 27.4%, and ADRs may adjust down to $1,215.
- 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 Malibu.
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 Malibu seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.
Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Malibu (2025)
Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Malibu? 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Malibu Colony | Exclusive beach community known for its luxurious beachfront homes and celebrity residents. Ideal for high-end travelers seeking privacy and stunning ocean views. | Malibu Beach, Malibu Pier, El Matador State Beach, Adamson House, Zuma Beach |
| Point Dume State Beach | Scenic area with stunning coastal views and natural beauty. Attracts nature lovers and families looking for beach access and outdoor activities. | Point Dume Nature Preserve, Dume Cove Park, Malibu Lagoon State Beach, Westward Beach |
| Eastern Malibu | Quieter area with beautiful homes and proximity to the Malibu coastline. Great for families and those looking for peace and tranquility by the beach. | Malibu Creek State Park, Tapia Park, La Costa Beach |
| Pacific Palisades | Close to Malibu with a beautiful coastal setting and upscale properties. Popular with those wanting to experience the best of both Malibu and Los Angeles. | Will Rogers State Historic Park, Palisades Park, Pacific Palisades Village |
| Malibu Surfrider Beach | Famous surf spot known for its consistent waves and beach culture. Attracts surfers and beachgoers looking for an authentic surf experience. | Surfrider Beach, Malibu Surfing Association, Western Malibu Beach |
| Big Rock Beach | Charming beach area with residential homes. Ideal for families and those looking for less crowded beaches while still enjoying Malibu's beauty. | Big Rock Beach, Malibu Lagoon, Nearby shopping and dining |
| Broad Beach | Known for its private residences and serene atmosphere. Attracts those seeking a more tranquil beach experience with stunning ocean views. | Broad Beach, Tranquil environment |
| Malibu Road | Picturesque coastal road with beachfront properties and stunning views. A popular choice for both short-term rentals and vacation homes. | Malibu Road Beach, Ocean views, Near top local restaurants |
Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Malibu (2025)
Yes, Malibu, California, United States enforces high STR regulations. Obtaining a license and ensuring compliance is almost certainly required according to current 2025 STR laws. Always verify the latest short term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Malibu to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 68% licensed listings)
Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Malibu (2025)
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Malibubased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Malibu Dunes by Fieldtrip | Private Beach Backyard
Entire Place • 7 bedrooms
A Malibu Beach Oasis
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Malibu Sand Carbon Beach by Stay Awhile Villas
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Malibu Oceana Bleu by Stay Awhile Villas
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Malibu Cove Colony Beach by Stay Awhile Villas
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Malibu Luxury 4 BR Home w Pool and Ocean Views
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.
Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in Malibu (2025)
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Malibu 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stay Awhile | 43 | $7,114,243 | 2193 | 4.95/5.0 |
| The Malibu Suites | 14 | $1,811,038 | 4498 | 4.79/5.0 |
| Fieldtrip | 9 | $1,412,216 | 368 | 4.79/5.0 |
| Marc | 8 | $1,254,894 | 1197 | 4.88/5.0 |
| Sara | 5 | $990,484 | 1004 | 4.97/5.0 |
| Martin | 4 | $863,265 | 23 | 4.88/5.0 |
| David | 3 | $706,907 | 789 | 4.81/5.0 |
| Bess | 9 | $700,265 | 1292 | 4.82/5.0 |
| Oraklus | 6 | $681,293 | 147 | 4.92/5.0 |
| Air Concierge | 4 | $666,262 | 153 | 4.87/5.0 |
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 Malibu.
Dive Deeper: Advanced Malibu STR Market Data (2025)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Malibu. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsMalibu Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Malibu
- The Malibu Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 99% of the 383 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Malibu, House properties are the most common (67.9%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 67.9% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- Smaller segments like hotel/boutique, others, unique stays (combined 6.8%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Malibu Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Malibu
- The dominant room capacity in Malibu is 1 bedroom listings, making up 24.3% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 1 bedroom and 3 bedrooms properties represent 47.5% of the active Airbnb listings in Malibu, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 53.4% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Malibu.
Malibu Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Malibu
- The most common guest capacity trend in Malibu vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (39.2%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 8+ guests and 4 guests dominate the Malibu STR market, accounting for 58.5% of listings.
- 59.3% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Malibu.
- On average, properties in Malibu are equipped to host 5.7 guests.
Malibu Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Malibu
- The most common availability pattern in Malibu falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 52.2% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 88.8% 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 Malibu (38.1%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 12.3% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.
Malibu Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
47 listings
12.8% of total
2 Nights
85 listings
23.1% of total
3 Nights
59 listings
16% of total
4-6 Nights
30 listings
8.2% of total
7-29 Nights
18 listings
4.9% of total
30+ Nights
129 listings
35.1% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Malibu is 30+ Nights, adopted by 35.1% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
- A significant segment (35.1%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Malibu, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 35.1% of Malibu hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 12.8% currently do.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 35.1% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Malibu.
Malibu Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)
Super Strict 60 Days
4 listings
1.1% of total
Super Strict 30 Days
10 listings
2.9% of total
Flexible
37 listings
10.6% of total
Moderate
37 listings
10.6% of total
Firm
69 listings
19.8% of total
Strict
191 listings
54.9% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Malibu
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Malibu is Strict, used by 54.9% of listings.
- A majority (74.7%) of hosts in Malibu 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 54.9% market standard in Malibu.
- With 54.9% using Strict terms, this is a viable option in Malibu, particularly for high-value properties or during peak demand periods.
- Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Malibu.
Malibu STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Malibu
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Malibu is 38 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during May (average 66 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 26 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Spring (50 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (30 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (38 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Malibu.
- For May stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 66 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Spring season well in advance (at least 50 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Malibu averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Malibu (2025)
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Malibu
- Essential amenities in Malibu that guests expect include: Wifi, Smoke alarm, Heating, TV, Kitchen, Carbon monoxide alarm, Hot water, Essentials, Free parking on premises. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Coffee maker are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Malibu: Wifi, Smoke alarm, Heating, TV, Kitchen, Carbon monoxide alarm, Hot water, Essentials, Free parking on premises.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi, Smoke alarm, Heating, TV, Kitchen, Carbon monoxide alarm, Hot water, Essentials, Free parking on premises.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Coffee maker 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 Malibu to stay competitive.
Malibu Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)
Guest Profile Summary for Malibu
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Malibu consists of primarily domestic travelers (90%), often arriving from nearby Los Angeles, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
- Domestic travelers account for 90.0% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (90%) and Canada (2.2%).
- Top languages spoken are English (64.9%) followed by Spanish (12.8%).
- 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 Los Angeles and New York.
- 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 Malibu 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Montecito | 147 | $7,537 | $855.60 | 45% |
| Newport Beach | 1,295 | $7,035 | $676.79 | 45% |
| Avalon | 219 | $6,437 | $647.37 | 38% |
| Toro Canyon | 38 | $6,424 | $720.65 | 41% |
| Rancho Santa Fe | 32 | $6,378 | $912.00 | 38% |
| Unincorporated Santa Monica Mountains | 162 | $6,243 | $736.33 | 42% |
| Tenaja | 10 | $5,907 | $599.31 | 46% |
| Manhattan Beach | 275 | $5,848 | $512.78 | 50% |
| Santa Margarita Ranchos | 19 | $5,704 | $464.05 | 37% |
| Encinitas | 575 | $5,273 | $510.13 | 50% |