Merced Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in California, United States
Is Airbnb profitable in Merced in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Merced, California, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Merced, based on AirROI data from August 2024 to July 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 178 active listings.
Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Merced, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Merced 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 Merced Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview
Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Merced (2025)
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Merced 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 Merced is typically June, while January often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Merced across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $3,789+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $2,442 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $1,096 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $528, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Merced
Merced Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Merced STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Septembersees 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 Merced:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 81%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 65% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 41%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 19% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Merced
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Merced (2025)
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Merced involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Merced typically peaks in May 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 $219+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $166 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $92 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $46 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Merced
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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Merced (2025)
Peak Season (June, May, April)
- Revenue averages $2,146 per month
- Occupancy rates average 45.5%
- Daily rates average $137
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $1,632 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 45.1%
- Daily rates hold near $108
Low Season (January, February, November)
- Revenue drops to average $1,221 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 38.2%
- Daily rates adjust to average $97
Seasonality Insights for Merced
- The Airbnb seasonality in Merced 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 Merced's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $2,242, occupancy reaching a high of 48.9%, and ADRs peaking at $139.
- 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 $1,144, occupancy could drop to 34.7%, and ADRs may adjust down to $96.
- 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 Merced.
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 Merced seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.
Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Merced (2025)
Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Merced? 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Merced | The heart of Merced, offering access to dining, shopping, and entertainment. It's an attractive destination for travelers looking for a convenient base to explore the city. | Merced Theatre, Applegate Park Zoo, Merced Art Center, local restaurants and cafes, Merced County Courthouse Museum |
| University of California, Merced | With a growing student population and academic events, this area attracts both students and families visiting for university-related activities. Ideal for short-term rentals. | UC Merced campus, Lake Yosemite, local coffee shops, student events |
| North Merced | A suburban area popular with families and individuals looking for a quieter environment. It has access to parks and family-friendly attractions. | Los Banos Creek, Bella Vista Park, local shopping centers, schools, family-friendly restaurants |
| South Merced | Known for its residential neighborhoods, South Merced is becoming increasingly popular for long-term and short-term rentals due to its close proximity to major roads and parks. | Bear Creek Park, Merryman’s Ranch, local eateries, grocery stores |
| East Merced | This area has a mix of residential and commercial properties and is known for its recreational activities, making it appealing for active travelers. | Lake Yosemite, local parks, Kirkland Park, golf courses, hiking trails |
| West Merced | West Merced offers a blend of suburban living with easy access to the freeway and is often favored by commuters, making it suitable for rentals targeting this demographic. | Merced Golf and Country Club, local shops, community parks, schools |
| Yosemite Lake | Located near Merced and a popular spot for outdoor enthusiasts, this area offers unique lakeside experiences and outdoor activities, appealing to nature lovers. | Yosemite Lake, fishing and boating opportunities, picnic areas, trails |
| Gustine | Just a short drive from Merced, Gustine is a small town that attracts visitors looking for a quiet getaway and is known for its friendly atmosphere. | Gustine Water Park, local antique shops, small-town events, regional parks |
Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Merced (2025)
While Merced, 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 Merced to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 1% licensed listings)
Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Merced (2025)
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Mercedbased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Restful Retreat• Stylish•Spacious•Quiet •N. Merced
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Serenity, close to UC Merced & Hospital *4 Beds
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
6BR home in Merced
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Cozy home featuring 120” theater, near park & UC
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Clean, Cozy, Happy New Home in North Merced
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Casa Cardinal, close to UC Merced & Hospital *Pool
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 Merced (2025)
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Merced 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amanda | 4 | $114,468 | 164 | 4.95/5.0 |
| Evolve | 3 | $90,370 | 41 | 4.93/5.0 |
| CJay | 2 | $89,096 | 193 | 4.52/5.0 |
| Mike | 4 | $84,497 | 228 | 4.79/5.0 |
| Deana | 2 | $67,164 | 151 | 4.99/5.0 |
| Stay Smart | 4 | $65,073 | 78 | 4.49/5.0 |
| Brittany | 4 | $58,603 | 25 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Samantha | 1 | $56,529 | 42 | 4.98/5.0 |
| Evan | 6 | $52,820 | 752 | 4.81/5.0 |
| Peter | 2 | $52,274 | 135 | 4.72/5.0 |
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 Merced.
Dive Deeper: Advanced Merced STR Market Data (2025)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Merced. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsMerced Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Merced
- The Merced Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 57.9% of the 178 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- However, a notable 42.1% share for Private Rooms suggests opportunities for budget-conscious travelers or hosts renting out spare rooms.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Merced, House properties are the most common (81.5%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 81.5% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- The presence of 6.7% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
- Smaller segments like unique stays (combined 0.6%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Merced Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Merced
- The dominant room capacity in Merced is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 21.9% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
- Together, 3 bedrooms and 1 bedroom properties represent 38.2% of the active Airbnb listings in Merced, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 38.2% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Merced.
Merced Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Merced
- The most common guest capacity trend in Merced vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (18.5%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Merced STR market, accounting for 30.9% of listings.
- 34.8% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Merced.
- On average, properties in Merced are equipped to host 3.4 guests.
Merced Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Merced
- The most common availability pattern in Merced falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 48.3% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 80.3% 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 Merced (33.1%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 20.8% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.
Merced Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
68 listings
38.9% of total
2 Nights
52 listings
29.7% of total
3 Nights
15 listings
8.6% of total
4-6 Nights
4 listings
2.3% of total
7-29 Nights
12 listings
6.9% of total
30+ Nights
24 listings
13.7% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Merced is 1 Night, adopted by 38.9% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
- A strong majority (68.6%) of the Merced Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.
- A significant segment (13.7%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Merced, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 1 Night minimum stay, as 38.9% of Merced hosts use this setting.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 13.7% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Merced.
Merced Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)
Super Strict 30 Days
1 listings
0.6% of total
Flexible
56 listings
32.2% of total
Moderate
29 listings
16.7% of total
Firm
32 listings
18.4% of total
Strict
56 listings
32.2% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Merced
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Merced is Flexible, used by 32.2% of listings.
- A majority (50.6%) of hosts in Merced utilize Firm or Strict policies, indicating a market where hosts prioritize booking security.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Consider adopting a Flexible policy to align with the 32.2% market standard in Merced.
- With 32.2% using Strict terms, this is a viable option in Merced, particularly for high-value properties or during peak demand periods.
- Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Merced.
Merced STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Merced
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Merced is 20 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during May (average 31 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in March (average 14 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Spring (21 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (18 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (20 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Merced.
- For May stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 31 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Spring season well in advance (at least 21 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Merced averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Merced (2025)
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Merced
- Essential amenities in Merced that guests expect include: Wifi, Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, Carbon monoxide alarm. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Heating, Free parking on premises, Kitchen are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Merced: Wifi, Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, Carbon monoxide alarm.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, Carbon monoxide alarm.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Heating or Free parking on premises 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 Merced to stay competitive.
Merced Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)
Guest Profile Summary for Merced
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Merced consists of primarily domestic travelers (88%), often arriving from nearby Merced, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
- Domestic travelers account for 87.9% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (87.9%) and Germany (1.9%).
- Top languages spoken are English (58.1%) followed by Spanish (17.4%).
- 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 Merced 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 Merced 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carmel Point | 15 | $13,624 | $1019.34 | 52% |
| Del Monte Forest | 100 | $9,858 | $864.70 | 47% |
| Carmel-by-the-Sea | 319 | $8,117 | $676.50 | 48% |
| Carmel | 31 | $7,856 | $650.66 | 48% |
| Castroville | 18 | $7,381 | $536.51 | 51% |
| Wawona | 61 | $7,115 | $534.19 | 46% |
| Pleasure Point | 104 | $6,632 | $500.44 | 50% |
| Yosemite National Park | 229 | $6,312 | $482.64 | 44% |
| Pajaro Dunes | 67 | $6,185 | $582.34 | 42% |
| Zephyr Cove | 190 | $6,151 | $634.56 | 37% |