Montecito 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 Montecito in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Montecito, California, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Montecito, based on AirROI data from June 2024 to May 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 147 active listings.

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

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$856
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Montecito.
Occupancy Rate(?)
44.8%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$90,446
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Montecito. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
-4.9%
Slight decrease (-4.9%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
August
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Montecito.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
November
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Montecito.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
147
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Montecito (2025)

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $23,902+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $14,323 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $7,393 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $4,140, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Montecito

Montecito Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 81%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 68% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 47%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 25% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Montecito

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Montecito (2025)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Montecito involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Montecito 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 $1,827+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $1,168 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $669 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $363 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Montecito

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Montecito (2025)

Peak Season (August, July, April)
  • Revenue averages $14,347 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 55.3%
  • Daily rates average $893
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $10,151 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 45.7%
  • Daily rates hold near $905
Low Season (October, November, December)
  • Revenue drops to average $8,574 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 42.1%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $817

Seasonality Insights for Montecito

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Montecito 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 Montecito's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $15,738, occupancy reaching a high of 59.0%, and ADRs peaking at $1,005.
  • 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 $8,265, occupancy could drop to 38.8%, and ADRs may adjust down to $813.
  • 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 Montecito.

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 Montecito seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Montecito (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Montecito? 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
Montecito's Upper Village
An upscale area known for its luxurious estates and beautiful gardens, attracting high-end travelers looking for privacy and exclusivity.
Lotusland, Montecito Union School, Upper Village shops and restaurants, Santa Barbara Botanic Garden, Santa Barbara Historical Museum
Butterfly Beach
A picturesque beach popular for its scenic views and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for families and couples seeking a relaxing getaway.
Butterfly Beach, Montecito Beach, Coral Casino Beach Club, Shoreline Park, Coastal walking trails
San Ysidro Canyon
A serene locale with stunning canyon views and hiking trails, appealing to nature lovers and guests seeking outdoor adventures.
San Ysidro Canyon Trail, Montecito Trails, Nature walks, Scenic viewpoints, Local wildlife
Miramar Beach
A serene stretch of beach known for its natural beauty and sunsets, making it ideal for romantic getaways and beach lovers.
Miramar Beach, Scenic picnic areas, Ocean swimming, Sunset views, Nearby luxury resorts
Montecito Village
An charming village atmosphere with boutique shops and local eateries, attracting visitors looking for a quaint, local experience.
Café Bella, Montecito Mercantile, Local wine tasting, Art galleries, Nearby hiking trails
Torrey Pines
A beautiful area characterized by its stunning coastal views, perfect for travelers seeking a blend of nature and luxury.
Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, Stunning cliffs, Walking trails, Scenic overlooks, Luxury vacation rentals
Santa Barbara Wine Country
Located just a short drive away, this area offers world-class wine tasting and picturesque vineyards.
Wine tasting rooms, Vineyard tours, Scenic drives, Gourmet restaurants, Outdoor festivals
Lotusland
A unique botanical garden known for its diverse plant collections, attracting eco-tourists and garden enthusiasts.
Lotusland botanical garden, Guided tours, Native plant collections, Event spaces, Educational programs

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Montecito (2025)

While Montecito, 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 Montecito to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 3% licensed listings)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Montecito (2025)

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

Sea Ranch - 4 Acres, Pool, Walk to Beaches

Sea Ranch - 4 Acres, Pool, Walk to Beaches

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$357,200
Revenue
35.2%
Occupancy
$3037.92
Daily Rate
Beach Front Escape on Miramar Beach in Montecito

Beach Front Escape on Miramar Beach in Montecito

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$355,891
Revenue
59.1%
Occupancy
$1788.32
Daily Rate
Montecito Butterfly Beach Villa with Pool & Cabana

Montecito Butterfly Beach Villa with Pool & Cabana

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$350,702
Revenue
38.1%
Occupancy
$2737.77
Daily Rate
Oceanfront Cottage on the Sand at Miramar Beach

Oceanfront Cottage on the Sand at Miramar Beach

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$316,009
Revenue
58.2%
Occupancy
$1607.21
Daily Rate
Montecito Modern w/pool. Near restaurants& beaches

Montecito Modern w/pool. Near restaurants& beaches

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$295,875
Revenue
34.8%
Occupancy
$2808.81
Daily Rate
Magical Montecito

Magical Montecito

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$289,431
Revenue
66.5%
Occupancy
$1219.20
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 Montecito (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Montecito 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
Paradise Retreats9$1,329,4111274.91/5.0
Danielle10$1,296,0922994.97/5.0
Vacation Rentals12$633,1341644.80/5.0
Santa Barbara Vacation Rentals4$586,755414.76/5.0
Babcock Winery2$486,766954.98/5.0
Justine2$466,945834.96/5.0
Connor3$447,8162074.92/5.0
Truman5$423,3052994.75/5.0
Michelle2$368,417155.00/5.0
Krista & Brad2$323,4043634.95/5.0

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 Montecito.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Montecito STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

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

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Montecito

  • The Montecito Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 97.3% of the 147 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Montecito, House properties are the most common (74.1%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 74.1% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • The presence of 10.9% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
  • Smaller segments like apartment/condo, unique stays (combined 6.2%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Montecito Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Montecito

  • The dominant room capacity in Montecito is 1 bedroom listings, making up 36.7% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 1 bedroom and 2 bedrooms properties represent 59.8% of the active Airbnb listings in Montecito, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 34.7% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Montecito.

Montecito Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Montecito

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Montecito vacation rentals is listings accommodating 2 guests (25.9%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely couples or solo travelers.
  • Properties designed for 2 guests and 4 guests dominate the Montecito STR market, accounting for 50.4% of listings.
  • 36.7% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Montecito.
  • On average, properties in Montecito are equipped to host 4.5 guests.

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

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Montecito

  • The most common availability pattern in Montecito falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 40.8% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 74.1% 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 Montecito (34.7%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 27.2% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Montecito Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (5.8%)

1 Night

8 listings

5.8% of total

2 Nights (19.6%)

2 Nights

27 listings

19.6% of total

3 Nights (18.8%)

3 Nights

26 listings

18.8% of total

4-6 Nights (9.4%)

4-6 Nights

13 listings

9.4% of total

7-29 Nights (10.1%)

7-29 Nights

14 listings

10.1% of total

30+ Nights (36.2%)

30+ Nights

50 listings

36.2% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Montecito is 30+ Nights, adopted by 36.2% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
  • A significant segment (36.2%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Montecito, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 36.2% of Montecito hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 5.8% currently do.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 36.2% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Montecito.

Montecito Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Super Strict 60 Days (16.5%)

Super Strict 60 Days

21 listings

16.5% of total

Super Strict 30 Days

2 listings

1.6% of total

Flexible (5.5%)

Flexible

7 listings

5.5% of total

Moderate (15%)

Moderate

19 listings

15% of total

Firm (29.9%)

Firm

38 listings

29.9% of total

Strict (31.5%)

Strict

40 listings

31.5% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Montecito

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Montecito is Strict, used by 31.5% of listings.
  • A majority (61.4%) of hosts in Montecito 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 31.5% market standard in Montecito.
  • With 31.5% using Strict terms, this is a viable option in Montecito, particularly for high-value properties or during peak demand periods.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Montecito.

Montecito STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Montecito

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Montecito is 50 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during June (average 71 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in January (average 38 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (62 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (44 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 Montecito.
  • For June stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 71 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 62 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Montecito averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Montecito (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Montecito

  • Essential amenities in Montecito that guests expect include: Smoke alarm, Wifi, Carbon monoxide alarm, Heating, Free parking on premises, TV, Hot water, Essentials. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Kitchen, Hair dryer are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Montecito: Smoke alarm, Wifi, Carbon monoxide alarm, Heating, Free parking on premises, TV, Hot water, Essentials.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Carbon monoxide alarm, Heating, Free parking on premises, TV, Hot water, Essentials.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Kitchen or Hair dryer 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 Montecito to stay competitive.

Montecito 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 Montecito

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Montecito consists of primarily domestic travelers (96%), 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 95.5% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (95.5%) and United Kingdom (1.4%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (63.1%) followed by Spanish (15.9%).
  • 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 San Francisco.
  • 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 Montecito 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
Malibu383$8,393$1251.9338%
Los Olivos28$6,654$678.1446%
Avila Beach88$6,555$570.0440%
Santa Ynez102$6,448$580.9045%
Avalon219$6,437$647.3738%
Toro Canyon38$6,424$720.6541%
Unincorporated Santa Monica Mountains162$6,243$736.3342%
Manhattan Beach275$5,848$512.7850%
Summerland85$5,099$472.5345%
Santa Barbara976$5,084$435.3749%

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