South Lake Tahoe Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in California, United States
Is Airbnb profitable in South Lake Tahoe in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for South Lake Tahoe, California, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for South Lake Tahoe, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the bustling market of 1,630 active listings.
Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in South Lake Tahoe, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview
Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in South Lake Tahoe (2025)
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe is typically July, while October often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in South Lake Tahoe across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $12,883+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $7,608 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $4,043 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,791, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in South Lake Tahoe
South Lake Tahoe Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)
Maximize your bookings by understanding the South Lake Tahoe STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Julysees 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 South Lake Tahoe:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 75%+ 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 35%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 17% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in South Lake Tahoe
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in South Lake Tahoe (2025)
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in South Lake Tahoe involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in South Lake Tahoe typically peaks in December 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 $828+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $509 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $307 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $187 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in South Lake Tahoe
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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in South Lake Tahoe (2025)
Peak Season (July, June, December)
- Revenue averages $7,543 per month
- Occupancy rates average 44.9%
- Daily rates average $443
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $5,985 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 38.0%
- Daily rates hold near $427
Low Season (September, October, November)
- Revenue drops to average $3,867 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 32.7%
- Daily rates adjust to average $383
Seasonality Insights for South Lake Tahoe
- The Airbnb seasonality in South Lake Tahoe 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 South Lake Tahoe's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $8,111, occupancy reaching a high of 53.6%, and ADRs peaking at $488.
- 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 $3,330, occupancy could drop to 29.7%, and ADRs may adjust down to $369.
- 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 South Lake Tahoe.
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 South Lake Tahoe seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.
Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in South Lake Tahoe (2025)
Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in South Lake Tahoe? 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 |
|---|---|---|
| South Lake Tahoe | A stunning destination known for its year-round recreational activities such as skiing, hiking, and lake activities. It attracts outdoor enthusiasts and families looking for both adventure and relaxation. | Lake Tahoe, Heavenly Mountain Resort, Emerald Bay State Park, Sand Harbor, South Lake Tahoe Ski Resort, Stateline Casinos |
| Stateline | Popular for its proximity to casinos and nightlife, making it a go-to spot for visitors wanting entertainment and outdoor activities. This area is ideal for night owls and thrill seekers. | Horizon Casino Resort, Montbleu Resort Casino & Spa, Stateline Lookout, Heavenly Gondola, Lakeview Commons |
| Heavenly Valley | Famous for its beautiful views and world-class skiing, Heavenly Valley attracts winter sports enthusiasts and is a prime destination for vacation rentals throughout the year. | Heavenly Ski Resort, Gondola Rides, South Lake Tahoe Ice Arena, Heavenly Village, Van Sickle Bi-State Park |
| Camp Richardson | A picturesque area known for its beach, restaurants, and outdoor activities. This area draws families and vacationers looking for a more laid-back experience. | Camp Richardson Historic Resort, Pope Beach, Bike Trails, Tallac Historic Site, Beach Rentals |
| Al Tahoe | A charming lakeside neighborhood filled with cabins and cozy homes. It's great for families and smaller groups, being close to the lake and outdoor activities. | Al Tahoe Community Park, Lake Tahoe Boulevard, Local shops and cafes, Tallac Historic Site, Lake access |
| Kingsbury Grade | A convenient location for accessing ski resorts while offering a quieter suburban feel. It is appealing to those seeking both adrenaline and relaxation. | Kingsbury St. Park, Ski Resorts, Biking Trails, Gambling at local casinos, Outdoor lookout points |
| Pioneer Trail | A residential area with proximity to recreational facilities and nature. Ideal for long-term stays and a more local experience away from tourist hotspots. | Ski Resorts, Hiking Trails, Local Restaurants, Grocery Stores, Community Parks |
| South Yuba River | An area ideal for nature lovers and those looking to enjoy the great outdoors, including beautiful river settings and hiking trails. | South Yuba River State Park, Hiking Trails, Campsites, Natural swimming holes, Picnic areas |
Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in South Lake Tahoe (2025)
While South Lake Tahoe, 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 South Lake Tahoe to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 5% licensed listings)
Top Performing Airbnb Properties in South Lake Tahoe (2025)
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in South Lake Tahoebased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Elegant Waterfront in South Lake Tahoe luxe01
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
10 bedroom Mountain Luxury Estate
Entire Place • 10 bedrooms
Mv11 Estate with pool
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Majestic Lakefront
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Huge backyard - Hot tub - 11 beds - Walkable 'hood
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
14 bedroom/14 bath Mega Mansion
Entire Place • 14 bedrooms
Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.
Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in South Lake Tahoe (2025)
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in South Lake Tahoe 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| RnR Vacation Rentals | 107 | $9,198,755 | 2500 | 4.45/5.0 |
| VRA Tahoe | 20 | $3,568,988 | 1396 | 4.89/5.0 |
| BranchVR | 26 | $3,318,743 | 1029 | 4.80/5.0 |
| Vacasa California | 86 | $3,037,301 | 772 | 4.10/5.0 |
| Steve | 27 | $2,663,160 | 1705 | 4.80/5.0 |
| Sean | 13 | $2,643,145 | 217 | 4.03/5.0 |
| Grand Welcome | 36 | $2,008,454 | 1390 | 4.46/5.0 |
| RoomPicks | 42 | $2,007,931 | 24 | 0.34/5.0 |
| Mark | 11 | $1,884,425 | 343 | 4.90/5.0 |
| Vacasa California | 30 | $1,583,271 | 1366 | 4.43/5.0 |
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 South Lake Tahoe.
Dive Deeper: Advanced South Lake Tahoe STR Market Data (2025)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for South Lake Tahoe. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsSouth Lake Tahoe Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for South Lake Tahoe
- The South Lake Tahoe Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 85.1% of the 1,630 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in South Lake Tahoe, House properties are the most common (48%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 48% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- The presence of 11.9% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
- Smaller segments like others, unique stays (combined 2.1%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
South Lake Tahoe Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for South Lake Tahoe
- The dominant room capacity in South Lake Tahoe is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 25.3% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
- Together, 3 bedrooms and 1 bedroom properties represent 48.7% of the active Airbnb listings in South Lake Tahoe, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 49.6% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in South Lake Tahoe.
South Lake Tahoe Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for South Lake Tahoe
- The most common guest capacity trend in South Lake Tahoe vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (38.1%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 8+ guests and 4 guests dominate the South Lake Tahoe STR market, accounting for 61.7% of listings.
- 59.6% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in South Lake Tahoe.
- On average, properties in South Lake Tahoe are equipped to host 5.7 guests.
South Lake Tahoe Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for South Lake Tahoe
- The most common availability pattern in South Lake Tahoe falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 48.6% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 80.7% 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 South Lake Tahoe (32.3%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 20.7% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.
South Lake Tahoe Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
329 listings
21.4% of total
2 Nights
338 listings
22% of total
3 Nights
80 listings
5.2% of total
4-6 Nights
36 listings
2.3% of total
7-29 Nights
60 listings
3.9% of total
30+ Nights
695 listings
45.2% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in South Lake Tahoe is 30+ Nights, adopted by 45.2% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
- A significant segment (45.2%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in South Lake Tahoe, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 45.2% of South Lake Tahoe hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 21.4% currently do.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 45.2% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in South Lake Tahoe.
South Lake Tahoe Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)
Super Strict 60 Days
27 listings
2% of total
Super Strict 30 Days
147 listings
11.1% of total
Non-refundable
4 listings
0.3% of total
Flexible
59 listings
4.4% of total
Moderate
252 listings
19% of total
Firm
368 listings
27.7% of total
Strict
472 listings
35.5% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for South Lake Tahoe
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in South Lake Tahoe is Strict, used by 35.5% of listings.
- A majority (63.2%) of hosts in South Lake Tahoe 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 35.5% market standard in South Lake Tahoe.
- With 35.5% using Strict terms, this is a viable option in South Lake Tahoe, particularly for high-value properties or during peak demand periods.
- Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in South Lake Tahoe.
South Lake Tahoe STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for South Lake Tahoe
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in South Lake Tahoe is 53 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during July (average 98 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in November (average 46 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Summer (79 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Fall (50 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (53 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in South Lake Tahoe.
- For July stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 98 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 79 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these South Lake Tahoe averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in South Lake Tahoe (2025)
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for South Lake Tahoe
- Essential amenities in South Lake Tahoe that guests expect include: Wifi, Smoke alarm, TV, Heating, Carbon monoxide alarm, Essentials. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Kitchen, Hot water, 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 South Lake Tahoe: Wifi, Smoke alarm, TV, Heating, Carbon monoxide alarm, Essentials.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi, Smoke alarm, TV, Heating, Carbon monoxide alarm, Essentials.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Kitchen or Hot water 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 South Lake Tahoe to stay competitive.
South Lake Tahoe Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)
Guest Profile Summary for South Lake Tahoe
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in South Lake Tahoe consists of primarily domestic travelers (94%), 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 94.2% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (94.2%) and United Kingdom (0.8%).
- Top languages spoken are English (62.5%) followed by Spanish (15.4%).
- 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 San Francisco and San Jose.
- 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 South Lake Tahoe 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Glenbrook | 29 | $9,613 | $813.36 | 45% |
| Wawona | 60 | $7,157 | $517.09 | 48% |
| Zephyr Cove | 178 | $6,596 | $585.58 | 38% |
| Yosemite National Park | 228 | $6,466 | $466.68 | 46% |
| Incline Village-Crystal Bay | 162 | $5,653 | $537.06 | 40% |
| Yosemite West | 27 | $5,312 | $330.07 | 52% |
| Meyers | 190 | $5,189 | $420.43 | 43% |
| Carnelian Bay | 349 | $5,186 | $487.70 | 40% |
| Stateline | 29 | $5,155 | $479.76 | 45% |
| Tahoma | 188 | $4,936 | $494.37 | 40% |