Sussex County Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Delaware, United States

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-03-31

Is Airbnb profitable in Sussex County in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Sussex County, Delaware, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Sussex County, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 73 active listings.

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

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$275
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Sussex County.
Occupancy Rate(?)
25.5%
Lower demand, potentially seasonal or market factors at play.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$15,421
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Sussex County. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
-54.2%
Significant decrease (-54.2%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
August
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Sussex County.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
February
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Sussex County.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
73
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Sussex County (2025)

Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Sussex County 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 Sussex County 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 Sussex County across different performance tiers:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $4,149+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $2,546 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $1,134 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $496, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Sussex County

Sussex County Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 49%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 29% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 13%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 7% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Sussex County

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Sussex County (2025)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Sussex County involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Sussex County typically peaks in July 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 $469+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $339 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $236 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $178 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Sussex County

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Sussex County (2025)

Peak Season (August, July, June)
  • Revenue averages $3,475 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 31.6%
  • Daily rates average $355
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $1,545 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 20.0%
  • Daily rates hold near $277
Low Season (January, February, March)
  • Revenue drops to average $595 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 11.5%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $245

Seasonality Insights for Sussex County

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Sussex County 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 Sussex County's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $3,851, occupancy reaching a high of 38.9%, and ADRs peaking at $366.
  • 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 $431, occupancy could drop to 9.5%, and ADRs may adjust down to $241.
  • 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 Sussex County.

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 Sussex County seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Sussex County (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Sussex County? 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
Rehoboth Beach
Popular seaside resort town known for its beautiful beaches, boardwalk, and vibrant nightlife. Attracts families and beachgoers during the summer months, making it a prime location for vacation rentals.
Rehoboth Beach Boardwalk, Funland, Rehoboth Beach, Cape Henlopen State Park, Jungle Jim's Water Park
Bethany Beach
Charming small beach town with a family-friendly atmosphere. Known for its peaceful beaches, quaint shopping, and outdoor activities, making it appealing for families and couples.
Bethany Beach Boardwalk, Bethany Beach Nature Center, South Bethany Beach, Fresh Pond State Park
Lewes
Historic town with rich heritage and close proximity to beaches. Offers a quaint downtown area and is known for its scenic beauty, appealing to those looking for a more relaxed beach experience.
Cape May-Lewes Ferry, Lewes Historical Society, Cape Henlopen State Park, Lewes Beach, Zwaanendael Museum
Fenwick Island
Quiet beach community ideal for families and those looking for a more laid-back vacation. Offers easy access to both ocean and bay activities.
Fenwick Island State Park, Thunder Lagoon Waterpark, Bayside Resort Golf Club
Laurel
A small town with charm, offering a mix of natural beauty and local culture. Attractive for those seeking more affordable vacation rentals away from the busy beach towns.
Laurel Train Depot, Trap Pond State Park, Cypress Swamp, Dagsboro
Milford
A quaint, historic town along the Mispillion River, known for its charming downtown and local businesses. Offers a unique experience with potential for growth in tourism.
Milford Museum, Mispillion Riverwalk, Historical Society of Milford
Dewey Beach
Known for its lively beach atmosphere and nightlife, making it popular among younger crowds. Ideal for investors looking to attract party-goers and summer vacationers.
Dewey Beach, Dewey Beach Lifesaving Station Museum, Starboard
Selbyville
A quiet town close to the beach yet away from the hustle and bustle. A great option for those seeking peace while still being close to attractions.
Bayside Resort Golf Club, Assawoman Bay, Local dining options

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Sussex County (2025)

While Sussex County, Delaware, 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 Sussex County to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2025, finding no licensed listings among those analyzed)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Sussex County (2025)

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

Beautiful 3 Story Ocean-Block Home for Rent

Beautiful 3 Story Ocean-Block Home for Rent

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$82,445
Revenue
69.2%
Occupancy
$1080.71
Daily Rate
NEW! Pet-Friendly! Large 3-bedroom, 2.5 bath home!

NEW! Pet-Friendly! Large 3-bedroom, 2.5 bath home!

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$50,587
Revenue
54.1%
Occupancy
$297.67
Daily Rate
Logan's Beach House (Dog Friendly!)

Logan's Beach House (Dog Friendly!)

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$47,889
Revenue
87.0%
Occupancy
$274.36
Daily Rate
2BR Oceanfront | Tennis | Pool | Sauna | Hot Tub

2BR Oceanfront | Tennis | Pool | Sauna | Hot Tub

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$46,260
Revenue
42.4%
Occupancy
$251.52
Daily Rate
3BR 7th-Floor | Pool | Washer/Dryer | Tennis

3BR 7th-Floor | Pool | Washer/Dryer | Tennis

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$44,509
Revenue
28.5%
Occupancy
$309.40
Daily Rate
Beach House on bay with dock

Beach House on bay with dock

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$38,509
Revenue
35.0%
Occupancy
$363.00
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 Sussex County (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Sussex County 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
Vacasa Bethany Beach22$386,9321153.15/5.0
Vacasa Delaware25$119,5332884.12/5.0
Kirsten1$82,44555.00/5.0
Robby1$50,58755.00/5.0
Tom1$47,889204.95/5.0
DEL 302 Management2$40,6181524.87/5.0
Pamela1$38,509144.93/5.0
Inocencia1$30,768415.00/5.0
Cleopatra1$29,2571174.97/5.0
Danielle1$28,109505.00/5.0

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 Sussex County.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Sussex County STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

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

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Sussex County

  • The Sussex County Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 100% of the 73 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Sussex County, Apartment/Condo properties are the most common (79.5%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 19.2% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • Smaller segments like outdoor/unique (combined 1.4%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Sussex County Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Sussex County

  • The dominant room capacity in Sussex County is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 37% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
  • Together, 3 bedrooms and 2 bedrooms properties represent 71.2% of the active Airbnb listings in Sussex County, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 43.8% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Sussex County.

Sussex County Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Sussex County

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Sussex County vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (45.2%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Sussex County STR market, accounting for 65.7% of listings.
  • 69.8% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Sussex County.
  • On average, properties in Sussex County are equipped to host 6.3 guests.

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

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Sussex County

  • The most common availability pattern in Sussex County falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 74% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 98.7% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
  • For booked days, the 1-30 days range is most frequent in Sussex County (46.6%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 2.7% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Sussex County Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (1.4%)

1 Night

1 listings

1.4% of total

2 Nights (38.6%)

2 Nights

27 listings

38.6% of total

3 Nights (24.3%)

3 Nights

17 listings

24.3% of total

4-6 Nights (14.3%)

4-6 Nights

10 listings

14.3% of total

7-29 Nights (7.1%)

7-29 Nights

5 listings

7.1% of total

30+ Nights (14.3%)

30+ Nights

10 listings

14.3% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Sussex County is 2 Nights, adopted by 38.6% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A significant segment (14.3%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Sussex County, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 2 Nights minimum stay, as 38.6% of Sussex County hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 1.4% currently do.
  • A 2-night minimum appears standard (38.6%). Consider this for weekends or peak periods.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 14.3% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Sussex County.

Sussex County Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Super Strict 60 Days (67.2%)

Super Strict 60 Days

41 listings

67.2% of total

Flexible

1 listings

1.6% of total

Moderate

3 listings

4.9% of total

Firm (8.2%)

Firm

5 listings

8.2% of total

Strict (18%)

Strict

11 listings

18% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Sussex County

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Sussex County is Super Strict 60 Days, used by 67.2% of listings.
  • There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (6.5%) and stricter (26.2%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Super Strict 60 Days policy to align with the 67.2% market standard in Sussex County.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Sussex County.

Sussex County STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Sussex County

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Sussex County is 53 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during June (average 108 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in January (average 14 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (90 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (26 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 Sussex County.
  • For June stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 108 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • During January, focus on last-minute booking availability and promotions, as guests book with very short notice (14 days avg.).
  • Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 90 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Sussex County averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Sussex County (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Sussex County

  • Essential amenities in Sussex County that guests expect include: Dryer, Washer, Kitchen, Wifi, Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, TV, Hot water, Refrigerator, Heating. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Sussex County: Dryer, Washer, Kitchen, Wifi, Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, TV, Hot water, Refrigerator, Heating.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Hot water, Refrigerator, Heating.
  • 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 Sussex County to stay competitive.

Sussex County 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 Sussex County

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Sussex County consists of primarily domestic travelers (94%), often arriving from nearby Baltimore, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 93.5% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (93.5%) and DC (4%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (76.6%) followed by Spanish (7.5%).
  • 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 Baltimore 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 Sussex County 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
Centreville15$6,205$510.7747%
Mayo13$5,786$439.1552%
Stone Harbor34$5,711$639.1745%
Stevensville70$5,476$499.4643%
Harvey Cedars23$5,311$775.0640%
Chester17$5,299$437.7243%
Arundel on the Bay25$5,285$509.3739%
Middletown Township10$5,208$392.8353%
Lower Windsor Township15$5,190$348.5145%
Cape May Point25$5,145$509.5948%

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