Watersound Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Florida, United States

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-03-31

Is Airbnb profitable in Watersound in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Watersound, Florida, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Watersound, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 83 active listings.

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

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$396
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Watersound.
Occupancy Rate(?)
38.5%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$51,217
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Watersound. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
19.1%
Strong growth (19.1%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
July
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Watersound.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
January
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Watersound.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
83
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

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

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $9,023+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $7,046 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $4,992 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $2,576, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Watersound

Watersound Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Watersound 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 Watersound:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 70%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 53% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 34%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 18% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Watersound

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

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Watersound involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Watersound 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 $526+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $420 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $355 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $310 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Watersound

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Watersound (2025)

Peak Season (July, June, May)
  • Revenue averages $8,985 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 51.8%
  • Daily rates average $440
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $4,798 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 37.2%
  • Daily rates hold near $390
Low Season (January, February, December)
  • Revenue drops to average $2,357 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 23.5%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $344

Seasonality Insights for Watersound

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Watersound 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 Watersound's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $9,272, occupancy reaching a high of 61.2%, and ADRs peaking at $455.
  • 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 $1,691, occupancy could drop to 19.1%, and ADRs may adjust down to $333.
  • 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 Watersound.

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

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Watersound (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Watersound? 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
Watersound Beach
A tranquil and luxurious beachfront community known for its beautiful white sand beaches and family-friendly atmosphere. Ideal for travelers looking for a peaceful getaway with direct access to the Gulf of Mexico.
Watersound Beach Club, Coastal Dune Lakes, Camp Creek Golf Club, The Hub at Watersound, Scenic Highway 30A
Seagrove Beach
A charming beach town Just a short drive from Watersound, Seagrove offers a laid-back vibe with scenic bike paths and local shops. Popular with families and nature lovers.
Seagrove Beach, Eastern Lake, The Seagrove Village MarketCafe, Timpoochee Trail, Gulf Place
Rosemary Beach
Known for its stunning architecture and cobblestone streets, Rosemary Beach is a picturesque town that attracts tourists looking for a vibrant community with a variety of dining and shopping options.
Rosemary Beach Town Square, Coastal Dune Lakes, Pez Coffee, The Rosemary Beach Inn, Barbacoa Mexican Grill
Inlet Beach
With its proximity to state parks and gorgeous beaches, Inlet Beach is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking for a more relaxed atmosphere.
Inlet Beach, Camp Helen State Park, 30Avenue, The Inlet Beach Access, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park
Panama City Beach
Just a short drive from Watersound, this bustling beach town offers a wide range of attractions and activities, making it ideal for those seeking a lively vacation experience.
Pier Park, Gulf World Marine Park, Panama City Beach, St. Andrews State Park, Shipwreck Island Waterpark
Sowing the Seeds of Change
An up-and-coming destination near Watersound, known for its eco-friendly focus and community events. Attracts guests interested in sustainable living and nature-oriented experiences.
Eco-Friendly Workshops, The Market at Watersound, Farmer's Market, Community Festivals, Nature Trails
Grayton Beach
A laid-back beach community that retains its rustic charm and is known for its artists' colony and unique local shops. It appeals to those looking for an authentic beach experience.
Grayton Beach State Park, Grayton Beach Art Walk, Local Art Galleries, Red Bar, Grayton Beach Brewery
Blue Mountain Beach
Combining beautiful beaches with artistic community vibes, Blue Mountain Beach attracts guests interested in art, music, and a variety of outdoor activities.
Blue Mountain Beach, Topsail Hill Preserve State Park, Local Artisans Market, 30A Beach Access, Bike Trails

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

While Watersound, Florida, 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 Watersound to ensure full compliance before hosting.

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

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Watersound (2025)

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

GULF FRONT/ Steps to Beach and Pool/Beach Service

GULF FRONT/ Steps to Beach and Pool/Beach Service

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$153,264
Revenue
70.6%
Occupancy
$665.45
Daily Rate
6 Seater Cart | Great Location | Pool | near beach

6 Seater Cart | Great Location | Pool | near beach

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$126,164
Revenue
67.3%
Occupancy
$456.80
Daily Rate
Heated Resort Pool ~ Golf Cart ~ Bikes ~ Xbox!

Heated Resort Pool ~ Golf Cart ~ Bikes ~ Xbox!

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$107,087
Revenue
66.3%
Occupancy
$430.15
Daily Rate
Salt & Sand 30A - 3br/2.5ba Luxury Home+Golf Cart

Salt & Sand 30A - 3br/2.5ba Luxury Home+Golf Cart

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$103,014
Revenue
72.4%
Occupancy
$345.82
Daily Rate
Stay on 30A: Watersound Escape, Tis the Season

Stay on 30A: Watersound Escape, Tis the Season

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$92,680
Revenue
57.3%
Occupancy
$337.81
Daily Rate
Prominence 30A ~ Golf Cart ~ Bikes

Prominence 30A ~ Golf Cart ~ Bikes

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$91,101
Revenue
56.3%
Occupancy
$396.36
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 Watersound (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Watersound 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
Ashley17$1,126,5282605.00/5.0
Sarah8$565,7581794.98/5.0
Panhandle18$485,4121002.99/5.0
Sheena2$162,9242515.00/5.0
Michelle1$153,264185.00/5.0
Frank1$126,1641284.98/5.0
Southern Vacation3$110,257203.77/5.0
Jacob1$107,087985.00/5.0
Ej1$103,014594.92/5.0
OutdoorShower2$102,211604.92/5.0

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 Watersound.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Watersound STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

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

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Watersound

  • The Watersound Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 100% of the 83 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Watersound, House properties are the most common (94%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 94% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.

Watersound Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Watersound

  • The dominant room capacity in Watersound is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 51.8% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
  • Together, 3 bedrooms and 2 bedrooms properties represent 86.7% of the active Airbnb listings in Watersound, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 65.0% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Watersound.

Watersound Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Watersound

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Watersound vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (62.7%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Watersound STR market, accounting for 89.2% of listings.
  • 96.4% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Watersound.
  • On average, properties in Watersound are equipped to host 7.3 guests.

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

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Watersound

  • The most common availability pattern in Watersound falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 43.4% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 68.7% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
  • For booked days, the 31-90 days range is most frequent in Watersound (33.7%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 31.3% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Watersound Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (3.8%)

1 Night

3 listings

3.8% of total

2 Nights (8.8%)

2 Nights

7 listings

8.8% of total

3 Nights (45%)

3 Nights

36 listings

45% of total

4-6 Nights (5%)

4-6 Nights

4 listings

5% of total

7-29 Nights (1.3%)

7-29 Nights

1 listings

1.3% of total

30+ Nights (36.3%)

30+ Nights

29 listings

36.3% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Watersound is 3 Nights, adopted by 45% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
  • Very short stays (1-2 nights) are less common (12.6%), suggesting hosts prefer slightly longer bookings to optimize turnover.
  • A significant segment (36.3%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Watersound, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 3 Nights minimum stay, as 45% of Watersound hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 3.8% currently do.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 36.3% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Watersound.

Watersound Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Super Strict 60 Days

1 listings

1.3% of total

Super Strict 30 Days (29.3%)

Super Strict 30 Days

22 listings

29.3% of total

Flexible

2 listings

2.7% of total

Moderate

2 listings

2.7% of total

Firm (17.3%)

Firm

13 listings

17.3% of total

Strict (46.7%)

Strict

35 listings

46.7% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Watersound

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Watersound is Strict, used by 46.7% of listings.
  • A majority (64.0%) of hosts in Watersound 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 46.7% market standard in Watersound.
  • With 46.7% using Strict terms, this is a viable option in Watersound, particularly for high-value properties or during peak demand periods.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Watersound.

Watersound STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Watersound

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Watersound is 53 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during May (average 82 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in December (average 35 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Spring (72 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (49 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 Watersound.
  • For May stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 82 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Spring season well in advance (at least 72 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Watersound averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Watersound (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Watersound

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

Recommendations for Hosts

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

Watersound 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 Watersound

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Watersound consists of primarily domestic travelers (98%), often arriving from nearby Atlanta, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 98.2% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (98.2%) and DC (1.1%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (76.5%) followed by Spanish (13.7%).
  • 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 Atlanta and Nashville.
  • 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 Watersound 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
Seaside573$5,021$671.6234%
Alys Beach439$5,007$578.7237%
Inlet Beach70$4,987$460.7140%
Seacrest Beach357$4,820$516.7738%
Rosemary Beach517$4,381$546.7736%
Gulf County10$4,188$406.7336%
Santa Rosa Beach2,727$3,917$439.9538%
Cape San Blas84$3,714$463.9635%
Port St. Joe564$3,684$430.5536%
Walton County90$3,424$466.8835%

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