Airbnb Market Analytics, Statistics and Data in Columbus, Georgia, United States
Last updated: 2025-01-31
Looking to make more money with hosting or rental arbitraging Airbnbs, short-term rentals, vacation rentals in Columbus? AirROI have just the data insights! Over the last twelve months from February 2024 to January 2025, we've uncovered key trends and opportunities that successful hosts are leveraging in Columbus:
How much do Airbnb hosts make on average per month in Columbus?
The short-term rental market in Columbus shows distinct revenue patterns across different property tiers. Our analysis reveals that successful properties combine strategic pricing with quality management to maximize earnings potential. Market data demonstrates clear revenue differentiation among properties:
- Typical properties (median) earn $2,227 per month
- Strong performing properties (top 25%) make $3,311 or more
- Best-in-class properties (top 10%) achieve $4,845+ monthly
- Entry-level properties (bottom 25%) typically earn around $1,426
Revenue Variations by Month
Occupancy Rates Throughout the Year in Columbus
The market in Columbus shows distinct occupancy patterns influenced by seasonal trends and local dynamics. Properties that maintain high guest satisfaction scores and implement strategic pricing consistently achieve stronger occupancy rates. Current market data shows:
- Typical properties (median) maintain 54% occupancy rates
- Strong performing properties (top 25%) achieve 69% or higher
- Best-in-class properties (top 10%) reach 84%+occupancy
- Entry-level properties (bottom 25%) average around 38%
Occupancy Variations by Month
Average Daily Rates Seasonal Trends in Columbus
Daily rates in Columbus vary based on seasonality, property quality, and market dynamics. Properties that effectively balance competitive pricing with strong amenities typically command higher rates. Market analysis shows the following rate structure:
- Typical properties (median) generate $114 per night
- Strong performing properties (top 25%) secure $160 or more
- Best-in-class properties (top 10%) pull in $239+ per night
- Entry-level properties (bottom 25%) earn around $85
Daily Rate Variations by Month
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Seasonality patterns in Columbus
Peak Season (June, October, November)
- Revenue peaks at $3215.27 per month
- Occupancy rates reach 63.21%
- Daily rates average $156.99
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $2614.75 per month
- Occupancy maintains 53.05%
- Daily rates hold at $138.77
Low Season (August, December, January)
- Revenue drops to $1740.05 per month
- Occupancy decreases to 38.45%
- Daily rates adjust to $125.68
Is it still profitable to do Airbnb in Columbus in 2025?
Yes! Columbus demonstrates moderate seasonality with good off-peak opportunities, featuring a healthy occupancy rate of 53% and strong monthly revenue averaging $2615 and With 465 active listings, the market shows established demand while maintaining room for growth. There's also room for profit through rental arbitrage strategies, if you can identify competitively priced properties. To maximize your return on investment, consider employing the following strategies:
Peak Season Strategy
- Implement premium seasonal pricing strategies
- Set longer minimum stay requirements during high-demand periods
- Enforce stricter cancellation policies
Shoulder Season Strategy
- Maintain competitive market-based pricing
- Offer moderate-length stay incentives
- Target a mix of leisure and business travelers with flexible booking terms
- Focus on weekend getaway packages and mid-week business traveler promotions
Low Season Strategy
- Adjust pricing to remain competitive in the market
- Target different guest segments (business travelers, long-term stays, holiday visitors, event attendees, remote workers)
- Create targeted promotional campaigns to drive occupancy
Top Places to Start Airbnb in Columbus
| Area | Why Choose This Area | Key Attractions |
|---|---|---|
| Historic Columbus | The Historic Columbus area features charming architecture, rich history, and a strong sense of community. It's close to various museums and parks, making it attractive for history buffs and families alike. | National Civil War Naval Museum, Coca-Cola Space Science Center, The Columbus Museum, RiverWalk, Port Columbus Civil War Naval Museum |
| Midtown | Midtown is an up-and-coming area known for its picturesque parks, dining options, and local shops. It's ideal for travelers looking for a mix of urban convenience and leisure activities. | Flat Rock Park, Columbus Botanical Garden, Columbus State University, local cafes and restaurants |
| Downtown Columbus | Downtown is the city's vibrant hub, filled with dining, shopping, and nightlife. It attracts business travelers and tourists alike, making it an ideal spot for Airbnb hosting. | RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus Civic Center, Chattahoochee RiverWalk, local shops and restaurants |
| North Columbus | This suburban area boasts family-friendly communities, parks, and ample shopping options. It's a popular choice for families and long-term visitors. | Peachtree Mall, Flat Rock Park, Northwood Park |
| South Columbus | South Columbus offers a more residential feel with access to local attractions. It’s perfect for guests looking for a quieter stay while still being close to the city. | Green Island Country Club, Columbus Zoo, local parks |
| St. Elmo | St. Elmo is becoming increasingly popular due to its quaint vibes and proximity to the river. It's suitable for those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere. | St. Elmo Park, Chattahoochee River, local dining options |
| Summit Point | This area features beautiful homes and is close to recreational activities. It's ideal for guests who enjoy outdoor excursions and a peaceful environment. | Lake Oliver, Hughston Clinic, local trails for hiking |
| Harmony Township | A newer development area with modern amenities and properties, Harmony Township appeals to those looking for comfort and convenience during their stay. | Harmon Park, local shopping centers, proximity to highways |
Do you need a license for Airbnb in Columbus?
We recommend checking directly with Columbus's local government regarding short-term rental licensing requirements. Current market data shows limited licensing information (0% of listings), making it essential to verify current regulations before starting your Airbnb business.
Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Columbus
Pool & HotTub 5000sqf 3LivingRm 10miles to FtMoore
Entire Place • 7 bedrooms
ChateauMonroe-near Bibb Mill,Ft.Moore,2pm checkOUT
Entire Place • 8 bedrooms
Midtown Castle! Modern & Regal - Royal in Columbus
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
The Lake House 6 miles from Fort Moore (Benning)
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Family-Friendly Near Ft Moore - Lakeside Lodging
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Swim/Spa at Bungalow Marguerite
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Top Performing Professional Hosts in Columbus
| Host Name | Properties | Grossing Revenue | Stay Reviews | Avg Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kate | 18 | $709,689 | 543 | 4.37/5.0 |
| River Town Rentals | 23 | $679,853 | 541 | 4.80/5.0 |
| Joseph | 8 | $508,903 | 603 | 4.59/5.0 |
| Kathy | 11 | $382,756 | 487 | 4.54/5.0 |
| Rob | 11 | $234,412 | 1196 | 4.75/5.0 |
| Patriot Family | 3 | $198,112 | 58 | 4.30/5.0 |
| Adi | 3 | $191,544 | 117 | 4.86/5.0 |
| Shaun | 8 | $171,432 | 3396 | 4.91/5.0 |
| Salome | 5 | $170,562 | 279 | 4.66/5.0 |
| Kit | 6 | $159,254 | 372 | 4.40/5.0 |
Additional analytics on vacation rental, real estate, short term rental data in Columbus
AirROI also have other key metrics and comprehensive data for your vacation rental, real estate needs. Go explore the advanced metrics that can help you make informed decisions:
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Key Insights
- Market dominated by entire home listings (93.5%), with house and apartment & condo properties comprising 94.0% of inventory
- Untapped potential in boutique & hotels, others, outdoor & mobile segments (6.0% combined)
Room Capacity Distribution
Analysis of 465 properties in Columbus shows that 3 bedrooms properties are most prevalent, making up 31.2% of the market. The market tends to favor larger properties, with 3 bedrooms and 2 bedrooms together representing 57.6% of all listings.
Key Insights
- Most common: 3 bedrooms (31.2%)
- Least common: 5+ bedrooms (5.2%)
- Market concentration: 57.6% in top 2 sizes
- Market skew: Favors larger properties
Guest Capacity Distribution
Analysis of 465 properties in Columbus reveals that 8+ guests properties dominate the market, representing 27.5% of all listings. The average property accommodates 5.5 guests, with a clear trend towards larger guest capacities. Properties accommodating 8+ guests and 6 guests make up 48.8% of the market.
Key Insights
- Most common capacity: 8+ guests (27.5% of market)
- Least common capacity: 3 guests (4.9% of market)
- Average guest capacity: 5.5 guests per property
- Market concentration: 48.8% in top 2 capacity sizes
- Market segmentation: Predominantly larger guest capacities
Booking and Availability Patterns
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Among 465 properties in Columbus, the most common availability pattern is 91-180 days (39.4% of properties). For actual bookings, properties most frequently secure bookings for 181-270 days (39.6% of properties).
Key Insights
- Most common availability window: 91-180 days (39.4%)
- Most common booking duration: 181-270 days (39.6%)
- Properties with high availability (180+ days): 46.2%
- Properties with long-term bookings (180+ days): 56.1%
Minimum Stay Distributions
1 Night
96 listings
23.2% of total
2 Nights
227 listings
54.8% of total
3 Nights
42 listings
10.1% of total
4-6 Nights
7 listings
1.7% of total
7-29 Nights
7 listings
1.7% of total
30+ Nights
35 listings
8.5% of total
Key Insights
- Short stays (1-2 nights) dominate the market at 78.0%
- Mid-length stays (4-6 nights) represent 1.7% of listings
- Monthly+ stays (8.5%) suggest a stable extended-stay market
- High market flexibility with 88.1% accepting 3 nights or less
Recommendations
- Set minimum stays between 2-3 nights to align with market standards
- Adjust minimum stays seasonally based on demand patterns
- Consider monthly stay discounts to capture the growing extended-stay market
- Implement different minimum stays for weekends vs. weekdays
Cancellation Policy Distribution
Super Strict 30 Days
2 listings
0.5% of total
Flexible
108 listings
26% of total
Moderate
164 listings
39.5% of total
Firm
69 listings
16.6% of total
Strict
72 listings
17.3% of total
Key Insights
- Moderate is the preferred policy at 39.5% of listings
- Guest-friendly policies (Flexible & Moderate) dominate at 65.5% of the market
- Strong market consensus around Moderate policies
- Super Strict 30 Days policies are least common at 0.5% of listings
Recommendations
- Consider starting with a Moderate policy to align with market preferences
- Strong market preference for Moderate policies suggests this should be your baseline
- Consider generous cancellation terms as a competitive advantage
Booking Lead Time Trends
Key Insights
- Peak booking lead times occur in Jul, Jun, Apr, averaging 36 days
- Shortest booking windows are in Aug, Sep, Jan, averaging 23 days
- Spring shows the longest average booking window at 33 days, while Winter has the shortest at 26 days
Recommendations
- Implement dynamic pricing strategies for Spring bookings at least 33 days in advance
- Consider early bird discounts during Winter to encourage longer lead times
- Focus on last-minute booking promotions during Aug-Jan when lead times are shortest
Popular Airbnb Amenities in Columbus
Every property in Columbus comes standard with Air conditioning. Below shows the distribution of other amenities:
Traveler Demographics
Key Insights
- Domestic travelers make up 98.3% of total guests, indicating a dominant local market share.
- Primary international markets: Germany (0.3%) and United Kingdom (0.3%)
- English is the top language at 81.5%, followed by Spanish (15.4%)
- Notable demographic segment in <=1950s (Pre-1950s (Silent Gen)) at 5.4%
Recommendations
- Target marketing campaigns for Atlanta and Columbus markets
- Develop localized content for Germany and United Kingdom
- Prioritize English and Spanish language support
- Tailor experiences for Pre-1950s (Silent Gen) while maintaining broad age appeal
- Implement seasonal promotions aligned with key market travel patterns
Nearby Markets
Explore short-term rental performance in markets surrounding Columbus. These nearby markets offer diverse opportunities for property investors and hosts:
| Market | Properties | Monthly Revenue | Daily Rate | Occupancy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jacksons' Gap | 45 | $4,729 | $427.68 | 41% |
| Eatonton | 232 | $4,371 | $471.99 | 35% |
| Greensboro | 35 | $4,179 | $521.72 | 31% |
| Bishop | 10 | $4,160 | $516.54 | 42% |
| Eclectic | 56 | $4,054 | $384.40 | 38% |
| Buckhead | 11 | $3,799 | $348.15 | 40% |
| Valley | 12 | $3,647 | $267.73 | 49% |
| North Decatur | 17 | $3,551 | $248.90 | 45% |
| Chattahoochee Hills | 56 | $3,528 | $292.46 | 38% |
| Alexander City | 44 | $3,364 | $371.13 | 37% |
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