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

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-03-31

Is Airbnb profitable in Decatur in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Decatur, Illinois, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Decatur, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 74 active listings.

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

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$132
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Decatur.
Occupancy Rate(?)
50.3%
High demand. Good booking frequency.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$20,086
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Decatur. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
1.7%
Positive growth (1.7%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
May
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Decatur.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
March
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Decatur.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
74
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

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

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $5,030+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $2,956 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $1,727 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $880, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Decatur

Decatur Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 89%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 73% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 52%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 27% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Decatur

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

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Decatur involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Decatur typically peaks in November and dips lowest during April. 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 $239+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $145 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $91 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $65 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Decatur

Get Live Decatur Market Intelligence 👇

Discover Decatur Airbnb Analytics
🏠
🏠
🏠

Explore Real-time Analytics

Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Decatur (2025)

Peak Season (May, July, June)
  • Revenue averages $2,762 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 54.4%
  • Daily rates average $124
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $2,394 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 53.8%
  • Daily rates hold near $126
Low Season (February, March, December)
  • Revenue drops to average $1,685 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 41.6%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $130

Seasonality Insights for Decatur

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Decatur 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 Decatur's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $2,891, occupancy reaching a high of 58.7%, and ADRs peaking at $133.
  • 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 $1,269, occupancy could drop to 33.4%, and ADRs may adjust down to $118.
  • 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 Decatur.

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

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Decatur (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Decatur? 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
Downtown Decatur
The heart of Decatur featuring bustling businesses, cultural attractions, and convenient access to restaurants and shops. Ideal for travelers seeking entertainment and local experiences.
Decatur Civic Center, Scovill Zoo, Decatur Area Arts Council, Lakeshore Golf Course, Miniature Golf Course
Fairview Park
A charming neighborhood known for its parks and recreational areas, great for families and nature lovers. Close to various community events and outdoor activities.
Fairview Park, Decatur Festival, Decatur Park District, Puffer Park, Parks and Nature Trails
Lakeview
A serene residential area with access to beautiful lakes and outdoor activities. Perfect for guests looking to relax and unwind in nature.
Lake Decatur, Decatur Lake Park, Boating and Fishing activities, Walking Trails, Picnic Areas
West End
A historic district with unique architecture and proximity to various dining and entertainment options. Attracts those interested in history and culture.
Lincoln Square Theatre, Historic Homes, Local Restaurants, West End Park, Art Exhibitions
NorthEast Decatur
A quieter, residential neighborhood that appeals to families and long-term visitors. Close to schools and local amenities.
Decatur Public Library, North Park, Local Shops, Community Events, Playgrounds
South Side
A diverse and vibrant neighborhood offering a mix of culture, dining, and entertainment, attracting a wide range of visitors.
Scovill Zoo, Decatur Civic Center, Cultural Festivals, Local Markets, Historic Sites
Decatur Airport Area
Convenient for business travelers and visitors flying into Decatur. Close proximity to the airport and various services.
Decatur Airport, Business Districts, Hotel Chains, Meeting Venues, Transport Services
Marion's Park
A family-friendly area with rich amenities and access to parks. Ideal for families visiting Decatur for events or activities.
Marion's Park, Schools, Community Centers, Playgrounds, Sporting Facilities

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

While Decatur, Illinois, 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 Decatur to ensure full compliance before hosting.

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

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Decatur (2025)

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

Cozy 5BR Lakefront House! FirePit, GameRoom, BBQ

Cozy 5BR Lakefront House! FirePit, GameRoom, BBQ

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$124,749
Revenue
66.0%
Occupancy
$459.63
Daily Rate
Spacious Lakeside Getaway Decatur

Spacious Lakeside Getaway Decatur

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$89,764
Revenue
70.0%
Occupancy
$341.04
Daily Rate
Critter Cove

Critter Cove

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$67,173
Revenue
57.1%
Occupancy
$322.78
Daily Rate
Lake front relaxation!-Dock, Fire-Pit, Hammocks

Lake front relaxation!-Dock, Fire-Pit, Hammocks

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$60,959
Revenue
78.2%
Occupancy
$235.14
Daily Rate
Lakefront Haven in Decatur

Lakefront Haven in Decatur

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$55,554
Revenue
65.3%
Occupancy
$204.81
Daily Rate
Historic 5 br Home w/ Sunroom & Double Fireplace

Historic 5 br Home w/ Sunroom & Double Fireplace

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$51,176
Revenue
35.0%
Occupancy
$422.53
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 Decatur (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Decatur 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
John Edward14$148,1096224.63/5.0
Sean2$145,3181734.84/5.0
Matthew1$124,749304.87/5.0
Anthony2$78,4761234.99/5.0
Penny2$76,327884.97/5.0
Jim1$67,173854.82/5.0
Kimberly1$60,9591094.89/5.0
Kevin2$56,256854.76/5.0
Stefan2$51,207144.85/5.0
Brandon2$51,1281304.93/5.0

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 Decatur.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Decatur STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

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

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Decatur

  • The Decatur Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 90.5% of the 74 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Decatur, House properties are the most common (58.1%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 58.1% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • Smaller segments like hotel/boutique, others, outdoor/unique (combined 5.5%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Decatur Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Decatur

  • The dominant room capacity in Decatur is 2 bedrooms listings, making up 41.9% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 2 bedrooms and 3 bedrooms properties represent 63.5% of the active Airbnb listings in Decatur, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 32.4% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Decatur.

Decatur Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Decatur

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Decatur vacation rentals is listings accommodating 4 guests (20.3%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely small families or groups.
  • Properties designed for 4 guests and 2 guests dominate the Decatur STR market, accounting for 36.5% of listings.
  • 36.5% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Decatur.
  • On average, properties in Decatur are equipped to host 4.3 guests.

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

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Decatur

  • The most common availability pattern in Decatur falls within the 91-180 days range, representing 33.8% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 60.8% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
  • For booked days, the 181-270 days range is most frequent in Decatur (33.8%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 40.6% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Decatur Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (23.3%)

1 Night

17 listings

23.3% of total

2 Nights (47.9%)

2 Nights

35 listings

47.9% of total

3 Nights (6.8%)

3 Nights

5 listings

6.8% of total

4-6 Nights (4.1%)

4-6 Nights

3 listings

4.1% of total

7-29 Nights (6.8%)

7-29 Nights

5 listings

6.8% of total

30+ Nights (11%)

30+ Nights

8 listings

11% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Decatur is 2 Nights, adopted by 47.9% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A strong majority (71.2%) of the Decatur Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.
  • A significant segment (11%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Decatur, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 2 Nights minimum stay, as 47.9% of Decatur hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 23.3% currently do.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 11% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Decatur.

Decatur Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Flexible (18.8%)

Flexible

13 listings

18.8% of total

Moderate (47.8%)

Moderate

33 listings

47.8% of total

Firm (17.4%)

Firm

12 listings

17.4% of total

Strict (15.9%)

Strict

11 listings

15.9% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Decatur

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Decatur is Moderate, used by 47.8% of listings.
  • There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (66.6%) and stricter (33.3%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Moderate policy to align with the 47.8% market standard in Decatur.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Decatur.

Decatur STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Decatur

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Decatur is 27 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during May (average 37 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 21 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (35 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 (27 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Decatur.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 35 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Decatur averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Decatur (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Decatur

  • Essential amenities in Decatur that guests expect include: Wifi, Smoke alarm, TV, Air conditioning, Heating, Kitchen. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Free parking on premises, Carbon monoxide alarm, 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 Decatur: Wifi, Smoke alarm, TV, Air conditioning, Heating, Kitchen.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi, Smoke alarm, TV, Air conditioning, Heating, Kitchen.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Free parking on premises or Carbon monoxide alarm 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 Decatur to stay competitive.

Decatur 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 Decatur

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Decatur consists of primarily domestic travelers (96%), often arriving from nearby Chicago, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 96.0% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (96%) and Netherlands (1.4%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (69.7%) followed by Spanish (14.2%).
  • 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 Chicago and Middlebury.
  • 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 Decatur 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
Rockville21$3,393$231.1043%
Effingham20$3,130$224.0551%
Edwardsville14$2,969$176.3058%
Vandalia10$2,812$243.6353%
Centralia15$2,808$233.2749%
Petersburg14$2,802$209.4141%
Dale11$2,685$261.1334%
East Peoria28$2,639$194.6052%
Sullivan12$2,589$176.7548%
Rensselaer12$2,465$153.8052%

Maximize Your Airbnb Income in Decatur

Access granular Airbnb data and short term rental analytics. Understand Airbnb occupancy rates, ADR trends, and revenue potential. Optimize your pricing strategy!

Discover Market Insights