Clear Lake Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Iowa, United States
Is Airbnb profitable in Clear Lake in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Clear Lake, Iowa, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Clear Lake, based on AirROI data from June 2024 to May 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 124 active listings.
Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Clear Lake, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Clear Lake 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 Clear Lake Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview
Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Clear Lake (2025)
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Clear Lake 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 Clear Lake is typically July, while April often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Clear Lake across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $5,444+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $3,485 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $2,094 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,090, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Clear Lake
Clear Lake Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Clear Lake STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Julysees 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 Clear Lake:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 71%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 51% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 31%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 17% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Clear Lake
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Clear Lake (2025)
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Clear Lake involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Clear Lake typically peaks in May and dips lowest during November. 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 $423+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $291 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $206 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $161 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Clear Lake
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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Clear Lake (2025)
Peak Season (July, August, June)
- Revenue averages $4,403 per month
- Occupancy rates average 49.3%
- Daily rates average $253
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $2,436 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 33.3%
- Daily rates hold near $237
Low Season (January, February, April)
- Revenue drops to average $1,824 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 26.8%
- Daily rates adjust to average $250
Seasonality Insights for Clear Lake
- The Airbnb seasonality in Clear Lake 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 Clear Lake's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $4,602, occupancy reaching a high of 52.6%, and ADRs peaking at $280.
- 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 $1,749, occupancy could drop to 25.9%, and ADRs may adjust down to $221.
- 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 Clear Lake.
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 Clear Lake seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.
Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Clear Lake (2025)
Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Clear Lake? 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Clear Lake City | The heart of the Clear Lake area, known for its beautiful lake and charming small-town feel. Popular among families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking water activities and a peaceful retreat. | Clear Lake, Clear Lake State Park, Surf Ballroom, Lady of the Lake, Clear Lake Farmer's Market |
| Northshore Drive | Scenic lakeside drive offering stunning views and proximity to recreational facilities. Ideal for guests seeking relaxation and outdoor adventures like fishing and boating. | North Shore Beach, Clear Lake Sailing School, Fishing opportunities, Biking and hiking trails, Public parks with picnic areas |
| South Shore | Residential area with easy access to the lake and local amenities. Attractive to families and long-term visitors looking for a quiet place to stay while enjoying Clear Lake's offerings. | Clear Lake Municipal Golf Course, Local restaurants and cafes, Close to small shops, Family-friendly parks, Public beach access |
| Central Garden | Known for its blooming gardens and serene environment. A peaceful area perfect for those who enjoy nature, gardening, and a relaxing atmosphere. | Central Gardens of North Iowa, Walking trails, Greenhouse tours, Scenic picnic spots, Seasonal events and festivals |
| Ventura | This small community on the shore of Clear Lake offers a quaint ambiance with beautiful scenery. It attracts visitors looking for a peaceful lakeside getaway. | Ventura Beach, Water sports activities, Local parks and playgrounds, Ventura City Hall, Historical sites nearby |
| Lake Avenue | A convenient area for visitors as it offers easy access to shopping, dining, and lake activities. It's perfect for short-term visitors looking for convenience. | Lake Avenue Plaza, Local shops and boutiques, Dining options close by, Easy access to water activities, Annual events happening on the lake |
| Clear Lake State Park | A beautiful state park with camping, hiking, and lake access, great for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Attracts visitors year-round for recreational activities. | Hiking trails, Camping facilities, Fishing and boating opportunities, Picnicking areas, Wildlife watching |
| Kensett | Close to Clear Lake and offers a quiet, small-town atmosphere. Good for those looking for a break from the hustle and bustle, yet close to lake activities. | Kensett Park, Historical landmarks, Community events, Local eateries, Scenic drives |
Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Clear Lake (2025)
While Clear Lake, Iowa, 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 Clear Lake to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2025, finding no licensed listings among those analyzed)
Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Clear Lake (2025)
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Clear Lakebased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Luxury 5-Bed Lakefront, 52-ft Walkout Beach
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Rustic 8 Bed+Arcade+Near Lake+Firepit+Poker table
Entire Place • 8 bedrooms
Lakehouse Villa on Clear Lake in Northern Iowa
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
North Shore Retreat
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
The Clausen House-Historic home close to the lake!
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bathroom Home with Lake View
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.
Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in Clear Lake (2025)
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Clear Lake 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kiley | 1 | $190,078 | 55 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Stephanie | 1 | $157,214 | 45 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Abby | 5 | $94,123 | 108 | 4.93/5.0 |
| Heidi | 3 | $93,689 | 24 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Shelby | 1 | $84,943 | 54 | 4.98/5.0 |
| Alyse | 2 | $84,921 | 114 | 4.92/5.0 |
| June | 2 | $79,654 | 132 | 4.97/5.0 |
| Paxton | 3 | $79,054 | 167 | 4.90/5.0 |
| Myron | 2 | $76,439 | 106 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Matthew | 7 | $62,230 | 44 | 4.87/5.0 |
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 Clear Lake.
Dive Deeper: Advanced Clear Lake STR Market Data (2025)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Clear Lake. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsClear Lake Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Clear Lake
- The Clear Lake Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 95.2% of the 124 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Clear Lake, House properties are the most common (79%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 79% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- Smaller segments like hotel/boutique, outdoor/unique, unique stays, others (combined 8.8%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Clear Lake Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Clear Lake
- The dominant room capacity in Clear Lake is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 35.5% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
- Together, 3 bedrooms and 2 bedrooms properties represent 66.1% of the active Airbnb listings in Clear Lake, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 56.5% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Clear Lake.
Clear Lake Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Clear Lake
- The most common guest capacity trend in Clear Lake vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (50%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Clear Lake STR market, accounting for 66.1% of listings.
- 70.9% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Clear Lake.
- On average, properties in Clear Lake are equipped to host 6.3 guests.
Clear Lake Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Clear Lake
- The most common availability pattern in Clear Lake falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 58.1% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 87.1% 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 Clear Lake (46.8%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 12.9% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.
Clear Lake Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
24 listings
20.2% of total
2 Nights
68 listings
57.1% of total
3 Nights
10 listings
8.4% of total
4-6 Nights
2 listings
1.7% of total
7-29 Nights
1 listings
0.8% of total
30+ Nights
14 listings
11.8% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Clear Lake is 2 Nights, adopted by 57.1% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
- A strong majority (77.3%) of the Clear Lake Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.
- A significant segment (11.8%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Clear Lake, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 2 Nights minimum stay, as 57.1% of Clear Lake hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 20.2% currently do.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 11.8% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Clear Lake.
Clear Lake Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)
Super Strict 60 Days
1 listings
0.9% of total
Flexible
16 listings
13.7% of total
Moderate
22 listings
18.8% of total
Firm
38 listings
32.5% of total
Strict
40 listings
34.2% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Clear Lake
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Clear Lake is Strict, used by 34.2% of listings.
- A majority (66.7%) of hosts in Clear Lake 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 34.2% market standard in Clear Lake.
- With 34.2% using Strict terms, this is a viable option in Clear Lake, particularly for high-value properties or during peak demand periods.
- Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Clear Lake.
Clear Lake STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Clear Lake
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Clear Lake is 56 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during July (average 92 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in March (average 27 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Summer (83 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Fall (41 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (56 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Clear Lake.
- For July stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 92 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 83 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Clear Lake averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Clear Lake (2025)
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Clear Lake
- Essential amenities in Clear Lake that guests expect include: Air conditioning, TV, Wifi, Smoke alarm, Free parking on premises, Heating, Kitchen. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Refrigerator, Dishes and silverware, 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 Clear Lake: Air conditioning, TV, Wifi, Smoke alarm, Free parking on premises, Heating, Kitchen.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi, Smoke alarm, Free parking on premises, Heating, Kitchen.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Refrigerator or Dishes and silverware 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 Clear Lake to stay competitive.
Clear Lake Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)
Guest Profile Summary for Clear Lake
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Clear Lake consists of primarily domestic travelers (98%), often arriving from nearby Des Moines, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
- Domestic travelers account for 98.0% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (98%) and Canada (0.6%).
- Top languages spoken are English (83.2%) followed by Spanish (10%).
- 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 Des Moines and Minneapolis.
- 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 Clear Lake 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hastings | 18 | $4,755 | $369.42 | 45% |
| Excelsior | 24 | $4,222 | $347.35 | 53% |
| Wayzata | 17 | $3,816 | $361.23 | 51% |
| Inver Grove Heights | 19 | $3,726 | $364.84 | 45% |
| Hudson | 24 | $3,719 | $596.58 | 45% |
| Burnsville | 29 | $3,279 | $262.01 | 46% |
| Mound | 16 | $2,915 | $361.62 | 42% |
| Minnetonka | 41 | $2,910 | $284.66 | 45% |
| Prior Lake | 10 | $2,872 | $333.15 | 51% |
| Prescott | 29 | $2,818 | $257.83 | 40% |