Spirit Lake Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Iowa, United States

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-03-31

Is Airbnb profitable in Spirit Lake in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Spirit Lake, Iowa, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Spirit Lake, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 90 active listings.

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

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$297
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Spirit Lake.
Occupancy Rate(?)
38.0%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$27,151
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Spirit Lake. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
14.8%
Strong growth (14.8%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
July
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Spirit Lake.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
January
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Spirit Lake.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
90
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Spirit Lake (2025)

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $7,692+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $4,195 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $2,357 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,205, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Spirit Lake

Spirit Lake Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Spirit Lake 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 Spirit Lake:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 64%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 44% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 27%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 16% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Spirit Lake

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Spirit Lake (2025)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Spirit Lake involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Spirit Lake typically peaks in July and dips lowest during December. 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 $602+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $372 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $262 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $155 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Spirit Lake

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Spirit Lake (2025)

Peak Season (July, June, August)
  • Revenue averages $5,703 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 50.5%
  • Daily rates average $323
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $3,028 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 29.1%
  • Daily rates hold near $294
Low Season (January, February, March)
  • Revenue drops to average $1,928 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 22.2%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $276

Seasonality Insights for Spirit Lake

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Spirit 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 Spirit Lake's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $6,549, occupancy reaching a high of 60.9%, and ADRs peaking at $325.
  • 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 $1,769, occupancy could drop to 18.1%, and ADRs may adjust down to $273.
  • 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 Spirit 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 Spirit Lake seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Spirit Lake (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Spirit 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 / AreaWhy Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal)Key Attractions & Landmarks
Spirit Lake
A picturesque town located on the shores of West Okoboji Lake, this area is perfect for water sports enthusiasts, families, and those looking for a relaxing getaway. Spirit Lake offers beautiful scenery and a close-knit community vibe.
West Okoboji Lake, Spirit Lake Public Beach, East Okoboji Lake, Dickinson County Nature Center, Okoboji Summer Theatre, Terrace Park
Okoboji
Known for its vibrant lake life and numerous recreational activities, Okoboji is a popular destination for vacationing families and young adults looking for summer fun. The area offers an array of entertainment options and natural beauty.
Okoboji Lake, Arnolds Park Amusement Park, The Pearson Lakes Art Center, Lake Minnewashta, Downtown Okoboji, Okoboji Boat Works
West Okoboji
This area is well-loved for its boating and fishing opportunities, making it a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts. West Okoboji is home to luxurious waterfront properties and plenty of vacation rentals.
West Okoboji State Park, Terry Peak Ski Area, Boating and fishing excursions, Okoboji Golf Course, Sunset Cove
Dickinson County
For those wanting a broader experience, Dickinson County offers a variety of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and events throughout the year, appealing to a wide range of visitors.
Nature trails, Annual events and festivals, Prescott Park, The Maritime Museum, Spirit Lake Library
Arnolds Park
Featuring a classic amusement park and a vibrant lakefront, Arnolds Park draws families and young adults looking for adventure and entertainment, especially during the summer months.
Arnolds Park Amusement Park, The Roof Garden, Sailing on Lake Okoboji, Live music events, Boat rentals
Lake Park
This small town near Spirit Lake is known for its friendly atmosphere and access to outdoor recreational activities, ideal for families looking for a peaceful vacation setting.
Lake Park Beach, Outdoor recreational areas, Local diners and cafes, Community events
Terrace Park
As a peaceful residential area with lovely parks, it attracts visitors looking for a quieter stay with easy access to the nearby lakes and recreational activities.
Terrace Park, Local walking trails, Family-friendly environment
Estherville
A short drive from Spirit Lake, Estherville offers various attractions and is an affordable option for visitors wanting to explore the overall area of the Iowa Great Lakes.
Estherville Golf Course, Local shops and diners, Emmet County Nature Center, Annual events

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Spirit Lake (2025)

While Spirit 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 Spirit Lake to ensure full compliance before hosting.

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

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Spirit Lake (2025)

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

East Lake Okoboji House! Hot Tub!

East Lake Okoboji House! Hot Tub!

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$137,621
Revenue
70.8%
Occupancy
$723.32
Daily Rate
Lakefront 4BR 4 BA Luxurious Bungalow

Lakefront 4BR 4 BA Luxurious Bungalow

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$92,996
Revenue
58.5%
Occupancy
$510.27
Daily Rate
Shalom House on the Lake

Shalom House on the Lake

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$82,348
Revenue
37.3%
Occupancy
$805.56
Daily Rate
Private Okoboji Lakefront House - Newly remodeled

Private Okoboji Lakefront House - Newly remodeled

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$69,820
Revenue
40.2%
Occupancy
$561.73
Daily Rate
Chalet with Lake Access

Chalet with Lake Access

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$66,697
Revenue
44.3%
Occupancy
$729.54
Daily Rate
East Lake Escape (4/3 Lakefront with Sunset Views)

East Lake Escape (4/3 Lakefront with Sunset Views)

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$66,166
Revenue
39.6%
Occupancy
$834.45
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 Spirit Lake (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Spirit Lake 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
Lutheran Lakeside19$300,1082574.79/5.0
The Oakwood Inn9$158,910914.99/5.0
Cara6$138,177192.96/5.0
Abby1$137,621105.00/5.0
Danielle1$92,996135.00/5.0
Jeremy2$70,4761314.92/5.0
Adam1$69,820124.58/5.0
Host #5214715121$66,16665.00/5.0
Amanda1$61,81245.00/5.0
John1$61,303265.00/5.0

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 Spirit Lake.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Spirit Lake STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

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

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Spirit Lake

  • The Spirit Lake Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 90% of the 90 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Spirit Lake, House properties are the most common (57.8%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 57.8% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • The presence of 10% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
  • Smaller segments like unique stays (combined 1.1%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Spirit Lake Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Spirit Lake

  • The dominant room capacity in Spirit Lake is 4 bedrooms listings, making up 26.7% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
  • Together, 4 bedrooms and 1 bedroom properties represent 50.0% of the active Airbnb listings in Spirit Lake, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 49.0% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Spirit Lake.

Spirit Lake Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Spirit Lake

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Spirit Lake vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (66.7%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Spirit Lake STR market, accounting for 78.9% of listings.
  • 83.3% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Spirit Lake.
  • On average, properties in Spirit Lake are equipped to host 6.8 guests.

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

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Spirit Lake

  • The most common availability pattern in Spirit Lake falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 60% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 94.4% 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 Spirit Lake (44.4%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 5.5% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Spirit Lake Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (14.5%)

1 Night

12 listings

14.5% of total

2 Nights (50.6%)

2 Nights

42 listings

50.6% of total

3 Nights (18.1%)

3 Nights

15 listings

18.1% of total

4-6 Nights (8.4%)

4-6 Nights

7 listings

8.4% of total

7-29 Nights (1.2%)

7-29 Nights

1 listings

1.2% of total

30+ Nights (7.2%)

30+ Nights

6 listings

7.2% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Spirit Lake is 2 Nights, adopted by 50.6% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A strong majority (65.1%) of the Spirit Lake Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 2 Nights minimum stay, as 50.6% of Spirit Lake hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 14.5% currently do.
  • A 2-night minimum appears standard (50.6%). Consider this for weekends or peak periods.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 7.2% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Spirit Lake.

Spirit Lake Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Super Strict 30 Days (16.5%)

Super Strict 30 Days

13 listings

16.5% of total

Flexible (7.6%)

Flexible

6 listings

7.6% of total

Moderate (31.6%)

Moderate

25 listings

31.6% of total

Firm (22.8%)

Firm

18 listings

22.8% of total

Strict (21.5%)

Strict

17 listings

21.5% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Spirit Lake

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Spirit Lake is Moderate, used by 31.6% of listings.
  • There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (39.2%) and stricter (44.3%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Moderate policy to align with the 31.6% market standard in Spirit Lake.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Spirit Lake.

Spirit Lake STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Spirit Lake

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Spirit Lake is 100 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during November (average 147 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in December (average 46 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Fall (129 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (66 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (100 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Spirit Lake.
  • For November stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 147 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Fall season well in advance (at least 129 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Spirit Lake averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Spirit Lake (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Spirit Lake

  • Essential amenities in Spirit Lake that guests expect include: Free parking on premises. Lacking these (this) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Smoke alarm, Wifi, Air conditioning are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
  • Warning: Wifi is not universally provided but is considered essential globally. Ensure reliable Wifi is offered.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Spirit Lake: Free parking on premises.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Free parking on premises.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Smoke alarm or Wifi 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 Spirit Lake to stay competitive.

Spirit Lake 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 Spirit Lake

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Spirit Lake consists of primarily domestic travelers (99%), often arriving from nearby Omaha, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 99.1% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (99.1%) and Philippines (0.3%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (82.4%) followed by Spanish (11.2%).
  • 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 Omaha and Lincoln.
  • 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 Spirit 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.

MarketActive PropertiesMonthly RevenueDaily RateAvg. Occupancy
Arnolds Park164$3,082$346.8439%
Marshall12$2,248$152.3251%
Storm Lake11$2,228$199.5338%
Wahpeton12$2,181$331.9331%
Brookings13$2,158$151.1142%
Orleans14$2,125$310.2939%
Sioux Center24$2,087$138.9951%
Okoboji14$1,960$279.3636%
Fairmont16$1,945$143.9653%
New Ulm20$1,935$147.9942%

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