Waukee Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Iowa, United States
Is Airbnb profitable in Waukee in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Waukee, Iowa, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Waukee, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 20 active listings.
Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Waukee, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Waukee 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 Waukee Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview
Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Waukee (2025)
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Waukee 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 Waukee is typically June, while February often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Waukee across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $5,190+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $3,535 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $2,419 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,611, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Waukee
Waukee Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Waukee STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Julysees 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 Waukee:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 83%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 70% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 55%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 33% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Waukee
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Waukee (2025)
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Waukee involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Waukee typically peaks in November and dips lowest during October. 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 $438+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $155 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $105 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $79 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Waukee
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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Waukee (2025)
Peak Season (June, May, April)
- Revenue averages $3,721 per month
- Occupancy rates average 59.7%
- Daily rates average $159
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $2,858 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 57.2%
- Daily rates hold near $171
Low Season (January, February, March)
- Revenue drops to average $1,886 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 39.2%
- Daily rates adjust to average $182
Seasonality Insights for Waukee
- The Airbnb seasonality in Waukee 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 Waukee's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $3,763, occupancy reaching a high of 78.9%, and ADRs peaking at $201.
- 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 $1,726, occupancy could drop to 37.6%, and ADRs may adjust down to $155.
- 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 Waukee.
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 Waukee seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.
Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Waukee (2025)
Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Waukee? 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Kettlestone | A rapidly developing area known for its mixed-use development and family-friendly amenities. Investors can capitalize on its proximity to schools and parks, making it attractive for families renting vacation homes. | Kettlestone Park, Waukee Family YMCA, Kettlestone Plaza, Waukee High School, Parks and Trails |
| Waukee Town Center | The heart of Waukee with shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Ideal for short-term rentals due to its vibrant community atmosphere and events throughout the year. | Waukee Community Center, Various restaurants and cafes, Waukee Farmers Market, Public events and festivals |
| Beaverbrooke | A suburban neighborhood that appeals to families looking for a quiet place to stay near urban amenities. Its parks and schools make it a family-friendly destination for Airbnb guests. | Beaverbrooke Park, Elementary Schools, Community events, Nearby shopping areas |
| Waukee School District | Known for its highly-rated school system, making it appealing for families traveling for sports or educational purposes. Properties in this area can attract guests during school events or holidays. | Waukee High School sports facilities, Educational events, Community activities |
| Lakeview | A scenic area that offers recreational activities and access to nearby lakes. Great for nature-loving travelers and families seeking outdoor activities. | Lakeview Park, Hiking and biking trails, Fishing spots, Picnic areas |
| West Des Moines | Adjacent to Waukee, it's an affluent suburb with a lot of amenities and attractions that draw in business travelers and tourists alike. | Jordan Creek Town Center, Several golf courses, Restaurants and nightlife, Shopping centers |
| Glen Oaks | A prestigious neighborhood that offers a peaceful environment with luxury homes. Attractive for travelers seeking a quiet, upscale retreat close to Waukee. | Glen Oaks Country Club, Nearby shopping and dining, Nature trails, Parks |
| Nowhere (Outskirts) | The outskirts offer a rural escape for those looking for alternative experiences outside of the hustle of urban areas. Perfect for unique stays or farm-style experiences. | Open farmland, Rural landscapes, Local farms and markets, Peaceful retreats |
Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Waukee (2025)
While Waukee, 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 Waukee to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2025, finding no licensed listings among those analyzed)
Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Waukee (2025)
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Waukeebased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Waukee Guest House - Close to everything in DSM
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
•5 bedroom 2 full bath stay in Paradise King bed•
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Gracewood Townhome of Waukee - Book 7 Days & Save!
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms
Home away from home!
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Relaxing 2 Bedroom | Gym | Game Room
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms
3-bedroom condo in Waukee School District
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 Waukee (2025)
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Waukee 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Joseph | 1 | $80,275 | 98 | 4.99/5.0 |
| Matt | 1 | $52,482 | 110 | 4.84/5.0 |
| Ryan | 2 | $48,920 | 77 | 4.99/5.0 |
| Kacey And Andrew | 1 | $38,829 | 21 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Host #100092885 | 6 | $32,654 | 2 | 0.00/5.0 |
| Tyler | 1 | $30,437 | 42 | 4.95/5.0 |
| David | 1 | $28,072 | 48 | 4.98/5.0 |
| Chris | 1 | $26,186 | 13 | 4.92/5.0 |
| Jack & Sheila | 1 | $24,169 | 275 | 4.99/5.0 |
| Host #121719854 | 1 | $17,277 | 0 | 0.00/5.0 |
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 Waukee.
Dive Deeper: Advanced Waukee STR Market Data (2025)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Waukee. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsWaukee Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Waukee
- The Waukee Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 95% of the 20 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Waukee, Apartment/Condo properties are the most common (50%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 40% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
Waukee Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Waukee
- The dominant room capacity in Waukee is 2 bedrooms listings, making up 35% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 2 bedrooms and 1 bedroom properties represent 60.0% of the active Airbnb listings in Waukee, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 35.0% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Waukee.
Waukee Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Waukee
- The most common guest capacity trend in Waukee vacation rentals is listings accommodating 5 guests (20%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 5 guests and 2 guests dominate the Waukee STR market, accounting for 40.0% of listings.
- 35.0% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Waukee.
- On average, properties in Waukee are equipped to host 4.6 guests.
Waukee Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Waukee
- The most common availability pattern in Waukee falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 50% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 65.0% 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 Waukee (35%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 35.0% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.
Waukee Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
3 listings
15.8% of total
2 Nights
5 listings
26.3% of total
3 Nights
1 listings
5.3% of total
4-6 Nights
2 listings
10.5% of total
7-29 Nights
7 listings
36.8% of total
30+ Nights
1 listings
5.3% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Waukee is 7-29 Nights, adopted by 36.8% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 7-29 Nights minimum stay, as 36.8% of Waukee hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 15.8% currently do.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 5.3% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Waukee.
Waukee Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)
Flexible
3 listings
27.3% of total
Moderate
6 listings
54.5% of total
Firm
1 listings
9.1% of total
Strict
1 listings
9.1% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Waukee
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Waukee is Moderate, used by 54.5% of listings.
- The market strongly favors guest-friendly terms, with 81.8% of listings offering Flexible or Moderate policies. This suggests guests in Waukee may expect booking flexibility.
- Strict cancellation policies are quite rare (9.1%), potentially making listings with this policy less competitive unless justified by high demand or property type.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Consider adopting a Moderate policy to align with the 54.5% market standard in Waukee.
- Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 9.1% of listings use it. Evaluate if potential revenue protection outweighs possible lower booking rates.
- Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Waukee.
Waukee STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Waukee
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Waukee is 35 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during June (average 101 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in September (average 28 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Summer (75 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Fall (40 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (35 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Waukee.
- For June stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 101 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 75 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Waukee averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Waukee (2025)
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Waukee
- Essential amenities in Waukee that guests expect include: Air conditioning, Carbon monoxide alarm, Smoke alarm, Kitchen, Dryer, Free parking on premises, TV, Washer, Wifi, Hot water. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Waukee: Air conditioning, Carbon monoxide alarm, Smoke alarm, Kitchen, Dryer, Free parking on premises, TV, Washer, Wifi, Hot water.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi, 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 Waukee to stay competitive.
Waukee Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)
Guest Profile Summary for Waukee
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Waukee consists of primarily domestic travelers (96%), often arriving from nearby Minneapolis, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
- Domestic travelers account for 96.4% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (96.4%) and Canada (2.6%).
- Top languages spoken are English (79.6%) followed by Spanish (11.7%).
- 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 Minneapolis and Chicago.
- 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 Waukee 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Moravia | 10 | $2,737 | $223.51 | 42% |
| Urbandale | 25 | $2,721 | $254.44 | 47% |
| Ames | 84 | $2,568 | $198.15 | 46% |
| Windsor Heights | 10 | $2,512 | $139.08 | 61% |
| Pella | 44 | $2,272 | $165.85 | 46% |
| Ankeny | 58 | $2,212 | $174.03 | 48% |
| Oskaloosa | 15 | $2,210 | $154.32 | 51% |
| Waverly | 17 | $2,119 | $152.80 | 49% |
| Bethany | 12 | $2,094 | $186.65 | 38% |
| Grimes | 14 | $2,044 | $148.16 | 39% |