Mackinac Island Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Michigan, United States

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-03-31

Is Airbnb profitable in Mackinac Island in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Mackinac Island, Michigan, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Mackinac Island, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 18 active listings.

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

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$358
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Mackinac Island.
Occupancy Rate(?)
62.0%
High demand. Good booking frequency.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$40,295
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Mackinac Island. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
-11.1%
Significant decrease (-11.1%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
June
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Mackinac Island.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
December
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Mackinac Island.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
18
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Mackinac Island (2025)

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $8,454+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $6,267 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $4,716 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $3,698, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Mackinac Island

Mackinac Island Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 78%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 74% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 62%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 41% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Mackinac Island

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Mackinac Island (2025)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Mackinac Island involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Mackinac Island typically peaks in February and dips lowest during September. 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 $615+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $382 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $269 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $199 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Mackinac Island

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Mackinac Island (2025)

Peak Season (June, July, August)
  • Revenue averages $7,401 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 68.5%
  • Daily rates average $345
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $4,933 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 56.8%
  • Daily rates hold near $340
Low Season (January, February, December)
  • Revenue drops to average $224 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 4.3%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $369

Seasonality Insights for Mackinac Island

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Mackinac Island 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 Mackinac Island's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $7,801, occupancy reaching a high of 71.8%, and ADRs peaking at $373.
  • 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 $0, occupancy could drop to 0.0%, and ADRs may adjust down to $326.
  • 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 Mackinac Island.

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 Mackinac Island seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Mackinac Island (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Mackinac Island? 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
Main Street
The heart of Mackinac Island, filled with shops, restaurants, and historical landmarks. Great location for tourists who want to experience the charm and accessibility of the island's main attractions.
Mackinac Island State Park, Fort Mackinac, Mackinac Island Butterfly House, Mackinac Island Dr., Lilac Festival
East Bluff
Scenic area offering stunning views of the harbor and the Mackinac Bridge, ideal for those seeking tranquility and nature. Attracts visitors looking for a peaceful retreat with access to biking and hiking trails.
Arch Rock, East Bluff Trail, Mackinac Island Golf Course, Scenic Overlook, Nature Hiking Trails
West Bluff
Known for its beautiful Victorian homes and quiet atmosphere. Attracts families and couples looking for a serene environment close to outdoor activities and scenic views.
West Bluff Historic District, Mackinac Island Public Library, Sunset Viewing Areas, Gordon Beach Park, Horseback Riding Trails
Sunset Rock
A popular viewpoint on the island that offers breathtaking sunset views. Perfect for romantic getaways and offers access to trails leading to nearby attractions.
Sunset Rock, Nature Trails, Picnic Areas, Scenic Views, Photography Spots
Mission Point Resort
A well-known resort area with vast amenities and entertainment options. Ideal location for tourists who prefer a more luxurious stay with easy access to dining and recreational activities.
Mission Point Resort, Resort Activities, Dining Options, Waterfront Events, Relaxation Spots
Dockside
This area offers accessibility to ferry services and waterfront activities, attracting tourists who want to explore the island and nearby areas. Great for those interested in boat tours and water sports.
Ferry Docks, Boat Rentals, Waterfront Restaurants, Sightseeing Tours, Fishing Spots
The Grand Hotel
Iconic landmark and one of the most famous hotels in the United States. Known for its luxurious accommodations and historical significance, attracting visitors looking for a unique experience.
The Grand Hotel, Horse-Drawn Carriage Tours, Historic Gardens, Dining at The Grand, Cultural Events
Biking Trails
Mackinac Island is famous for its biking paths. Areas near the trails attract cyclists and outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and access to nature.
Mackinac Island Bike Paths, Rentals and Shops, Scenic Routes, Nature Observations, Wildlife Viewing

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Mackinac Island (2025)

While Mackinac Island, Michigan, 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 Mackinac Island to ensure full compliance before hosting.

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

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Mackinac Island (2025)

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

Cross Trees Cottage - East Bluff - Mackinac Island

Cross Trees Cottage - East Bluff - Mackinac Island

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$73,798
Revenue
43.8%
Occupancy
$1346.73
Daily Rate
Local’s Lounge - Mackinac Island

Local’s Lounge - Mackinac Island

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$64,285
Revenue
42.7%
Occupancy
$598.48
Daily Rate
Applewood 205, Private Condo, Bridge & Water Views

Applewood 205, Private Condo, Bridge & Water Views

Entire Place • 1 bedroom

$63,695
Revenue
85.8%
Occupancy
$295.17
Daily Rate
Oakwood 7 Two Bedroom Condo

Oakwood 7 Two Bedroom Condo

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$60,590
Revenue
57.3%
Occupancy
$378.51
Daily Rate
202 Applewood Clean, quiet 1 bdrm condo w/kitchen

202 Applewood Clean, quiet 1 bdrm condo w/kitchen

Entire Place • 1 bedroom

$47,969
Revenue
76.2%
Occupancy
$288.85
Daily Rate
Applewood 204, Private Unit, Bridge & Water Views

Applewood 204, Private Unit, Bridge & Water Views

Private Room • N/A

$46,296
Revenue
79.5%
Occupancy
$243.85
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 Mackinac Island (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Mackinac Island 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
Jason7$265,3166234.86/5.0
Kim4$182,9734484.71/5.0
Captain Andy3$95,114624.93/5.0
John1$73,79844.75/5.0
Martin1$44,6551274.76/5.0
Kelly1$37,6931504.97/5.0
Patrick1$25,7553584.92/5.0

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 Mackinac Island.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Mackinac Island STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

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

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Mackinac Island

  • The Mackinac Island Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 61.1% of the 18 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • However, a notable 38.9% share for Private Rooms suggests opportunities for budget-conscious travelers or hosts renting out spare rooms.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Mackinac Island, Apartment/Condo properties are the most common (77.8%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.

Mackinac Island Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Mackinac Island

  • The dominant room capacity in Mackinac Island is 1 bedroom listings, making up 50% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 1 bedroom and 2 bedrooms properties represent 72.2% of the active Airbnb listings in Mackinac Island, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • Listings with 3+ bedrooms (5.6%) represent a smaller niche, potentially indicating an underserved market for larger group accommodations in Mackinac Island.

Mackinac Island Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Mackinac Island

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Mackinac Island vacation rentals is listings accommodating 2 guests (27.8%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely couples or solo travelers.
  • Properties designed for 2 guests and 4 guests dominate the Mackinac Island STR market, accounting for 44.5% of listings.
  • 16.7% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Mackinac Island.
  • On average, properties in Mackinac Island are equipped to host 2.9 guests.

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

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Mackinac Island

  • The most common availability pattern in Mackinac Island falls within the 181-270 days range, representing 55.6% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 72.3% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
  • For booked days, the 91-180 days range is most frequent in Mackinac Island (55.6%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 27.8% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Mackinac Island Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (50%)

1 Night

9 listings

50% of total

2 Nights (38.9%)

2 Nights

7 listings

38.9% of total

3 Nights (5.6%)

3 Nights

1 listings

5.6% of total

7-29 Nights (5.6%)

7-29 Nights

1 listings

5.6% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Mackinac Island is 1 Night, adopted by 50% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A strong majority (88.9%) of the Mackinac Island 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 1 Night minimum stay, as 50% of Mackinac Island hosts use this setting.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Mackinac Island.

Mackinac Island Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Flexible (11.1%)

Flexible

2 listings

11.1% of total

Moderate (50%)

Moderate

9 listings

50% of total

Firm (22.2%)

Firm

4 listings

22.2% of total

Strict (16.7%)

Strict

3 listings

16.7% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Mackinac Island

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Mackinac Island is Moderate, used by 50% of listings.
  • There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (61.1%) and stricter (38.9%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Moderate policy to align with the 50% market standard in Mackinac Island.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Mackinac Island.

Mackinac Island STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Mackinac Island

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Mackinac Island is 94 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during July (average 128 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in March (average 0 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (111 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (8 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (94 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Mackinac Island.
  • For July stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 128 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • During March, focus on last-minute booking availability and promotions, as guests book with very short notice (0 days avg.).
  • Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 111 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Mackinac Island averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Mackinac Island (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Mackinac Island

  • Popular amenities like Smoke alarm, Heating, Fire extinguisher 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

  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Smoke alarm or Heating 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 Mackinac Island to stay competitive.

Mackinac Island 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 Mackinac Island

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Mackinac Island consists of primarily domestic travelers (99%), often arriving from nearby Grand Rapids, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 99.0% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (99%) and DC (0.3%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (80%) followed by Spanish (7.2%).
  • 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 Grand Rapids and Michigan.
  • 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 Mackinac Island 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
Greilickville40$5,874$469.6947%
Blair Township48$5,303$438.0048%
Friendship Township14$5,118$376.0459%
Bingham Township28$4,916$493.0947%
Bay Township10$4,782$550.1444%
Livingston Township11$4,649$293.8053%
Leelanau Township50$4,620$377.3650%
Leland Township40$4,579$568.0637%
Walloon Lake25$4,534$401.8044%
Elmwood Charter Township64$4,418$353.1649%

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