Carolina Beach Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in North Carolina, United States

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-03-31

Is Airbnb profitable in Carolina Beach in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Carolina Beach, North Carolina, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Carolina Beach, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the bustling market of 1,556 active listings.

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

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$285
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Carolina Beach.
Occupancy Rate(?)
43.3%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$35,322
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Carolina Beach. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
0.4%
Positive growth (0.4%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
July
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Carolina Beach.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
February
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Carolina Beach.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
1,556
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Carolina Beach (2025)

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $7,196+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $4,995 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $3,186 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,858, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Carolina Beach

Carolina Beach Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Carolina Beach 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 Carolina Beach:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 74%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 57% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 40%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 22% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Carolina Beach

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Carolina Beach (2025)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Carolina Beach involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Carolina Beach typically peaks in July and dips lowest during February. 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 $453+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $334 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $242 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $177 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Carolina Beach

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Carolina Beach (2025)

Peak Season (July, June, August)
  • Revenue averages $6,800 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 61.4%
  • Daily rates average $326
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $3,426 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 38.2%
  • Daily rates hold near $275
Low Season (January, February, December)
  • Revenue drops to average $1,639 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 26.2%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $244

Seasonality Insights for Carolina Beach

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Carolina Beach 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 Carolina Beach's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $7,607, occupancy reaching a high of 69.8%, and ADRs peaking at $329.
  • 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 $1,431, occupancy could drop to 23.2%, and ADRs may adjust down to $240.
  • 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 Carolina Beach.

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 Carolina Beach seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Carolina Beach (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Carolina Beach? 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
South Beach
Beautiful beachfront area known for its lively atmosphere and family-friendly attractions. Ideal for visitors looking for proximity to the ocean and local activities.
Carolina Beach Boardwalk, Carolina Beach State Park, Freeman Park, Ocean Trails Park, Carolina Beach Fishing Pier, Historic Carolina Beach
Kure Beach
Quieter and more serene than Carolina Beach, Kure Beach is perfect for families and couples seeking a relaxing escape. Close to the historic Fort Fisher and nature trails.
Fort Fisher State Recreation Area, Kure Beach Pier, North Carolina Aquarium at Fort Fisher, Cameron Art Museum, Zeke's Island Reserve
Wilmington
Just a short drive from Carolina Beach, Wilmington boasts a historic downtown with a rich history, riverfront parks, and vibrant nightlife. Popular for those seeking culture and dining.
Riverwalk, Historic District, Battleship North Carolina, Bellamy Mansion Museum, Cameron Art Museum
Fort Fisher
A peaceful area known for its natural beauty and historical significance. Perfect for nature lovers and those interested in history and marine life.
Fort Fisher Historic Site, Carolina Beach State Park, Kure Beach, North Carolina Aquarium
Brunswick County
Offers a range of rural and coastal properties, ideal for those seeking a more laid-back lifestyle and proximity to beautiful beaches.
Sunset Beach, Ocean Isle Beach, Calabash, Holden Beach, Brunswick Islands Museum
Lockwood Folly
A lesser-known gem with waterfront properties and a close-knit community feel. Great for those looking for a retreat away from the busier tourist spots.
Lockwood Folly Country Club, River Hills Golf and Country Club, Lockwood Folly River
Shell Island
A secluded island paradise with stunning beaches and wildlife. Perfect for eco-tourism and outdoor activities like fishing and kayaking.
Shell Island Banks, Wildlife at Shell Island, Camping on the Beach, Fort Fisher
Oak Island
A family-friendly beach community known for its warm atmosphere and beautiful scenery. Suitable for families and groups looking for a fun beach getaway.
Oak Island Lighthouse, Long Beach, Oak Island Nature Center, Fishing from the pier, Kayaking

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Carolina Beach (2025)

While Carolina Beach, North Carolina, 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 Carolina Beach to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 0% licensed listings)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Carolina Beach (2025)

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

A View to Sea - Pool - Hot Tub - Dogs Welcome

A View to Sea - Pool - Hot Tub - Dogs Welcome

Entire Place • 7 bedrooms

$252,594
Revenue
59.9%
Occupancy
$879.96
Daily Rate
Salt House

Salt House

Entire Place • 7 bedrooms

$223,248
Revenue
44.8%
Occupancy
$1964.10
Daily Rate
Carolina's Perfection: Private Pool And Hot Tub

Carolina's Perfection: Private Pool And Hot Tub

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$215,308
Revenue
40.2%
Occupancy
$1061.67
Daily Rate
Sand By Me - Oceanfront

Sand By Me - Oceanfront

Entire Place • 10 bedrooms

$199,507
Revenue
68.9%
Occupancy
$984.75
Daily Rate
Sage Seahorse - oceanfront/pool/hot tub

Sage Seahorse - oceanfront/pool/hot tub

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$187,099
Revenue
56.0%
Occupancy
$702.92
Daily Rate
Oceanfront Views-Pool-Beach Access-Sunflower House

Oceanfront Views-Pool-Beach Access-Sunflower House

Entire Place • 7 bedrooms

$182,617
Revenue
55.9%
Occupancy
$876.68
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 Carolina Beach (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Carolina Beach 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
Carolina Beach Realty90$3,295,9824233.18/5.0
Bryant Real75$2,839,7154833.91/5.0
Palm Air Realty54$2,264,5889834.07/5.0
Going Coastal45$2,033,10517314.43/5.0
Carolina Retreats56$1,529,1042943.63/5.0
Dale42$1,342,00215414.26/5.0
Jim13$1,176,9622294.17/5.0
Network Real Estate25$900,5292663.17/5.0
Justin38$886,3621352.92/5.0
Mary-Katherine (Or MK For Shor25$860,44818774.39/5.0

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 Carolina Beach.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Carolina Beach STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

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

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Carolina Beach

  • The Carolina Beach Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 97.3% of the 1,556 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Carolina Beach, Apartment/Condo properties are the most common (50.4%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 45.8% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • Smaller segments like others, hotel/boutique, outdoor/unique (combined 3.6%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Carolina Beach Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Carolina Beach

  • The dominant room capacity in Carolina Beach is 2 bedrooms listings, making up 30.3% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 2 bedrooms and 1 bedroom properties represent 56.5% of the active Airbnb listings in Carolina Beach, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 41.6% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Carolina Beach.

Carolina Beach Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Carolina Beach

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Carolina Beach vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (32%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Carolina Beach STR market, accounting for 58.5% of listings.
  • 62.7% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Carolina Beach.
  • On average, properties in Carolina Beach are equipped to host 5.8 guests.

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

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Carolina Beach

  • The most common availability pattern in Carolina Beach falls within the 181-270 days range, representing 42.8% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 80.9% 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 Carolina Beach (43.7%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 20.3% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Carolina Beach Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (13.1%)

1 Night

189 listings

13.1% of total

2 Nights (40.2%)

2 Nights

581 listings

40.2% of total

3 Nights (21.8%)

3 Nights

316 listings

21.8% of total

4-6 Nights (5.6%)

4-6 Nights

81 listings

5.6% of total

7-29 Nights (2.3%)

7-29 Nights

33 listings

2.3% of total

30+ Nights (17.1%)

30+ Nights

247 listings

17.1% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Carolina Beach is 2 Nights, adopted by 40.2% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A significant segment (17.1%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Carolina Beach, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 2 Nights minimum stay, as 40.2% of Carolina Beach hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 13.1% currently do.
  • A 2-night minimum appears standard (40.2%). Consider this for weekends or peak periods.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 17.1% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Carolina Beach.

Carolina Beach Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Super Strict 60 Days (10.1%)

Super Strict 60 Days

132 listings

10.1% of total

Super Strict 30 Days (7.3%)

Super Strict 30 Days

95 listings

7.3% of total

Flexible (5.2%)

Flexible

68 listings

5.2% of total

Moderate (16.3%)

Moderate

213 listings

16.3% of total

Firm (30.3%)

Firm

396 listings

30.3% of total

Strict (30.7%)

Strict

401 listings

30.7% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Carolina Beach

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Carolina Beach is Strict, used by 30.7% of listings.
  • A majority (61.0%) of hosts in Carolina Beach 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 30.7% market standard in Carolina Beach.
  • With 30.7% using Strict terms, this is a viable option in Carolina Beach, particularly for high-value properties or during peak demand periods.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Carolina Beach.

Carolina Beach STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Carolina Beach

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Carolina Beach is 46 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during July (average 82 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 33 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (71 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (39 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (46 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Carolina Beach.
  • For July stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 82 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 71 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Carolina Beach averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Carolina Beach (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Carolina Beach

  • Essential amenities in Carolina Beach 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 Hot water, Refrigerator, 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 Carolina Beach: Air conditioning, TV, Wifi, Smoke alarm, Free parking on premises, Heating, Kitchen.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Air conditioning, TV, Wifi, Smoke alarm, Free parking on premises, Heating, Kitchen.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Hot water or Refrigerator 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 Carolina Beach to stay competitive.

Carolina Beach 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 Carolina Beach

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Carolina Beach consists of primarily domestic travelers (98%), often arriving from nearby Raleigh, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 98.3% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (98.3%) and DC (0.6%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (80.4%) followed by Spanish (10.9%).
  • 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 Raleigh and Charlotte.
  • 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 Carolina Beach 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
Salvo86$4,434$438.6040%
Wrightsville Beach438$4,415$480.2740%
Indian Beach15$3,989$334.5141%
Bald Head Island174$3,933$508.2535%
Cedar Point24$3,702$272.4248%
Emerald Isle449$3,694$347.4942%
Rodanthe125$3,625$362.8242%
Kure Beach453$3,526$371.2941%
Nags Head741$3,468$359.7442%
Surf City632$3,311$323.5041%

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