Columbus 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 Columbus in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Columbus, North Carolina, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Columbus, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 58 active listings.

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

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$196
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Columbus.
Occupancy Rate(?)
38.5%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$23,812
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Columbus. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
20.0%
Strong growth (20.0%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
June
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Columbus.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
February
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Columbus.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
58
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Columbus (2025)

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $6,058+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $3,486 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $1,945 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,013, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Columbus

Columbus Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Columbus 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 Columbus:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 77%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 56% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 36%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 21% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Columbus

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Columbus (2025)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Columbus involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Columbus typically peaks in November and dips lowest during April. 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 $357+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $242 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $166 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $115 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Columbus

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Columbus (2025)

Peak Season (June, May, July)
  • Revenue averages $4,181 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 51.9%
  • Daily rates average $200
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $2,704 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 38.6%
  • Daily rates hold near $201
Low Season (February, March, September)
  • Revenue drops to average $1,770 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 32.0%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $199

Seasonality Insights for Columbus

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Columbus 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 Columbus's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $4,360, occupancy reaching a high of 55.1%, and ADRs peaking at $205.
  • 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 $1,401, occupancy could drop to 29.0%, and ADRs may adjust down to $197.
  • 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 Columbus.

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 Columbus seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Columbus (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Columbus? 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
Downtown Columbus
Vibrant urban center with a mix of business, entertainment, and culinary experiences. Ideal for tourists and business travelers alike with attractions like museums, theaters, and shopping.
Columbus Museum of Art, Scioto Mile, Ohio Statehouse, North Market, Short North Arts District
Franklinton
An up-and-coming neighborhood known for its burgeoning arts scene and proximity to downtown. Appeals to young creatives and guests seeking a unique experience.
Franklinton Arts District, Brewery District, rooftop bars, art galleries, local eateries
German Village
Historic neighborhood featuring well-preserved 19th-century brick houses and charming cobblestone streets. Attractive to those seeking a quaint, picturesque stay with great food options.
Schiller Park, German Village Meeting Haus, Brewery District, The Book Loft, restaurants like Schmidt's
Short North
Trendy district known for its art galleries, boutiques, and vibrant nightlife. Attracts a young and energetic crowd looking for a lively local scene.
Short North Arts District, High Street shopping, local restaurants and bars, art fairs, gallery hop events
Arena District
Home to sports venues and entertainment options, perfect for fans visiting for games and concerts. Offers a lively atmosphere year-round.
Nationwide Arena, Huntington Park, Arena Grand Theatre, restaurants and bars, nightlife venues
University District
Close to Ohio State University, attracting students and families visiting for university events. Offers a youthful vibe and various dining options.
Ohio State University, eateries near campus, local coffee shops, outdoor parks, sports events
Clintonville
Charming neighborhood known for its community feel and local businesses. Perfect for families or those wanting a quieter stay while still close to the city.
Whetstone Park, local farmer's market, Clintonville Farmers' Market, shopping boutiques, integrated nature trails
Pickerington
Suburban area with family-friendly attractions and parks, ideal for visitors preferring a quieter, more residential setting. Close to Columbus for day trips.
Pickerington Ponds Metro Park, local shops, family-friendly parks, outdoor recreational areas, community events

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Columbus (2025)

While Columbus, 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 Columbus to ensure full compliance before hosting.

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

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Columbus (2025)

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

Foothills Home with Pool, Hot Tub and Sauna

Foothills Home with Pool, Hot Tub and Sauna

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$118,835
Revenue
63.3%
Occupancy
$759.68
Daily Rate
Butterfly Creek Columbus Estate on 3 Acres!

Butterfly Creek Columbus Estate on 3 Acres!

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$111,060
Revenue
66.4%
Occupancy
$431.30
Daily Rate
Shipyard 2.0 | HOT TUB, Waterfall, Fire + Hammock!

Shipyard 2.0 | HOT TUB, Waterfall, Fire + Hammock!

Entire Place • 1 bedroom

$108,824
Revenue
70.0%
Occupancy
$406.49
Daily Rate
Green Creek Shipyard | HOT TUB, Fire Pit + Pond!

Green Creek Shipyard | HOT TUB, Fire Pit + Pond!

Entire Place • 1 bedroom

$78,489
Revenue
76.2%
Occupancy
$278.03
Daily Rate
3Bed Dwtn Home with Gas Fireplace .Weekly/Monthly

3Bed Dwtn Home with Gas Fireplace .Weekly/Monthly

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$52,192
Revenue
81.7%
Occupancy
$194.45
Daily Rate
Maplewood Retreat | Newly Furnished w/ Fire Pit!

Maplewood Retreat | Newly Furnished w/ Fire Pit!

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$50,634
Revenue
55.1%
Occupancy
$215.61
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 Columbus (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Columbus 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
Yonder7$273,8431074.77/5.0
Landon2$187,3134884.93/5.0
Evolve1$111,060375.00/5.0
Michael3$61,963975.00/5.0
Lynne3$58,291864.62/5.0
Reece1$50,634275.00/5.0
Host #4898854191$50,12175.00/5.0
Peggy1$37,862304.97/5.0
Denise1$32,365425.00/5.0
Denise1$30,96095.00/5.0

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 Columbus.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Columbus STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

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

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Columbus

  • The Columbus Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 91.4% of the 58 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Columbus, House properties are the most common (65.5%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 65.5% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • The presence of 6.9% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
  • Smaller segments like others (combined 1.7%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Columbus Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Columbus

  • The dominant room capacity in Columbus is 1 bedroom listings, making up 32.8% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 1 bedroom and 3 bedrooms properties represent 58.7% of the active Airbnb listings in Columbus, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 41.4% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Columbus.

Columbus Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Columbus

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Columbus vacation rentals is listings accommodating 6 guests (24.1%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 6 guests and 4 guests dominate the Columbus STR market, accounting for 46.5% of listings.
  • 49.9% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Columbus.
  • On average, properties in Columbus are equipped to host 4.9 guests.

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

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Columbus

  • The most common availability pattern in Columbus falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 41.4% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 79.3% 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 Columbus (37.9%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 20.6% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Columbus Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (13.5%)

1 Night

7 listings

13.5% of total

2 Nights (50%)

2 Nights

26 listings

50% of total

3 Nights (15.4%)

3 Nights

8 listings

15.4% of total

4-6 Nights (3.8%)

4-6 Nights

2 listings

3.8% of total

7-29 Nights (1.9%)

7-29 Nights

1 listings

1.9% of total

30+ Nights (15.4%)

30+ Nights

8 listings

15.4% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Columbus is 2 Nights, adopted by 50% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A strong majority (63.5%) of the Columbus Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.
  • A significant segment (15.4%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Columbus, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 2 Nights minimum stay, as 50% of Columbus hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 13.5% currently do.
  • A 2-night minimum appears standard (50%). Consider this for weekends or peak periods.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 15.4% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Columbus.

Columbus Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Super Strict 60 Days (13.7%)

Super Strict 60 Days

7 listings

13.7% of total

Flexible (27.5%)

Flexible

14 listings

27.5% of total

Moderate (21.6%)

Moderate

11 listings

21.6% of total

Firm

2 listings

3.9% of total

Strict (33.3%)

Strict

17 listings

33.3% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Columbus

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Columbus is Strict, used by 33.3% of listings.
  • There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (49.1%) and stricter (37.2%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Strict policy to align with the 33.3% market standard in Columbus.
  • With 33.3% using Strict terms, this is a viable option in Columbus, particularly for high-value properties or during peak demand periods.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Columbus.

Columbus STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Columbus

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Columbus is 35 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during May (average 69 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 20 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (54 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (29 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 Columbus.
  • For May stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 69 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 54 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Columbus averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Columbus (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Columbus

  • Essential amenities in Columbus that guests expect include: Heating, Free parking on premises, Smoke alarm, TV, Kitchen, Wifi, Air conditioning. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Coffee maker, Hair dryer, Hot water are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Columbus: Heating, Free parking on premises, Smoke alarm, TV, Kitchen, Wifi, Air conditioning.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Heating, Free parking on premises, Smoke alarm, TV, Kitchen, Wifi, Air conditioning.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Coffee maker or Hair dryer 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 Columbus to stay competitive.

Columbus 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 Columbus

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Columbus consists of primarily domestic travelers (97%), often arriving from nearby Charlotte, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 97.3% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (97.3%) and Canada (1.2%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (76.6%) followed by Spanish (11.3%).
  • 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 Charlotte and Greenville.
  • 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 Columbus 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
Union Mills14$5,934$458.5743%
Sevier County54$5,803$490.3244%
Sevierville5,187$4,592$318.7748%
Six Mile57$4,391$411.6743%
West Union31$4,282$513.7238%
Gatlinburg2,866$4,172$307.4447%
Wears Valley192$4,135$299.0844%
Pigeon Forge2,546$3,982$295.1046%
Highlands328$3,915$369.5541%
Chapin85$3,804$346.8146%

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