Emerald Isle 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 Emerald Isle in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Emerald Isle, North Carolina, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Emerald Isle, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the market of 449 active listings.

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

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$347
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Emerald Isle.
Occupancy Rate(?)
42.5%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$44,328
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Emerald Isle. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
-8.8%
Slight decrease (-8.8%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
July
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Emerald Isle.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
February
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Emerald Isle.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
449
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Emerald Isle (2025)

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $9,426+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $6,133 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $3,770 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $2,191, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Emerald Isle

Emerald Isle Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Emerald Isle 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 Emerald Isle:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 69%+ 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 39%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 24% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Emerald Isle

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Emerald Isle (2025)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Emerald Isle involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Emerald Isle 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 $596+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $421 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $291 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $206 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Emerald Isle

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Emerald Isle (2025)

Peak Season (July, June, August)
  • Revenue averages $8,764 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 65.5%
  • Daily rates average $397
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $4,107 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 36.5%
  • Daily rates hold near $337
Low Season (January, February, March)
  • Revenue drops to average $1,878 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 22.9%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $308

Seasonality Insights for Emerald Isle

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Emerald Isle 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 Emerald Isle's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $9,824, occupancy reaching a high of 73.1%, and ADRs peaking at $401.
  • 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 $1,395, occupancy could drop to 20.3%, and ADRs may adjust down to $302.
  • 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 Emerald Isle.

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 Emerald Isle seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Emerald Isle (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Emerald Isle? 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
Oceanfront Drive
A popular spot for vacationers looking to enjoy the beach directly. Proximity to cafes, water sports, and beach activities makes it an attractive location for tourists.
Emerald Isle Beach, Water sports rentals, Cafes along Oceanfront Drive, Fishing pier, Family-friendly parks
Bogue Inlet
Known for its coastal views and good fishing spots. Home to many fun activities, making it appealing to families and fishing enthusiasts.
Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier, Coastal Carolina Museum, Boat rentals, Fishing charters, Scenic nature trails
Emerald Isle Woods Park
A less crowded area packed with nature trails and picnic spots. Ideal for those looking for a peaceful retreat while still being close to the beach.
Nature trails, Picnic areas, Birdwatching, Local wildlife, Beach access
Salter Path
A quaint village atmosphere with a mix of vacation homes and local charm. Great for families looking for a quieter beach experience.
Salter Path Beach, Local shops, Kayaking, Wildlife observation, Family-friendly activities
The Point
A residential area that offers tranquility and stunning views of both the ocean and sound. It attracts those looking for relaxation and scenic beauty.
The Point beach access, Sound views, Scenic walking trails, Local eateries, Sunset viewing spots
Emerald Isle Fishing Pier
A staple for fishermen and families, this area is bustling during the summer and appeals to tourists interested in fishing and local events.
Fishing access, Nearby restaurants, Summer events, Live music, Beach access
Hammocks Beach State Park
Offers natural landscapes and beaches, making it perfect for nature lovers and those seeking an escape from the crowded beaches.
Pristine beaches, Hiking trails, Picnic areas, Wildlife viewing, Water access
Islander Hotel and Resort
A central location with amenities that attract tourists looking for convenience and comfort during their stay. Good for families and groups.
Pool facilities, Beach access, On-site dining, Convenient location for attractions, Event hosting

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Emerald Isle (2025)

While Emerald Isle, 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 Emerald Isle to ensure full compliance before hosting.

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

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Emerald Isle (2025)

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

The Oar House

The Oar House

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$183,028
Revenue
43.2%
Occupancy
$970.98
Daily Rate
LUXE Oceanside Home | Pool~Spa~Golf Cart~Beach

LUXE Oceanside Home | Pool~Spa~Golf Cart~Beach

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$169,962
Revenue
50.5%
Occupancy
$703.01
Daily Rate
Ocean Breeze/ 5 Br/ 3 Bath/ Sleeps 22 W/ Pool!

Ocean Breeze/ 5 Br/ 3 Bath/ Sleeps 22 W/ Pool!

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$169,049
Revenue
37.9%
Occupancy
$772.30
Daily Rate
Emerald Hideaway, New Oceanfront,Private Pool, Hot

Emerald Hideaway, New Oceanfront,Private Pool, Hot

Entire Place • 10 bedrooms

$166,895
Revenue
63.2%
Occupancy
$1154.83
Daily Rate
Shore Thing E&W - Spacious Beachfront Oasis & Pool

Shore Thing E&W - Spacious Beachfront Oasis & Pool

Entire Place • 10 bedrooms

$165,840
Revenue
31.5%
Occupancy
$1043.67
Daily Rate
AWave From It All, Stunning Ocean Views & Hot Tub

AWave From It All, Stunning Ocean Views & Hot Tub

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$164,169
Revenue
58.9%
Occupancy
$699.08
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 Emerald Isle (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Emerald Isle 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
Jamie53$2,164,9598904.58/5.0
Evolve19$906,0243154.17/5.0
Spinnakers Reach19$680,952642.06/5.0
Shari15$585,1675544.60/5.0
Jessica5$530,163883.96/5.0
Laura3$422,8251964.97/5.0
Anthony2$278,582324.88/5.0
Teresa6$252,571304.08/5.0
Evolve9$226,3133654.21/5.0
Tim2$222,9481344.97/5.0

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 Emerald Isle.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Emerald Isle STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

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

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Emerald Isle

  • The Emerald Isle Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 98.9% of the 449 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Emerald Isle, House properties are the most common (72.4%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 72.4% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • Smaller segments like others, hotel/boutique, unique stays (combined 3.5%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Emerald Isle Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Emerald Isle

  • The dominant room capacity in Emerald Isle is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 34.5% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
  • Together, 3 bedrooms and 4 bedrooms properties represent 54.8% of the active Airbnb listings in Emerald Isle, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 70.2% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Emerald Isle.

Emerald Isle Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Emerald Isle

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Emerald Isle vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (51.4%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Emerald Isle STR market, accounting for 71.0% of listings.
  • 77.2% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Emerald Isle.
  • On average, properties in Emerald Isle are equipped to host 6.5 guests.

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

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Emerald Isle

  • The most common availability pattern in Emerald Isle falls within the 181-270 days range, representing 51.9% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 82.9% 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 Emerald Isle (51.2%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 19.4% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Emerald Isle Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (8.6%)

1 Night

37 listings

8.6% of total

2 Nights (28.2%)

2 Nights

122 listings

28.2% of total

3 Nights (32.6%)

3 Nights

141 listings

32.6% of total

4-6 Nights (9.7%)

4-6 Nights

42 listings

9.7% of total

7-29 Nights (5.8%)

7-29 Nights

25 listings

5.8% of total

30+ Nights (15%)

30+ Nights

65 listings

15% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Emerald Isle is 3 Nights, adopted by 32.6% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
  • A significant segment (15%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Emerald Isle, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 3 Nights minimum stay, as 32.6% of Emerald Isle hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 8.6% currently do.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 15% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Emerald Isle.

Emerald Isle Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Super Strict 60 Days (16.5%)

Super Strict 60 Days

65 listings

16.5% of total

Super Strict 30 Days

7 listings

1.8% of total

Flexible

18 listings

4.6% of total

Moderate (14%)

Moderate

55 listings

14% of total

Firm (37.2%)

Firm

146 listings

37.2% of total

Strict (26%)

Strict

102 listings

26% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Emerald Isle

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Emerald Isle is Firm, used by 37.2% of listings.
  • A majority (63.2%) of hosts in Emerald Isle utilize Firm or Strict policies, indicating a market where hosts prioritize booking security.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Firm policy to align with the 37.2% market standard in Emerald Isle.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Emerald Isle.

Emerald Isle STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Emerald Isle

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Emerald Isle is 57 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during July (average 130 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 31 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (104 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (46 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (57 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Emerald Isle.
  • For July stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 130 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 104 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Emerald Isle averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Emerald Isle (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Emerald Isle

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

Recommendations for Hosts

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

Emerald Isle 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 Emerald Isle

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Emerald Isle 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 98.0% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (98%) and DC (1.1%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (79.9%) followed by Spanish (9.9%).
  • 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 Durham.
  • 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 Emerald Isle 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
Ocean Isle Beach414$5,769$604.0739%
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%
Kure Beach453$3,526$371.2941%
Oak Island1,083$3,495$380.6940%
Surf City632$3,311$323.5041%
Caswell Beach46$3,300$400.3838%
Pine Knoll Shores81$3,260$369.8438%

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