Highlands Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in North Carolina, United States
Is Airbnb profitable in Highlands in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Highlands, North Carolina, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Highlands, based on AirROI data from June 2024 to May 2025, reveals key trends in the market of 335 active listings.
Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Highlands, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Highlands 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 Highlands Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview
Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Highlands (2025)
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Highlands 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 Highlands 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 Highlands across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $9,047+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $6,016 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $3,555 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,799, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Highlands
Highlands Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Highlands 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 Highlands:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 71%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 54% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 37%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 20% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Highlands
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Highlands (2025)
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Highlands involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Highlands typically peaks in May 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 $588+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $419 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $315 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $227 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Highlands
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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Highlands (2025)
Peak Season (July, August, June)
- Revenue averages $6,402 per month
- Occupancy rates average 52.9%
- Daily rates average $357
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $4,311 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 37.3%
- Daily rates hold near $365
Low Season (January, February, March)
- Revenue drops to average $3,021 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 27.6%
- Daily rates adjust to average $379
Seasonality Insights for Highlands
- The Airbnb seasonality in Highlands 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 Highlands's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $7,267, occupancy reaching a high of 58.2%, and ADRs peaking at $411.
- 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 $2,775, occupancy could drop to 26.2%, and ADRs may adjust down to $346.
- 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 Highlands.
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 Highlands seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.
Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Highlands (2025)
Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Highlands? 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Highlands | A charming area filled with shops, restaurants, and galleries, Downtown Highlands attracts visitors for its unique small-town vibe and vibrant arts scene. | Highlands Playhouse, The Bascom, Main Street Shops, Highlands Nature Center, Local Art Galleries |
| Whistling Cove | Nestled by the lakeside, Whistling Cove offers stunning views and a serene environment, making it desirable for those seeking a tranquil retreat. | Lake Sequoyah, Whistling Cove Marina, Fishing and boating activities, Breathtaking mountain views, Picnic areas by the water |
| Highlands Falls Country Club | An exclusive community known for its golf courses and luxurious amenities; it attracts visitors seeking upscale accommodations and recreational activities. | Highlands Falls Golf Club, Clubhouse dining, Nature trails, Community events, Outdoor pool |
| Cullasaja Falls | Famous for its picturesque waterfall, this area attracts nature lovers and photographers, making it a great spot for short-term rentals. | Cullasaja Falls, Scenic driving route, Hiking trails nearby, Rural mountain views, Photography opportunities |
| Satulah Mountain | Known for breathtaking panoramic views, this area is popular among hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, making it an ideal spot for mountain cabins and retreats. | Satulah Mountain Trail, Scenic overlooks, Wildflower viewing, Outdoor adventure opportunities, Peaceful surroundings |
| Oak Hill | A quiet area with a cozy residential feel, Oak Hill is perfect for families looking for peaceful accommodations near nature attractions. | Local parks, Community trails, Family-friendly amenities, Access to the Highlands Botanical Garden, Quiet atmosphere |
| The Highlands Skywalk | A beautiful pedestrian bridge offering stunning views of the surrounding area, attracting visitors who love scenic walks and photography. | Skywalk views, Nearby hiking trails, Picnic spots, Nature exploration, Bird-watching opportunities |
| Kelsey-Hutchinson Founders Park | A community park that hosts events and offers recreational activities, making it a great place for families and visitors to gather. | Playgrounds, Walking paths, Community events, Picnic areas, Seasonal festivals |
Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Highlands (2025)
While Highlands, 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 Highlands to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 3% licensed listings)
Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Highlands (2025)
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Highlandsbased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Highlands Fairview House
Entire Place • 10 bedrooms
Hidden 24-Acre Log Cabin on Big Creek near Main St
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Great Family Space! 3Blk to Main St & Dog Friendly
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Luxe Mtn Retreat in Heart of Highlands & Cashiers
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Gorgeous Mt Views/hot tub/4 miles from Cashiers!
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Bright and Open Designer House in Highlands
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.
Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in Highlands (2025)
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Highlands 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Holly | 23 | $926,141 | 481 | 4.92/5.0 |
| Evolve | 17 | $682,714 | 333 | 4.75/5.0 |
| David Keith | 27 | $608,318 | 189 | 4.89/5.0 |
| Melle | 4 | $431,609 | 120 | 4.99/5.0 |
| Marlee | 5 | $372,925 | 393 | 4.98/5.0 |
| Tiffany | 5 | $334,585 | 186 | 4.97/5.0 |
| Evolve | 5 | $298,870 | 239 | 4.80/5.0 |
| Bill | 10 | $281,460 | 72 | 4.91/5.0 |
| Flat Mountain Farm | 3 | $272,378 | 45 | 4.97/5.0 |
| Kadie | 3 | $254,227 | 238 | 4.96/5.0 |
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 Highlands.
Dive Deeper: Advanced Highlands STR Market Data (2025)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Highlands. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsHighlands Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Highlands
- The Highlands Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 96.4% of the 335 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Highlands, House properties are the most common (63.3%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 63.3% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- Smaller segments like hotel/boutique, others, unique stays (combined 7.2%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Highlands Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Highlands
- The dominant room capacity in Highlands is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 31.9% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
- Together, 3 bedrooms and 2 bedrooms properties represent 59.4% of the active Airbnb listings in Highlands, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 52.5% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Highlands.
Highlands Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Highlands
- The most common guest capacity trend in Highlands vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (32.8%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Highlands STR market, accounting for 57.6% of listings.
- 60.3% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Highlands.
- On average, properties in Highlands are equipped to host 5.6 guests.
Highlands Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Highlands
- The most common availability pattern in Highlands falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 44.2% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 84.5% 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 Highlands (40%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 17.0% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.
Highlands Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
21 listings
6.3% of total
2 Nights
134 listings
40.5% of total
3 Nights
70 listings
21.1% of total
4-6 Nights
10 listings
3% of total
7-29 Nights
4 listings
1.2% of total
30+ Nights
92 listings
27.8% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Highlands is 2 Nights, adopted by 40.5% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
- A significant segment (27.8%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Highlands, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 2 Nights minimum stay, as 40.5% of Highlands hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 6.3% currently do.
- A 2-night minimum appears standard (40.5%). Consider this for weekends or peak periods.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 27.8% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Highlands.
Highlands Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)
Super Strict 60 Days
25 listings
8% of total
Super Strict 30 Days
5 listings
1.6% of total
Flexible
25 listings
8% of total
Moderate
59 listings
18.9% of total
Firm
107 listings
34.3% of total
Strict
91 listings
29.2% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Highlands
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Highlands is Firm, used by 34.3% of listings.
- A majority (63.5%) of hosts in Highlands 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 34.3% market standard in Highlands.
- Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Highlands.
Highlands STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Highlands
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Highlands is 64 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during June (average 91 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 40 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Summer (80 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (48 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (64 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Highlands.
- For June stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 91 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 80 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Highlands averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Highlands (2025)
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Highlands
- Essential amenities in Highlands that guests expect include: Smoke alarm, Wifi, Free parking on premises, TV, Heating. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Air conditioning, Kitchen, 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 Highlands: Smoke alarm, Wifi, Free parking on premises, TV, Heating.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Smoke alarm, Wifi, Free parking on premises, TV, Heating.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Air conditioning or Kitchen 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 Highlands to stay competitive.
Highlands Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)
Guest Profile Summary for Highlands
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Highlands consists of primarily domestic travelers (99%), often arriving from nearby Atlanta, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
- Domestic travelers account for 99.1% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (99.1%) and DC (0.3%).
- Top languages spoken are English (81.2%) followed by Spanish (7.6%).
- 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 Atlanta 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 Highlands 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sevier County | 66 | $5,662 | $611.84 | 43% |
| Union Mills | 15 | $4,850 | $445.27 | 42% |
| Gilmer County | 22 | $4,129 | $373.56 | 39% |
| Sevierville | 5,792 | $4,073 | $336.63 | 46% |
| Six Mile | 58 | $3,810 | $420.90 | 41% |
| West Union | 32 | $3,799 | $492.37 | 36% |
| Wears Valley | 215 | $3,653 | $305.45 | 43% |
| Gatlinburg | 3,375 | $3,625 | $323.78 | 44% |
| Waleska | 44 | $3,507 | $355.85 | 41% |
| Pigeon Forge | 2,855 | $3,504 | $308.81 | 43% |