Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Hillsborough, North Carolina, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Hillsborough, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 57 active listings.

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

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$178
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Hillsborough.
Occupancy Rate(?)
50.5%
High demand. Good booking frequency.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$29,627
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Hillsborough. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
4.7%
Positive growth (4.7%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
April
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Hillsborough.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
March
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Hillsborough.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
57
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

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

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $5,446+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $3,800 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $2,559 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,584, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Hillsborough

Hillsborough Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 85%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 71% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 53%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 32% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Hillsborough

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

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Hillsborough involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Hillsborough typically peaks in December 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 $316+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $209 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $152 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $120 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Hillsborough

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Hillsborough (2025)

Peak Season (April, May, June)
  • Revenue averages $3,845 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 55.5%
  • Daily rates average $183
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $3,135 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 55.1%
  • Daily rates hold near $182
Low Season (January, February, March)
  • Revenue drops to average $2,094 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 42.2%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $187

Seasonality Insights for Hillsborough

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Hillsborough shows moderate seasonality with distinct peak and low periods. 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 Hillsborough's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $3,984, occupancy reaching a high of 58.3%, and ADRs peaking at $191.
  • 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 $1,967, occupancy could drop to 40.5%, and ADRs may adjust down to $177.
  • 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 Hillsborough.

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

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Hillsborough (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Hillsborough? 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 Hillsborough
Historic area with charming architecture and a vibrant community atmosphere. It attracts visitors interested in history and small-town charm, making it appealing for Airbnb hosting.
Hillsborough Historic District, Burwell School Historic Site, Riverwalk, Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area, Churton Street
Hillsborough Riverwalk
Scenic area along the river, perfect for nature lovers and those who enjoy outdoor activities. Attracts guests looking for a peaceful retreat with access to hiking and walking paths.
Eno River State Park, Riverwalk, Hillsborough Greenway, Nature trails, Fishing spots
Lowe's Grove
A family-friendly neighborhood with great access to local parks and recreational areas, appealing to families and groups traveling to the area for events or gatherings.
Lowe's Grove Park, Community Centers, Playgrounds, Local restaurants, Festivals and events
West Hillsborough
An up-and-coming area that offers more spacious homes and a suburban feel. It's gaining popularity for those looking for a quieter stay close to the amenities of downtown.
Hillsborough Sportsplex, Local shops, Cafes, Suburban parks, Community events
Historic Occoneechee
Known for its natural beauty and historical significance, this area attracts outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs. Ideal for guests seeking unique experiences.
Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area, Historic Sites, Hiking trails, Birdwatching, Photography spots
Efland Oaks
A serene and picturesque area that attracts visitors looking for a rural atmosphere while still being close to Hillsborough. Great for relaxation and nature appreciation.
Efland Oaks Park, Countryside views, Local farms, Nature trails, Picnic areas
Hillsborough Village
A quaint village setting that offers a mix of shops, dining, and community gatherings. Perfect for guests wanting a local experience with conveniences nearby.
Local shops, Dining options, Farmers market, Community events, Historic tours
Eno River Valley
A beautiful natural area known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Eno River State Park, Hiking and biking trails, Kayaking, Camping sites, Wildlife watching

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

While Hillsborough, 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 Hillsborough to ensure full compliance before hosting.

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

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Hillsborough (2025)

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

Lake Overlook Retreat: 5 acres near Duke, UNC, Eno

Lake Overlook Retreat: 5 acres near Duke, UNC, Eno

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$117,644
Revenue
63.8%
Occupancy
$581.08
Daily Rate
Entire Historic Stunner

Entire Historic Stunner

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$106,535
Revenue
54.8%
Occupancy
$433.68
Daily Rate
FRESH AIR ON PARK-LIKE FARM LUXURY 6BR GUEST SPACE

FRESH AIR ON PARK-LIKE FARM LUXURY 6BR GUEST SPACE

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$70,728
Revenue
28.9%
Occupancy
$802.01
Daily Rate
Charming Downtown Hillsborough Cottage

Charming Downtown Hillsborough Cottage

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$65,497
Revenue
77.0%
Occupancy
$208.14
Daily Rate
The Perfect Getaway in Hillsborough

The Perfect Getaway in Hillsborough

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$60,614
Revenue
77.3%
Occupancy
$198.81
Daily Rate
Stunning Modern Home with Private Lake on 15 acres

Stunning Modern Home with Private Lake on 15 acres

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$55,996
Revenue
46.5%
Occupancy
$256.39
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 Hillsborough (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Hillsborough 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
Jaime1$117,644564.98/5.0
Kate1$106,535265.00/5.0
Jodi3$86,4203204.99/5.0
Anna2$76,9793664.97/5.0
Lindy1$70,728674.99/5.0
Jenny & Peter2$68,4042515.00/5.0
Legenia1$65,497795.00/5.0
Host #777120492$61,755612.49/5.0
William1$60,614665.00/5.0
Eugene1$55,996424.98/5.0

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 Hillsborough.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Hillsborough STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

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

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Hillsborough

  • The Hillsborough Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 93% of the 57 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Hillsborough, House properties are the most common (57.9%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 57.9% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • The presence of 12.3% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
  • Smaller segments like unique stays (combined 3.5%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Hillsborough Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Hillsborough

  • The dominant room capacity in Hillsborough is 1 bedroom listings, making up 33.3% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 1 bedroom and 2 bedrooms properties represent 63.1% of the active Airbnb listings in Hillsborough, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 26.4% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Hillsborough.

Hillsborough Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Hillsborough

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Hillsborough vacation rentals is listings accommodating 2 guests (28.1%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely couples or solo travelers.
  • Properties designed for 2 guests and 4 guests dominate the Hillsborough STR market, accounting for 49.2% of listings.
  • 28.1% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Hillsborough.
  • On average, properties in Hillsborough are equipped to host 3.8 guests.

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

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Hillsborough

  • The most common availability pattern in Hillsborough falls within the 91-180 days range, representing 42.1% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 45.7% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
  • For booked days, the 181-270 days range is most frequent in Hillsborough (42.1%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 56.1% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Hillsborough Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (31.4%)

1 Night

16 listings

31.4% of total

2 Nights (39.2%)

2 Nights

20 listings

39.2% of total

3 Nights (11.8%)

3 Nights

6 listings

11.8% of total

4-6 Nights (2%)

4-6 Nights

1 listings

2% of total

7-29 Nights (3.9%)

7-29 Nights

2 listings

3.9% of total

30+ Nights (11.8%)

30+ Nights

6 listings

11.8% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Hillsborough is 2 Nights, adopted by 39.2% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A strong majority (70.6%) of the Hillsborough Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.
  • A significant segment (11.8%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Hillsborough, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 2 Nights minimum stay, as 39.2% of Hillsborough hosts use this setting.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 11.8% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Hillsborough.

Hillsborough Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Flexible (37.3%)

Flexible

19 listings

37.3% of total

Moderate (13.7%)

Moderate

7 listings

13.7% of total

Firm (29.4%)

Firm

15 listings

29.4% of total

Strict (19.6%)

Strict

10 listings

19.6% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Hillsborough

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Hillsborough is Flexible, used by 37.3% of listings.
  • There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (51.0%) and stricter (49.0%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Flexible policy to align with the 37.3% market standard in Hillsborough.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Hillsborough.

Hillsborough STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Hillsborough

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Hillsborough is 42 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during May (average 79 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, Spring (61 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (35 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (42 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Hillsborough.
  • For May stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 79 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Spring season well in advance (at least 61 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Hillsborough averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Hillsborough (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Hillsborough

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

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Hillsborough: Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, Heating, Free parking on premises, Wifi.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Heating, Free parking on premises, Wifi.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Hot water or Essentials 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 Hillsborough to stay competitive.

Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Hillsborough consists of primarily domestic travelers (96%), often arriving from nearby Durham, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 96.2% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (96.2%) and DC (0.9%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (71.9%) followed by Spanish (13.6%).
  • 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 Durham and Raleigh.
  • 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 Hillsborough 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
Catawba10$8,207$620.2946%
Lake Norman of Catawba25$6,235$467.9646%
Denver84$5,893$495.6946%
Penhook19$5,435$545.4637%
Mooresville322$5,133$466.3644%
Sherrills Ford117$5,032$515.4839%
Troutman36$4,849$350.0050%
Nellysford63$4,632$377.7038%
Afton134$4,491$330.7241%
Goodview24$4,485$367.0251%

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