Murphy 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 Murphy in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Murphy, North Carolina, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Murphy, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the market of 351 active listings.

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

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$167
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Murphy.
Occupancy Rate(?)
38.7%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$20,325
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Murphy. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
6.9%
Positive growth (6.9%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
June
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Murphy.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
February
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Murphy.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
351
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

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

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $4,145+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $2,929 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $1,807 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,019, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Murphy

Murphy Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Murphy 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 Murphy:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 75%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 58% 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 Murphy

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

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Murphy involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Murphy typically peaks in December 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 $254+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $191 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $146 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $113 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Murphy

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Murphy (2025)

Peak Season (June, July, December)
  • Revenue averages $2,758 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 47.2%
  • Daily rates average $167
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $2,217 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 40.5%
  • Daily rates hold near $162
Low Season (January, February, March)
  • Revenue drops to average $1,493 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 32.8%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $163

Seasonality Insights for Murphy

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Murphy 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 Murphy's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $2,922, occupancy reaching a high of 51.7%, and ADRs peaking at $175.
  • 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 $1,279, occupancy could drop to 31.6%, and ADRs may adjust down to $158.
  • 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 Murphy.

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

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Murphy (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Murphy? 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 Murphy
The heart of Murphy offers a charming small-town feel with local shops, restaurants, and cultural attractions. Ideal for visitors wanting to explore the local atmosphere and history.
Murphy River Walk, Murphy Art Center, Historic Courthouse, Cherokee County Historical Museum, local dining options
Lake Hiwassee
A stunning natural area perfect for water activities and outdoor adventures. Attracts nature lovers, anglers, and those looking to escape into the wilderness.
Hiwassee River, Lake Hiwassee Beach, Fishing spots, Kayaking and canoeing opportunities, Scenic hiking trails
Murphy Golf Club
Featuring beautiful greens and a relaxed atmosphere, this area is popular among golf enthusiasts and families looking to enjoy a leisurely stay.
Murphy Golf Club, Pro shop, Scenic views, Nearby picnic areas, Golf tournaments
John C. Campbell Folk School
A renowned school focused on traditional crafts and arts, drawing visitors interested in workshops and cultural experiences.
Craft workshops, Art exhibits, Live music events, Nature trails, Cultural events
Cherokee County
Surrounded by beautiful mountains and rich Native American history, this area attracts history buffs and outdoor lovers alike.
Blue Ridge Parkway, Historical sites, Hiking trails, Native American heritage sites, Scenic drives
Nantahala National Forest
A large forest area known for its breathtaking scenery and outdoor activities, such as hiking, rafting, and mountain biking. Ideal for adventurous travelers.
Nantahala River, Rafting and kayaking, Hiking trails, Scenic overlooks, Wildlife watching
Cultural Arts Center
A hub of arts and culture showcasing local talent and events. Great for guests interested in the local art scene and community activities.
Local art exhibits, Theater performances, Community events, Workshops, Art classes
Hiawassee Lake
A nearby lake offering picturesque views and recreational activities. Perfect for visitors looking for a relaxing getaway in nature.
Boating and fishing, Scenic picnic areas, Lakefront views, Wildlife spotting, Water sports

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

While Murphy, 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 Murphy to ensure full compliance before hosting.

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

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Murphy (2025)

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

Expansive Home on 16 Acres w/ Smoky Mountain Views

Expansive Home on 16 Acres w/ Smoky Mountain Views

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$104,980
Revenue
56.2%
Occupancy
$500.65
Daily Rate
Amazing Sweetwater Lodge - custom lakefront home!

Amazing Sweetwater Lodge - custom lakefront home!

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$78,228
Revenue
27.3%
Occupancy
$680.68
Daily Rate
Cozy Cabin: Jacuzzi, Games, Near Casino & Town

Cozy Cabin: Jacuzzi, Games, Near Casino & Town

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$74,464
Revenue
55.5%
Occupancy
$293.72
Daily Rate
The Millhouse Lodge

The Millhouse Lodge

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$69,401
Revenue
24.1%
Occupancy
$788.50
Daily Rate
Ridgehaven Retreat - Murphy, NC

Ridgehaven Retreat - Murphy, NC

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$62,927
Revenue
50.2%
Occupancy
$262.33
Daily Rate
Mtn Home with Views for Miles!

Mtn Home with Views for Miles!

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$60,091
Revenue
41.8%
Occupancy
$294.69
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 Murphy (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Murphy 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
Evolve51$1,032,2749384.42/5.0
Kassidy25$374,6735474.17/5.0
Evolve7$207,2445154.88/5.0
Jo8$132,801363.04/5.0
Great Mountain6$129,382363.29/5.0
Bruce10$111,844180.99/5.0
Zoe And Eric3$102,4201915.00/5.0
Chrissy5$101,4011624.95/5.0
Ryan2$94,4221864.97/5.0
Phil And Karen3$85,5052144.96/5.0

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 Murphy.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Murphy STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

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

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Murphy

  • The Murphy Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 99.7% of the 351 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Murphy, Outdoor/Unique properties are the most common (68.4%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 24.2% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • Smaller segments like apartment/condo, others, hotel/boutique, unique stays (combined 7.5%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Murphy Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Murphy

  • The dominant room capacity in Murphy is 2 bedrooms listings, making up 49.6% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 2 bedrooms and 3 bedrooms properties represent 72.7% of the active Airbnb listings in Murphy, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 31.9% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Murphy.

Murphy Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Murphy

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Murphy vacation rentals is listings accommodating 4 guests (27.9%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely small families or groups.
  • Properties designed for 4 guests and 8+ guests dominate the Murphy STR market, accounting for 54.1% of listings.
  • 54.4% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Murphy.
  • On average, properties in Murphy are equipped to host 5.6 guests.

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

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Murphy

  • The most common availability pattern in Murphy falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 39.9% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 72.1% 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 Murphy (31.9%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 30.5% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Murphy Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (9.6%)

1 Night

32 listings

9.6% of total

2 Nights (53.5%)

2 Nights

178 listings

53.5% of total

3 Nights (18.3%)

3 Nights

61 listings

18.3% of total

4-6 Nights (2.4%)

4-6 Nights

8 listings

2.4% of total

7-29 Nights (0.6%)

7-29 Nights

2 listings

0.6% of total

30+ Nights (15.6%)

30+ Nights

52 listings

15.6% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Murphy is 2 Nights, adopted by 53.5% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A strong majority (63.1%) of the Murphy Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.
  • A significant segment (15.6%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Murphy, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 2 Nights minimum stay, as 53.5% of Murphy hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 9.6% currently do.
  • A 2-night minimum appears standard (53.5%). Consider this for weekends or peak periods.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 15.6% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Murphy.

Murphy Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Super Strict 30 Days (6.5%)

Super Strict 30 Days

20 listings

6.5% of total

Super Strict 60 Days

3 listings

1% of total

Flexible (15.6%)

Flexible

48 listings

15.6% of total

Moderate (24%)

Moderate

74 listings

24% of total

Firm (22.4%)

Firm

69 listings

22.4% of total

Strict (30.5%)

Strict

94 listings

30.5% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Murphy

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Murphy is Strict, used by 30.5% of listings.
  • A majority (52.9%) of hosts in Murphy 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 30.5% market standard in Murphy.
  • With 30.5% using Strict terms, this is a viable option in Murphy, particularly for high-value properties or during peak demand periods.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Murphy.

Murphy STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Murphy

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Murphy is 44 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during July (average 69 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 27 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (58 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (41 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (44 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Murphy.
  • For July 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 58 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Murphy averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Murphy (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Murphy

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

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Murphy: Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, TV, Wifi, Kitchen, Hot water, Heating.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, TV, Wifi, Kitchen, Hot water, Heating.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Dishes and silverware or Coffee maker 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 Murphy to stay competitive.

Murphy 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 Murphy

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Murphy consists of primarily domestic travelers (98%), 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 98.2% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (98.2%) and United Kingdom (0.3%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (79.1%) followed by Spanish (12.6%).
  • 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 Tampa.
  • 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 Murphy 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
Sevier County54$5,803$490.3244%
Gilmer County22$4,696$342.1343%
Sevierville5,187$4,592$318.7748%
Cedar Bluff33$4,317$458.8439%
Fannin County37$4,285$339.5241%
Gatlinburg2,866$4,172$307.4447%
Waleska41$4,156$346.7242%
Wears Valley192$4,135$299.0844%
Epworth68$3,983$341.9940%
Pigeon Forge2,546$3,982$295.1046%

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