Nags Head 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 Nags Head in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Nags Head, North Carolina, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Nags Head, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the market of 741 active listings.

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

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$360
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Nags Head.
Occupancy Rate(?)
41.8%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$41,617
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Nags Head. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
-14.4%
Significant decrease (-14.4%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
July
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Nags Head.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
February
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Nags Head.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
741
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Nags Head (2025)

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $10,465+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $6,534 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $3,942 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $2,140, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Nags Head

Nags Head Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Nags Head 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 Nags Head:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 73%+ 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 41%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 22% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Nags Head

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Nags Head (2025)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Nags Head involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Nags Head 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 $651+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $441 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $289 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $193 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Nags Head

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Nags Head (2025)

Peak Season (July, June, August)
  • Revenue averages $9,646 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 62.4%
  • Daily rates average $444
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $4,531 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 38.9%
  • Daily rates hold near $345
Low Season (January, February, March)
  • Revenue drops to average $2,052 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 27.0%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $308

Seasonality Insights for Nags Head

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Nags Head 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 Nags Head's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $10,687, occupancy reaching a high of 67.7%, and ADRs peaking at $453.
  • 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 $1,875, occupancy could drop to 23.7%, and ADRs may adjust down to $304.
  • 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 Nags Head.

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 Nags Head seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Nags Head (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Nags Head? 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
South Nags Head
A tranquil beach area known for its stunning views and proximity to the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. Ideal for families and those seeking a peaceful retreat by the ocean.
Cape Hatteras National Seashore, Jockey's Ridge State Park, Fishing Pier, Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve, Lifeguarded beaches
Nags Head Beach
The central beach area offering easy access to restaurants, shops, and recreational activities. A vibrant location for vacationers looking for a lively beach experience.
Nags Head Fishing Pier, Nags Head Golf Links, Jockey's Ridge State Park, Local seafood restaurants, Water sports rental shops
Kill Devil Hills
Located near Nags Head, it's famous for its history with the Wright brothers and is a bustling area with many amenities. Perfect for tourists interested in local history and attractions.
Wright Brothers National Memorial, KDH Beach, The Avalon Fishing Pier, Local shops and dining, Historic landmarks
Outer Banks Mall area
A commercial hub with easy access to various shops, dining options, and entertainment, making it attractive for families and groups.
Outer Banks Mall, Adventure Park, Mini-golf courses, Dining options, Shopping
Whalebone Junction
A convenient area where visitors can find a variety of stores and quick access to the beach. Ideal for those looking for convenience without sacrificing beach access.
Whalebone Junction shops, Waves of Wellness Spa, Fishing charters, Scenic views, Beach access
Corolla
A family-friendly area in the northern Outer Banks known for its wide beaches and upscale rental properties. Offers a quieter atmosphere for vacationers.
Wild Horse Tours, Corolla Beach, Historic Corolla Park, Local boutiques, Wildlife viewing
Manteo
A charming town on Roanoke Island with historic sites and a waterfront, appealing to those interested in culture and history during their stay.
Roanoke Island Festival Park, Elizabethan Gardens, Manteo Waterfront, Local craft shops, Restaurants
Duck
A popular, upscale area with a lively town center and beautiful beaches. Attracts affluent travelers looking for a relaxed beach experience with boutique shopping and dining.
Duck Town Park, Boardwalk, Local shops, Art galleries, Beach access

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Nags Head (2025)

While Nags Head, 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 Nags Head to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 0% licensed listings)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Nags Head (2025)

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

Queen Elizabeth 8 Bedroom Oceanfront Home

Queen Elizabeth 8 Bedroom Oceanfront Home

Entire Place • 8 bedrooms

$390,104
Revenue
70.1%
Occupancy
$1317.58
Daily Rate
SOCO 8 Bedroom Home w/ Private Heated Pool!

SOCO 8 Bedroom Home w/ Private Heated Pool!

Entire Place • 8 bedrooms

$304,917
Revenue
54.1%
Occupancy
$1305.05
Daily Rate
Sale: Oceanfront Paradise: Elevator, Pool, Hot Tub

Sale: Oceanfront Paradise: Elevator, Pool, Hot Tub

Entire Place • 8 bedrooms

$264,445
Revenue
38.3%
Occupancy
$1244.72
Daily Rate
Ocean Pearl 8 Bedroom Home w/ Private Heated Pool!

Ocean Pearl 8 Bedroom Home w/ Private Heated Pool!

Entire Place • 8 bedrooms

$235,136
Revenue
48.9%
Occupancy
$1160.77
Daily Rate
Island Enchantment 24BDR- Free Pool Heat 4/1-5/31!

Island Enchantment 24BDR- Free Pool Heat 4/1-5/31!

Entire Place • 24 bedrooms

$228,950
Revenue
45.5%
Occupancy
$1786.05
Daily Rate
Sundancer 8 Bedroom Home W/ Private Heated Pool!

Sundancer 8 Bedroom Home W/ Private Heated Pool!

Entire Place • 8 bedrooms

$225,406
Revenue
49.2%
Occupancy
$952.42
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 Nags Head (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Nags Head 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
Kees Vacations62$3,833,73016914.15/5.0
Village174$3,478,1264872.02/5.0
Seaside Vacations65$2,709,7603873.33/5.0
Rentals On The Ocean12$697,0188664.78/5.0
Leslie'S Vacation Rentals7$576,731824.16/5.0
James6$505,3541764.86/5.0
Travis5$421,8935104.99/5.0
Manish2$421,102184.95/5.0
Mike5$383,2591424.39/5.0
Brenda2$315,959264.88/5.0

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 Nags Head.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Nags Head STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

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

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Nags Head

  • The Nags Head Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 97.8% of the 741 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Nags Head, House properties are the most common (81.2%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 81.2% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • Smaller segments like others, outdoor/unique, hotel/boutique, unique stays (combined 4.9%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Nags Head Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Nags Head

  • The dominant room capacity in Nags Head is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 25.6% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
  • Together, 3 bedrooms and 4 bedrooms properties represent 49.8% of the active Airbnb listings in Nags Head, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 74.0% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Nags Head.

Nags Head Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Nags Head

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Nags Head vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (56.1%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Nags Head STR market, accounting for 74.5% of listings.
  • 77.3% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Nags Head.
  • On average, properties in Nags Head are equipped to host 6.5 guests.

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

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Nags Head

  • The most common availability pattern in Nags Head falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 45.9% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 83.3% 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 Nags Head (38.5%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 17.5% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Nags Head Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (16.5%)

1 Night

118 listings

16.5% of total

2 Nights (17.9%)

2 Nights

128 listings

17.9% of total

3 Nights (40.3%)

3 Nights

288 listings

40.3% of total

4-6 Nights (7%)

4-6 Nights

50 listings

7% of total

7-29 Nights (3.1%)

7-29 Nights

22 listings

3.1% of total

30+ Nights (15.1%)

30+ Nights

108 listings

15.1% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Nags Head is 3 Nights, adopted by 40.3% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
  • A significant segment (15.1%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Nags Head, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 3 Nights minimum stay, as 40.3% of Nags Head hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 16.5% currently do.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 15.1% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Nags Head.

Nags Head Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Super Strict 60 Days (37.4%)

Super Strict 60 Days

215 listings

37.4% of total

Super Strict 30 Days

29 listings

5% of total

Flexible

9 listings

1.6% of total

Moderate (8.2%)

Moderate

47 listings

8.2% of total

Firm (17.9%)

Firm

103 listings

17.9% of total

Strict (29.9%)

Strict

172 listings

29.9% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Nags Head

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Nags Head is Super Strict 60 Days, used by 37.4% of listings.
  • There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (9.8%) and stricter (47.8%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Super Strict 60 Days policy to align with the 37.4% market standard in Nags Head.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Nags Head.

Nags Head STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Nags Head

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Nags Head is 65 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during July (average 117 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 30 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (100 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (45 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (65 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Nags Head.
  • For July stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 117 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 100 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Nags Head averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Nags Head (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Nags Head

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

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Nags Head: Wifi, TV, Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, Coffee maker, Heating, Microwave, Refrigerator, Dishes and silverware.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: TV, Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, Coffee maker, Heating, Microwave, Refrigerator, Dishes and silverware.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like 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 Nags Head to stay competitive.

Nags Head 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 Nags Head

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Nags Head consists of primarily domestic travelers (96%), often arriving from nearby Richmond, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 95.5% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (95.5%) and DC (2.8%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (79.5%) followed by Spanish (8.7%).
  • 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 Richmond 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 Nags Head 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
Nashville14$5,539$688.0747%
Salvo86$4,434$438.6040%
Indian Beach15$3,989$334.5141%
Corolla775$3,626$445.0140%
Rodanthe125$3,625$362.8242%
Southern Shores185$3,588$383.1044%
Duck263$3,566$383.8841%
Pine Knoll Shores81$3,260$369.8438%
Kitty Hawk359$3,156$303.6445%
Salter Path18$3,132$271.9447%

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