Waynesville Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in North Carolina, United States

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-06-01

Is Airbnb profitable in Waynesville in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Waynesville, North Carolina, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Waynesville, based on AirROI data from June 2024 to May 2025, reveals key trends in the market of 476 active listings.

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

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$207
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Waynesville.
Occupancy Rate(?)
37.2%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$21,899
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Waynesville. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
-7.9%
Slight decrease (-7.9%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
July
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Waynesville.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
February
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Waynesville.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
476
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

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

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $5,187+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $3,328 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $1,895 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $952, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Waynesville

Waynesville Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Waynesville 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 Waynesville:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 73%+ 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 36%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 19% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Waynesville

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

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Waynesville involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Waynesville 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 $342+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $245 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $166 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $127 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Waynesville

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Waynesville (2025)

Peak Season (July, October, August)
  • Revenue averages $3,176 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 47.4%
  • Daily rates average $207
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $2,472 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 38.5%
  • Daily rates hold near $207
Low Season (January, February, April)
  • Revenue drops to average $1,953 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 31.1%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $207

Seasonality Insights for Waynesville

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Waynesville 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 Waynesville's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $3,584, occupancy reaching a high of 51.7%, and ADRs peaking at $220.
  • 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 $1,904, occupancy could drop to 30.5%, and ADRs may adjust down to $200.
  • 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 Waynesville.

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

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Waynesville (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Waynesville? 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 Waynesville
The vibrant heart of Waynesville featuring shops, dining, and cultural venues. Ideal for visitors who want to experience local events and community life.
Haywood County Courthouse, Waynesville Antique Mall, Great Smoky Mountains Heritage Center, Waynesville Farmers Market
Lake Junaluska
A serene lakeside community known for its natural beauty and recreation activities. Perfect for families and couples looking for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Lake Junaluska Conference and Retreat Center, Junaluska Gardens, Walking Trails, Boating and Fishing Opportunities
Cataloochee Valley
A remote and picturesque area offering stunning landscapes and wildlife. Attracts nature enthusiasts and those looking to escape the urban hustle.
Cataloochee Valley, Great Smoky Mountains National Park, Wild Elk Viewing, Hiking Trails
Maggie Valley
A neighboring town renowned for outdoor activities and festivals. Suitable for visitors interested in mountain sports, music, and culture.
Cataloochee Ski Area, Maggie Valley Opry House, Wheels Through Time Museum, Outdoor Sports and Festivals
Pisgah National Forest
An expansive national forest with beautiful outdoor landscapes and hiking opportunities. Great for adventure seekers and nature lovers.
Hiking Trails, Waterfalls, Mountain Biking, Camping Areas
Blue Ridge Parkway
Scenic highway offering breathtaking views and access to hiking trails. A popular destination for those seeking natural beauty and scenic drives.
Scenic Overlooks, Hiking Trails, Visitor Centers, Wildlife Viewing
Waynesville Golf Club
An ideal spot for golf enthusiasts, providing beautiful greens and a friendly atmosphere. Attractive for visitors looking to combine leisure with sporting activities.
18-Hole Golf Course, Clubhouse and Dining, Golf Tournaments
Historic Main Street
A charming street lined with historic buildings, shops, and restaurants. Captivating for tourists wanting to experience the local culture and heritage.
Art Galleries, Local Shops, Cafes and Restaurants, Seasonal Festivals

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

While Waynesville, 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 Waynesville to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 1% licensed listings)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Waynesville (2025)

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

Stunning estate, hot tub, game room, and theatre!

Stunning estate, hot tub, game room, and theatre!

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$140,612
Revenue
44.0%
Occupancy
$876.77
Daily Rate
Luxury 4200 sqft Log Cabin on 50 Acres! Sleeps 16!

Luxury 4200 sqft Log Cabin on 50 Acres! Sleeps 16!

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$129,781
Revenue
59.2%
Occupancy
$558.90
Daily Rate
Daze Off by CM | Relaxing Hot Tub &Recreation Room

Daze Off by CM | Relaxing Hot Tub &Recreation Room

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$111,774
Revenue
58.8%
Occupancy
$562.46
Daily Rate
Nature Falls-
Romantic Luxe, Waterfalls, Treehouse

Nature Falls- Romantic Luxe, Waterfalls, Treehouse

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$110,906
Revenue
70.0%
Occupancy
$474.94
Daily Rate
The Vista at Angel Ridge - Luxury Log Home,  Sleep

The Vista at Angel Ridge - Luxury Log Home, Sleep

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$110,340
Revenue
48.4%
Occupancy
$538.26
Daily Rate
Smoky Mountain Luxury Retreat - Getaway in the Mtn

Smoky Mountain Luxury Retreat - Getaway in the Mtn

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$100,266
Revenue
35.1%
Occupancy
$735.77
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 Waynesville (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Waynesville 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
Carolina Mornings12$568,6151884.85/5.0
Evolve26$566,4255434.77/5.0
Maggie12$345,6671424.87/5.0
Yonder7$307,9611384.88/5.0
Heather6$259,6594144.93/5.0
Loriel And Adam9$257,7521884.94/5.0
Evolve8$204,1053744.78/5.0
Sunburst13$196,8601144.86/5.0
Furrys Lodge9$179,2332274.82/5.0
Christy3$137,2814894.96/5.0

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 Waynesville.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Waynesville STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

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

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Waynesville

  • The Waynesville Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 91.2% of the 476 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Waynesville, House properties are the most common (50.2%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 50.2% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • The presence of 6.7% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
  • Smaller segments like others, unique stays (combined 3.3%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Waynesville Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Waynesville

  • The dominant room capacity in Waynesville is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 29.2% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
  • Together, 3 bedrooms and 2 bedrooms properties represent 54.4% of the active Airbnb listings in Waynesville, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 48.1% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Waynesville.

Waynesville Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Waynesville

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Waynesville vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (32.1%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 8+ guests and 4 guests dominate the Waynesville STR market, accounting for 51.6% of listings.
  • 54.8% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Waynesville.
  • On average, properties in Waynesville are equipped to host 5.3 guests.

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

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Waynesville

  • The most common availability pattern in Waynesville falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 46.6% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 85.3% 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 Waynesville (39.1%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 15.1% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Waynesville Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (17.7%)

1 Night

82 listings

17.7% of total

2 Nights (44.8%)

2 Nights

207 listings

44.8% of total

3 Nights (10.8%)

3 Nights

50 listings

10.8% of total

4-6 Nights (3%)

4-6 Nights

14 listings

3% of total

7-29 Nights (1.1%)

7-29 Nights

5 listings

1.1% of total

30+ Nights (22.5%)

30+ Nights

104 listings

22.5% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Waynesville is 2 Nights, adopted by 44.8% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A strong majority (62.5%) of the Waynesville Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.
  • A significant segment (22.5%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Waynesville, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 2 Nights minimum stay, as 44.8% of Waynesville hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 17.7% currently do.
  • A 2-night minimum appears standard (44.8%). Consider this for weekends or peak periods.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 22.5% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Waynesville.

Waynesville Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Super Strict 30 Days (7.8%)

Super Strict 30 Days

35 listings

7.8% of total

Super Strict 60 Days (5.6%)

Super Strict 60 Days

25 listings

5.6% of total

Flexible (17.3%)

Flexible

77 listings

17.3% of total

Moderate (22.9%)

Moderate

102 listings

22.9% of total

Firm (21.1%)

Firm

94 listings

21.1% of total

Strict (25.3%)

Strict

113 listings

25.3% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Waynesville

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Waynesville is Strict, used by 25.3% of listings.
  • There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (40.2%) and stricter (46.4%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Strict policy to align with the 25.3% market standard in Waynesville.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Waynesville.

Waynesville STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Waynesville

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Waynesville is 49 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during June (average 73 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 28 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (60 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (39 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (49 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Waynesville.
  • For June stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 73 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 60 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Waynesville averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Waynesville (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Waynesville

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

Recommendations for Hosts

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

Waynesville 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 Waynesville

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Waynesville consists of primarily domestic travelers (98%), often arriving from nearby Charlotte, 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 DC (0.3%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (77.3%) followed by Spanish (10.7%).
  • 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 Charlotte and Atlanta.
  • 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 Waynesville 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 County66$5,662$611.8443%
Union Mills15$4,850$445.2742%
Gilmer County22$4,129$373.5639%
Sevierville5,792$4,073$336.6346%
Six Mile58$3,810$420.9041%
West Union32$3,799$492.3736%
Wears Valley215$3,653$305.4543%
Gatlinburg3,375$3,625$323.7844%
Waleska44$3,507$355.8541%
Highlands335$3,506$375.7039%

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