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

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-03-31

Is Airbnb profitable in Waterloo in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Waterloo, South Carolina, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Waterloo, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 22 active listings.

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

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$192
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Waterloo.
Occupancy Rate(?)
60.2%
High demand. Good booking frequency.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$39,783
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Waterloo. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
40.2%
Strong growth (40.2%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
July
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Waterloo.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
March
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Waterloo.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
22
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

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

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $7,148+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $5,552 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $3,673 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,927, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Waterloo

Waterloo Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Waterloo STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Octobersees 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 Waterloo:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 87%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 77% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 61%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 39% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Waterloo

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

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Waterloo involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Waterloo typically peaks in July and dips lowest during March. 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 $284+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $233 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $175 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $134 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Waterloo

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Waterloo (2025)

Peak Season (July, June, May)
  • Revenue averages $4,911 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 60.4%
  • Daily rates average $198
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $3,869 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 59.1%
  • Daily rates hold near $186
Low Season (February, March, September)
  • Revenue drops to average $3,174 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 52.0%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $178

Seasonality Insights for Waterloo

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Waterloo 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 Waterloo's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $5,128, occupancy reaching a high of 73.0%, and ADRs peaking at $203.
  • 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 $2,963, occupancy could drop to 44.9%, and ADRs may adjust down to $173.
  • 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 Waterloo.

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

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Waterloo (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Waterloo? 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
Lake Hartwell
A popular destination for fishing, boating, and outdoor recreation. Ideal for guests seeking relaxation and nature, with many waterfront properties available.
Lake Hartwell State Park, Big Oaks Recreation Area, Hartwell Dam, Fishing and boating opportunities, Nature trails
Historic Downtown Waterloo
Charming historical area with quaint shops and local eateries. Great for guests looking to explore local culture and history.
Historical buildings, Local restaurants, Art galleries, Community events, Quaint shops
Cedar Falls Park
A scenic park with walking trails and picnic areas. Attractive for families looking for nature and community activities.
Walking trails, Playground, Picnic areas, Natural beauty, Wildlife
Billy Dreher Island State Park
A state park with camping options and access to the lake. Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
Camping facilities, Swimming areas, Fishing spots, Nature observation, Water sports
Lake Secession
A less crowded lake that offers excellent fishing and boating opportunities. Perfect for guests looking for a peaceful getaway.
Fishing, Boating, Nature observation, Camping areas, Scenic views
The Palmetto Trail
A long-distance hiking trail that attracts outdoor adventurers. Ideal for those looking for unique outdoor experiences.
Hiking, Biking, Nature exploration, Wildlife, Scenic views
Waterloo Festival Grounds
Host to various local events and festivals throughout the year. Great for guests attending events or looking for local culture.
Local festivals, Community gatherings, Arts and crafts fairs, Live music events, Food vendors
Local Wineries
The area has several local wineries that attract visitors for tastings and tours. Perfect for wine enthusiasts.
Winery tours, Wine tastings, Vineyard views, Local produce, Cultural events

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

While Waterloo, South 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 Waterloo to ensure full compliance before hosting.

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

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Waterloo (2025)

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

New!Treehouse/lake front/hot tub

New!Treehouse/lake front/hot tub

Entire Place • 1 bedroom

$97,497
Revenue
87.0%
Occupancy
$289.32
Daily Rate
Lakefront Home with Hot Tub! Kayaks,SUP's,Fireplace! King beds, PingPong, CornHole!

Lakefront Home with Hot Tub! Kayaks,SUP's,Fireplace! King beds, PingPong, CornHole!

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$66,986
Revenue
66.6%
Occupancy
$278.63
Daily Rate
Lake Front/firepit/kayaks/ game room & pool table

Lake Front/firepit/kayaks/ game room & pool table

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$64,707
Revenue
61.0%
Occupancy
$291.47
Daily Rate
Luxurious Lake Front Home with Kayaks, SUPs, Dock

Luxurious Lake Front Home with Kayaks, SUPs, Dock

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$63,925
Revenue
66.0%
Occupancy
$250.94
Daily Rate
Lakefront Getaway: Fire Pit ~ Dock ~ Games!

Lakefront Getaway: Fire Pit ~ Dock ~ Games!

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$61,060
Revenue
65.8%
Occupancy
$219.85
Daily Rate
Best Lake Front w Floating Dock/Firepit-Sleeps 10

Best Lake Front w Floating Dock/Firepit-Sleeps 10

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$60,080
Revenue
66.2%
Occupancy
$239.20
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 Waterloo (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Waterloo 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
Kristin2$162,2042474.99/5.0
David2$82,273655.00/5.0
Patricia1$66,986894.97/5.0
James1$63,925324.97/5.0
Nick1$61,060395.00/5.0
Michael1$60,0801554.93/5.0
Andrea1$58,038295.00/5.0
Christi1$45,17295.00/5.0
Lydia1$40,900484.88/5.0
Barrett1$33,424125.00/5.0

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 Waterloo.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Waterloo STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

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

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Waterloo

  • The Waterloo Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 100% of the 22 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Waterloo, House properties are the most common (77.3%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 77.3% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • Smaller segments like unique stays (combined 4.5%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Waterloo Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Waterloo

  • The dominant room capacity in Waterloo is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 54.5% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
  • Together, 3 bedrooms and 4 bedrooms properties represent 72.7% of the active Airbnb listings in Waterloo, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 72.7% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Waterloo.

Waterloo Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Waterloo

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Waterloo vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (40.9%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Waterloo STR market, accounting for 72.7% of listings.
  • 77.2% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Waterloo.
  • On average, properties in Waterloo are equipped to host 6.4 guests.

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

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Waterloo

  • The most common availability pattern in Waterloo falls within the 181-270 days range, representing 45.5% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 50.0% 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 Waterloo (50%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 50.0% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Waterloo Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

2 Nights (65%)

2 Nights

13 listings

65% of total

3 Nights (25%)

3 Nights

5 listings

25% of total

30+ Nights (10%)

30+ Nights

2 listings

10% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Waterloo is 2 Nights, adopted by 65% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A strong majority (65.0%) of the Waterloo Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 2 Nights minimum stay, as 65% of Waterloo hosts use this setting.
  • A 2-night minimum appears standard (65%). Consider this for weekends or peak periods.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 10% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Waterloo.

Waterloo Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Flexible (20%)

Flexible

4 listings

20% of total

Moderate (30%)

Moderate

6 listings

30% of total

Firm (40%)

Firm

8 listings

40% of total

Strict (10%)

Strict

2 listings

10% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Waterloo

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Waterloo is Firm, used by 40% of listings.
  • There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (50.0%) and stricter (50.0%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Firm policy to align with the 40% market standard in Waterloo.
  • Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 10% of listings use it. Evaluate if potential revenue protection outweighs possible lower booking rates.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Waterloo.

Waterloo STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Waterloo

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Waterloo is 43 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during July (average 92 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in December (average 29 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (66 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 (43 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Waterloo.
  • For July stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 92 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 66 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Waterloo averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Waterloo (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Waterloo

  • Essential amenities in Waterloo that guests expect include: Kitchen, Dishes and silverware, Heating, Coffee maker, Refrigerator, Air conditioning, Lake access, BBQ grill, Wifi, Bed linens. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Waterloo: Kitchen, Dishes and silverware, Heating, Coffee maker, Refrigerator, Air conditioning, Lake access, BBQ grill, Wifi, Bed linens.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Lake access, BBQ grill, Wifi, Bed linens.
  • 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 Waterloo to stay competitive.

Waterloo 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 Waterloo

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Waterloo consists of primarily domestic travelers (98%), often arriving from nearby Greenville, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 97.6% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (97.6%) and Canada (0.7%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (81.8%) followed by Spanish (11.2%).
  • 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 Greenville and Charleston.
  • 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 Waterloo 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
Union Mills14$5,934$458.5743%
Sevier County54$5,803$490.3244%
Sevierville5,187$4,592$318.7748%
Six Mile57$4,391$411.6743%
West Union31$4,282$513.7238%
Gatlinburg2,866$4,172$307.4447%
Eatonton231$4,171$473.1535%
Wears Valley192$4,135$299.0844%
Bishop10$4,057$508.6143%
Pigeon Forge2,546$3,982$295.1046%

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