Rapid City Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in South Dakota, United States
Is Airbnb profitable in Rapid City in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Rapid City, South Dakota, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Rapid City, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the market of 604 active listings.
Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Rapid City, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Rapid City 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 Rapid City Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview
Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Rapid City (2025)
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Rapid City 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 Rapid City is typically July, while January often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Rapid City across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $6,744+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $4,663 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $2,932 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,697, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Rapid City
Rapid City Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Rapid City 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 Rapid City:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 84%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 69% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 51%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 29% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Rapid City
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Rapid City (2025)
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Rapid City involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Rapid City typically peaks in August 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 $418+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $285 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $190 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $128 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Rapid City
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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Rapid City (2025)
Peak Season (July, June, August)
- Revenue averages $5,588 per month
- Occupancy rates average 64.7%
- Daily rates average $261
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $3,241 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 48.4%
- Daily rates hold near $226
Low Season (January, February, March)
- Revenue drops to average $1,877 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 37.6%
- Daily rates adjust to average $211
Seasonality Insights for Rapid City
- The Airbnb seasonality in Rapid City 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 Rapid City's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $6,081, occupancy reaching a high of 71.7%, and ADRs peaking at $267.
- 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 $1,825, occupancy could drop to 34.7%, and ADRs may adjust down to $211.
- 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 Rapid City.
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 Rapid City seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.
Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Rapid City (2025)
Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Rapid City? 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 / Area | Why Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal) | Key Attractions & Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Rapid City | The vibrant heart of Rapid City, offering a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment. It's a prime location for tourists looking to explore local culture and events. | Main Street Square, Frontier Gallery, Ruth Mason Arts Center, National Historic Museum, The City of Presidents |
| Bear Butte State Park | Known for its stunning natural beauty, this area attracts outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a tranquil retreat amidst nature. Perfect for hiking and exploring the Black Hills. | Bear Butte, Horseback Riding, Hiking Trails, Wildlife Viewing, Picnic Areas |
| Rapid City suburbs | Residential neighborhoods with safe environments and proximity to attractions. Good for families or longer stays with local amenities, parks, and schools. | Local Parks, Shopping Centers, Community Events, Family-friendly Activities, Schools |
| Keystone | A gateway town to Mount Rushmore, it's popular with tourists visiting the monument and offers charming shops and restaurants. | Mount Rushmore National Memorial, Keystone Historical Museum, Rushmore Tramway Adventures, Giant Jackalope, Parks and Recreation |
| Hill City | Located in the Black Hills, Hill City is known for its artsy vibe, and it serves as a good base for visiting nearby attractions and enjoying outdoor activities. | Black Hills Central Railroad, Arts and Crafts Stores, Custer State Park, Biking Trails, Local Wineries |
| Custer State Park | One of the largest state parks in the US, it offers breathtaking landscapes and abundant wildlife, attracting nature lovers and adventure seekers. | Wildlife Loop Road, Needles Highway, Custer State Park Resort, Hiking Trails, Fishing and Camping |
| Deadwood | A historic town that draws history buffs and gamblers, it's famous for its Gold Rush history and vibrant nightlife. | Wild Bill Hickok Cemetery, Adams Museum, Gaming Casinos, Historic Main Street, Live Entertainment |
| Spearfish Canyon | Renowned for its scenic drives, waterfalls, and outdoor activities, this area is ideal for those who love nature and scenic photography. | Spearfish Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, Hiking Trails, Fishing Spots, Scenic Byway |
Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Rapid City (2025)
While Rapid City, South Dakota, 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 Rapid City to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2025, finding no licensed listings among those analyzed)
Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Rapid City (2025)
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Rapid Citybased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
lNDOOR POOL! The FUN house
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Spectacular Home with Incredible Views
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Views, Luxurious, Huge - 5 min to Downtown.
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Luxurious Historic Home - The Barney House
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Be Still Lodge
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Amazing Creek-side Vacation
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.
Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in Rapid City (2025)
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Rapid City based on the number of properties managed and estimated total revenue over the past year. Analyze their scale and performance metrics.
| Host Name | Properties | Grossing Revenue | Stay Reviews | Avg Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| J&J Hospitality | 21 | $985,757 | 1361 | 4.84/5.0 |
| Evolve | 23 | $830,072 | 601 | 4.59/5.0 |
| Thomas | 38 | $608,648 | 5516 | 4.71/5.0 |
| Adam & Saunta | 11 | $601,083 | 1056 | 4.94/5.0 |
| Julie | 15 | $548,931 | 411 | 4.78/5.0 |
| JAckie | 7 | $412,422 | 452 | 4.87/5.0 |
| Lana | 6 | $337,282 | 560 | 4.98/5.0 |
| Michael | 5 | $329,092 | 325 | 4.97/5.0 |
| Heidi | 9 | $326,053 | 110 | 4.37/5.0 |
| Jennifer | 6 | $304,450 | 1333 | 4.84/5.0 |
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 Rapid City.
Dive Deeper: Advanced Rapid City STR Market Data (2025)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Rapid City. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsRapid City Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Rapid City
- The Rapid City Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 94.2% of the 604 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Rapid City, House properties are the most common (59.1%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 59.1% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- Smaller segments like others, hotel/boutique, unique stays (combined 5.6%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Rapid City Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Rapid City
- The dominant room capacity in Rapid City is 1 bedroom listings, making up 25% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 1 bedroom and 2 bedrooms properties represent 48.8% of the active Airbnb listings in Rapid City, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 45.2% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Rapid City.
Rapid City Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Rapid City
- The most common guest capacity trend in Rapid City vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (31.3%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 8+ guests and 4 guests dominate the Rapid City STR market, accounting for 49.7% of listings.
- 54.1% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Rapid City.
- On average, properties in Rapid City are equipped to host 5.4 guests.
Rapid City Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Rapid City
- The most common availability pattern in Rapid City falls within the 181-270 days range, representing 42.9% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 70.7% 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 Rapid City (42.1%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 31.6% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.
Rapid City Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
185 listings
32.5% of total
2 Nights
262 listings
46% of total
3 Nights
57 listings
10% of total
4-6 Nights
13 listings
2.3% of total
7-29 Nights
10 listings
1.8% of total
30+ Nights
42 listings
7.4% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Rapid City is 2 Nights, adopted by 46% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
- A strong majority (78.5%) of the Rapid City 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 46% of Rapid City hosts use this setting.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 7.4% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Rapid City.
Rapid City Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)
Super Strict 30 Days
5 listings
0.9% of total
Flexible
84 listings
15.4% of total
Moderate
92 listings
16.8% of total
Firm
176 listings
32.2% of total
Strict
190 listings
34.7% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Rapid City
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Rapid City is Strict, used by 34.7% of listings.
- A majority (66.9%) of hosts in Rapid City 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 34.7% market standard in Rapid City.
- With 34.7% using Strict terms, this is a viable option in Rapid City, particularly for high-value properties or during peak demand periods.
- Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Rapid City.
Rapid City STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Rapid City
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Rapid City is 61 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during June (average 88 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in March (average 28 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Summer (84 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (37 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (61 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Rapid City.
- For June stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 88 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 84 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Rapid City averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Rapid City (2025)
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Rapid City
- Essential amenities in Rapid City that guests expect include: Wifi, Smoke alarm, TV, Air conditioning, Free parking on premises, Heating. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Kitchen, 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 Rapid City: Wifi, Smoke alarm, TV, Air conditioning, Free parking on premises, Heating.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi, Smoke alarm, TV, Air conditioning, Free parking on premises, Heating.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Kitchen 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 Rapid City to stay competitive.
Rapid City Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)
Guest Profile Summary for Rapid City
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Rapid City consists of primarily domestic travelers (95%), often arriving from nearby Sioux Falls, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
- Domestic travelers account for 95.3% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (95.3%) and Canada (1.6%).
- Top languages spoken are English (78.2%) followed by Spanish (9.3%).
- 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 Sioux Falls and Minneapolis.
- 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 Rapid City 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.
| Market | Active Properties | Monthly Revenue | Daily Rate | Avg. Occupancy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Powder House Pass | 114 | $6,488 | $548.07 | 41% |
| Nemo | 22 | $3,822 | $351.51 | 51% |
| Lead | 478 | $3,302 | $338.95 | 38% |
| Black Hawk | 21 | $3,280 | $282.42 | 47% |
| Deadwood | 137 | $3,111 | $372.71 | 41% |
| Whitewood | 30 | $3,067 | $342.95 | 42% |
| Custer | 253 | $2,991 | $269.25 | 52% |
| Keystone | 89 | $2,935 | $250.65 | 60% |
| Spearfish | 153 | $2,756 | $274.09 | 47% |
| North Spearfish | 20 | $2,572 | $220.47 | 46% |