How Much Does the Average Vacation Rental Make?

By Michael Ferguson

Are you considering renting out your vacation home but wondering how much income you can expect to generate? The answer is not straightforward as it depends on several factors such as location, size of the property, amenities, and seasonality. In this article, we will explore the average vacation rental income and what factors impact it.

Factors that Affect Vacation Rental Income

Location: Location plays a significant role in determining how much money you can make from a vacation rental. Properties located in popular tourist destinations or cities with high demand for short-term rentals can command higher nightly rates. On the other hand, properties located in remote areas or less popular destinations may have lower demand and therefore lower rental rates.

Size of Property: The size of your property is another crucial factor that impacts your rental income. Larger homes can accommodate more guests and therefore can charge higher rates. Additionally, properties with multiple bedrooms or bathrooms are more attractive to families or groups traveling together and can command higher rates.

Amenities: The amenities offered at your vacation rental also play a role in determining how much income you can generate. Properties with luxurious amenities such as private pools, hot tubs, or beach access are more desirable to travelers and can result in higher rental rates.

Seasonality: Seasonality is another factor that affects vacation rental income. Peak travel seasons such as summer or holidays generally have higher demand for rentals resulting in higher nightly rates compared to off-peak seasons.

The Average Vacation Rental Income

According to data from AirDNA, the average vacation rental income in the United States is $1,949 per month. However, this varies greatly depending on location and other factors mentioned earlier. For example, properties located in urban areas such as New York City or San Francisco have an average monthly revenue of $4,909 while properties located in more rural areas may have an average monthly revenue of $1,044.

Maximizing Your Vacation Rental Income

If you are looking to maximize your vacation rental income, there are several strategies you can implement:

  • Invest in amenities: As mentioned earlier, properties with luxurious amenities are more attractive to travelers and can result in higher rental rates. Consider investing in upgrades such as a private pool or hot tub.
  • Price competitively: Do some research on comparable properties in your area and price your rental competitively.

    Avoid overpricing as this may deter potential guests from booking.

  • Promote your listing: Market your vacation rental on various platforms such as Airbnb, VRBO, or Booking.com. Utilize social media to showcase your property and attract potential guests.
  • Provide exceptional customer service: Positive reviews from satisfied guests can go a long way in attracting new bookings. Ensure that you provide excellent customer service and promptly address any concerns or issues that may arise during their stay.

In Conclusion

The average vacation rental income varies greatly depending on location, size of property, amenities offered, and seasonality. However, by implementing the strategies mentioned above and providing exceptional customer service, you can maximize your rental income and attract more bookings.