South Melbourne, Victoria Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics
How much can you earn on Airbnb in South Melbourne, Victoria? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $29,927 per year — at a $194 nightly rate, 54.7% occupancy, and a $107 RevPAR that reflects moderate rate-to-revenue efficiency with room to optimize.
With just 25 active listings, South Melbourne is a micro-market where solid booking activity throughout the year.
Regulation is low with minimal registration requirements, pointing to an operator-friendly environment. In a market this size, differentiated listings with strong reviews can capture outsized returns relative to the competition.
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What Are the Key Airbnb Metrics in South Melbourne?
In South Melbourne, the headline Airbnb metrics are $29,927 in average annual revenue,54.7% occupancy, $194 ADR, and $107 in RevPAR, and guests book about 27 days in advance.
How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in South Melbourne?
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in South Melbourne 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 South Melbourne is typically December, while May often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in South Melbourne across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $5,465+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $4,110 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $2,630 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,582, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in South Melbourne
What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in South Melbourne?
Maximize your bookings by understanding the South Melbourne STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Decembersees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while May 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 South Melbourne:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 83%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 71% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 52%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 33% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in South Melbourne
What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in South Melbourne?
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in South Melbourne involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in South Melbourne typically peaks in March and dips lowest during August. 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 $315+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $234 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $165 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $128 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in South Melbourne
What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in South Melbourne?
RevPAR in South Melbourne is currently $107. Because RevPAR combines nightly rates with realized occupancy, it is one of the cleanest ways to compare how efficiently listings turn demand into revenue across the market.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see $57 RevPAR.
- Typical properties (Median) generate $98 RevPAR.
- Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $142 RevPAR.
- Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $179 RevPAR.
Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in South Melbourne
RevPAR Insights for South Melbourne
- The average RevPAR in South Melbourne is $107. This metric combines nightly rates with realized occupancy, making it one of the best single-number indicators of market efficiency.
- The gap between the top 10% ($179) and bottom 25% ($57) is $122, indicating significant performance disparity driven by property quality, pricing strategy, and location.
- RevPAR peaks in Dec and bottoms out in Apr, mirroring the broader seasonal demand pattern and suggesting opportunities for dynamic pricing.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Track your own RevPAR monthly against these South Melbourne benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $98, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
- Top-quartile listings achieve $142+ RevPAR through a combination of competitive pricing, strong reviews, and strategic amenities. Target this tier through incremental improvements.
- Use RevPAR rather than revenue alone when comparing properties of different sizes — it normalizes for available nights and gives a more accurate picture of performance.
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When Is the Peak Season for Airbnb in South Melbourne?
South Melbourne's peak Airbnb season falls in December, January, November, while the softest stretch is April, May, September. Overall, the market shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy, which should guide pricing, minimum stays, and cash-flow planning.
Peak Season (December, January, November)
- Revenue averages $4,195 per month
- Occupancy rates average 62.1%
- Daily rates average $220
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $2,972 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 54.1%
- Daily rates hold near $181
Low Season (April, May, September)
- Revenue drops to average $936 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 18.3%
- Daily rates adjust to average $171
Seasonality Insights for South Melbourne
- Airbnb seasonality in South Melbourne is pronounced. Revenue swings sharply between peak and low months, which means pricing strategy, minimum-stay settings, and cash reserves all need to account for extended slower periods.
- During the high season, the absolute peak month showcases South Melbourne's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $4,709, occupancy reaching 67.2%, and ADRs peaking at $223.
- Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $0, occupancy could drop to 0.0%, and ADRs may adjust to $149.
- 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 South Melbourne.
Seasonal Strategies for Maximizing Profit
- Peak Season: Maximize revenue through premium pricing and potentially longer minimum stays. Ensure high availability and consider tightening cancellation policies to reduce last-minute gaps.
- Low Season: Offer competitive pricing, extended-stay discounts, and flexible cancellation policies. Target off-season travelers like remote workers, budget-conscious guests, and travelers with flexible schedules.
- Shoulder Seasons: Implement dynamic pricing that bridges peak and low rates. Target weekend travelers, local events, and business visitors. Slightly more flexible terms than peak season can help maintain occupancy without deep discounting.
- In a highly seasonal market like South Melbourne, building a cash reserve during the top months is essential for covering fixed costs during the slow period. Automated pricing tools can help capture demand shifts in real time.
Do You Need a License for Airbnb in South Melbourne?
Low regulation and minimal registration activity in South Melbourne, Victoria, Australia point to an operator-friendly environment. That said, even low-regulation markets may have tax collection requirements, safety standards, or HOA rules that affect short-term rental operations. Always verify the latest short-term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for South Melbourne to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2026, finding no licensed listings among those analyzed)
What Are the Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in South Melbourne?
With a compact short-term rental market, South Melbourne gives early-mover hosts an advantage in the right neighborhoods. The areas listed below are where guest demand and local attractions converge — a useful lens for investors evaluating whether to enter this market and where to position their listing.
| Neighborhood / Area | Why Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal) | Key Attractions & Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| St Kilda | Vibrant beachside suburb known for its nightlife, dining, and cultural attractions. Popular with tourists for its beaches and lively atmosphere. | St Kilda Beach, Luna Park, Acland Street, Esplanade Market, St Kilda Pier |
| Southbank | Located along the Yarra River, Southbank is known for its arts precinct and proximity to the city center. Ideal for business travelers and tourists seeking entertainment and dining options. | Crown Casino, Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre, Arts Centre Melbourne, Yarra River Promenade, SkyBus Terminal |
| Fitzroy | Trendy and artistic neighborhood famous for its cafes, street art, and boutique shops. Attracts a younger crowd and those looking for a unique cultural experience. | Gertrude Street, Brunswick Street, Fitzroy Gardens, Melbourne Museum, Rose Street Artists' Market |
| Carlton | Rich in history and diverse culture, Carlton is home to attractions like the University of Melbourne and great Italian restaurants. Appeals to students and families. | Carlton Gardens, Melbourne Museum, Lygon Street, University of Melbourne, State Library of Victoria |
| Docklands | Modern waterfront area with a mix of residential and commercial developments. Offers contemporary living and attractions suitable for both tourists and locals. | Marvel Stadium, Docklands Park, Harbour Town, The District Docklands, Ferris Wheel |
| Albert Park | Quiet and mostly residential with a beautiful park and close to the city. Ideal for families or couples seeking a relaxing stay with easy access to attractions. | Albert Park Lake, Albert Park Grand Prix Circuit, St Kilda Botanical Gardens, Truemans Road, The Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre |
| Prahran | Trendy suburb known for its shopping, dining, and vibrant nightlife. Attracts young professionals and those looking to experience Melbourne’s urban culture. | Prahran Market, Chapel Street, Victoria Gardens, Malvern Road, Prahran Square |
| South Melbourne | Historic and vibrant suburb with a mix of traditional and contemporary spaces. Close to the city with plenty of dining and shopping options. | South Melbourne Market, Albert Park, Clarendon Street, Port Melbourne Beach, Melbourne’s Southbank |
With 8 distinct neighborhoods showing meaningful short-term rental activity, South Melbourne offers diversification within a single market. Investors can tailor their strategy — from high-turnover tourist zones to quieter residential areas that attract longer stays and remote workers.
What Types of Properties Are on Airbnb in South Melbourne?
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for South Melbourne
- The South Melbourne Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 84% of the 25 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in South Melbourne, Apartment/Condo properties are the most common (84%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 16% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
South Melbourne Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for South Melbourne
- The dominant room capacity in South Melbourne is 2 bedrooms listings, making up 40% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 2 bedrooms and 1 bedroom properties represent 72.0% of the active Airbnb listings in South Melbourne, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
South Melbourne Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for South Melbourne
- The most common guest capacity trend in South Melbourne vacation rentals is listings accommodating 4 guests (32%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely small families or groups.
- Properties designed for 4 guests and 2 guests dominate the South Melbourne STR market, accounting for 52.0% of listings.
- 28.0% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in South Melbourne.
- On average, properties in South Melbourne are equipped to host 3.7 guests.
How Do Listings in South Melbourne Compare on Quality?
Listing quality in South Melbourne can be approximated through presentation depth, bedroom count, and how often hosts disclose exact locations. These signals show how professionally the local supply base is merchandised.
Listing Quality Insights for South Melbourne
- At 32 photos per listing on average, South Melbourne hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
- 48.0% of listings show their exact location. Lower disclosure rates can increase booking hesitation — guests want to know exactly where they are staying.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Enable exact location if possible — it removes a common source of guest uncertainty and can improve your listing's position in map-based searches.
- Use these quality indicators as a self-audit checklist. Listings that exceed the South Melbourne averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.
What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in South Melbourne?
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for South Melbourne
- Essential amenities in South Melbourne that guests expect include: Wifi, Kitchen, Heating, Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, Hangers, Washer. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like TV, Cooking basics, Oven are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for South Melbourne: Wifi, Kitchen, Heating, Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, Hangers, Washer.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi, Hangers, Washer.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like TV or Cooking basics 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 South Melbourne to stay competitive.
Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in South Melbourne?
Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in South Melbourne, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.
| Amenity | Prevalence | Revenue With | Revenue Without | Revenue Uplift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Dining table | 80.0% | $35,461 | $7,791 | 355.1% |
Wine glasses | 76.0% | $36,192 | $10,090 | 258.7% |
Conditioner | 80.0% | $34,415 | $11,973 | 187.4% |
Freezer | 80.0% | $34,318 | $12,364 | 177.6% |
Refrigerator | 76.0% | $35,352 | $12,747 | 177.3% |
Single level home | 28.0% | $45,441 | $23,894 | 90.2% |
Dryer | 56.0% | $37,053 | $20,858 | 77.6% |
Baking sheet | 52.0% | $37,869 | $21,324 | 77.6% |
Room-darkening shades | 56.0% | $36,578 | $21,462 | 70.4% |
Coffee maker | 60.0% | $35,817 | $21,092 | 69.8% |
Revenue Impact Insights for South Melbourne
- Dining table tops the revenue impact list with a 355.1% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $35,461 vs. $7,791 without it.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Focus your upgrade budget on amenities in the top half of this table. Below-median amenities may improve guest experience but contribute less to revenue growth.
- Highlight revenue-impacting amenities prominently in your listing title, photos, and description — guests can't value what they don't notice.
Dive Deeper: Advanced South Melbourne STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for South Melbourne. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsSouth Melbourne Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for South Melbourne
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in South Melbourne consists of primarily domestic travelers (68%), often arriving from nearby Melbourne, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Chinese.
- Domestic travelers account for 67.5% of guests.
- Key international markets include Australia (67.5%) and United States (6.3%).
- Top languages spoken are English (60.1%) followed by Chinese (6.5%).
- 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 Melbourne and Sydney.
- 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.
What Are Airbnb Guest Ratings in South Melbourne?
Listings in South Melbourne average 4.83 out of 5 overall, with about 20 reviews per active listing and 36.0% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.
Rating Breakdown by Category
Guest Rating Insights for South Melbourne
- With an overall rating of 4.83, South Melbourne listings meet an exceptionally high bar. Guests consistently report strong satisfaction, which drives repeat bookings and referral traffic.
- The strongest subcategory is Communication (4.88), while Value (4.75) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
- 36.0% of listings carry the Guest Favorite badge, a strong trust signal that can meaningfully lift click-through and booking rates.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Focus improvement efforts on Value — even small gains in the weakest subcategory can lift overall ratings and search ranking.
- Encourage guests to leave reviews after checkout. Listings with more reviews rank higher in search results and convert browsers into bookers more effectively.
South Melbourne Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for South Melbourne
- The most common availability pattern in South Melbourne falls within the 181-270 days range, representing 56% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 72.0% 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 South Melbourne (56%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 28.0% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.
How Far in Advance Do Guests Book Airbnb in South Melbourne?
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for South Melbourne
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in South Melbourne is 27 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during March (average 42 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in April (average 0 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Fall (32 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Spring (14 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (27 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in South Melbourne.
- For March stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 42 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- During April, focus on last-minute booking availability and promotions, as guests book with very short notice (0 days avg.).
- Target marketing efforts for the Fall season well in advance (at least 32 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these South Melbourne averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in South Melbourne?
Guests in South Melbourne stay about 6.8 nights on average, generating roughly 695 reservations and 27.8 bookings per listing in the latest AirROI dataset. The most common check-in time is 3:00 PM and check-out is 10:00 AM.
Monthly Length of Stay in South Melbourne
Check-in Time Distribution
Check-out Time Distribution
Stay Pattern Insights for South Melbourne
- A mid-range stay length points to leisure-driven demand — weekend getaways and short vacations. Hosts should optimize for quick turnover efficiency while keeping the guest experience smooth.
- At 27.8 bookings per listing, the turnover rate is high. Hosts with streamlined operations (self-check-in, automated messaging, reliable cleaners) have a structural advantage.
- Stay lengths peak in May (9.3 nights) and shorten in Feb (4.5 nights). Adjust minimum-night requirements seasonally to match.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Leverage the longer-stay pattern by offering weekly discounts — even 5-10% off can convert browsing into bookings for guests considering an extended stay.
- Set your check-in time to match or beat the market standard of 3:00 PM. Offering early check-in flexibility can be a low-cost differentiator.
- Monitor length-of-stay seasonality to adjust minimum-night requirements — longer minimums during peak periods maximize revenue while shorter minimums fill gaps in shoulder seasons.
South Melbourne Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
4 listings
16% of total
2 Nights
5 listings
20% of total
4-6 Nights
1 listings
4% of total
7-29 Nights
4 listings
16% of total
30+ Nights
11 listings
44% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in South Melbourne is 30+ Nights, adopted by 44% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
- A significant segment (44%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in South Melbourne, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 44% of South Melbourne hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 16% currently do.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 44% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in South Melbourne.
South Melbourne Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Flexible
6 listings
24% of total
Moderate
5 listings
20% of total
Firm
13 listings
52% of total
Strict
1 listings
4% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for South Melbourne
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in South Melbourne is Firm, used by 52% of listings.
- A majority (56.0%) of hosts in South Melbourne utilize Firm or Strict policies, indicating a market where hosts prioritize booking security.
- Strict cancellation policies are quite rare (4%), potentially making listings with this policy less competitive unless justified by high demand or property type.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Consider adopting a Firm policy to align with the 52% market standard in South Melbourne.
- Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 4% 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 South Melbourne.
How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in South Melbourne?
Cleaning fees in South Melbourne are meaningful operating levers, not just pass-through charges. What matters most is how often hosts charge them, how high they run relative to market norms, and how large a share of gross revenue they consume.
Cleaning Fee Insights for South Melbourne
- 80.0% of listings charge a cleaning fee, making it standard practice in South Melbourne. Guests expect it and factor it into their booking decisions.
- The average cleaning fee of $123 is close to the median ($110), suggesting a relatively consistent fee structure across the market.
- Cleaning fees represent 10.0% of gross revenue on average — a significant line item that impacts total guest cost and competitiveness.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Price your cleaning fee competitively against the South Melbourne median of $110. Fees significantly above market norms can deter bookings, especially for shorter stays.
- Consider whether bundling the cleaning fee into a slightly higher nightly rate might improve conversion, since many guests filter by total price and separate fees can feel punitive.
- Monitor competitor cleaning fees regularly. Airbnb's search algorithm factors in total price, so a well-calibrated cleaning fee can improve your listing's ranking.
What Do the Top Airbnb Listings in South Melbourne Look Like?
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in South Melbournebased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
The Sussex—Vintage Haven near Albert Park Lake
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Park Yourself in Park St. Perfection + Position
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Double-Storey Retreat, Stunning Views & Parking
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms
Heart of South Melbourne with free parking
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms
Brand New 2BR Oasis Retreat w/ Parking, Pool & Gym
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms
Edy - Southbank Stunner with WIFI Parking
Entire Place • 1 bedroom
Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.
Who Are the Top Airbnb Hosts in South Melbourne?
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in South Melbourne 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DNA Home | 3 | $103,651 | 114 | 4.91/5.0 |
| Ruth | 1 | $80,073 | 26 | 4.77/5.0 |
| Gary | 1 | $62,289 | 15 | 4.87/5.0 |
| Rebecca | 1 | $59,616 | 15 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Gerry From Staypilot | 1 | $54,269 | 30 | 4.87/5.0 |
| Clarence | 1 | $53,321 | 15 | 4.67/5.0 |
| LaneStay Team | 2 | $48,896 | 38 | 4.80/5.0 |
| Paul & Dan | 1 | $47,589 | 42 | 4.86/5.0 |
| Justin | 1 | $34,008 | 15 | 4.80/5.0 |
| Cissy | 1 | $32,860 | 31 | 4.90/5.0 |
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 South Melbourne.
Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in South Melbourne?
South Melbourne is a quality-focused market, with a high Superhost share and fairly mature operating standards.
Host Profile Insights for South Melbourne
- With 68.0% Superhosts, South Melbourne has an experienced host base that sets high guest expectations. New entrants should plan for competitive quality standards.
- 12.0% of listings are professionally managed, reflecting a market still dominated by individual hosts.
- 0.0% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
- 80.0% of listings use Airbnb's simplified pricing (host-only fee), where the host pays the entire platform service fee and the guest sees one all-in price with no separate Airbnb service charge. High adoption signals a professional, PMS-connected host base — Airbnb mandates simplified pricing for software-connected listings.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Consider enabling Instant Book — it reduces booking friction and Airbnb's algorithm tends to favor Instant Book listings in search results.
- With 72.0% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
- Benchmark your host metrics against these South Melbourne averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.
Top Professional Management Companies in South Melbourne
These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in South Melbourne, ranked by total revenue across their portfolio. Their performance metrics offer a benchmark for what institutional-level hosting looks like in this market.
| Company | Listings | Revenue | ADR | Occ. | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ruth | 1 | $80,073 | $420 | 53.5% | 4.77/5 |
| Clarence | 1 | $53,321 | $240 | 69.9% | 4.67/5 |
| Paul & Dan | 1 | $47,589 | $165 | 80.8% | 4.86/5 |
Management Company Insights for South Melbourne
- The leading management company, Ruth, operates 1 listings with $80,073 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in South Melbourne.
- Top managers average 1 properties each, suggesting professional management in South Melbourne still operates at a relatively boutique scale.
- Professionally managed listings in the top tier average 4.77/5 in guest ratings — demonstrating that scale and quality can coexist.
Recommendations
- With only 12.0% of listings professionally managed, there may be an opportunity to differentiate through more structured operations and consistent guest experiences.
- Study how top management companies price, position, and maintain their portfolios — their ADR and occupancy rates reflect strategies refined across dozens of listings.
- If you're considering hiring a property manager, compare their portfolio performance against these benchmarks before committing.
How Does South Melbourne's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?
How does the South Melbourne 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.
Compared with Port Melbourne, South Melbourne has 0 percentage points higher occupancy and about $150 lower ADR. That helps frame whether this market is winning more on demand, pricing, or both.
| Market | Active Properties | Monthly Revenue | Daily Rate | Avg. Occupancy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Port Melbourne | 10 | $5,471 | $344.26 | 55% |
| Mount Martha | 15 | $4,800 | $579.85 | 32% |
| Macedon | 10 | $4,192 | $479.18 | 38% |
| Leopold | 12 | $3,083 | $449.23 | 35% |
| Blairgowrie | 19 | $3,017 | $345.38 | 38% |
| Lancefield | 19 | $2,935 | $231.14 | 38% |
| Daylesford | 436 | $2,909 | $294.52 | 36% |
| Sorrento | 17 | $2,884 | $358.52 | 31% |
| Shire of Strathbogie | 38 | $2,879 | $341.42 | 35% |
| Kinglake | 13 | $2,863 | $287.67 | 41% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in South Melbourne
These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for South Melbourne.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in South Melbourne?
South Melbourne hosts earn about $29,927 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $194 and RevPAR of $107. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in South Melbourne, Victoria, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, South Melbourne market, April 2025 to March 2026.
What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in South Melbourne?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in South Melbourne is 54.7%. December is the strongest month and May is the softest, so hosts should expect demand to move meaningfully throughout the year rather than stay flat.
What is the average Airbnb daily rate in South Melbourne?
Listings in South Melbourne average $194 per night. The broader pricing spread also matters: lower-performing listings cluster closer to the lower quartiles, while premium homes can price materially above the city average when demand spikes or listing quality stands out.
How many Airbnb listings are active in South Melbourne?
South Melbourne currently has about 25 active Airbnb listings in AirROI's market dataset. That supply count helps explain how competitive the market is, how much depth there is for benchmarking, and whether the market behaves like a niche destination or a scaled urban market.
How strict are short-term rental regulations in South Melbourne?
AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in South Melbourne as Low. The dataset also shows about 0.0% of listings with registration evidence. That is a market signal, not legal advice, so hosts should still confirm current licensing and compliance rules locally before listing.
What is the RevPAR for Airbnb in South Melbourne?
RevPAR in South Melbourne is about $107. That metric combines pricing and occupancy into one efficiency number, so it is often a better quick benchmark than ADR alone when investors want to compare how well listings convert nightly rates into realized revenue.
Is Airbnb profitable in South Melbourne?
At 54.7% occupancy, South Melbourne can be profitable — but margins depend heavily on operating costs, property acquisition price, and how well hosts optimize pricing across seasons. Average annual revenue is $29,927, but individual returns depend on property type, location within the city, and the host's operating efficiency.
How far in advance do guests book Airbnb in South Melbourne?
The average booking lead time in South Melbourne is about 27 days — a moderate lead time that gives hosts planning visibility while still benefiting from last-minute bookings. Hosts who understand their market's booking cadence can adjust minimum stays and pricing windows accordingly.
What are the best neighborhoods for Airbnb in South Melbourne?
Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in South Melbourne include St Kilda, Southbank, Fitzroy. Each area attracts different guest profiles — from business travelers to leisure visitors — so the best location depends on the property type and target audience a host is aiming for. See the full neighborhood breakdown above.
What type of property performs best on Airbnb in South Melbourne?
entire_home listings make up 84.0% of the active supply in South Melbourne. The most common configuration does not always mean the most profitable — operators who identify underserved property types or bedroom counts can sometimes outperform the market average by filling a gap in local supply.
How does South Melbourne compare to nearby Airbnb markets?
Among neighboring markets, Port Melbourne posts $65,656 in average annual revenue with 55.3% occupancy, compared to South Melbourne's $29,927 and 54.7%. Comparing nearby markets helps investors understand whether a destination's performance reflects local demand or broader regional trends.
What is the average length of stay in South Melbourne?
The average Airbnb stay length in South Melbourne is about 6.8 nights. That matters for turnover, cleaning operations, and pricing strategy because shorter stays increase changeovers while longer stays can smooth occupancy and reduce operational friction.
What is the average Airbnb guest rating in South Melbourne?
Airbnb listings in South Melbourne average 4.83 out of 5 overall. About 36.0% of listings carry the guest favorite badge, which suggests a meaningful share of inventory is competing on review quality rather than price alone.
Which amenities boost Airbnb revenue in South Melbourne?
Dining table and Wine glasses are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in South Melbourne. In AirROI's latest dataset, listings with these amenities outperform those without on average revenue, which makes amenities analysis useful for prioritizing investment and listing upgrades.
Do Airbnb hosts charge cleaning fees in South Melbourne?
Yes. About 80.0% of active Airbnb listings in South Melbourne charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $123. The more important operating benchmark is how much of gross revenue that fee consumes, not just the absolute dollar amount.
What percentage of Airbnb hosts are Superhosts in South Melbourne?
A 68.0% Superhost rate signals a highly competitive market where review quality and responsiveness are table stakes, not differentiators.
About AirROI Market Data
AirROI tracks over 20 million properties across 190+ countries and maintains 15+ years of historical performance data, making it one of the deepest Airbnb and STR intelligence platforms available. The analytics pipeline aggregates listing-level data monthly — revenue, occupancy, nightly rates, RevPAR, guest demographics, booking patterns, and competitive supply — so investors and operators can benchmark any market against its own history and against neighboring destinations.
Real estate investors, property managers, financial institutions, hedge funds, tourism boards, hospitality consultants, tech platforms, and academic researchers rely on AirROI data to underwrite acquisitions, optimize pricing, model macro trends, and conduct peer-reviewed research. Data is available through in-depth market reports like this one and the Airbnb API with 22 endpoints and an Airbnb MCP Server for AI agents.
AirROI proprietary analytics as of 2026-03-31. Metrics reflect trailing twelve-month aggregates from active listings. Revenue figures are market averages, not projections. Neighborhood descriptions are AI-generated and reviewed for accuracy. For full methodology, see the data methodology page.