Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics
How much can you earn on Airbnb in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (July 2025 – June 2026), the short answer is $4,119 per year — at a $74 nightly rate, 31.5% occupancy, and a $24 RevPAR that reflects a wider gap between nightly rates and realized revenue that rewards occupancy-focused strategies.
Port Elizabeth's 282 active listings and selective demand that rewards strong listing quality and pricing strategy position it as a midsize vacation rental market. Supply grew 571.4% and nightly rates have risen, creating an environment where the most bookable listings stand to capture outsized share. Hosts who pair competitive pricing with strong guest experience are well-positioned to convert the growing traveler base into consistent bookings.
Regulation is low with minimal registration requirements, pointing to an operator-friendly environment. For data-driven hosts, the opportunity lies in reading these signals and positioning accordingly.
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What Are the Key Airbnb Metrics in Port Elizabeth?
In Port Elizabeth, the headline Airbnb metrics are $4,119 in average annual revenue,31.5% occupancy, $74 ADR, and $24 in RevPAR, and guests book about 28 days in advance.
How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Port Elizabeth?
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Port Elizabeth 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 Port Elizabeth is typically December, while July often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Port Elizabeth across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $1,684+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $928 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $489 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $230, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Port Elizabeth
What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Port Elizabeth?
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Port Elizabeth STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Decembersees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while June 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 Port Elizabeth:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 65%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 46% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 28%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 13% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Port Elizabeth
What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Port Elizabeth?
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Port Elizabeth involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Port Elizabeth typically peaks in April and dips lowest during January. 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 $148+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $89 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $56 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $41 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Port Elizabeth
What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Port Elizabeth?
RevPAR in Port Elizabeth is currently $24. 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 $10 RevPAR.
- Typical properties (Median) generate $16 RevPAR.
- Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $30 RevPAR.
- Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $50 RevPAR.
Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Port Elizabeth
RevPAR Insights for Port Elizabeth
- The average RevPAR in Port Elizabeth is $24. 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% ($50) and bottom 25% ($10) is $40, suggesting a relatively compressed market where operational differences yield moderate returns.
- RevPAR peaks in Dec and bottoms out in Jul, mirroring the broader seasonal demand pattern and suggesting opportunities for dynamic pricing.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Track your own RevPAR monthly against these Port Elizabeth benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $16, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
- Top-quartile listings achieve $30+ 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 Port Elizabeth?
Port Elizabeth's peak Airbnb season falls in December, April, March, while the softest stretch is May, June, July. Overall, the market shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy, which should guide pricing, minimum stays, and cash-flow planning.
Peak Season (December, April, March)
- Revenue averages $1,025 per month
- Occupancy rates average 42.5%
- Daily rates average $79
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $667 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 31.0%
- Daily rates hold near $75
Low Season (May, June, July)
- Revenue drops to average $525 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 23.6%
- Daily rates adjust to average $78
Seasonality Insights for Port Elizabeth
- Airbnb seasonality in Port Elizabeth 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 Port Elizabeth's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $1,114, occupancy reaching 48.1%, and ADRs peaking at $82.
- Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $482, occupancy could drop to 23.4%, and ADRs may adjust to $72.
- Lower occupancy paired with meaningful seasonality means hosts in Port Elizabeth need to maximize every peak-season booking and seriously consider whether off-season pricing adjustments or minimum-stay changes can capture incremental revenue.
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 Port Elizabeth, 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 Port Elizabeth?
Low regulation and minimal registration activity in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, South Africa 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 Port Elizabeth 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 Port Elizabeth?
Location within Port Elizabeth matters. Even in a midsize market, the difference between neighborhoods can mean a material gap in occupancy, nightly rate, and overall Airbnb revenue. Below are 8 areas where short-term rental activity and guest interest are concentrated — along with the reasons each neighborhood appeals to travelers.
| Neighborhood / Area | Why Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal) | Key Attractions & Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| The Anchorage | A beautiful waterfront area with picturesque views and a tranquil atmosphere, ideal for families and tourists seeking relaxation by the ocean. | Sardinia Bay Beach, The Boardwalk Mall, Sardinia Bay Nature Reserve, Cape Recife Nature Reserve, Shark Rock Pier |
| Summerstrand | This suburb is known for its stunning beaches and proximity to the university. Popular with both students and holidaymakers, making it a great area for short-term rentals. | Summerstrand Beach, Nelson Mandela University, The Boardwalk, Humewood Beach, Dolphin Beach |
| Walmer | A tree-lined suburb that offers a mix of residential calm and close proximity to shops and restaurants. Attracts business travelers looking for comfortable accommodations. | Walmer Park Shopping Centre, The Walmer Golf Club, Lunar Park, Local eateries and cafes, Shamwari Game Reserve (nearby) |
| Colleen Glen | A more rural area with stunning natural scenery, ideal for eco-tourism and attracting visitors looking for adventure and nature excursions. | Colleen Glen Beach, Addo Elephant National Park (close by), Tsitsikamma National Park (day trips), Horseback riding trails, Bird watching opportunities |
| Central | The vibrant urban heart of Port Elizabeth, offering a mix of history and modern amenities. Perfect for those wanting a city experience with accessibility to local attractions. | Donkin Reserve, Port Elizabeth City Hall, St. George's Park, market stalls and local shops, Cultural institutions |
| Humewood | Known for its beaches and close proximity to the main attractions of Port Elizabeth, making it a popular choice for both tourists and locals alike. | Humewood Beach, Bayworld, Cape Town Fish Market, The Boardwalk Casino, Splash Waterworld |
| Greenacres | A quieter suburb that is conveniently located near shopping areas, making it a good option for travelers looking for comfort and accessibility to amenities. | Greenacres Shopping Centre, Local parks, Access to main transport routes, Close to dining options, Entertainment venues |
| Kamma Park | A developing area with new residential projects, attracting a mix of families and young professionals. It's becoming a go-to neighborhood for long-term stays and rentals. | Nearby nature reserves, Community parks, Family-friendly environment, Shopping centers, Dining experiences |
With 8 distinct neighborhoods showing meaningful short-term rental activity, Port Elizabeth 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 Port Elizabeth?
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Port Elizabeth
- The Port Elizabeth Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 69.9% of the 282 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- However, a notable 30.1% share for Private Rooms suggests opportunities for budget-conscious travelers or hosts renting out spare rooms.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Port Elizabeth, Apartment/Condo properties are the most common (36.9%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 28.7% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- The presence of 23% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
- Smaller segments like outdoor/unique, unique stays (combined 5.0%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Port Elizabeth Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Port Elizabeth
- The dominant room capacity in Port Elizabeth is 1 bedroom listings, making up 53.5% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 1 bedroom and 2 bedrooms properties represent 74.8% of the active Airbnb listings in Port Elizabeth, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- With over half the market (53.5%) consisting of studios or 1-bedroom units, Port Elizabeth is particularly well-suited for individuals or couples.
Port Elizabeth Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Port Elizabeth
- The most common guest capacity trend in Port Elizabeth vacation rentals is listings accommodating 2 guests (37.9%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely couples or solo travelers.
- Properties designed for 2 guests and 4 guests dominate the Port Elizabeth STR market, accounting for 62.4% of listings.
- 16.0% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Port Elizabeth.
- On average, properties in Port Elizabeth are equipped to host 3.2 guests.
How Do Listings in Port Elizabeth Compare on Quality?
Listing quality in Port Elizabeth 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 Port Elizabeth
- At 22.8 photos per listing on average, Port Elizabeth hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
- 41.1% 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 Port Elizabeth averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.
What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Port Elizabeth?
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Port Elizabeth
- Essential amenities in Port Elizabeth that guests expect include: Wifi. Lacking these (this) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Free parking on premises, TV, Kitchen are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Port Elizabeth: Wifi.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Free parking on premises or TV 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 Port Elizabeth to stay competitive.
Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Port Elizabeth?
Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Port Elizabeth, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.
| Amenity | Prevalence | Revenue With | Revenue Without | Revenue Uplift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Children’s books and toysHigh opportunity | 3.5% | $12,106 | $3,825 | 216.5% |
Dishwasher | 11.3% | $10,458 | $3,307 | 216.2% |
Sun loungersHigh opportunity | 5.0% | $11,186 | $3,750 | 198.3% |
Outdoor playgroundHigh opportunity | 2.5% | $11,633 | $3,928 | 196.2% |
Beach essentialsHigh opportunity | 4.6% | $11,107 | $3,781 | 193.7% |
Pack ’n play/Travel cribHigh opportunity | 6.7% | $10,088 | $3,688 | 173.5% |
High chairHigh opportunity | 3.9% | $10,158 | $3,874 | 162.2% |
Bathtub | 18.1% | $8,347 | $3,185 | 162.0% |
Hair dryer | 51.4% | $5,659 | $2,489 | 127.4% |
Pool | 32.6% | $6,483 | $2,974 | 118.0% |
Revenue Impact Insights for Port Elizabeth
- Children’s books and toys tops the revenue impact list with a 216.5% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $12,106 vs. $3,825 without it.
- High-opportunity amenities — Children’s books and toys, Sun loungers, Outdoor playground — combine revenue uplift above 100% with prevalence under 10%, meaning most competitors haven't adopted them yet.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Prioritize adding Children’s books and toys — it has the best combination of high revenue impact and low market saturation in Port Elizabeth.
- 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 Port Elizabeth STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Port Elizabeth. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsPort Elizabeth Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for Port Elizabeth
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Port Elizabeth consists of primarily domestic travelers (74%), often arriving from nearby Cape Town, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Afrikaans.
- Domestic travelers account for 73.9% of guests.
- Key international markets include South Africa (73.9%) and Germany (7.1%).
- Top languages spoken are English (56%) followed by Afrikaans (14.1%).
- 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 Cape Town and East London.
- 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 Port Elizabeth?
Listings in Port Elizabeth average 4.78 out of 5 overall, with about 28.3 reviews per active listing and 35.5% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.
Rating Breakdown by Category
Guest Rating Insights for Port Elizabeth
- An average rating of 4.78 places Port Elizabeth in solid territory. Most guests leave satisfied, though there is room for hosts to push toward the top tier.
- The strongest subcategory is Communication (4.86), while Value (4.81) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
- 35.5% 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.
Port Elizabeth Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Port Elizabeth
- The most common availability pattern in Port Elizabeth falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 84.4% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 98.6% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
- For booked days, the 31-90 days range is most frequent in Port Elizabeth (47.9%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 1.5% 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 Port Elizabeth?
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Port Elizabeth
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Port Elizabeth is 28 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during November (average 83 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in December (average 22 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Fall (71 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (25 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (28 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Port Elizabeth.
- For November stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 83 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Fall season well in advance (at least 71 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Port Elizabeth averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Port Elizabeth?
Guests in Port Elizabeth stay about 4.4 nights on average, generating roughly 3,221 reservations and 11.5 bookings per listing in the latest AirROI dataset. The most common check-in time is 2:00 PM and check-out is 10:00 AM.
Monthly Length of Stay in Port Elizabeth
Check-in Time Distribution
Check-out Time Distribution
Stay Pattern Insights for Port Elizabeth
- 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.
- 11.5 bookings per listing is a manageable pace that balances revenue with operational overhead.
- Stay lengths peak in Dec (5.2 nights) and shorten in Jul (2.1 nights). Adjust minimum-night requirements seasonally to match.
Recommendations for Hosts
- With shorter average stays, focus on streamlining turnover. Self-check-in, reliable cleaning crews, and pre-staged amenities can reduce per-booking operational costs.
- Set your check-in time to match or beat the market standard of 2:00 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.
Port Elizabeth Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
186 listings
66% of total
2 Nights
44 listings
15.6% of total
3 Nights
4 listings
1.4% of total
4-6 Nights
2 listings
0.7% of total
7-29 Nights
1 listings
0.4% of total
30+ Nights
45 listings
16% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Port Elizabeth is 1 Night, adopted by 66% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
- A strong majority (81.6%) of the Port Elizabeth Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.
- A significant segment (16%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Port Elizabeth, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 1 Night minimum stay, as 66% of Port Elizabeth hosts use this setting.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 16% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Port Elizabeth.
Port Elizabeth Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Super Strict 30 Days
1 listings
0.4% of total
Limited
25 listings
8.9% of total
Flexible
119 listings
42.2% of total
Moderate
65 listings
23% of total
Firm
68 listings
24.1% of total
Strict
4 listings
1.4% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Port Elizabeth
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Port Elizabeth is Flexible, used by 42.2% of listings.
- There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (65.2%) and stricter (25.5%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.
- Strict cancellation policies are quite rare (1.4%), potentially making listings with this policy less competitive unless justified by high demand or property type.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Consider adopting a Flexible policy to align with the 42.2% market standard in Port Elizabeth.
- Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 1.4% 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 Port Elizabeth.
How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Port Elizabeth?
Cleaning fees in Port Elizabeth 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 Port Elizabeth
- About 47.2% of Port Elizabeth listings charge a cleaning fee — a mixed market where some hosts absorb the cost into nightly rates while others break it out.
- The average cleaning fee of $12 is close to the median ($7), suggesting a relatively consistent fee structure across the market.
- Cleaning fees represent 2.8% of gross revenue on average — a modest component of the overall booking price.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Price your cleaning fee competitively against the Port Elizabeth median of $7. Fees significantly above market norms can deter bookings, especially for shorter stays.
- 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 Port Elizabeth Look Like?
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Port Elizabethbased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Luxurious beach penthouse in the heart of Humewood
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
A Stone's Throw
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Breakfast Incl. | Boutique Country Stay near Beach
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms
Home in Gqeberha, The Lookout : 180 deg Sea Views
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Tranquil Tides. Eco Beach Villa. Solar system
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
#1 ranked TREEHOUSE in SA with amazing views 🏝
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms
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 Port Elizabeth?
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Port Elizabeth 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Host Corporate | 10 | $74,844 | 89 | 4.71/5.0 |
| Janita | 4 | $52,181 | 109 | 4.64/5.0 |
| Alf | 6 | $48,990 | 232 | 4.93/5.0 |
| Kim | 3 | $40,395 | 2401 | 4.80/5.0 |
| Marais | 15 | $39,833 | 181 | 4.63/5.0 |
| Steve Beula | 2 | $38,685 | 51 | 4.87/5.0 |
| Penelope | 1 | $38,628 | 20 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Royalston Lakehouse | 3 | $31,737 | 26 | 4.92/5.0 |
| Lara & Tim | 5 | $27,695 | 51 | 4.92/5.0 |
| Matthew | 3 | $25,031 | 23 | 4.72/5.0 |
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 Port Elizabeth.
Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Port Elizabeth?
Port Elizabeth has a relatively balanced host base.
Host Profile Insights for Port Elizabeth
- A 32.3% Superhost share is healthy — enough experienced operators to anchor quality without making the market impenetrable for newcomers.
- 11.0% of listings are professionally managed, reflecting a market still dominated by individual hosts.
- 12.8% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
- 69.5% 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
- Earning Superhost status can significantly improve search ranking and guest trust. Focus on maintaining high response rates, low cancellations, and strong reviews.
- Consider enabling Instant Book — it reduces booking friction and Airbnb's algorithm tends to favor Instant Book listings in search results.
- With 28.4% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
- Benchmark your host metrics against these Port Elizabeth averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.
Top Professional Management Companies in Port Elizabeth
These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in Port Elizabeth, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Host Corporate | 10 | $74,844 | $129 | 30.6% | 4.71/5 |
| Lara & Tim | 5 | $27,695 | $59 | 44.5% | 4.92/5 |
| Matthew | 3 | $25,031 | $133 | 33.2% | 4.72/5 |
| Addo Riverside Manor | 3 | $11,809 | $104 | 24.5% | N/A |
| Mynhardt | 1 | $8,430 | $82 | 48.4% | 5.00/5 |
| C.J. | 1 | $8,108 | $155 | 33.1% | N/A |
| Kristi | 2 | $6,452 | $46 | 34.0% | 4.25/5 |
| Gary | 1 | $5,458 | $70 | 43.3% | 4.95/5 |
| Anine | 3 | $5,186 | $38 | 30.4% | 4.79/5 |
| Willem | 3 | $4,058 | $34 | 28.7% | 4.43/5 |
Management Company Insights for Port Elizabeth
- The leading management company, The Host Corporate, operates 10 listings with $74,844 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in Port Elizabeth.
- Top managers average 3 properties each, suggesting professional management in Port Elizabeth still operates at a relatively boutique scale.
- Professionally managed listings in the top tier average 4.72/5 in guest ratings — demonstrating that scale and quality can coexist.
Recommendations
- With only 11.0% 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 Port Elizabeth's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?
How does the Port Elizabeth 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 Seaview, Port Elizabeth has 2 percentage points lower occupancy and about $57 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seaview | 52 | $1,297 | $130.71 | 34% |
| Saint Francis Bay | 77 | $899 | $221.05 | 29% |
| Kouga Local Municipality | 884 | $816 | $164.39 | 28% |
| Cape Saint Francis | 27 | $816 | $191.94 | 29% |
| Kenton-on-Sea | 27 | $805 | $160.79 | 26% |
| Sundays River Valley Local Municipality | 69 | $688 | $82.58 | 32% |
| Ndlambe Local Municipality | 338 | $664 | $130.92 | 26% |
| Colchester | 20 | $620 | $102.18 | 24% |
| Port Alfred | 39 | $558 | $126.59 | 30% |
| Gqeberha | 927 | $523 | $79.78 | 31% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Port Elizabeth
These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Port Elizabeth.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Port Elizabeth?
Port Elizabeth hosts earn about $4,119 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $74 and RevPAR of $24. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Port Elizabeth market, July 2025 to June 2026.
What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Port Elizabeth?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Port Elizabeth is 31.5%. December is the strongest month and July 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 Port Elizabeth?
Listings in Port Elizabeth average $74 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 Port Elizabeth?
Port Elizabeth currently has about 282 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 Port Elizabeth?
AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Port Elizabeth 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 Port Elizabeth?
RevPAR in Port Elizabeth is about $24. 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 Port Elizabeth?
Occupancy of 31.5% means Port Elizabeth is a more selective market. Profitability is achievable but requires careful cost management, premium positioning, or targeting longer stays to reduce turnover. Average annual revenue is $4,119, 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 Port Elizabeth?
The average booking lead time in Port Elizabeth is about 28 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 Port Elizabeth?
Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Port Elizabeth include The Anchorage, Summerstrand, Walmer. 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 Port Elizabeth?
entire_home listings make up 69.9% of the active supply in Port Elizabeth. 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 Port Elizabeth compare to nearby Airbnb markets?
Among neighboring markets, Seaview posts $15,559 in average annual revenue with 34.1% occupancy, compared to Port Elizabeth's $4,119 and 31.5%. 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 Port Elizabeth?
The average Airbnb stay length in Port Elizabeth is about 4.4 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 Port Elizabeth?
Airbnb listings in Port Elizabeth average 4.78 out of 5 overall. About 35.5% 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 Port Elizabeth?
Children’s books and toys and Dishwasher are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Port Elizabeth. 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 Port Elizabeth?
Yes. About 47.2% of active Airbnb listings in Port Elizabeth charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $12. 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 Port Elizabeth?
At 32.3%, there is a healthy mix of experienced and newer hosts — earning Superhost status can still provide a meaningful visibility boost.
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 2026-06-30. 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.