Orkney, Scotland Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics
How much can you earn on Airbnb in Orkney, Scotland? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $24,363 per year — at a $205 nightly rate, 52.0% occupancy, and a $109 RevPAR that reflects moderate rate-to-revenue efficiency with room to optimize.
With just 42 active listings, Orkney is a micro-market where solid booking activity throughout the year. Supply grew 281.8% 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 high, and hosts should factor licensing costs and compliance timelines into their launch plan. 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 Orkney?
In Orkney, the headline Airbnb metrics are $24,363 in average annual revenue,52.0% occupancy, $205 ADR, and $109 in RevPAR, and guests book about 75 days in advance.
How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Orkney?
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Orkney 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 Orkney is typically July, while February often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Orkney across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $4,859+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $3,730 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $2,421 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,411, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Orkney
What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Orkney?
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Orkney STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Julysees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while March experiences the lowest (low season). Effective strategies, like adjusting minimum stays or offering promotions, can boost occupancy during slower periods. Here's how different property tiers perform in Orkney:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 79%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 67% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 45%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 29% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Orkney
What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Orkney?
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Orkney involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Orkney typically peaks in July 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 $283+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $224 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $181 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $144 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Orkney
What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Orkney?
RevPAR in Orkney is currently $109. 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 $82 RevPAR.
- Typical properties (Median) generate $100 RevPAR.
- Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $139 RevPAR.
- Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $156 RevPAR.
Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Orkney
RevPAR Insights for Orkney
- The average RevPAR in Orkney is $109. 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% ($156) and bottom 25% ($82) is $74, suggesting a relatively compressed market where operational differences yield moderate returns.
- RevPAR peaks in Jul and bottoms out in Jan, mirroring the broader seasonal demand pattern and suggesting opportunities for dynamic pricing.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Track your own RevPAR monthly against these Orkney benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $100, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
- Top-quartile listings achieve $139+ 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 Orkney?
Orkney's peak Airbnb season falls in July, August, June, while the softest stretch is January, February, March. Overall, the market shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy, which should guide pricing, minimum stays, and cash-flow planning.
Peak Season (July, August, June)
- Revenue averages $4,750 per month
- Occupancy rates average 72.1%
- Daily rates average $211
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $2,474 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 46.0%
- Daily rates hold near $198
Low Season (January, February, March)
- Revenue drops to average $1,245 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 26.4%
- Daily rates adjust to average $186
Seasonality Insights for Orkney
- Airbnb seasonality in Orkney 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 Orkney's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $5,167, occupancy reaching 74.7%, and ADRs peaking at $215.
- Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $1,189, occupancy could drop to 24.0%, and ADRs may adjust to $183.
- 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 Orkney.
Seasonal Strategies for Maximizing Profit
- Peak Season: Maximize revenue through premium pricing. In a high-regulation market like Orkney, ensure your permit covers the number of nights you plan to book — some jurisdictions cap annual rental days.
- 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 Orkney, 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 Orkney?
Orkney, Scotland, United Kingdom has a high regulation classification, yet only 38% of listings show registration evidence. That gap between regulation on the books and compliance on the ground can shift quickly — municipalities often tighten enforcement in waves, putting unregistered operators at risk of fines or delisting. Always verify the latest short-term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Orkney to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2026, based on 38% licensed listings)
What Are the Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Orkney?
With a compact short-term rental market, Orkney 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Kirkwall | The capital and largest town in Orkney, rich in history and culture. A prime location for visitors wanting to explore Orkney's archaeological sites, museums, and local shops. | St. Magnus Cathedral, Orkney Museum, Tankerness House, Kirkwall Harbour, Bishop's Palace |
| Stromness | A picturesque town known for its charming waterfront and historical significance. It's popular with visitors for its artistic vibe and proximity to major archaeological sites. | Stromness Museum, Museum of Whaling, Graemeshall House, Orkney Lighthouse Museum, Sutherland's Bar |
| Eday | A quieter island experience, Eday offers beautiful landscapes and abundant wildlife. Great for guests looking for a peaceful getaway and outdoor activities such as walking and birdwatching. | Eday Heritage Centre, Brough of Eday, The Eday Bird Observatory, Burgar Hill, Kirk of Eday |
| Sande, | N/A | |
| Shapinsay | Known for its tranquil setting and close-knit community, Shapinsay is popular with those seeking rural experiences. Ideal for visitors interested in local wildlife and outdoor adventures. | Shapinsay Heritage Centre, Balfour Castle, Shapinsay Lighthouse, Tingwall Valley, The Knab |
| Rousay | Rousay is known as the 'Egypt of the North' due to its many archaeological sites. This island attracts visitors interested in history and stunning landscapes. | Taversoe Tuick, Rousay Heritage Centre, Midhowe Chambered Cairn, Westness House, Rousay's Coastal Walks |
| Westray | Westray is popular for its rugged coastline, rich Viking heritage, and beautiful beaches. Ideal for adventurous visitors who enjoy coastal walks and historical exploration. | Noltland Castle, Westray Heritage Centre, Pierowall, The Castle of Noltland, Cata Sand |
| Papay | Known for its traditional crafts and serene environment, Papa Westray (Papay) attracts those looking for a unique and authentic island experience far from the hustle and bustle. | Kelp Cave, Papa Westray Village, The Egg Light House, St. Boniface Church, The Kirkyard Path |
Because Orkney has a high regulation profile, confirming that short-term rental permits are available in your target neighborhood is a critical first step before committing to a property purchase. Regulation can vary at the neighborhood or district level even within the same city.
What Types of Properties Are on Airbnb in Orkney?
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Orkney
- The Orkney Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 95.2% of the 42 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Orkney, House properties are the most common (59.5%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 59.5% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- Smaller segments like hotel/boutique, unique stays (combined 9.6%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Orkney Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Orkney
- The dominant room capacity in Orkney is 2 bedrooms listings, making up 31% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 2 bedrooms and 1 bedroom properties represent 62.0% of the active Airbnb listings in Orkney, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 30.9% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Orkney.
Orkney Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Orkney
- The most common guest capacity trend in Orkney vacation rentals is listings accommodating 4 guests (38.1%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely small families or groups.
- Properties designed for 4 guests and 2 guests dominate the Orkney STR market, accounting for 59.5% of listings.
- 28.5% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Orkney.
- On average, properties in Orkney are equipped to host 4.2 guests.
How Do Listings in Orkney Compare on Quality?
Listing quality in Orkney 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 Orkney
- At 23.9 photos per listing on average, Orkney hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
- 38.1% 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 Orkney averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.
What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Orkney?
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Orkney
- Essential amenities in Orkney that guests expect include: Smoke alarm, Heating, TV, Kitchen. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Washer, Wifi, Free parking on premises are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
- Warning: Wifi is not universally provided but is considered essential globally. Ensure reliable Wifi is offered.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Orkney: Smoke alarm, Heating, TV, Kitchen.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Heating, TV, Kitchen.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Washer or Wifi 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 Orkney to stay competitive.
Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Orkney?
Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Orkney, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.
| Amenity | Prevalence | Revenue With | Revenue Without | Revenue Uplift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Carbon monoxide alarm | 61.9% | $28,906 | $16,980 | 70.2% |
Children’s dinnerware | 14.3% | $37,576 | $22,161 | 69.6% |
Iron | 73.8% | $27,088 | $16,683 | 62.4% |
Conditioner | 26.2% | $33,367 | $21,168 | 57.6% |
Cooking basics | 81.0% | $26,124 | $16,878 | 54.8% |
Children’s books and toys | 21.4% | $33,215 | $21,949 | 51.3% |
Ethernet connection | 11.9% | $33,368 | $23,146 | 44.2% |
Freezer | 64.3% | $27,211 | $19,235 | 41.5% |
Shampoo | 38.1% | $29,411 | $21,256 | 38.4% |
Coffee maker | 35.7% | $29,193 | $21,679 | 34.7% |
Revenue Impact Insights for Orkney
- Carbon monoxide alarm tops the revenue impact list with a 70.2% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $28,906 vs. $16,980 without it.
- Cooking basics — while widespread — still correlate with meaningful revenue gains, making it table stakes rather than true differentiators.
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 Orkney STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Orkney. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsOrkney Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for Orkney
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Orkney consists of a mix of domestic (58%) and international guests, often arriving from nearby England, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or French.
- Domestic travelers account for 58.2% of guests.
- Key international markets include United Kingdom (58.2%) and United States (14.5%).
- Top languages spoken are English (56.7%) followed by French (16.5%).
- A significant demographic segment is the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group, representing 50% of guests.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Balance marketing efforts between domestic and international channels based on the guest mix.
- 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 Orkney?
Listings in Orkney average 4.89 out of 5 overall, with about 31 reviews per active listing and 54.8% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.
Rating Breakdown by Category
Guest Rating Insights for Orkney
- With an overall rating of 4.89, Orkney listings meet an exceptionally high bar. Guests consistently report strong satisfaction, which drives repeat bookings and referral traffic.
- The strongest subcategory is Communication (4.93), while Value (4.82) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
- 54.8% 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.
Orkney Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Orkney
- The most common availability pattern in Orkney falls within the 181-270 days range, representing 45.2% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 76.2% 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 Orkney (47.6%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 23.8% 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 Orkney?
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Orkney
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Orkney is 75 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during June (average 114 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in January (average 35 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Summer (111 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (40 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (75 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Orkney.
- For June stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 114 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 111 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Orkney averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Orkney?
Guests in Orkney stay about 6.3 nights on average, generating roughly 908 reservations and 21.6 bookings per listing in the latest AirROI dataset. The most common check-in time is 4:00 PM and check-out is 10:00 AM.
Monthly Length of Stay in Orkney
Check-in Time Distribution
Check-out Time Distribution
Stay Pattern Insights for Orkney
- 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 21.6 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 (7.2 nights) and shorten in Sep (4.6 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 4:00 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.
Orkney Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
2 listings
4.8% of total
2 Nights
9 listings
21.4% of total
3 Nights
7 listings
16.7% of total
4-6 Nights
14 listings
33.3% of total
7-29 Nights
1 listings
2.4% of total
30+ Nights
9 listings
21.4% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Orkney is 4-6 Nights, adopted by 33.3% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
- A significant segment (21.4%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Orkney, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 4-6 Nights minimum stay, as 33.3% of Orkney hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 4.8% currently do.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 21.4% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Orkney.
Orkney Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Super Strict 60 Days
1 listings
2.4% of total
Limited
1 listings
2.4% of total
Flexible
17 listings
40.5% of total
Moderate
7 listings
16.7% of total
Firm
12 listings
28.6% of total
Strict
4 listings
9.5% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Orkney
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Orkney is Flexible, used by 40.5% of listings.
- There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (57.2%) and stricter (38.1%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.
- Strict cancellation policies are quite rare (9.5%), 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 40.5% market standard in Orkney.
- Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 9.5% 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 Orkney.
How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Orkney?
Cleaning fees in Orkney 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 Orkney
- About 64.3% of Orkney 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 $80 is close to the median ($67), suggesting a relatively consistent fee structure across the market.
- Cleaning fees represent 5.5% of gross revenue on average — a modest component of the overall booking price.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Price your cleaning fee competitively against the Orkney median of $67. 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 Orkney Look Like?
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Orkneybased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Lochside bungalow, spectacular views and wildlife
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
King Street Retreat - townhouse centre Kirkwall
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Coorie Voe
Entire Place • 1 bedroom
Luxury Beachside Manse Seaviews & Walled Garden
Private Room • 4 bedrooms
Owlswood Lodge
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Kirbister Mill Farm Cottage
Entire Place • 3 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 Orkney?
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Orkney 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robert | 5 | $106,345 | 91 | 4.69/5.0 |
| Sammy | 4 | $91,000 | 11 | 4.83/5.0 |
| Lyndsey | 2 | $73,861 | 146 | 4.99/5.0 |
| Calvin | 2 | $65,719 | 22 | 4.91/5.0 |
| Karen | 2 | $57,096 | 26 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Greig | 2 | $51,249 | 23 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Mark | 1 | $50,263 | 5 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Ruairidh | 1 | $48,922 | 11 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Rebecca | 1 | $43,375 | 34 | 4.97/5.0 |
| Emma | 1 | $42,932 | 27 | 4.78/5.0 |
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 Orkney.
Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Orkney?
Orkney is a quality-focused market, with a high Superhost share and fairly mature operating standards.
Host Profile Insights for Orkney
- With 76.2% Superhosts, Orkney has an experienced host base that sets high guest expectations. New entrants should plan for competitive quality standards.
- 11.9% of listings are professionally managed, reflecting a market still dominated by individual hosts.
- 2.4% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
- 78.6% 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 23.8% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
- Benchmark your host metrics against these Orkney averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.
Top Professional Management Companies in Orkney
These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in Orkney, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Calvin | 2 | $65,719 | $193 | 49.4% | 4.91/5 |
| Orkney Holiday Lets | 3 | $22,263 | $248 | 35.9% | 5.00/5 |
| Cottages | 1 | $4,390 | $227 | 18.6% | N/A |
Management Company Insights for Orkney
- The leading management company, Calvin, operates 2 listings with $65,719 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in Orkney.
- Top managers average 2 properties each, suggesting professional management in Orkney still operates at a relatively boutique scale.
- Professionally managed listings in the top tier average 4.96/5 in guest ratings — demonstrating that scale and quality can coexist.
Recommendations
- With only 11.9% 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 Orkney's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?
How does the Orkney 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 Melness, Orkney has 13 percentage points lower occupancy and about $8 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Foyers | 16 | $6,672 | $361.93 | 62% |
| Insh | 13 | $4,877 | $302.34 | 59% |
| Kirkhill | 10 | $4,628 | $749.46 | 45% |
| Dallas | 10 | $4,250 | $348.67 | 43% |
| Dulnain Bridge | 15 | $4,124 | $380.44 | 46% |
| Drumnadrochit | 45 | $3,809 | $349.60 | 51% |
| Nethy Bridge | 51 | $3,799 | $261.41 | 51% |
| Aviemore | 207 | $3,646 | $268.29 | 50% |
| Evanton | 21 | $3,641 | $338.68 | 50% |
| Melness | 15 | $3,442 | $213.02 | 65% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Orkney
These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Orkney.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Orkney?
Orkney hosts earn about $24,363 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $205 and RevPAR of $109. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Orkney, Scotland, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Orkney market, April 2025 to March 2026.
What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Orkney?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Orkney is 52.0%. July is the strongest month and February 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 Orkney?
Listings in Orkney average $205 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 Orkney?
Orkney currently has about 42 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 Orkney?
AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Orkney as High. The dataset also shows about 38.1% 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 Orkney?
RevPAR in Orkney is about $109. 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 Orkney?
At 52.0% occupancy, Orkney 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 $24,363, 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 Orkney?
The average booking lead time in Orkney is about 75 days — a longer planning horizon typical of destination or vacation markets where travelers book well in advance. Hosts who understand their market's booking cadence can adjust minimum stays and pricing windows accordingly.
What are the best neighborhoods for Airbnb in Orkney?
Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Orkney include Kirkwall, Stromness, Eday. 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 Orkney?
entire_home listings make up 95.2% of the active supply in Orkney. 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 Orkney compare to nearby Airbnb markets?
Among neighboring markets, Foyers posts $80,058 in average annual revenue with 61.7% occupancy, compared to Orkney's $24,363 and 52.0%. 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 Orkney?
The average Airbnb stay length in Orkney is about 6.3 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 Orkney?
Airbnb listings in Orkney average 4.89 out of 5 overall. About 54.8% 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 Orkney?
Carbon monoxide alarm and Children’s dinnerware are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Orkney. 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 Orkney?
Yes. About 64.3% of active Airbnb listings in Orkney charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $80. 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 Orkney?
A 76.2% 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.