Chicago, Illinois Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics
How much can you earn on Airbnb in Chicago, Illinois? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $37,986 per year — at a $260 nightly rate, 47.4% occupancy, and a $127 RevPAR that reflects moderate rate-to-revenue efficiency with room to optimize.
Chicago's 5,766 active listings and moderate demand with room for well-positioned listings to outperform make it a major short-term rental market. Supply grew 59.2% over the past year, yet revenue and nightly rates both trended upward — a signal that traveler demand is outpacing new inventory rather than being diluted by it. For hosts, pricing power remains intact even as competition increases.
Regulation is high and 79% of listings show active registration — compliance is the cost of entry. The data points to a market where fundamentals reward execution — the right property, priced well, in the right neighborhood still outperforms.
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What Are the Key Airbnb Metrics in Chicago?
In Chicago, the headline Airbnb metrics are $37,986 in average annual revenue,47.4% occupancy, $260 ADR, and $127 in RevPAR, and guests book about 47 days in advance.
How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Chicago?
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Chicago 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 Chicago is typically July, while January often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Chicago across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $8,754+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $5,217 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $2,937 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,392, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Chicago
What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Chicago?
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Chicago STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Julysees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while January experiences the lowest (low season). Effective strategies, like adjusting minimum stays or offering promotions, can boost occupancy during slower periods. Here's how different property tiers perform in Chicago:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 84%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 70% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 50%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 27% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Chicago
What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Chicago?
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Chicago involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Chicago typically peaks in July and dips lowest during April. 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 $473+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $291 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $179 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $112 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Chicago
What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Chicago?
RevPAR in Chicago is currently $127. 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 $49 RevPAR.
- Typical properties (Median) generate $93 RevPAR.
- Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $162 RevPAR.
- Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $264 RevPAR.
Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Chicago
RevPAR Insights for Chicago
- The average RevPAR in Chicago is $127. 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% ($264) and bottom 25% ($49) is $215, indicating significant performance disparity driven by property quality, pricing strategy, and location.
- 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 Chicago benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $93, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
- Top-quartile listings achieve $162+ 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 Chicago?
Chicago's peak Airbnb season falls in July, June, August, while the softest stretch is January, February, April. Overall, the market shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy, which should guide pricing, minimum stays, and cash-flow planning.
Peak Season (July, June, August)
- Revenue averages $5,497 per month
- Occupancy rates average 58.1%
- Daily rates average $268
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $4,082 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 49.0%
- Daily rates hold near $246
Low Season (January, February, April)
- Revenue drops to average $2,623 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 40.1%
- Daily rates adjust to average $216
Seasonality Insights for Chicago
- Airbnb seasonality in Chicago 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 Chicago's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $5,724, occupancy reaching 58.9%, and ADRs peaking at $270.
- Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $2,355, occupancy could drop to 35.0%, and ADRs may adjust to $215.
- 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 Chicago.
Seasonal Strategies for Maximizing Profit
- Peak Season: Maximize revenue through premium pricing. In a high-regulation market like Chicago, 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 Chicago, 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 Chicago?
Yes, Chicago, Illinois, United States enforces high STR regulations and 79% of active listings show registration evidence — indicating that enforcement is active and compliance is a prerequisite for operating legally. Hosts entering this market should budget for permit fees, inspections, and potential occupancy tax obligations as part of their startup costs. Always verify the latest short-term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Chicago to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2026, based on 79% licensed listings)
What Are the Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Chicago?
In a large, heavily regulated market like Chicago, neighborhood selection is one of the strongest levers for Airbnb investment performance. Zoning rules, permitting availability, and guest demand patterns can vary block by block. The 8 neighborhoods below represent areas where short-term rental activity concentrates — understanding why each one attracts guests and hosts helps investors evaluate where their property type and budget fit best.
| Neighborhood / Area | Why Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal) | Key Attractions & Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| Lincoln Park | A vibrant neighborhood known for its beautiful park, cultural attractions, and proximity to Lake Michigan. Popular with families and tourists looking for green spaces and cultural experiences. | Lincoln Park Zoo, Lincoln Park Conservatory, Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum, Lincoln Park Boat House, LAKEVIEW neighborhood |
| The Loop | Chicago's central business district, offering easy access to attractions, restaurants, and public transportation. Ideal for business travelers and tourists wanting to be in the heart of the city. | Millennium Park, Art Institute of Chicago, Willis Tower, Chicago Riverwalk, The Magnificent Mile |
| Wicker Park | A hip neighborhood known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse restaurants, and nightlife. A great choice for young professionals and tourists wanting to experience local culture. | Wicker Park, Milwaukee Avenue shops, Big Star tacos, The Empty Bottle, David Bowie mural |
| River North | Known for its upscale dining, art galleries, and proximity to the Magnificent Mile. A prime location for tourists looking for a luxurious experience and great nightlife. | Chicago River, The Merchandise Mart, The House of Blues, The Museum of Contemporary Art, Shaw's Crab House |
| West Loop | A trendy neighborhood famous for its food scene and vibrant nightlife. Attracts foodies and young professionals looking for unique dining experiences and local culture. | Fulton Market, The Chicago French Market, Girl & The Goat, The United Center, Skinny Pop |
| Pilsen | Culturally rich neighborhood known for its Mexican heritage, vibrant street art, and creative community. Attracts those interested in culture and art. | National Museum of Mexican Art, Pilsen Street Murals, Cermak Plaza, The Thalia Hall, Mural Project |
| Navy Pier | A major attraction for tourists with restaurants, entertainment options, and stunning lakeside views. Great for family stays and vacationers. | Navy Pier Ferris Wheel, Chicago Children's Museum, Lake Michigan boat tours, Fireworks show, Restaurants and shops |
| Hyde Park | Home to the University of Chicago and known for its historic architecture and beautiful parks. Ideal for academics and families visiting the area. | University of Chicago, The Museum of Science and Industry, Jackson Park, Frank Lloyd Wright homes, The Court Theatre |
Because Chicago 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 Chicago?
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Chicago
- The Chicago Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 77.9% of the 5,766 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Chicago, Apartment/Condo properties are the most common (74.4%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 20% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- Smaller segments like hotel/boutique, others (combined 5.5%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Chicago Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Chicago
- The dominant room capacity in Chicago is 2 bedrooms listings, making up 28.8% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 2 bedrooms and 1 bedroom properties represent 49.6% of the active Airbnb listings in Chicago, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 28.4% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Chicago.
Chicago Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Chicago
- The most common guest capacity trend in Chicago vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (19.1%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 8+ guests and 4 guests dominate the Chicago STR market, accounting for 37.4% of listings.
- 36.9% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Chicago.
- On average, properties in Chicago are equipped to host 4.1 guests.
How Do Listings in Chicago Compare on Quality?
Listing quality in Chicago 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 Chicago
- At 26.3 photos per listing on average, Chicago hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
- 22.1% 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 Chicago averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.
What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Chicago?
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Chicago
- Essential amenities in Chicago that guests expect include: Wifi, Air conditioning, Heating, Smoke alarm. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Carbon monoxide alarm, Kitchen, Hot water are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Chicago: Wifi, Air conditioning, Heating, Smoke alarm.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi, Air conditioning, Heating, Smoke alarm.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Carbon monoxide alarm or Kitchen 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 Chicago to stay competitive.
Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Chicago?
Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Chicago, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.
| Amenity | Prevalence | Revenue With | Revenue Without | Revenue Uplift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
TV | 92.0% | $40,544 | $8,623 | 370.2% |
Dishes and silverware | 89.6% | $40,840 | $13,415 | 204.4% |
Kitchen | 93.9% | $39,579 | $13,477 | 193.7% |
Climbing wallHigh opportunity | 0.2% | $104,265 | $37,836 | 175.6% |
Coffee maker | 87.9% | $41,137 | $15,144 | 171.6% |
Hair dryer | 88.3% | $40,990 | $15,252 | 168.8% |
Table corner guardsHigh opportunity | 1.1% | $98,412 | $37,340 | 163.6% |
Hot water | 93.3% | $39,591 | $15,489 | 155.6% |
Shampoo | 81.8% | $42,691 | $16,877 | 153.0% |
Microwave | 87.9% | $40,962 | $16,416 | 149.5% |
Revenue Impact Insights for Chicago
- TV tops the revenue impact list with a 370.2% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $40,544 vs. $8,623 without it.
- High-opportunity amenities — Climbing wall, Table corner guards — combine revenue uplift above 100% with prevalence under 10%, meaning most competitors haven't adopted them yet.
- TV, Dishes and silverware, Kitchen, Coffee maker, Hair dryer, Hot water, Shampoo, Microwave — while widespread — still correlate with meaningful revenue gains, making them table stakes rather than true differentiators.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Prioritize adding Climbing wall — it has the best combination of high revenue impact and low market saturation in Chicago.
- 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 Chicago STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Chicago. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsChicago Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for Chicago
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Chicago consists of primarily domestic travelers (89%), often arriving from nearby Chicago, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
- Domestic travelers account for 89.0% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (89%) and Canada (1.6%).
- Top languages spoken are English (63.2%) followed by Spanish (15.8%).
- 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 Chicago and New York.
- 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 Chicago?
Listings in Chicago average 4.78 out of 5 overall, with about 89.1 reviews per active listing and 36.2% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.
Rating Breakdown by Category
Guest Rating Insights for Chicago
- An average rating of 4.78 places Chicago in solid territory. Most guests leave satisfied, though there is room for hosts to push toward the top tier.
- The strongest subcategory is Communication (4.88), while Value (4.7) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
- 36.2% 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.
Chicago Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Chicago
- The most common availability pattern in Chicago falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 34.3% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 67.1% 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 Chicago (32.8%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 34.4% 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 Chicago?
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Chicago
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Chicago is 47 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during October (average 70 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 24 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Summer (57 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (27 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (47 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Chicago.
- For October stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 70 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 57 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Chicago averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Chicago?
Guests in Chicago stay about 6.9 nights on average, generating roughly 183,115 reservations and 31.9 bookings per listing in the latest AirROI dataset. The most common check-in time is 3:00 PM and check-out is 11:00 AM.
Monthly Length of Stay in Chicago
Check-in Time Distribution
Check-out Time Distribution
Stay Pattern Insights for Chicago
- 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 31.9 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 Jun (5.9 nights) and shorten in Oct (4.4 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.
Chicago Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
121 listings
2.1% of total
2 Nights
3000 listings
52% of total
3 Nights
254 listings
4.4% of total
4-6 Nights
179 listings
3.1% of total
7-29 Nights
419 listings
7.3% of total
30+ Nights
1793 listings
31.1% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Chicago is 2 Nights, adopted by 52% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
- A significant segment (31.1%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Chicago, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 2 Nights minimum stay, as 52% of Chicago hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 2.1% currently do.
- A 2-night minimum appears standard (52%). Consider this for weekends or peak periods.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 31.1% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Chicago.
Chicago Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Non-refundable
3 listings
0.1% of total
Super Strict 60 Days
59 listings
1% of total
Refundable
4 listings
0.1% of total
Super Strict 30 Days
111 listings
1.9% of total
Limited
262 listings
4.6% of total
Flexible
869 listings
15.1% of total
Moderate
1318 listings
22.9% of total
Firm
1917 listings
33.3% of total
Strict
1212 listings
21.1% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Chicago
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Chicago is Firm, used by 33.3% of listings.
- A majority (54.4%) of hosts in Chicago utilize Firm or Strict policies, indicating a market where hosts prioritize booking security.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Consider adopting a Firm policy to align with the 33.3% market standard in Chicago.
- Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Chicago.
How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Chicago?
Cleaning fees in Chicago 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 Chicago
- 82.2% of listings charge a cleaning fee, making it standard practice in Chicago. Guests expect it and factor it into their booking decisions.
- The gap between the average ($513) and median ($120) cleaning fee indicates some high-end properties are pulling the average up considerably.
- Cleaning fees represent 9.7% of gross revenue on average — a modest component of the overall booking price.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Price your cleaning fee competitively against the Chicago median of $120. 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 Chicago Look Like?
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Chicagobased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Luxury Loft Collection COMBO 01/03 | Terrace
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Unique Luxury Fulton Market Penthouse | Sleeps 32
Entire Place • 9 bedrooms
Luxury Loft Collection 1, 2, 3
Entire Place • 9 bedrooms
Spectacular Fulton Market Penthouse, Sleeps 24 in
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Luxury Downtown 4BR | Exclusive Design PH
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Luxury Loft Collection COMBO 02/03 | Terrace
Entire Place • 6 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 Chicago?
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Chicago 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cloud9 | 82 | $8,729,634 | 3626 | 4.81/5.0 |
| Milan | 79 | $6,047,001 | 6167 | 4.79/5.0 |
| Hubbard Holdings | 28 | $5,702,085 | 1594 | 4.89/5.0 |
| Assel | 34 | $4,435,152 | 1067 | 4.69/5.0 |
| Staywell | 25 | $3,898,684 | 4704 | 4.78/5.0 |
| Chicago Hospitality Club | 35 | $3,574,522 | 4394 | 4.84/5.0 |
| Patty | 27 | $3,127,446 | 1743 | 4.82/5.0 |
| Sonder (Chicago) | 44 | $2,019,189 | 8469 | 4.59/5.0 |
| Nicole And Matt | 20 | $1,991,680 | 2413 | 4.90/5.0 |
| Stephanie | 25 | $1,872,043 | 2006 | 4.88/5.0 |
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 Chicago.
Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Chicago?
Chicago is a quality-focused market, with a high Superhost share and fairly mature operating standards.
Host Profile Insights for Chicago
- With 58.4% Superhosts, Chicago has an experienced host base that sets high guest expectations. New entrants should plan for competitive quality standards.
- 12.3% of listings are professionally managed, reflecting a market still dominated by individual hosts.
- 5.8% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
- 67.8% 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 36.5% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
- Benchmark your host metrics against these Chicago averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.
Top Professional Management Companies in Chicago
These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in Chicago, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cloud9 | 82 | $8,729,634 | $893 | 45.2% | 4.81/5 |
| Milan | 79 | $6,047,001 | $422 | 47.7% | 4.79/5 |
| Hubbard Holdings | 28 | $5,702,085 | $976 | 64.8% | 4.89/5 |
| Assel | 34 | $4,435,152 | $711 | 63.9% | 4.69/5 |
| Staywell | 25 | $3,898,684 | $557 | 71.1% | 4.78/5 |
| The Dream Rentals | 27 | $3,127,446 | $493 | 62.9% | 4.82/5 |
| Sonder (Chicago) | 44 | $2,019,189 | $324 | 41.8% | 4.59/5 |
| Studebecker | 35 | $1,818,958 | $438 | 39.2% | 4.62/5 |
| Thomas | 21 | $1,442,041 | $354 | 55.4% | 4.86/5 |
| James | 11 | $1,410,924 | $538 | 68.2% | 4.91/5 |
Management Company Insights for Chicago
- The leading management company, Cloud9, operates 82 listings with $8,729,634 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in Chicago.
- Top managers average 39 properties each, pointing to a market where portfolio scale is a meaningful competitive factor.
- Professionally managed listings in the top tier average 4.78/5 in guest ratings — demonstrating that scale and quality can coexist.
Recommendations
- With only 12.3% 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 Chicago's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?
How does the Chicago 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 Town of Sugar Creek, Chicago has 3 percentage points lower occupancy and about $372 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Town of Sugar Creek | 16 | $8,513 | $632.49 | 50% |
| Laketown Township | 57 | $6,147 | $573.13 | 47% |
| Twin Lakes | 36 | $5,981 | $548.11 | 44% |
| Port Sheldon Township | 25 | $5,968 | $598.72 | 46% |
| Ganges Township | 70 | $5,813 | $663.40 | 37% |
| Saugatuck Township | 141 | $5,662 | $531.57 | 42% |
| Town of Geneva | 62 | $5,308 | $475.88 | 44% |
| Union Pier | 16 | $5,307 | $630.90 | 33% |
| New Buffalo Township | 258 | $5,245 | $648.95 | 36% |
| Lake Geneva | 206 | $5,180 | $486.34 | 41% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Chicago
These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Chicago.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Chicago?
Chicago hosts earn about $37,986 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $260 and RevPAR of $127. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Chicago, Illinois, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Chicago market, April 2025 to March 2026.
What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Chicago?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Chicago is 47.4%. July is the strongest month and January 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 Chicago?
Listings in Chicago average $260 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 Chicago?
Chicago currently has about 5,766 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 Chicago?
AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Chicago as High. The dataset also shows about 78.7% 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 Chicago?
RevPAR in Chicago is about $127. 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 Chicago?
At 47.4% occupancy, Chicago 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 $37,986, 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 Chicago?
The average booking lead time in Chicago is about 47 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 Chicago?
Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Chicago include Lincoln Park, The Loop, Wicker Park. 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 Chicago?
entire_home listings make up 77.9% of the active supply in Chicago. 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 Chicago compare to nearby Airbnb markets?
Among neighboring markets, Town of Sugar Creek posts $102,154 in average annual revenue with 49.7% occupancy, compared to Chicago's $37,986 and 47.4%. 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 Chicago?
The average Airbnb stay length in Chicago is about 6.9 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 Chicago?
Airbnb listings in Chicago average 4.78 out of 5 overall. About 36.2% 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 Chicago?
TV and Dishes and silverware are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Chicago. 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 Chicago?
Yes. About 82.2% of active Airbnb listings in Chicago charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $513. 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 Chicago?
A 58.4% 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.