Emerald Isle, North Carolina Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics
How much can you earn on Airbnb in Emerald Isle, North Carolina? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $43,822 per year — at a $410 nightly rate, 41.6% occupancy, and a $186 RevPAR that reflects moderate rate-to-revenue efficiency with room to optimize.
Emerald Isle's 508 active listings and moderate demand with room for well-positioned listings to outperform position it as a midsize vacation rental market. Supply grew 91.7% 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 Emerald Isle?
In Emerald Isle, the headline Airbnb metrics are $43,822 in average annual revenue,41.6% occupancy, $410 ADR, and $186 in RevPAR, and guests book about 68 days in advance.
How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Emerald Isle?
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Emerald Isle 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 Emerald Isle 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 Emerald Isle across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $9,159+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $6,367 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $3,826 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $2,239, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Emerald Isle
What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Emerald Isle?
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Emerald Isle 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 Emerald Isle:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 66%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 53% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 36%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 21% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Emerald Isle
What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Emerald Isle?
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Emerald Isle involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Emerald Isle 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 $675+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $500 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $360 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $256 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Emerald Isle
What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Emerald Isle?
RevPAR in Emerald Isle is currently $186. 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 $109 RevPAR.
- Typical properties (Median) generate $161 RevPAR.
- Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $231 RevPAR.
- Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $325 RevPAR.
Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Emerald Isle
RevPAR Insights for Emerald Isle
- The average RevPAR in Emerald Isle is $186. 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% ($325) and bottom 25% ($109) is $217, 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 Emerald Isle benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $161, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
- Top-quartile listings achieve $231+ 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 Emerald Isle?
Emerald Isle's peak Airbnb season falls in July, June, August, while the softest stretch is January, February, December. 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 $9,461 per month
- Occupancy rates average 62.1%
- Daily rates average $467
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $3,805 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 34.9%
- Daily rates hold near $390
Low Season (January, February, December)
- Revenue drops to average $1,927 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 19.2%
- Daily rates adjust to average $389
Seasonality Insights for Emerald Isle
- Airbnb seasonality in Emerald Isle 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 Emerald Isle's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $11,211, occupancy reaching 69.3%, and ADRs peaking at $476.
- Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $1,609, occupancy could drop to 16.2%, and ADRs may adjust to $362.
- 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 Emerald Isle.
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 Emerald Isle, 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 Emerald Isle?
Emerald Isle, North Carolina, United States currently shows a low regulation profile despite having 508 active listings. Larger markets with light regulation can attract new supply quickly, but that also means regulatory frameworks may evolve as local governments respond to growth — staying informed protects your investment. Always verify the latest short-term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Emerald Isle to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2026, based on 0% licensed listings)
What Are the Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Emerald Isle?
Location within Emerald Isle 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Oceanfront Drive | A popular spot for vacationers looking to enjoy the beach directly. Proximity to cafes, water sports, and beach activities makes it an attractive location for tourists. | Emerald Isle Beach, Water sports rentals, Cafes along Oceanfront Drive, Fishing pier, Family-friendly parks |
| Bogue Inlet | Known for its coastal views and good fishing spots. Home to many fun activities, making it appealing to families and fishing enthusiasts. | Bogue Inlet Fishing Pier, Coastal Carolina Museum, Boat rentals, Fishing charters, Scenic nature trails |
| Emerald Isle Woods Park | A less crowded area packed with nature trails and picnic spots. Ideal for those looking for a peaceful retreat while still being close to the beach. | Nature trails, Picnic areas, Birdwatching, Local wildlife, Beach access |
| Salter Path | A quaint village atmosphere with a mix of vacation homes and local charm. Great for families looking for a quieter beach experience. | Salter Path Beach, Local shops, Kayaking, Wildlife observation, Family-friendly activities |
| The Point | A residential area that offers tranquility and stunning views of both the ocean and sound. It attracts those looking for relaxation and scenic beauty. | The Point beach access, Sound views, Scenic walking trails, Local eateries, Sunset viewing spots |
| Emerald Isle Fishing Pier | A staple for fishermen and families, this area is bustling during the summer and appeals to tourists interested in fishing and local events. | Fishing access, Nearby restaurants, Summer events, Live music, Beach access |
| Hammocks Beach State Park | Offers natural landscapes and beaches, making it perfect for nature lovers and those seeking an escape from the crowded beaches. | Pristine beaches, Hiking trails, Picnic areas, Wildlife viewing, Water access |
| Islander Hotel and Resort | A central location with amenities that attract tourists looking for convenience and comfort during their stay. Good for families and groups. | Pool facilities, Beach access, On-site dining, Convenient location for attractions, Event hosting |
With 8 distinct neighborhoods showing meaningful short-term rental activity, Emerald Isle 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 Emerald Isle?
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Emerald Isle
- The Emerald Isle Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 98.8% of the 508 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Emerald Isle, House properties are the most common (72%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 72% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- Smaller segments like others, outdoor/unique, hotel/boutique, unique stays (combined 3.8%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Emerald Isle Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Emerald Isle
- The dominant room capacity in Emerald Isle is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 37.6% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
- Together, 3 bedrooms and 4 bedrooms properties represent 56.5% of the active Airbnb listings in Emerald Isle, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 71.7% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Emerald Isle.
Emerald Isle Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Emerald Isle
- The most common guest capacity trend in Emerald Isle vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (51.6%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Emerald Isle STR market, accounting for 73.3% of listings.
- 78.8% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Emerald Isle.
- On average, properties in Emerald Isle are equipped to host 6.6 guests.
How Do Listings in Emerald Isle Compare on Quality?
Listing quality in Emerald Isle 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 Emerald Isle
- At 39.4 photos per listing on average, Emerald Isle hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
- 34.1% 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 Emerald Isle averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.
What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Emerald Isle?
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Emerald Isle
- Essential amenities in Emerald Isle that guests expect include: TV, Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, Kitchen, Heating, Wifi, Refrigerator, Coffee maker. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Microwave, Washer are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Emerald Isle: TV, Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, Kitchen, Heating, Wifi, Refrigerator, Coffee maker.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: TV, Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, Kitchen, Heating, Wifi, Refrigerator, Coffee maker.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Microwave or Washer 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 Emerald Isle to stay competitive.
Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Emerald Isle?
Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Emerald Isle, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.
| Amenity | Prevalence | Revenue With | Revenue Without | Revenue Uplift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Heating | 96.7% | $45,168 | $4,962 | 810.2% |
Dryer | 92.1% | $45,736 | $21,436 | 113.4% |
Kitchen | 96.9% | $44,540 | $21,769 | 104.6% |
Washer | 94.3% | $45,106 | $22,624 | 99.4% |
Arcade games | 3.0% | $79,010 | $42,752 | 84.8% |
Dishwasher | 87.2% | $46,498 | $25,586 | 81.7% |
Coffee maker | 95.1% | $44,767 | $25,575 | 75.0% |
Pool table | 3.5% | $73,294 | $42,740 | 71.5% |
Oven | 91.1% | $45,495 | $26,612 | 71.0% |
Refrigerator | 95.3% | $44,692 | $26,278 | 70.1% |
Revenue Impact Insights for Emerald Isle
- Heating tops the revenue impact list with a 810.2% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $45,168 vs. $4,962 without it.
- Heating, Dryer, Kitchen, Washer, Dishwasher, Coffee maker, Oven, Refrigerator — while widespread — still correlate with meaningful revenue gains, making them 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 Emerald Isle STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Emerald Isle. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsEmerald Isle Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for Emerald Isle
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Emerald Isle consists of primarily domestic travelers (98%), often arriving from nearby Raleigh, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
- Domestic travelers account for 97.6% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (97.6%) and DC (1.1%).
- Top languages spoken are English (80.2%) followed by Spanish (10.1%).
- 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 Raleigh and Durham.
- 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 Emerald Isle?
Listings in Emerald Isle average 4.86 out of 5 overall, with about 40 reviews per active listing and 45.1% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.
Rating Breakdown by Category
Guest Rating Insights for Emerald Isle
- With an overall rating of 4.86, Emerald Isle listings meet an exceptionally high bar. Guests consistently report strong satisfaction, which drives repeat bookings and referral traffic.
- The strongest subcategory is Location (4.95), while Value (4.78) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
- 45.1% 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.
Emerald Isle Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Emerald Isle
- The most common availability pattern in Emerald Isle falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 46.5% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 89.2% 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 Emerald Isle (43.9%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 11.6% 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 Emerald Isle?
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Emerald Isle
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Emerald Isle is 68 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during July (average 101 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in January (average 22 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Summer (91 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (29 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (68 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Emerald Isle.
- For July stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 101 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 91 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Emerald Isle averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Emerald Isle?
Guests in Emerald Isle stay about 4.9 nights on average, generating roughly 10,477 reservations and 20.6 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 Emerald Isle
Check-in Time Distribution
Check-out Time Distribution
Stay Pattern Insights for Emerald Isle
- 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 20.6 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 Jul (6 nights) and shorten in Feb (2.7 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 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.
Emerald Isle Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
25 listings
4.9% of total
2 Nights
63 listings
12.4% of total
3 Nights
52 listings
10.2% of total
4-6 Nights
69 listings
13.6% of total
7-29 Nights
14 listings
2.8% of total
30+ Nights
285 listings
56.1% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Emerald Isle is 30+ Nights, adopted by 56.1% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
- Very short stays (1-2 nights) are less common (17.3%), suggesting hosts prefer slightly longer bookings to optimize turnover.
- A significant segment (56.1%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Emerald Isle, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 56.1% of Emerald Isle hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 4.9% currently do.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 56.1% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Emerald Isle.
Emerald Isle Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Super Strict 30 Days
9 listings
1.8% of total
Super Strict 60 Days
96 listings
19% of total
Limited
7 listings
1.4% of total
Flexible
13 listings
2.6% of total
Moderate
62 listings
12.3% of total
Firm
254 listings
50.2% of total
Strict
65 listings
12.8% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Emerald Isle
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Emerald Isle is Firm, used by 50.2% of listings.
- A majority (63.0%) of hosts in Emerald Isle 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 50.2% market standard in Emerald Isle.
- Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 12.8% 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 Emerald Isle.
How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Emerald Isle?
Cleaning fees in Emerald Isle 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 Emerald Isle
- 91.5% of listings charge a cleaning fee, making it standard practice in Emerald Isle. Guests expect it and factor it into their booking decisions.
- The gap between the average ($288) and median ($250) cleaning fee indicates some high-end properties are pulling the average up considerably.
- Cleaning fees represent 12.8% of gross revenue on average — a significant line item that impacts total guest cost and competitiveness.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Price your cleaning fee competitively against the Emerald Isle median of $250. Fees significantly above market norms can deter bookings, especially for shorter stays.
- Consider whether bundling the cleaning fee into a slightly higher nightly rate might improve conversion, since many guests filter by total price and separate fees can feel punitive.
- Monitor competitor cleaning fees regularly. Airbnb's search algorithm factors in total price, so a well-calibrated cleaning fee can improve your listing's ranking.
What Do the Top Airbnb Listings in Emerald Isle Look Like?
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Emerald Islebased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.

Dolphin Watch-Sleeps 28 W/Pool, Hot Tub, Game Room
Entire Place • 7 bedrooms

LUXE Oceanside Oasis | Pool~Golf Cart~Bikes~Spa
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

Ocean Breeze/ 5 Br/ 3 Bath/ Sleeps 22 W/ Pool!
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

AWave From It All, Stunning Ocean Views & Hot Tub
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

Oceanfront Oasis Emerald Isle, NC
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

Heated Pool, 2-min Walk to Beach, Sleeps 10
Entire Place • 4 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 Emerald Isle?
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Emerald Isle 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun Surf Realty | 61 | $1,887,521 | 1151 | 4.79/5.0 |
| Evolve | 20 | $1,004,283 | 442 | 4.73/5.0 |
| Spinnakers Reach | 24 | $716,506 | 108 | 4.87/5.0 |
| Laura | 5 | $554,773 | 423 | 4.95/5.0 |
| Jessica | 5 | $507,036 | 124 | 4.95/5.0 |
| Shari | 18 | $449,613 | 905 | 4.96/5.0 |
| Teresa | 7 | $423,637 | 58 | 4.90/5.0 |
| Haylee | 7 | $399,294 | 389 | 4.89/5.0 |
| Anthony | 2 | $373,892 | 59 | 4.93/5.0 |
| Tim | 2 | $270,185 | 192 | 4.96/5.0 |
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 Emerald Isle.
Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Emerald Isle?
Emerald Isle is a quality-focused market, with a high Superhost share and fairly mature operating standards.
Host Profile Insights for Emerald Isle
- With 54.1% Superhosts, Emerald Isle has an experienced host base that sets high guest expectations. New entrants should plan for competitive quality standards.
- 32.5% of listings are professionally managed, indicating a mature, competitive market with institutional players.
- 6.1% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
- 69.7% 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 36.4% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
- Benchmark your host metrics against these Emerald Isle averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.
Top Professional Management Companies in Emerald Isle
These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in Emerald Isle, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sun Surf Realty | 61 | $1,887,521 | $466 | 34.8% | 4.79/5 |
| Evolve | 20 | $1,004,283 | $393 | 46.2% | 4.73/5 |
| Spinnakers Reach | 24 | $716,506 | $547 | 25.1% | 4.87/5 |
| Teresa | 7 | $423,637 | $530 | 44.4% | 4.90/5 |
| Haylee | 7 | $399,294 | $293 | 47.2% | 4.89/5 |
| Shorewood Real Estate | 4 | $257,497 | $436 | 49.8% | 4.73/5 |
| Paige | 3 | $215,343 | $427 | 53.3% | 4.76/5 |
| Christine | 4 | $211,810 | $497 | 52.9% | 4.89/5 |
| Sarah | 1 | $205,973 | $781 | 63.8% | 5.00/5 |
| Evolve | 7 | $195,309 | $274 | 42.8% | 4.25/5 |
Management Company Insights for Emerald Isle
- The leading management company, Sun Surf Realty, operates 61 listings with $1,887,521 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in Emerald Isle.
- Top managers average 14 properties each, suggesting professional management in Emerald Isle still operates at a relatively boutique scale.
- Professionally managed listings in the top tier average 4.78/5 in guest ratings — demonstrating that scale and quality can coexist.
Recommendations
- 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 Emerald Isle's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?
How does the Emerald Isle 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 Cedar Point, Emerald Isle has 4 percentage points lower occupancy and about $74 higher ADR. That helps frame whether this market is winning more on demand, pricing, or both.
| Market | Active Properties | Monthly Revenue | Daily Rate | Avg. Occupancy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ocean Isle Beach | 504 | $4,963 | $614.58 | 37% |
| Wrightsville Beach | 497 | $4,671 | $547.10 | 39% |
| Bald Head Island | 207 | $4,317 | $642.03 | 32% |
| Kure Beach | 498 | $3,894 | $452.28 | 41% |
| Cedar Point | 30 | $3,818 | $336.18 | 46% |
| Surfside Beach | 470 | $3,671 | $411.64 | 41% |
| North Topsail Beach | 944 | $3,645 | $452.61 | 38% |
| Surf City | 738 | $3,486 | $403.75 | 39% |
| Caswell Beach | 51 | $3,486 | $439.39 | 40% |
| Oak Island | 1,398 | $3,480 | $466.59 | 38% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Emerald Isle
These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Emerald Isle.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Emerald Isle?
Emerald Isle hosts earn about $43,822 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $410 and RevPAR of $186. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Emerald Isle, North Carolina, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Emerald Isle market, April 2025 to March 2026.
What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Emerald Isle?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Emerald Isle is 41.6%. 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 Emerald Isle?
Listings in Emerald Isle average $410 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 Emerald Isle?
Emerald Isle currently has about 508 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 Emerald Isle?
AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Emerald Isle as Low. The dataset also shows about 0.2% 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 Emerald Isle?
RevPAR in Emerald Isle is about $186. 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 Emerald Isle?
At 41.6% occupancy, Emerald Isle 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 $43,822, 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 Emerald Isle?
The average booking lead time in Emerald Isle is about 68 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 Emerald Isle?
Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Emerald Isle include Oceanfront Drive, Bogue Inlet, Emerald Isle Woods 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 Emerald Isle?
entire_home listings make up 98.8% of the active supply in Emerald Isle. 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 Emerald Isle compare to nearby Airbnb markets?
Among neighboring markets, Ocean Isle Beach posts $59,560 in average annual revenue with 37.0% occupancy, compared to Emerald Isle's $43,822 and 41.6%. 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 Emerald Isle?
The average Airbnb stay length in Emerald Isle is about 4.9 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 Emerald Isle?
Airbnb listings in Emerald Isle average 4.86 out of 5 overall. About 45.1% 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 Emerald Isle?
Heating and Dryer are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Emerald Isle. 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 Emerald Isle?
Yes. About 91.5% of active Airbnb listings in Emerald Isle charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $288. 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 Emerald Isle?
A 54.1% 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.