Hillsborough, North Carolina Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics
How much can you earn on Airbnb in Hillsborough, North Carolina? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $25,981 per year — at a $202 nightly rate, 46.5% occupancy, and a $94 RevPAR that reflects moderate rate-to-revenue efficiency with room to optimize.
At 64 active listings, Hillsborough is a boutique market where moderate demand with room for well-positioned listings to outperform. Supply grew 77.8% year over year, and the market is recalibrating around a new competitive baseline. This is the stage where hosts who invest in amenities, guest experience, and dynamic pricing build durable advantages that compound as the market matures.
Regulation is low with minimal registration requirements, pointing to an operator-friendly environment. In a market this size, differentiated listings with strong reviews can capture outsized returns relative to the competition.
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What Are the Key Airbnb Metrics in Hillsborough?
In Hillsborough, the headline Airbnb metrics are $25,981 in average annual revenue,46.5% occupancy, $202 ADR, and $94 in RevPAR, and guests book about 44 days in advance.
How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Hillsborough?
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough is typically October, while February often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Hillsborough across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $5,382+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $3,733 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $2,509 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,366, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Hillsborough
What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Hillsborough?
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Hillsborough STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Octobersees 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 Hillsborough:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 82%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 66% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 49%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 30% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Hillsborough
What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Hillsborough?
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Hillsborough involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Hillsborough typically peaks in December 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 $384+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $226 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $166 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $131 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Hillsborough
What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Hillsborough?
RevPAR in Hillsborough is currently $94. 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 $53 RevPAR.
- Typical properties (Median) generate $81 RevPAR.
- Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $113 RevPAR.
- Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $161 RevPAR.
Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Hillsborough
RevPAR Insights for Hillsborough
- The average RevPAR in Hillsborough is $94. 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% ($161) and bottom 25% ($53) is $108, indicating significant performance disparity driven by property quality, pricing strategy, and location.
- RevPAR peaks in Oct and bottoms out in Feb, mirroring the broader seasonal demand pattern and suggesting opportunities for dynamic pricing.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Track your own RevPAR monthly against these Hillsborough benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $81, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
- Top-quartile listings achieve $113+ 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 Hillsborough?
Hillsborough's peak Airbnb season falls in October, July, August, while the softest stretch is January, February, March. Overall, the market shows moderate seasonality with distinct peak and low periods, which should guide pricing, minimum stays, and cash-flow planning.
Peak Season (October, July, August)
- Revenue averages $3,464 per month
- Occupancy rates average 55.4%
- Daily rates average $206
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $3,117 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 50.2%
- Daily rates hold near $206
Low Season (January, February, March)
- Revenue drops to average $2,260 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 38.9%
- Daily rates adjust to average $204
Seasonality Insights for Hillsborough
- The Airbnb seasonality pattern in Hillsborough shows moderate seasonality with distinct peak and low periods. While the sections above show seasonal averages, it is also insightful to look at the extremes:
- During the high season, the absolute peak month showcases Hillsborough's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $3,819, occupancy reaching 58.9%, and ADRs peaking at $213.
- Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $1,881, occupancy could drop to 36.1%, and ADRs may adjust to $190.
- 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 Hillsborough.
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.
- Regularly analyze your own performance against these Hillsborough seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.
Do You Need a License for Airbnb in Hillsborough?
Low regulation and minimal registration activity in Hillsborough, North Carolina, United States point to an operator-friendly environment. That said, even low-regulation markets may have tax collection requirements, safety standards, or HOA rules that affect short-term rental operations. Always verify the latest short-term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Hillsborough to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2026, finding no licensed listings among those analyzed)
What Are the Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Hillsborough?
Hillsborough is a smaller vacation rental market where a handful of neighborhoods drive most of the booking activity. Choosing the right area is especially important in boutique markets — there is less room for a mediocre location to succeed on volume alone. The areas below highlight where short-term rental demand is strongest and why.
| Neighborhood / Area | Why Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal) | Key Attractions & Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| Downtown Hillsborough | Historic area with charming architecture and a vibrant community atmosphere. It attracts visitors interested in history and small-town charm, making it appealing for Airbnb hosting. | Hillsborough Historic District, Burwell School Historic Site, Riverwalk, Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area, Churton Street |
| Hillsborough Riverwalk | Scenic area along the river, perfect for nature lovers and those who enjoy outdoor activities. Attracts guests looking for a peaceful retreat with access to hiking and walking paths. | Eno River State Park, Riverwalk, Hillsborough Greenway, Nature trails, Fishing spots |
| Lowe's Grove | A family-friendly neighborhood with great access to local parks and recreational areas, appealing to families and groups traveling to the area for events or gatherings. | Lowe's Grove Park, Community Centers, Playgrounds, Local restaurants, Festivals and events |
| West Hillsborough | An up-and-coming area that offers more spacious homes and a suburban feel. It's gaining popularity for those looking for a quieter stay close to the amenities of downtown. | Hillsborough Sportsplex, Local shops, Cafes, Suburban parks, Community events |
| Historic Occoneechee | Known for its natural beauty and historical significance, this area attracts outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs. Ideal for guests seeking unique experiences. | Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area, Historic Sites, Hiking trails, Birdwatching, Photography spots |
| Efland Oaks | A serene and picturesque area that attracts visitors looking for a rural atmosphere while still being close to Hillsborough. Great for relaxation and nature appreciation. | Efland Oaks Park, Countryside views, Local farms, Nature trails, Picnic areas |
| Hillsborough Village | A quaint village setting that offers a mix of shops, dining, and community gatherings. Perfect for guests wanting a local experience with conveniences nearby. | Local shops, Dining options, Farmers market, Community events, Historic tours |
| Eno River Valley | A beautiful natural area known for its stunning landscapes and outdoor activities, ideal for nature lovers and adventure seekers. | Eno River State Park, Hiking and biking trails, Kayaking, Camping sites, Wildlife watching |
With 8 distinct neighborhoods showing meaningful short-term rental activity, Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough?
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Hillsborough
- The Hillsborough Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 92.2% of the 64 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Hillsborough, House properties are the most common (54.7%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 54.7% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- The presence of 12.5% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
- Smaller segments like unique stays (combined 3.1%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Hillsborough Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Hillsborough
- The dominant room capacity in Hillsborough is 1 bedroom listings, making up 39.1% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 1 bedroom and 2 bedrooms properties represent 62.5% of the active Airbnb listings in Hillsborough, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 28.2% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Hillsborough.
Hillsborough Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Hillsborough
- The most common guest capacity trend in Hillsborough vacation rentals is listings accommodating 2 guests (26.6%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely couples or solo travelers.
- Properties designed for 2 guests and 4 guests dominate the Hillsborough STR market, accounting for 45.4% of listings.
- 25.0% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Hillsborough.
- On average, properties in Hillsborough are equipped to host 3.8 guests.
How Do Listings in Hillsborough Compare on Quality?
Listing quality in Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough
- At 31.4 photos per listing on average, Hillsborough hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
- 17.2% 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 Hillsborough averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.
What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Hillsborough?
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Hillsborough
- Essential amenities in Hillsborough that guests expect include: Free parking on premises, Air conditioning, Heating, Smoke alarm, Wifi. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like TV, Hot water, Essentials are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Hillsborough: Free parking on premises, Air conditioning, Heating, Smoke alarm, Wifi.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Free parking on premises, Air conditioning, Heating, Smoke alarm, Wifi.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like TV or Hot water 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 Hillsborough to stay competitive.
Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Hillsborough?
Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Hillsborough, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.
| Amenity | Prevalence | Revenue With | Revenue Without | Revenue Uplift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Shampoo | 84.4% | $29,230 | $8,438 | 246.4% |
Hot water | 87.5% | $27,918 | $12,423 | 124.7% |
EV chargerHigh opportunity | 7.8% | $52,384 | $23,743 | 120.6% |
Bed linens | 81.3% | $28,907 | $13,299 | 117.4% |
Refrigerator | 81.3% | $28,780 | $13,850 | 107.8% |
Hair dryer | 81.3% | $28,747 | $13,993 | 105.4% |
BidetHigh opportunity | 7.8% | $48,575 | $24,066 | 101.8% |
Room-darkening shades | 31.3% | $38,354 | $20,357 | 88.4% |
Dishwasher | 40.6% | $35,520 | $19,454 | 82.6% |
Hot tub | 9.4% | $42,647 | $24,257 | 75.8% |
Revenue Impact Insights for Hillsborough
- Shampoo tops the revenue impact list with a 246.4% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $29,230 vs. $8,438 without it.
- High-opportunity amenities — EV charger, Bidet — combine revenue uplift above 100% with prevalence under 10%, meaning most competitors haven't adopted them yet.
- Shampoo, Hot water, Bed linens, Refrigerator, Hair dryer — while widespread — still correlate with meaningful revenue gains, making them table stakes rather than true differentiators.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Prioritize adding EV charger — it has the best combination of high revenue impact and low market saturation in Hillsborough.
- 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 Hillsborough STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Hillsborough. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsHillsborough Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for Hillsborough
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Hillsborough consists of primarily domestic travelers (97%), often arriving from nearby Durham, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
- Domestic travelers account for 97.1% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (97.1%) and Canada (1.1%).
- Top languages spoken are English (72.4%) followed by Spanish (12.1%).
- 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 Durham and Hillsborough.
- 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 Hillsborough?
Listings in Hillsborough average 4.94 out of 5 overall, with about 89.1 reviews per active listing and 60.9% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.
Rating Breakdown by Category
Guest Rating Insights for Hillsborough
- With an overall rating of 4.94, Hillsborough listings meet an exceptionally high bar. Guests consistently report strong satisfaction, which drives repeat bookings and referral traffic.
- The strongest subcategory is Communication (4.97), while Value (4.88) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
- 60.9% 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.
Hillsborough Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Hillsborough
- The most common availability pattern in Hillsborough falls within the 181-270 days range, representing 37.5% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 70.3% 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 Hillsborough (35.9%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 31.3% 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 Hillsborough?
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Hillsborough
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Hillsborough is 44 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during May (average 76 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in January (average 26 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Spring (54 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (32 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (44 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Hillsborough.
- For May stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 76 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Spring season well in advance (at least 54 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Hillsborough averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Hillsborough?
Guests in Hillsborough stay about 4.6 nights on average, generating roughly 1,712 reservations and 26.8 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 Hillsborough
Check-in Time Distribution
Check-out Time Distribution
Stay Pattern Insights for Hillsborough
- 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 26.8 bookings per listing, the turnover rate is high. Hosts with streamlined operations (self-check-in, automated messaging, reliable cleaners) have a structural advantage.
- Stay lengths peak in Jul (5.8 nights) and shorten in Sep (3 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 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.
Hillsborough Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
22 listings
34.4% of total
2 Nights
19 listings
29.7% of total
3 Nights
4 listings
6.3% of total
4-6 Nights
1 listings
1.6% of total
7-29 Nights
4 listings
6.3% of total
30+ Nights
14 listings
21.9% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Hillsborough is 1 Night, adopted by 34.4% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
- A strong majority (64.1%) of the Hillsborough Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.
- A significant segment (21.9%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Hillsborough, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 1 Night minimum stay, as 34.4% of Hillsborough hosts use this setting.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 21.9% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Hillsborough.
Hillsborough Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Limited
1 listings
1.6% of total
Flexible
22 listings
34.4% of total
Moderate
11 listings
17.2% of total
Firm
24 listings
37.5% of total
Strict
6 listings
9.4% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Hillsborough
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Hillsborough is Firm, used by 37.5% of listings.
- There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (51.6%) and stricter (46.9%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.
- Strict cancellation policies are quite rare (9.4%), potentially making listings with this policy less competitive unless justified by high demand or property type.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Consider adopting a Firm policy to align with the 37.5% market standard in Hillsborough.
- Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 9.4% of listings use it. Evaluate if potential revenue protection outweighs possible lower booking rates.
- Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Hillsborough.
How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Hillsborough?
Cleaning fees in Hillsborough 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 Hillsborough
- 79.7% of listings charge a cleaning fee, making it standard practice in Hillsborough. Guests expect it and factor it into their booking decisions.
- The average cleaning fee of $101 is close to the median ($90), suggesting a relatively consistent fee structure across the market.
- Cleaning fees represent 9.3% of gross revenue on average — a modest component of the overall booking price.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Price your cleaning fee competitively against the Hillsborough median of $90. 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 Hillsborough Look Like?
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Hillsboroughbased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Amazing Retreat: 55 Acres of Nature + Pool + Pond
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Mystical Retreat w/Sauna, Koi Pond, UNC & Duke
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Charming Daisy Hill Cottage
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Lake Overlook Retreat: 5 acres near Duke, UNC, Eno
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
![NEW! Peaceful Retreat, Spa/Sauna [Entire Property]](https://a0.muscache.com/im/pictures/miso/Hosting-743783542252263632/original/88ea0793-1df5-477b-922c-27f751795574.jpeg?im_w=480&im_format=avif)
NEW! Peaceful Retreat, Spa/Sauna [Entire Property]
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Charming Downtown Hillsborough Cottage
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms
Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.
Who Are the Top Airbnb Hosts in Hillsborough?
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Hillsborough 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lindy | 1 | $101,895 | 79 | 4.99/5.0 |
| Anna | 2 | $74,053 | 434 | 4.98/5.0 |
| Mya | 1 | $71,924 | 7 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Justin | 3 | $68,981 | 78 | 4.96/5.0 |
| Jamie | 1 | $61,612 | 5 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Jaime | 1 | $60,828 | 65 | 4.97/5.0 |
| Legenia | 1 | $58,996 | 110 | 4.99/5.0 |
| John | 2 | $56,378 | 430 | 4.96/5.0 |
| SplitRock | 2 | $55,805 | 285 | 5.00/5.0 |
| William | 1 | $55,239 | 118 | 4.98/5.0 |
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 Hillsborough.
Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Hillsborough?
Hillsborough is a quality-focused market, with a high Superhost share and fairly mature operating standards.
Host Profile Insights for Hillsborough
- With 62.5% Superhosts, Hillsborough has an experienced host base that sets high guest expectations. New entrants should plan for competitive quality standards.
- 1.6% of listings are professionally managed, reflecting a market still dominated by individual hosts.
- 12.5% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
- 71.9% 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 26.6% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
- Benchmark your host metrics against these Hillsborough averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.
Top Professional Management Companies in Hillsborough
These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in Hillsborough, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alison | 1 | $16,114 | $181 | 67.4% | 4.93/5 |
Management Company Insights for Hillsborough
- The leading management company, Alison, operates 1 listings with $16,114 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in Hillsborough.
- Top managers average 1 properties each, suggesting professional management in Hillsborough still operates at a relatively boutique scale.
- Professionally managed listings in the top tier average 4.93/5 in guest ratings — demonstrating that scale and quality can coexist.
Recommendations
- With only 1.6% 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 Hillsborough's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?
How does the Hillsborough 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 Faber, Hillsborough has 1 percentage points higher occupancy and about $182 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denver | 109 | $6,367 | $613.98 | 44% |
| Troutman | 48 | $5,829 | $487.26 | 42% |
| Mooresville | 367 | $5,827 | $595.09 | 41% |
| Sherrills Ford | 106 | $5,704 | $580.04 | 40% |
| Penhook | 18 | $5,584 | $702.28 | 36% |
| Lake Norman of Catawba | 51 | $5,321 | $533.38 | 43% |
| Nellysford | 68 | $4,957 | $424.70 | 37% |
| Afton | 136 | $4,652 | $401.30 | 41% |
| Faber | 23 | $4,629 | $384.40 | 45% |
| Wintergreen Resort | 82 | $4,559 | $387.16 | 41% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Hillsborough
These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Hillsborough.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Hillsborough?
Hillsborough hosts earn about $25,981 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $202 and RevPAR of $94. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Hillsborough, North Carolina, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Hillsborough market, April 2025 to March 2026.
What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Hillsborough?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Hillsborough is 46.5%. October 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 Hillsborough?
Listings in Hillsborough average $202 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 Hillsborough?
Hillsborough currently has about 64 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 Hillsborough?
AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Hillsborough as Low. The dataset also shows about 0.0% of listings with registration evidence. That is a market signal, not legal advice, so hosts should still confirm current licensing and compliance rules locally before listing.
What is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Hillsborough?
RevPAR in Hillsborough is about $94. 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 Hillsborough?
At 46.5% occupancy, Hillsborough 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 $25,981, 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 Hillsborough?
The average booking lead time in Hillsborough is about 44 days — a moderate lead time that gives hosts planning visibility while still benefiting from last-minute bookings. Hosts who understand their market's booking cadence can adjust minimum stays and pricing windows accordingly.
What are the best neighborhoods for Airbnb in Hillsborough?
Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Hillsborough include Downtown Hillsborough, Hillsborough Riverwalk, Lowe's Grove. 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 Hillsborough?
entire_home listings make up 92.2% of the active supply in Hillsborough. 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 Hillsborough compare to nearby Airbnb markets?
Among neighboring markets, Denver posts $76,404 in average annual revenue with 44.1% occupancy, compared to Hillsborough's $25,981 and 46.5%. Comparing nearby markets helps investors understand whether a destination's performance reflects local demand or broader regional trends.
What is the average length of stay in Hillsborough?
The average Airbnb stay length in Hillsborough is about 4.6 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 Hillsborough?
Airbnb listings in Hillsborough average 4.94 out of 5 overall. About 60.9% 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 Hillsborough?
Shampoo and Hot water are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Hillsborough. 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 Hillsborough?
Yes. About 79.7% of active Airbnb listings in Hillsborough charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $101. 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 Hillsborough?
A 62.5% 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.