Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics

Source: AirROIReviewed by Jun Zhou, Founder @ AirROI
Updated:

How much can you earn on Airbnb in Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $30,891 per year — at a $213 nightly rate, 42.3% occupancy, and a $94 RevPAR that reflects moderate rate-to-revenue efficiency with room to optimize.

With just 23 active listings, Lake Waccamaw is a micro-market where moderate demand with room for well-positioned listings to outperform. Supply grew 64.3% 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.

What Are the Key Airbnb Metrics in Lake Waccamaw?

In Lake Waccamaw, the headline Airbnb metrics are $30,891 in average annual revenue,42.3% occupancy, $213 ADR, and $94 in RevPAR, and guests book about 53 days in advance.

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$213
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Lake Waccamaw.
Occupancy Rate(?)
42.3%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Avg. Annual Revenue(?)
$30,891
Average annual income for an Airbnb listing in Lake Waccamaw. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
RevPAR(?)
$94
Revenue per available rental night, combining occupancy and ADR into one efficiency metric.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
-1.9%
Slight decrease (-1.9%) vs. last year.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
23
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.
Avg. Booking Lead Time(?)
53 days
How far in advance guests typically book in Lake Waccamaw. Longer lead times indicate planned travel; shorter ones suggest last-minute demand.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
July
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Lake Waccamaw.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
January
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Lake Waccamaw.
Airbnb Data API
Access this data programmatically. 22 endpoints, 20M+ properties, 190+ countries.
API Access

How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Lake Waccamaw?

Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Lake Waccamaw 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 Lake Waccamaw 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 Lake Waccamaw across different performance tiers:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $4,856+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $3,461 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $2,163 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,396, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Lake Waccamaw

What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Lake Waccamaw?

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Lake Waccamaw STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Julysees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while February 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 Lake Waccamaw:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 67%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 55% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 41%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 26% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Lake Waccamaw

What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Lake Waccamaw?

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Lake Waccamaw involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Lake Waccamaw typically peaks in June and dips lowest during February. 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 $343+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $240 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $190 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $138 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Lake Waccamaw

What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Lake Waccamaw?

RevPAR in Lake Waccamaw 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 $56 RevPAR.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate $77 RevPAR.
  • Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $111 RevPAR.
  • Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $131 RevPAR.

Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Lake Waccamaw

RevPAR Insights for Lake Waccamaw

  • The average RevPAR in Lake Waccamaw 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% ($131) and bottom 25% ($56) is $75, suggesting a relatively compressed market where operational differences yield moderate returns.
  • RevPAR peaks in Jul and bottoms out in Jan, mirroring the broader seasonal demand pattern and suggesting opportunities for dynamic pricing.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Track your own RevPAR monthly against these Lake Waccamaw benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $77, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
  • Top-quartile listings achieve $111+ 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.

Get Live Lake Waccamaw Market Intelligence 👇

Discover Lake Waccamaw Airbnb Analytics
🏠
🏠
🏠

Explore Real-time Analytics

When Is the Peak Season for Airbnb in Lake Waccamaw?

Lake Waccamaw's peak Airbnb season falls in July, June, August, while the softest stretch is January, February, March. Overall, the market shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy, which should guide pricing, minimum stays, and cash-flow planning.

Peak Season (July, June, August)
  • Revenue averages $4,462 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 58.6%
  • Daily rates average $235
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $2,691 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 42.0%
  • Daily rates hold near $212
Low Season (January, February, March)
  • Revenue drops to average $1,603 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 26.3%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $193

Seasonality Insights for Lake Waccamaw

  • Airbnb seasonality in Lake Waccamaw 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 Lake Waccamaw's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $5,052, occupancy reaching 62.4%, and ADRs peaking at $239.
  • Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $1,357, occupancy could drop to 23.1%, and ADRs may adjust to $191.
  • 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 Lake Waccamaw.

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 Lake Waccamaw, 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 Lake Waccamaw?

Low regulation and minimal registration activity in Lake Waccamaw, 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 Lake Waccamaw 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 Lake Waccamaw?

With a compact short-term rental market, Lake Waccamaw gives early-mover hosts an advantage in the right neighborhoods. The areas listed below are where guest demand and local attractions converge — a useful lens for investors evaluating whether to enter this market and where to position their listing.

Best neighborhoods for Airbnb in Lake Waccamaw
Neighborhood / AreaWhy Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal)Key Attractions & Landmarks
Lake Waccamaw State Park
A serene and beautiful park located on the shore of Lake Waccamaw, ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Offers fishing, hiking, and camping opportunities.
Lake Waccamaw, Paddling and fishing, Biking trails, Wildlife viewing, Nature trails
Chadbourn
A nearby town offering a quaint rural vibe and access to historical sites. Great for guests looking for a peaceful getaway with local charm.
Chadbourn Historical Museum, Local farms, Nearby fishing spots, Small-town festivals, Rural landscapes
Whiteville
The largest nearby town with a variety of amenities, dining options, and cultural experiences. Attracts visitors looking for local dining and shopping.
North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences, Shopping districts, Local restaurants, Cultural events, Whiteville Little Theatre
Lake Jeannette
A scenic lake area providing a tranquil environment, perfect for fishing and relaxing. Ideal for guests wanting a lakeside retreat.
Lake Jeannette, Fishing opportunities, Picnic areas, Hiking trails, Wildlife spotting
Bladen Lakes State Forest
A natural haven with extensive forests and wetlands. Appeals to those interested in outdoor activities such as hiking and camping.
Bladen Lakes Trails, Nature photography, Birdwatching, Camping sites, Wildflower fields
Tabor City
A small town with a rich history and close-knit community feel. Offers a unique glimpse into Southern living and hospitality.
Historical sites, Community events, Nearby parks, Local markets, Cultural festivals
Sandy Island
A unique coastal island area known for its natural beauty and wildlife. Ideal for ecotourism and nature retreats.
Wildlife refuge, Beach access, Kayaking, Birdwatching, Nature walks
Columbus County
Offers a diverse range of natural attractions and rural experiences. Great for guests who want to escape the city and enjoy the countryside.
Local farms, Fishing spots, Historic landmarks, Nature trails, Cultural heritage sites

With 8 distinct neighborhoods showing meaningful short-term rental activity, Lake Waccamaw 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 Lake Waccamaw?

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Lake Waccamaw

  • The Lake Waccamaw Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 100% of the 23 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Lake Waccamaw, House properties are the most common (87%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 87% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.

Lake Waccamaw Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Lake Waccamaw

  • The dominant room capacity in Lake Waccamaw is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 43.5% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
  • Together, 3 bedrooms and 2 bedrooms properties represent 69.6% of the active Airbnb listings in Lake Waccamaw, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 56.5% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Lake Waccamaw.

Lake Waccamaw Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Lake Waccamaw

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Lake Waccamaw vacation rentals is listings accommodating 6 guests (47.8%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 6 guests and 8+ guests dominate the Lake Waccamaw STR market, accounting for 69.5% of listings.
  • 73.8% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Lake Waccamaw.
  • On average, properties in Lake Waccamaw are equipped to host 6.0 guests.

How Do Listings in Lake Waccamaw Compare on Quality?

Listing quality in Lake Waccamaw 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.

Average Photos per Listing(?)
30.8
More photos correlate with higher conversion rates.
Average Beds per Listing(?)
4
Reflects the capacity profile of the local supply.
Exact Location Enabled(?)
34.8%
Builds guest trust and improves booking confidence.

Listing Quality Insights for Lake Waccamaw

  • At 30.8 photos per listing on average, Lake Waccamaw hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
  • 34.8% 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 Lake Waccamaw averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.

What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Lake Waccamaw?

Amenity Prevalence

No amenities with partial availability (less than 100%) were found to display in the chart. All essential amenities might be present in all listings. Check insights below.

Amenity Insights for Lake Waccamaw

  • Essential amenities in Lake Waccamaw that guests expect include: Free parking on premises, Refrigerator, Cooking basics, Heating, Smoke alarm, Air conditioning, Wifi, Microwave, Bed linens, Coffee maker. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Lake Waccamaw: Free parking on premises, Refrigerator, Cooking basics, Heating, Smoke alarm, Air conditioning, Wifi, Microwave, Bed linens, Coffee maker.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Free parking on premises.
  • 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 Lake Waccamaw to stay competitive.

Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Lake Waccamaw?

Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Lake Waccamaw, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.

AmenityPrevalenceRevenue WithRevenue WithoutRevenue Uplift
Beach access
21.7%$51,203$25,249102.8%
Pack ’n play/Travel crib
21.7%$50,624$25,40999.2%
Kayak
39.1%$43,891$22,53494.8%
Shampoo
60.9%$38,125$19,63794.2%
Carbon monoxide alarm
65.2%$36,494$20,38479.0%
Long term stays allowed
30.4%$42,049$26,00961.7%
Dishwasher
60.9%$36,197$22,63759.9%
Toaster
78.3%$33,629$21,03159.9%
Waterfront
56.5%$36,764$23,25558.1%
BBQ grill
65.2%$35,293$22,63655.9%

Revenue Impact Insights for Lake Waccamaw

  • Beach access tops the revenue impact list with a 102.8% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $51,203 vs. $25,249 without it.

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 Lake Waccamaw STR Market Data (2026)

Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Lake Waccamaw. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.

Explore Advanced Metrics

Lake Waccamaw Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)

Guest Origin: Domestic vs. International
Top 5 Cities of Origin
Top 5 Countries of Origin
Top 5 Languages Spoken
Guest Age Distribution (Birth Decade)

Guest Profile Summary for Lake Waccamaw

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Lake Waccamaw consists of primarily domestic travelers (97%), often arriving from nearby Woodbridge, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or French.
  • Domestic travelers account for 97.0% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (97%) and DC (1.2%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (70.2%) followed by French (8.8%).
  • 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 Woodbridge and Apex.
  • 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 Lake Waccamaw?

Listings in Lake Waccamaw average 4.9 out of 5 overall, with about 83.3 reviews per active listing and 73.9% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.

Rating Breakdown by Category

Guest Rating Insights for Lake Waccamaw

  • With an overall rating of 4.9, Lake Waccamaw listings meet an exceptionally high bar. Guests consistently report strong satisfaction, which drives repeat bookings and referral traffic.
  • The strongest subcategory is Check-in (4.97), while Value (4.87) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
  • 73.9% 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.

Lake Waccamaw Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Lake Waccamaw

  • The most common availability pattern in Lake Waccamaw falls within the 181-270 days range, representing 47.8% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 69.5% 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 Lake Waccamaw (52.2%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 30.4% 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 Lake Waccamaw?

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Lake Waccamaw

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Lake Waccamaw is 53 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during July (average 87 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 15 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (77 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 (53 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Lake Waccamaw.
  • For July stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 87 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 77 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Lake Waccamaw averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Lake Waccamaw?

Guests in Lake Waccamaw stay about 3.6 nights on average, generating roughly 757 reservations and 32.9 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 Lake Waccamaw

Check-in Time Distribution

Check-out Time Distribution

Stay Pattern Insights for Lake Waccamaw

  • 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 32.9 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 Jul (4.5 nights) and shorten in Feb (2.6 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.

Lake Waccamaw Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (17.4%)

1 Night

4 listings

17.4% of total

2 Nights (47.8%)

2 Nights

11 listings

47.8% of total

3 Nights (13%)

3 Nights

3 listings

13% of total

30+ Nights (21.7%)

30+ Nights

5 listings

21.7% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Lake Waccamaw is 2 Nights, adopted by 47.8% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A strong majority (65.2%) of the Lake Waccamaw Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.
  • A significant segment (21.7%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Lake Waccamaw, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 2 Nights minimum stay, as 47.8% of Lake Waccamaw hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 17.4% currently do.
  • A 2-night minimum appears standard (47.8%). Consider this for weekends or peak periods.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 21.7% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Lake Waccamaw.

Lake Waccamaw Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)

Limited

1 listings

4.3% of total

Flexible (8.7%)

Flexible

2 listings

8.7% of total

Moderate (34.8%)

Moderate

8 listings

34.8% of total

Firm (47.8%)

Firm

11 listings

47.8% of total

Strict

1 listings

4.3% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Lake Waccamaw

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Lake Waccamaw is Firm, used by 47.8% of listings.
  • A majority (52.1%) of hosts in Lake Waccamaw utilize Firm or Strict policies, indicating a market where hosts prioritize booking security.
  • Strict cancellation policies are quite rare (4.3%), 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 47.8% market standard in Lake Waccamaw.
  • Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 4.3% 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 Lake Waccamaw.

How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Lake Waccamaw?

Cleaning fees in Lake Waccamaw 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.

Average Cleaning Fee
$118
Median Cleaning Fee
$95
Listings Charging a Fee
95.7%
Fee as Revenue Share
11.3%

Cleaning Fee Insights for Lake Waccamaw

  • 95.7% of listings charge a cleaning fee, making it standard practice in Lake Waccamaw. Guests expect it and factor it into their booking decisions.
  • The gap between the average ($118) and median ($95) cleaning fee indicates some high-end properties are pulling the average up considerably.
  • Cleaning fees represent 11.3% 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 Lake Waccamaw median of $95. 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 Lake Waccamaw Look Like?

Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Lake Waccamawbased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.

Lake Escape - Lake Waccamaw

Lake Escape - Lake Waccamaw

Entire Place • 7 bedrooms

$133,263
Revenue
53.4%
Occupancy
$591.84
Daily Rate
Cypress Cottage - Lakefront W/ Hot tub

Cypress Cottage - Lakefront W/ Hot tub

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$70,357
Revenue
58.1%
Occupancy
$324.44
Daily Rate
Lakefront Retreat Nature Escape

Lakefront Retreat Nature Escape

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$47,783
Revenue
71.1%
Occupancy
$180.65
Daily Rate
Quality Family Time on Lake Waccamaw - Lake Front

Quality Family Time on Lake Waccamaw - Lake Front

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$47,424
Revenue
26.6%
Occupancy
$451.58
Daily Rate
Docktails Cabana:Just 10 Steps to the Water!

Docktails Cabana:Just 10 Steps to the Water!

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$34,102
Revenue
40.4%
Occupancy
$220.21
Daily Rate
Guests Rave: Clean, Stocked+ Peaceful Stay for 6

Guests Rave: Clean, Stocked+ Peaceful Stay for 6

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$33,077
Revenue
47.8%
Occupancy
$230.57
Daily Rate

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 Lake Waccamaw?

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Lake Waccamaw based on the number of properties managed and estimated total revenue over the past year. Analyze their scale and performance metrics.

Top Airbnb hosts in Lake Waccamaw by revenue
Host NamePropertiesGrossing RevenueStay ReviewsAvg Rating
RedAwning Vacation Rentals1$133,2631364.89/5.0
Laura1$70,3571044.94/5.0
Kelly1$47,7831494.89/5.0
Chris1$47,424394.95/5.0
Charlotte3$41,6841054.92/5.0
Lisa And Terra1$34,102244.96/5.0
Tanja1$33,077555.00/5.0
Miranda1$30,9461634.81/5.0
Evolve1$29,371924.57/5.0
Charlyne1$28,2121154.96/5.0

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 Lake Waccamaw.

Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Lake Waccamaw?

Lake Waccamaw is a quality-focused market, with a high Superhost share and fairly mature operating standards.

Superhosts
69.6%
Professional Management
13.0%
Cohosted Listings
30.4%
Instant Book Enabled
0.0%
Simplified Pricing
87.0%

Host Profile Insights for Lake Waccamaw

  • With 69.6% Superhosts, Lake Waccamaw has an experienced host base that sets high guest expectations. New entrants should plan for competitive quality standards.
  • 13.0% of listings are professionally managed, reflecting a market still dominated by individual hosts.
  • 0.0% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
  • 87.0% 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 30.4% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
  • Benchmark your host metrics against these Lake Waccamaw averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.

Top Professional Management Companies in Lake Waccamaw

These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in Lake Waccamaw, ranked by total revenue across their portfolio. Their performance metrics offer a benchmark for what institutional-level hosting looks like in this market.

Top Airbnb management companies in Lake Waccamaw
CompanyListingsRevenueADROcc.Rating
RedAwning Vacation Rentals1$133,263$59253.4%4.89/5
Tanja1$33,077$23147.8%5.00/5
Evolve1$29,371$14353.6%4.57/5

Management Company Insights for Lake Waccamaw

  • The leading management company, RedAwning Vacation Rentals, operates 1 listings with $133,263 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in Lake Waccamaw.
  • Top managers average 1 properties each, suggesting professional management in Lake Waccamaw still operates at a relatively boutique scale.
  • Professionally managed listings in the top tier average 4.82/5 in guest ratings — demonstrating that scale and quality can coexist.

Recommendations

  • With only 13.0% of listings professionally managed, there may be an opportunity to differentiate through more structured operations and consistent guest experiences.
  • Study how top management companies price, position, and maintain their portfolios — their ADR and occupancy rates reflect strategies refined across dozens of listings.
  • If you're considering hiring a property manager, compare their portfolio performance against these benchmarks before committing.

How Does Lake Waccamaw's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?

How does the Lake Waccamaw 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, Lake Waccamaw has 4 percentage points lower occupancy and about $123 lower ADR. That helps frame whether this market is winning more on demand, pricing, or both.

Airbnb markets near Lake Waccamaw — performance comparison
MarketActive PropertiesMonthly RevenueDaily RateAvg. Occupancy
Ocean Isle Beach504$4,963$614.5837%
Wrightsville Beach497$4,671$547.1039%
Bald Head Island207$4,317$642.0332%
Kure Beach498$3,894$452.2841%
Cedar Point30$3,818$336.1846%
Surfside Beach470$3,671$411.6441%
Emerald Isle508$3,652$410.1342%
North Topsail Beach944$3,645$452.6138%
Murrells Inlet386$3,541$405.7241%
Surf City738$3,486$403.7539%

Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Lake Waccamaw

These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Lake Waccamaw.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Lake Waccamaw?

Lake Waccamaw hosts earn about $30,891 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $213 and RevPAR of $94. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Lake Waccamaw, North Carolina, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Lake Waccamaw market, April 2025 to March 2026.

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Lake Waccamaw?

The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Lake Waccamaw is 42.3%. 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 Lake Waccamaw?

Listings in Lake Waccamaw average $213 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 Lake Waccamaw?

Lake Waccamaw currently has about 23 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 Lake Waccamaw?

AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Lake Waccamaw 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 Lake Waccamaw?

RevPAR in Lake Waccamaw 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 Lake Waccamaw?

At 42.3% occupancy, Lake Waccamaw 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 $30,891, 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 Lake Waccamaw?

The average booking lead time in Lake Waccamaw is about 53 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 Lake Waccamaw?

Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Lake Waccamaw include Lake Waccamaw State Park, Chadbourn, Whiteville. 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 Lake Waccamaw?

entire_home listings make up 100.0% of the active supply in Lake Waccamaw. 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 Lake Waccamaw compare to nearby Airbnb markets?

Among neighboring markets, Ocean Isle Beach posts $59,560 in average annual revenue with 37.0% occupancy, compared to Lake Waccamaw's $30,891 and 42.3%. 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 Lake Waccamaw?

The average Airbnb stay length in Lake Waccamaw is about 3.6 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 Lake Waccamaw?

Airbnb listings in Lake Waccamaw average 4.9 out of 5 overall. About 73.9% 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 Lake Waccamaw?

Beach access and Pack ’n play/Travel crib are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Lake Waccamaw. 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 Lake Waccamaw?

Yes. About 95.7% of active Airbnb listings in Lake Waccamaw charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $118. 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 Lake Waccamaw?

A 69.6% 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.

Access Real-Time Airbnb API

This report is powered by our industry-leading Airbnb Data API, providing direct access to live short-term rental data from global markets like Lake Waccamaw. Use this data to build powerful analytics tools, discover investment opportunities, and inform your vacation rental strategy.

Get API Access