Charleston, South Carolina Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics
How much can you earn on Airbnb in Charleston, South Carolina? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $67,532 per year — at a $408 nightly rate, 52.0% occupancy, and a $219 RevPAR that reflects moderate rate-to-revenue efficiency with room to optimize.
With 1,839 active listings and solid booking activity throughout the year, Charleston is an established vacation rental market. Supply grew 45.8% over the past year, yet revenue and nightly rates both trended upward — a signal that traveler demand is outpacing new inventory rather than being diluted by it. For hosts, pricing power remains intact even as competition increases.
Regulation is low with minimal registration requirements, pointing to an operator-friendly environment. The data points to a market where fundamentals reward execution — the right property, priced well, in the right neighborhood still outperforms.
Table of Contents [hide] [show]
What Are the Key Airbnb Metrics in Charleston?
In Charleston, the headline Airbnb metrics are $67,532 in average annual revenue,52.0% occupancy, $408 ADR, and $219 in RevPAR, and guests book about 59 days in advance.
How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Charleston?
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Charleston 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 Charleston is typically April, while January often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Charleston across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $14,852+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $9,415 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $5,531 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $2,783, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Charleston
What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Charleston?
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Charleston STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Aprilsees 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 Charleston:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 86%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 75% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 57%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 36% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Charleston
What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Charleston?
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Charleston involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Charleston typically peaks in March and dips lowest during August. 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 $783+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $485 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $293 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $166 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Charleston
What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Charleston?
RevPAR in Charleston is currently $219. 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 $89 RevPAR.
- Typical properties (Median) generate $168 RevPAR.
- Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $282 RevPAR.
- Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $453 RevPAR.
Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Charleston
RevPAR Insights for Charleston
- The average RevPAR in Charleston is $219. 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% ($453) and bottom 25% ($89) is $364, indicating significant performance disparity driven by property quality, pricing strategy, and location.
- RevPAR peaks in Apr 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 Charleston benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $168, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
- Top-quartile listings achieve $282+ 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 Charleston Market Intelligence 👇
Explore Real-time Analytics
When Is the Peak Season for Airbnb in Charleston?
Charleston's peak Airbnb season falls in April, May, June, while the softest stretch is January, February, September. Overall, the market shows moderate seasonality with distinct peak and low periods, which should guide pricing, minimum stays, and cash-flow planning.
Peak Season (April, May, June)
- Revenue averages $8,675 per month
- Occupancy rates average 63.4%
- Daily rates average $403
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $7,296 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 54.1%
- Daily rates hold near $392
Low Season (January, February, September)
- Revenue drops to average $5,541 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 46.1%
- Daily rates adjust to average $366
Seasonality Insights for Charleston
- The Airbnb seasonality pattern in Charleston 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 Charleston's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $9,119, occupancy reaching 67.6%, and ADRs peaking at $450.
- Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $4,783, occupancy could drop to 39.8%, and ADRs may adjust to $348.
- 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 Charleston.
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 Charleston seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.
Do You Need a License for Airbnb in Charleston?
Charleston, South Carolina, United States currently shows a low regulation profile despite having 1,839 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 Charleston to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2026, based on 0% licensed listings)
What Are the Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Charleston?
Charleston is a large short-term rental market, and performance varies significantly by location within the city. The neighborhoods below are among the most active areas for Airbnb hosts — each with distinct guest demographics, demand drivers, and local attractions. Use this as a starting point for neighborhood-level investment analysis in Charleston, South Carolina.
| Neighborhood / Area | Why Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal) | Key Attractions & Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| Historic District | The heart of Charleston, known for its well-preserved architecture, cobblestone streets, and rich history. A prime location for tourists wanting to explore Southern charm and heritage. | Rainbow Row, The Battery, Charleston City Market, Historic homes and plantations, Waterfront Park, St. Michael's Church |
| Sullivan's Island | A charming beach town just a short drive from downtown Charleston. Popular for its relaxing beach atmosphere and family-friendly activities. | Sullivan's Island Beach, Fort Moultrie National Historical Park, The Isle of Palms connector, Coastal restaurants, Historic lighthouse |
| Folly Beach | Known for its laid-back vibe and beautiful sandy beaches, Folly Beach is a favorite among surfers and beach-goers, ideal for those seeking a fun and relaxing getaway. | Folly Beach County Park, The Morris Island Lighthouse, Folly Beach Pier, Biking and walking paths, Local seafood restaurants |
| Mount Pleasant | A rapidly growing suburban area that offers a mix of residential and commercial activities. Close to the beaches and has plenty of parks and outdoor activities. | Shem Creek Park, Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, Mount Pleasant Town Centre, Local boutiques and markets, Nearby beaches |
| West Ashley | A family-friendly area with a suburban feel, yet close to downtown. Great for visitors who want access to both city life and nature. | Stono River County Park, Batteries and parks, Historic landmarks, Shopping centers, Local eateries |
| North Charleston | Emerging area with a mix of industrial history and modern dining, shopping, and parks. Suitable for long-term guests and business travelers. | North Charleston Coliseum, Riverfront Park, Charleston Area Convention Center, Local craft breweries, Old Navy Yard |
| James Island | A quiet residential area with easy access to downtown Charleston and Folly Beach. Perfect for visitors looking for a serene stay near the city and the beaches. | James Island County Park, Angel Oak Tree, Local dining and shopping, Historic sites, Outdoor activities |
| Daniel Island | An upscale island community known for its golf courses and waterfront views. Attractive to those seeking a luxurious and peaceful environment. | Daniel Island Club, Local parks, Daniel Island History Centre, Waterfront spots, Golf and recreational activities |
With 8 distinct neighborhoods showing meaningful short-term rental activity, Charleston 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 Charleston?
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Charleston
- The Charleston Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 89.5% of the 1,839 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Charleston, House properties are the most common (51.8%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 51.8% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- The presence of 11.6% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
- Smaller segments like others, outdoor/unique, unique stays (combined 4.0%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Charleston Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Charleston
- The dominant room capacity in Charleston is 1 bedroom listings, making up 26.8% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 1 bedroom and 2 bedrooms properties represent 52.3% of the active Airbnb listings in Charleston, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 39.8% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Charleston.
Charleston Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Charleston
- The most common guest capacity trend in Charleston vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (27.3%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 8+ guests and 4 guests dominate the Charleston STR market, accounting for 51.6% of listings.
- 45.9% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Charleston.
- On average, properties in Charleston are equipped to host 5.0 guests.
How Do Listings in Charleston Compare on Quality?
Listing quality in Charleston 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 Charleston
- At 29.8 photos per listing on average, Charleston hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
- 40.3% 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 Charleston averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.
What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Charleston?
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Charleston
- Essential amenities in Charleston that guests expect include: Air conditioning, Wifi, Heating, Smoke alarm, TV. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Coffee maker, Hair dryer, Hangers are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Charleston: Air conditioning, Wifi, Heating, Smoke alarm, TV.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Air conditioning, Wifi, Heating, Smoke alarm, TV.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Coffee maker or Hair dryer 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 Charleston to stay competitive.
Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Charleston?
Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Charleston, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.
| Amenity | Prevalence | Revenue With | Revenue Without | Revenue Uplift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
TV | 98.5% | $68,332 | $15,796 | 332.6% |
Hair dryer | 94.5% | $70,072 | $23,824 | 194.1% |
Iron | 91.0% | $71,411 | $28,176 | 153.4% |
Fire extinguisher | 92.0% | $70,929 | $28,425 | 149.5% |
Smoke alarm | 98.7% | $68,055 | $27,988 | 143.2% |
Shampoo | 88.6% | $72,240 | $31,012 | 132.9% |
Stove | 79.1% | $76,005 | $35,426 | 114.5% |
Hangers | 93.5% | $69,852 | $34,001 | 105.4% |
Oven | 75.3% | $77,192 | $38,149 | 102.3% |
Cooking basics | 86.4% | $72,292 | $37,273 | 94.0% |
Revenue Impact Insights for Charleston
- TV tops the revenue impact list with a 332.6% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $68,332 vs. $15,796 without it.
- TV, Hair dryer, Iron, Fire extinguisher, Smoke alarm, Shampoo, Hangers, Cooking basics — 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 Charleston STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Charleston. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsCharleston Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for Charleston
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Charleston consists of primarily domestic travelers (95%), often arriving from nearby Charlotte, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
- Domestic travelers account for 95.2% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (95.2%) and DC (1.2%).
- Top languages spoken are English (74.5%) followed by Spanish (11.1%).
- 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 Charlotte and New York.
- Tailor amenities and listing descriptions to appeal to the dominant Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) demographic (e.g., highlight fast WiFi, smart home features, local guides).
- Highlight unique local experiences or amenities relevant to the primary guest profile.
- Consider seasonal promotions aligned with peak travel times for key origin markets.
What Are Airbnb Guest Ratings in Charleston?
Listings in Charleston average 4.86 out of 5 overall, with about 114.3 reviews per active listing and 42.4% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.
Rating Breakdown by Category
Guest Rating Insights for Charleston
- With an overall rating of 4.86, Charleston listings meet an exceptionally high bar. Guests consistently report strong satisfaction, which drives repeat bookings and referral traffic.
- The strongest subcategory is Communication (4.93), while Value (4.76) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
- 42.4% 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.
Charleston Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Charleston
- The most common availability pattern in Charleston falls within the 91-180 days range, representing 32.1% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 57.5% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
- For booked days, the 181-270 days range is most frequent in Charleston (32.7%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 44.2% 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 Charleston?
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Charleston
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Charleston is 59 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during May (average 72 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in January (average 43 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Spring (69 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (48 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (59 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Charleston.
- For May stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 72 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Spring season well in advance (at least 69 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Charleston averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Charleston?
Guests in Charleston stay about 6.7 nights on average, generating roughly 74,635 reservations and 40.6 bookings per listing in the latest AirROI dataset. The most common check-in time is 4:00 PM and check-out is 11:00 AM.
Monthly Length of Stay in Charleston
Check-in Time Distribution
Check-out Time Distribution
Stay Pattern Insights for Charleston
- 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 40.6 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 Mar (5.7 nights) and shorten in Feb (3.6 nights). Adjust minimum-night requirements seasonally to match.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Leverage the longer-stay pattern by offering weekly discounts — even 5-10% off can convert browsing into bookings for guests considering an extended stay.
- Set your check-in time to match or beat the market standard of 4:00 PM. Offering early check-in flexibility can be a low-cost differentiator.
- Monitor length-of-stay seasonality to adjust minimum-night requirements — longer minimums during peak periods maximize revenue while shorter minimums fill gaps in shoulder seasons.
Charleston Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
237 listings
12.9% of total
2 Nights
426 listings
23.2% of total
3 Nights
41 listings
2.2% of total
4-6 Nights
32 listings
1.7% of total
7-29 Nights
130 listings
7.1% of total
30+ Nights
973 listings
52.9% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Charleston is 30+ Nights, adopted by 52.9% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
- A significant segment (52.9%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Charleston, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 52.9% of Charleston hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 12.9% currently do.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 52.9% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Charleston.
Charleston Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Super Strict 30 Days
156 listings
8.5% of total
Super Strict 60 Days
63 listings
3.4% of total
Limited
52 listings
2.8% of total
Non-refundable
2 listings
0.1% of total
Flexible
131 listings
7.1% of total
Moderate
283 listings
15.4% of total
Firm
917 listings
49.9% of total
Strict
233 listings
12.7% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Charleston
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Charleston is Firm, used by 49.9% of listings.
- A majority (62.6%) of hosts in Charleston 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 49.9% market standard in Charleston.
- Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 12.7% 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 Charleston.
How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Charleston?
Cleaning fees in Charleston 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 Charleston
- 89.7% of listings charge a cleaning fee, making it standard practice in Charleston. Guests expect it and factor it into their booking decisions.
- The gap between the average ($644) and median ($178) cleaning fee indicates some high-end properties are pulling the average up considerably.
- Cleaning fees represent 10.5% 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 Charleston median of $178. 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 Charleston Look Like?
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Charlestonbased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
The Chapel | Premier 13BR Estate in Downtown CHS
Entire Place • 13 bedrooms
The Pineapple Place | EastBay Historic District Ho
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
The Inns | Grand 9BR Charleston Downtown Home!
Entire Place • 9 bedrooms
Private Pool & Historic Home - ‘Sugarsweet House’
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
The Chateau - By Charleston Vacays
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Cozy Stay by King St -New Luxury Home, Breakfast
Entire Place • 11 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 Charleston?
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Charleston 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Stay Duvet | 181 | $15,377,301 | 21819 | 4.83/5.0 |
| YOURPAD Charleston | 90 | $12,510,002 | 8054 | 4.83/5.0 |
| Curated Vacation Properties | 76 | $9,034,078 | 4202 | 4.79/5.0 |
| Yourpad | 56 | $6,213,211 | 7033 | 4.83/5.0 |
| Scott | 26 | $4,879,459 | 3249 | 4.84/5.0 |
| The Boroughs | 52 | $4,859,794 | 4498 | 4.83/5.0 |
| The Respite & Revelry Co. | 44 | $4,228,274 | 1829 | 4.85/5.0 |
| The Inns | 22 | $4,062,946 | 3500 | 4.86/5.0 |
| Charleston | 24 | $3,059,597 | 2210 | 4.90/5.0 |
| StPhilipSquare | 18 | $2,426,383 | 923 | 4.94/5.0 |
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 Charleston.
Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Charleston?
Charleston is a quality-focused market, with a high Superhost share and fairly mature operating standards.
Host Profile Insights for Charleston
- With 79.7% Superhosts, Charleston has an experienced host base that sets high guest expectations. New entrants should plan for competitive quality standards.
- 40.1% 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.
- 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 30.9% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
- Benchmark your host metrics against these Charleston averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.
Top Professional Management Companies in Charleston
These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in Charleston, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| StayDuvet | 181 | $15,377,301 | $547 | 55.0% | 4.83/5 |
| YOURPAD Charleston | 90 | $12,510,002 | $655 | 63.5% | 4.83/5 |
| Curated Vacation Properties | 76 | $9,034,078 | $624 | 57.2% | 4.79/5 |
| John | 56 | $6,213,211 | $508 | 63.9% | 4.83/5 |
| Scott | 26 | $4,879,459 | $770 | 62.8% | 4.84/5 |
| The Boroughs | 52 | $4,859,794 | $481 | 65.8% | 4.83/5 |
| The Respite & Revelry Co. | 44 | $4,228,274 | $714 | 39.0% | 4.85/5 |
| The Inns | 22 | $4,062,946 | $852 | 72.2% | 4.86/5 |
| Charleston | 24 | $3,059,597 | $603 | 65.6% | 4.90/5 |
| StPhilipSquare | 18 | $2,426,383 | $641 | 58.3% | 4.94/5 |
Management Company Insights for Charleston
- The leading management company, StayDuvet, operates 181 listings with $15,377,301 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in Charleston.
- Top managers average 59 properties each, pointing to a market where portfolio scale is a meaningful competitive factor.
- Professionally managed listings in the top tier average 4.85/5 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 Charleston's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?
How does the Charleston 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 Mount Pleasant, Charleston has 1 percentage points lower occupancy and about $96 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Isle of Palms | 1,012 | $7,321 | $764.81 | 42% |
| Folly Beach | 901 | $7,179 | $604.47 | 46% |
| Sullivan's Island | 22 | $6,805 | $899.23 | 39% |
| Talahi Island | 41 | $6,021 | $368.19 | 50% |
| Okatie | 10 | $5,565 | $527.26 | 42% |
| Ocean Isle Beach | 504 | $4,963 | $614.58 | 37% |
| Kiawah Island | 625 | $4,596 | $647.38 | 33% |
| Mount Pleasant | 452 | $4,456 | $312.67 | 53% |
| Tybee Island | 1,354 | $4,357 | $437.68 | 41% |
| Wilmington Island | 114 | $3,774 | $337.02 | 45% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Charleston
These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Charleston.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Charleston?
Charleston hosts earn about $67,532 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $408 and RevPAR of $219. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Charleston, South Carolina, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Charleston market, April 2025 to March 2026.
What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Charleston?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Charleston is 52.0%. April 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 Charleston?
Listings in Charleston average $408 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 Charleston?
Charleston currently has about 1,839 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 Charleston?
AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Charleston as Low. The dataset also shows about 0.1% of listings with registration evidence. That is a market signal, not legal advice, so hosts should still confirm current licensing and compliance rules locally before listing.
What is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Charleston?
RevPAR in Charleston is about $219. 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 Charleston?
At 52.0% occupancy, Charleston 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 $67,532, 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 Charleston?
The average booking lead time in Charleston is about 59 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 Charleston?
Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Charleston include Historic District, Sullivan's Island, Folly Beach. 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 Charleston?
entire_home listings make up 89.5% of the active supply in Charleston. 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 Charleston compare to nearby Airbnb markets?
Among neighboring markets, Isle of Palms posts $87,848 in average annual revenue with 42.1% occupancy, compared to Charleston's $67,532 and 52.0%. Comparing nearby markets helps investors understand whether a destination's performance reflects local demand or broader regional trends.
What is the average length of stay in Charleston?
The average Airbnb stay length in Charleston is about 6.7 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 Charleston?
Airbnb listings in Charleston average 4.86 out of 5 overall. About 42.4% 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 Charleston?
TV and Hair dryer are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Charleston. 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 Charleston?
Yes. About 89.7% of active Airbnb listings in Charleston charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $644. 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 Charleston?
A 79.7% 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.