South Padre Island, Texas Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics

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

How much can you earn on Airbnb in South Padre Island, Texas? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $34,060 per year — at a $352 nightly rate, 35.0% occupancy, and a $131 RevPAR that reflects moderate rate-to-revenue efficiency with room to optimize.

South Padre Island's 2,319 active listings and moderate demand with room for well-positioned listings to outperform make it a major short-term rental market. Supply grew 40.5% 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.

What Are the Key Airbnb Metrics in South Padre Island?

In South Padre Island, the headline Airbnb metrics are $34,060 in average annual revenue,35.0% occupancy, $352 ADR, and $131 in RevPAR, and guests book about 47 days in advance.

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$352
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in South Padre Island.
Occupancy Rate(?)
35.0%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Avg. Annual Revenue(?)
$34,060
Average annual income for an Airbnb listing in South Padre Island. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
RevPAR(?)
$131
Revenue per available rental night, combining occupancy and ADR into one efficiency metric.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
2.2%
Positive growth (2.2%) vs. last year.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
2,319
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.
Avg. Booking Lead Time(?)
47 days
How far in advance guests typically book in South Padre Island. 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 South Padre Island.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
November
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in South Padre Island.
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How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in South Padre Island?

Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in South Padre Island 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 South Padre Island is typically July, while November often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in South Padre Island across different performance tiers:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $8,672+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $5,126 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $2,832 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,387, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in South Padre Island

What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in South Padre Island?

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 73%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 53% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 32%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 16% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in South Padre Island

What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in South Padre Island?

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in South Padre Island involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in South Padre Island typically peaks in July and dips lowest during November. 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 $623+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $411 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $275 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $199 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in South Padre Island

What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in South Padre Island?

RevPAR in South Padre Island is currently $131. 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 $61 RevPAR.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate $97 RevPAR.
  • Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $157 RevPAR.
  • Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $250 RevPAR.

Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in South Padre Island

RevPAR Insights for South Padre Island

  • The average RevPAR in South Padre Island is $131. 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% ($250) and bottom 25% ($61) is $189, indicating significant performance disparity driven by property quality, pricing strategy, and location.
  • RevPAR peaks in Jul and bottoms out in Nov, mirroring the broader seasonal demand pattern and suggesting opportunities for dynamic pricing.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Track your own RevPAR monthly against these South Padre Island benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $97, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
  • Top-quartile listings achieve $157+ 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 South Padre Island?

South Padre Island's peak Airbnb season falls in July, June, August, while the softest stretch is October, November, December. Overall, the market shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy, which should guide pricing, minimum stays, and cash-flow planning.

Peak Season (July, June, August)
  • Revenue averages $6,324 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 48.5%
  • Daily rates average $402
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $3,598 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 34.3%
  • Daily rates hold near $342
Low Season (October, November, December)
  • Revenue drops to average $2,841 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 28.8%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $311

Seasonality Insights for South Padre Island

  • Airbnb seasonality in South Padre Island 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 South Padre Island's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $8,009, occupancy reaching 57.9%, and ADRs peaking at $421.
  • Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $2,639, occupancy could drop to 26.5%, and ADRs may adjust to $302.
  • Lower occupancy paired with meaningful seasonality means hosts in South Padre Island need to maximize every peak-season booking and seriously consider whether off-season pricing adjustments or minimum-stay changes can capture incremental revenue.

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 South Padre Island, 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 South Padre Island?

South Padre Island, Texas, United States currently shows a low regulation profile despite having 2,319 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 South Padre Island to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2026, based on 0% licensed listings)

What Are the Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in South Padre Island?

South Padre Island 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 South Padre Island, Texas.

Best neighborhoods for Airbnb in South Padre Island
Neighborhood / AreaWhy Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal)Key Attractions & Landmarks
Gulf Boulevard
This area is right along the beach, offering easy access to the ocean and stunning sunsets. It attracts tourists looking for beachside accommodations and water activities.
South Padre Island Beach, Sea Turtle Inc., Schlitterbahn Waterpark, Isla Blanca Park, Fishing and watersports
Port Isabel
Just across the causeway, this charming town offers a glimpse into local culture and is a popular spot for those looking for a quieter experience away from the beach crowds.
Port Isabel Lighthouse, Laguna Madre Nature Trail, Dolphin Watching Tours, Historical Museum, Fishing Pier
South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center
This nature center attracts eco-tourists and bird watchers, offering a unique experience with the local wildlife. It's popular with families and nature lovers.
Birding Trails, Nature Center Exhibits, Scenic Views, Wildlife Observation, Educational Programs
South Padre Island Convention Centre
Ideal for business travelers attending events and conventions. It also serves as a venue for various entertainment events throughout the year.
Convention Centre Events, Cultural Festivals, Art Shows, Nearby Dining and Entertainment
Waterfront Drive
A beautiful scenic area with many waterfront properties, attracting vacationers looking for relaxing stays by the water with beautiful views.
Private Boat Rentals, Waterfront Dining, Parasailing, Kayaking Adventures
Boca Chica Beach
Stone's throw away from the hustle of South Padre, this beach gives a more secluded feel. It's great for those wanting a more tranquil beach outing.
Secluded Beaches, Picnic Areas, Conch Shell Collecting, Sunbathing, Fishing
East Sand Dunes
A less commercialized area known for its natural beauty and an excellent spot for those seeking outdoor activities like dune buggies and kite surfing.
Sand Dunes, Kite Surfing, ATV Rentals, Nature Trails
Laguna Vista
Offers a quieter experience with access to the water, appealing to families and those looking for a peaceful retreat close to the attractions of South Padre Island.
Laguna Vista Park, Kayaking, Bird Watching, Fishing Spots

With 8 distinct neighborhoods showing meaningful short-term rental activity, South Padre Island 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 South Padre Island?

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for South Padre Island

  • The South Padre Island Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 97.2% of the 2,319 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in South Padre Island, Apartment/Condo properties are the most common (77.3%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 20.1% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • Smaller segments like hotel/boutique, others, unique stays (combined 2.7%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

South Padre Island Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for South Padre Island

  • The dominant room capacity in South Padre Island is 2 bedrooms listings, making up 46.9% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 2 bedrooms and 3 bedrooms properties represent 70.7% of the active Airbnb listings in South Padre Island, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 34.7% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in South Padre Island.

South Padre Island Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for South Padre Island

  • The most common guest capacity trend in South Padre Island vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (41%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the South Padre Island STR market, accounting for 78.1% of listings.
  • 80.6% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in South Padre Island.
  • On average, properties in South Padre Island are equipped to host 6.4 guests.

How Do Listings in South Padre Island Compare on Quality?

Listing quality in South Padre Island 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(?)
33.9
More photos correlate with higher conversion rates.
Average Beds per Listing(?)
4.2
Reflects the capacity profile of the local supply.
Exact Location Enabled(?)
30.3%
Builds guest trust and improves booking confidence.

Listing Quality Insights for South Padre Island

  • At 33.9 photos per listing on average, South Padre Island hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
  • 30.3% 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 South Padre Island averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.

What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in South Padre Island?

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for South Padre Island

  • Essential amenities in South Padre Island that guests expect include: TV, Air conditioning, Wifi, Kitchen, Free parking on premises. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Smoke alarm, Refrigerator, Coffee maker are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for South Padre Island: TV, Air conditioning, Wifi, Kitchen, Free parking on premises.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: TV, Air conditioning, Wifi, Kitchen, Free parking on premises.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Smoke alarm or Refrigerator 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 South Padre Island to stay competitive.

Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in South Padre Island?

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

AmenityPrevalenceRevenue WithRevenue WithoutRevenue Uplift
Kitchen
97.7%$34,588$11,894190.8%
Children's playroomHigh opportunity
0.4%$97,256$33,786187.9%
HammockHigh opportunity
1.0%$90,399$33,495169.9%
Fireplace guardsHigh opportunity
0.2%$86,310$33,947154.3%
Bread makerHigh opportunity
0.4%$82,983$33,848145.2%
Heating
89.7%$36,238$15,013141.4%
Barbecue utensils
17.9%$63,195$27,728127.9%
Sound systemHigh opportunity
2.6%$74,292$32,991125.2%
Arcade gamesHigh opportunity
1.5%$74,772$33,454123.5%
Rice makerHigh opportunity
2.1%$73,089$33,235119.9%

Revenue Impact Insights for South Padre Island

  • Kitchen tops the revenue impact list with a 190.8% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $34,588 vs. $11,894 without it.
  • High-opportunity amenities — Children's playroom, Hammock, Fireplace guards — combine revenue uplift above 100% with prevalence under 10%, meaning most competitors haven't adopted them yet.
  • Kitchen, Heating — while widespread — still correlate with meaningful revenue gains, making them table stakes rather than true differentiators.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Prioritize adding Children's playroom — it has the best combination of high revenue impact and low market saturation in South Padre Island.
  • 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 South Padre Island STR Market Data (2026)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

South Padre Island 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 South Padre Island

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in South Padre Island consists of primarily domestic travelers (89%), often arriving from nearby San Antonio, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 89.4% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (89.4%) and Mexico (9.2%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (60.1%) followed by Spanish (34%).
  • 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 San Antonio and Austin.
  • 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 South Padre Island?

Listings in South Padre Island average 4.72 out of 5 overall, with about 50 reviews per active listing and 28.2% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.

Rating Breakdown by Category

Guest Rating Insights for South Padre Island

  • An average rating of 4.72 places South Padre Island in solid territory. Most guests leave satisfied, though there is room for hosts to push toward the top tier.
  • The strongest subcategory is Location (4.91), while Value (4.66) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
  • 28.2% of listings carry the Guest Favorite badge, a strong trust signal that can meaningfully lift click-through and booking rates.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Focus improvement efforts on Value — even small gains in the weakest subcategory can lift overall ratings and search ranking.
  • Encourage guests to leave reviews after checkout. Listings with more reviews rank higher in search results and convert browsers into bookers more effectively.
  • With only 28.2% of listings earning Guest Favorite status, hosts who consistently exceed expectations have a clear competitive advantage.

South Padre Island Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for South Padre Island

  • The most common availability pattern in South Padre Island falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 59.2% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 89.4% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
  • For booked days, the 31-90 days range is most frequent in South Padre Island (38%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 11.3% 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 South Padre Island?

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for South Padre Island

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in South Padre Island is 47 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during January (average 82 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in August (average 39 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Winter (72 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Summer (44 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (47 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in South Padre Island.
  • For January stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 82 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Winter season well in advance (at least 72 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these South Padre Island averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in South Padre Island?

Guests in South Padre Island stay about 4.3 nights on average, generating roughly 48,361 reservations and 20.9 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 South Padre Island

Check-in Time Distribution

Check-out Time Distribution

Stay Pattern Insights for South Padre Island

  • A mid-range stay length points to leisure-driven demand — weekend getaways and short vacations. Hosts should optimize for quick turnover efficiency while keeping the guest experience smooth.
  • At 20.9 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 Jan (10.8 nights) and shorten in May (3.3 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 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.

South Padre Island Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (11.1%)

1 Night

257 listings

11.1% of total

2 Nights (29.3%)

2 Nights

679 listings

29.3% of total

3 Nights (12.2%)

3 Nights

283 listings

12.2% of total

4-6 Nights (4.6%)

4-6 Nights

107 listings

4.6% of total

7-29 Nights (3.2%)

7-29 Nights

75 listings

3.2% of total

30+ Nights (39.6%)

30+ Nights

918 listings

39.6% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in South Padre Island is 30+ Nights, adopted by 39.6% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
  • A significant segment (39.6%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in South Padre Island, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 39.6% of South Padre Island hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 11.1% currently do.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 39.6% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in South Padre Island.

South Padre Island Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)

Super Strict 60 Days

42 listings

1.8% of total

Super Strict 30 Days (21.5%)

Super Strict 30 Days

498 listings

21.5% of total

Limited

12 listings

0.5% of total

Flexible (11%)

Flexible

256 listings

11% of total

Moderate (14.9%)

Moderate

346 listings

14.9% of total

Firm (39.6%)

Firm

918 listings

39.6% of total

Strict (10.6%)

Strict

245 listings

10.6% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for South Padre Island

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in South Padre Island is Firm, used by 39.6% of listings.
  • A majority (50.2%) of hosts in South Padre Island 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 39.6% market standard in South Padre Island.
  • Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 10.6% 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 South Padre Island.

How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in South Padre Island?

Cleaning fees in South Padre Island 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
$241
Median Cleaning Fee
$155
Listings Charging a Fee
94.8%
Fee as Revenue Share
13.3%

Cleaning Fee Insights for South Padre Island

  • 94.8% of listings charge a cleaning fee, making it standard practice in South Padre Island. Guests expect it and factor it into their booking decisions.
  • The gap between the average ($241) and median ($155) cleaning fee indicates some high-end properties are pulling the average up considerably.
  • Cleaning fees represent 13.3% 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 South Padre Island median of $155. 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 South Padre Island Look Like?

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

Elegant Oceanfront Home w/ Pool & Beach Boardwalk!

Elegant Oceanfront Home w/ Pool & Beach Boardwalk!

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$470,394
Revenue
70.3%
Occupancy
$1782.95
Daily Rate
Private Home Large Heated Pool/Hot Tub/BBall court

Private Home Large Heated Pool/Hot Tub/BBall court

Entire Place • 9 bedrooms

$402,132
Revenue
55.6%
Occupancy
$1965.07
Daily Rate
Oceanfront Elegance with Private Pool! Sleeps 10!

Oceanfront Elegance with Private Pool! Sleeps 10!

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$311,046
Revenue
54.0%
Occupancy
$1640.27
Daily Rate
Large Heated Pool/Hot Tub/Bball Court/Beach View

Large Heated Pool/Hot Tub/Bball Court/Beach View

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$274,678
Revenue
54.6%
Occupancy
$1325.04
Daily Rate
Elegant Retreat! Dog-Friendly & Steps to Beach!

Elegant Retreat! Dog-Friendly & Steps to Beach!

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$263,642
Revenue
58.2%
Occupancy
$1352.23
Daily Rate
Dog-Friendly Retreat w/ heated Pool, Near Beach!

Dog-Friendly Retreat w/ heated Pool, Near Beach!

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$261,008
Revenue
49.3%
Occupancy
$1251.66
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 South Padre Island?

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in South Padre Island 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 South Padre Island by revenue
Host NamePropertiesGrossing RevenueStay ReviewsAvg Rating
Will & SPI Rentals Team179$14,222,98120384.68/5.0
Padre Island Rentals161$4,804,01430204.59/5.0
Jerry49$3,469,56154284.90/5.0
Blue Ocean Vacation Rentals51$1,928,85616294.85/5.0
Chad47$1,606,05424604.71/5.0
Horacio24$1,541,27411674.86/5.0
South Padre47$1,200,9636224.71/5.0
Roberto35$1,126,57820404.83/5.0
Evolve33$1,093,80511984.74/5.0
Franke Rentals34$1,040,2191174.69/5.0

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 South Padre Island.

Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in South Padre Island?

South Padre Island leans more toward professional operations than casual hosting, which usually raises the competitive bar for new entrants.

Superhosts
40.2%
Professional Management
46.6%
Cohosted Listings
22.4%
Instant Book Enabled
6.0%
Simplified Pricing
72.1%

Host Profile Insights for South Padre Island

  • A 40.2% Superhost share is healthy — enough experienced operators to anchor quality without making the market impenetrable for newcomers.
  • 46.6% of listings are professionally managed, indicating a mature, competitive market with institutional players.
  • 6.0% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
  • 72.1% 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

  • Earning Superhost status can significantly improve search ranking and guest trust. Focus on maintaining high response rates, low cancellations, and strong reviews.
  • Consider enabling Instant Book — it reduces booking friction and Airbnb's algorithm tends to favor Instant Book listings in search results.
  • With 22.4% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
  • Benchmark your host metrics against these South Padre Island averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.

Top Professional Management Companies in South Padre Island

These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in South Padre Island, 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 South Padre Island
CompanyListingsRevenueADROcc.Rating
Will & SPI Rentals Team179$14,222,981$77833.9%4.68/5
Padre Island Rentals161$4,804,014$30535.9%4.59/5
Jerry49$3,469,561$42144.0%4.90/5
Blue Ocean Vacation Rentals51$1,928,856$32439.3%4.85/5
Chad47$1,606,054$38344.0%4.71/5
South Padre47$1,200,963$28636.8%4.71/5
Roberto35$1,126,578$28134.3%4.83/5
Evolve33$1,093,805$27841.6%4.74/5
Franke Rentals34$1,040,219$61021.8%4.69/5
Bryan77$960,199$28323.6%4.45/5

Management Company Insights for South Padre Island

  • The leading management company, Will & SPI Rentals Team, operates 179 listings with $14,222,981 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in South Padre Island.
  • Top managers average 71 properties each, pointing to a market where portfolio scale is a meaningful competitive factor.
  • Professionally managed listings in the top tier average 4.72/5 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 South Padre Island's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?

How does the South Padre Island 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 Kingsville, South Padre Island has 12 percentage points lower occupancy and about $198 higher ADR. That helps frame whether this market is winning more on demand, pricing, or both.

Airbnb markets near South Padre Island — performance comparison
MarketActive PropertiesMonthly RevenueDaily RateAvg. Occupancy
City-by-the Sea24$4,446$529.2334%
Port Aransas2,356$3,451$458.9433%
Port Mansfield29$2,791$381.6232%
Alton13$2,425$388.2322%
Rio Hondo46$2,284$315.9830%
Port Isabel248$2,130$263.5836%
Kingsville16$2,028$153.6847%
Corpus Christi1,920$1,997$236.6537%
La Feria12$1,633$144.3044%
Rancho Viejo26$1,524$162.7536%

Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in South Padre Island

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

How much do Airbnb hosts make in South Padre Island?

South Padre Island hosts earn about $34,060 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $352 and RevPAR of $131. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in South Padre Island, Texas, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, South Padre Island market, April 2025 to March 2026.

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in South Padre Island?

The average Airbnb occupancy rate in South Padre Island is 35.0%. July is the strongest month and November 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 South Padre Island?

Listings in South Padre Island average $352 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 South Padre Island?

South Padre Island currently has about 2,319 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 South Padre Island?

AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in South Padre Island 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 South Padre Island?

RevPAR in South Padre Island is about $131. 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 South Padre Island?

Occupancy of 35.0% means South Padre Island is a more selective market. Profitability is achievable but requires careful cost management, premium positioning, or targeting longer stays to reduce turnover. Average annual revenue is $34,060, 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 South Padre Island?

The average booking lead time in South Padre Island is about 47 days — a longer planning horizon typical of destination or vacation markets where travelers book well in advance. Hosts who understand their market's booking cadence can adjust minimum stays and pricing windows accordingly.

What are the best neighborhoods for Airbnb in South Padre Island?

Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in South Padre Island include Gulf Boulevard, Port Isabel, South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center. 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 South Padre Island?

entire_home listings make up 97.2% of the active supply in South Padre Island. 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 South Padre Island compare to nearby Airbnb markets?

Among neighboring markets, City-by-the Sea posts $53,356 in average annual revenue with 33.7% occupancy, compared to South Padre Island's $34,060 and 35.0%. 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 South Padre Island?

The average Airbnb stay length in South Padre Island is about 4.3 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 South Padre Island?

Airbnb listings in South Padre Island average 4.72 out of 5 overall. About 28.2% of listings carry the guest favorite badge, which suggests a meaningful share of inventory is competing on review quality rather than price alone.

Which amenities boost Airbnb revenue in South Padre Island?

Kitchen and Children's playroom are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in South Padre Island. 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 South Padre Island?

Yes. About 94.8% of active Airbnb listings in South Padre Island charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $241. 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 South Padre Island?

A 40.2% 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.

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