Waco, Texas Airbnb Market Data 2026: STR Report & Statistics
How much can you earn on Airbnb in Waco, Texas? Based on AirROI's 2026 dataset (April 2025 – March 2026), the short answer is $28,686 per year — at a $221 nightly rate, 39.8% occupancy, and a $90 RevPAR that reflects moderate rate-to-revenue efficiency with room to optimize.
Waco's 575 active listings and moderate demand with room for well-positioned listings to outperform position it as a midsize vacation rental market. Supply grew 32.8% and nightly rates have risen, creating an environment where the most bookable listings stand to capture outsized share. Hosts who pair competitive pricing with strong guest experience are well-positioned to convert the growing traveler base into consistent bookings.
Regulation is low with minimal registration requirements, pointing to an operator-friendly environment. For data-driven hosts, the opportunity lies in reading these signals and positioning accordingly.
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What Are the Key Airbnb Metrics in Waco?
In Waco, the headline Airbnb metrics are $28,686 in average annual revenue,39.8% occupancy, $221 ADR, and $90 in RevPAR, and guests book about 49 days in advance.
How Much Do Airbnb Hosts Earn Monthly in Waco?
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Waco 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 Waco is typically October, while February often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Waco across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $5,718+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $3,782 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $2,359 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,371, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Waco
What Is the Monthly Airbnb Occupancy Rate in Waco?
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Waco STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Octobersees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while January experiences the lowest (low season). Effective strategies, like adjusting minimum stays or offering promotions, can boost occupancy during slower periods. Here's how different property tiers perform in Waco:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 71%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 57% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 39%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 23% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Waco
What Is the Average Airbnb Nightly Rate in Waco?
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Waco involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Waco typically peaks in October and dips lowest during April. Leveraging Airbnb dynamic pricing tools or strategies based on this seasonality can significantly boost revenue. Here's a look at the typical nightly rates achieved:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) command rates of $357+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $271 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $185 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $130 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Waco
What Is the RevPAR for Airbnb in Waco?
RevPAR in Waco is currently $90. 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 $51 RevPAR.
- Typical properties (Median) generate $76 RevPAR.
- Strong performers (Top 25%) earn $114 RevPAR.
- Best-in-class (Top 10%) achieve $166 RevPAR.
Average Monthly RevPAR Trend in Waco
RevPAR Insights for Waco
- The average RevPAR in Waco is $90. 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% ($166) and bottom 25% ($51) is $116, indicating significant performance disparity driven by property quality, pricing strategy, and location.
- RevPAR peaks in Oct 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 Waco benchmarks. If your RevPAR falls below the median of $76, examine whether low occupancy or low ADR is the primary drag.
- Top-quartile listings achieve $114+ 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 Waco?
Waco's peak Airbnb season falls in October, August, June, while the softest stretch is January, February, April. Overall, the market shows moderate seasonality with distinct peak and low periods, which should guide pricing, minimum stays, and cash-flow planning.
Peak Season (October, August, June)
- Revenue averages $3,465 per month
- Occupancy rates average 45.7%
- Daily rates average $231
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $2,911 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 40.6%
- Daily rates hold near $224
Low Season (January, February, April)
- Revenue drops to average $2,339 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 37.5%
- Daily rates adjust to average $206
Seasonality Insights for Waco
- The Airbnb seasonality pattern in Waco 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 Waco's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues climbing to $3,822, occupancy reaching 46.6%, and ADRs peaking at $241.
- Conversely, the slowest single month marks the market's lowest point — revenue may dip to $2,230, occupancy could drop to 34.1%, and ADRs may adjust to $204.
- Lower occupancy paired with meaningful seasonality means hosts in Waco 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.
- Regularly analyze your own performance against these Waco seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.
Do You Need a License for Airbnb in Waco?
Waco, Texas, United States currently shows a low regulation profile despite having 575 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 Waco to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2026, based on 0% licensed listings)
What Are the Best Neighborhoods for Airbnb in Waco?
Location within Waco matters. Even in a midsize market, the difference between neighborhoods can mean a material gap in occupancy, nightly rate, and overall Airbnb revenue. Below are 8 areas where short-term rental activity and guest interest are concentrated — along with the reasons each neighborhood appeals to travelers.
| Neighborhood / Area | Why Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal) | Key Attractions & Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| Baylor University | Home to a large student body and many university events year-round, making it a prime location for short-term rentals catering to visiting families, students, and alumni. | Baylor University, Dr Pepper Museum, Waco Suspension Bridge, Baylor Sciences Building, McLane Stadium |
| Downtown Waco | The revitalized heart of Waco with dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Great for tourists wanting to explore local culture and attractions. | Magnolia Market at the Silos, Waco Downtown Farmers Market, Texas Ranger Hall of Fame, Waco Hippodrome Theatre, Dr Pepper Museum |
| Richland Mall Area | A commercial hub with shopping and dining close by, appealing to both leisure travelers and business visitors. | Richland Mall, Cinemark Waco, Lake Waco, Shopping centers |
| Woodway | A suburban area with a family-friendly atmosphere, ideal for families visiting or relocating for work in Waco. | Woodway Park, Lake Waco, Kendall Park |
| Cameron Park | A beautiful natural area with trails and recreational opportunities, attractive for nature lovers and families looking for outdoor activities. | Cameron Park Zoo, Cameron Park, Waco Mammoth National Monument |
| The Plot | A trendy area known for arts and entertainment, appealing to younger visitors and those looking for cultural experiences. | Waco Wine Shoppe, Art galleries, Local music venues |
| Waco Riverwalk | A picturesque area along the Brazos River, perfect for tourists who enjoy walking, biking, and scenic views. | Brazos River, Suspension Bridge, Riverfront Parks |
| McLennan Community College | With a population of students, faculty, and visitors, this area remains an attractive investment opportunity for short-term rentals. | McLennan Community College, Nearby parks, Local eateries |
With 8 distinct neighborhoods showing meaningful short-term rental activity, Waco 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 Waco?
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Waco
- The Waco Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 95.3% of the 575 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Waco, House properties are the most common (67.5%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 67.5% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- The presence of 6.4% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
- Smaller segments like others, unique stays (combined 2.8%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Waco Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Waco
- The dominant room capacity in Waco is 2 bedrooms listings, making up 29.6% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 2 bedrooms and 3 bedrooms properties represent 57.1% of the active Airbnb listings in Waco, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 42.2% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Waco.
Waco Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Waco
- The most common guest capacity trend in Waco vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (26.8%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Waco STR market, accounting for 51.7% of listings.
- 55.4% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Waco.
- On average, properties in Waco are equipped to host 5.3 guests.
How Do Listings in Waco Compare on Quality?
Listing quality in Waco 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 Waco
- At 30.5 photos per listing on average, Waco hosts invest well in visual presentation. Listings with 20+ photos consistently outperform in search ranking and conversion.
- 29.6% 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 Waco averages across all three metrics are better positioned for premium pricing.
What Amenities Do Airbnb Guests Expect in Waco?
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Waco
- Essential amenities in Waco that guests expect include: Wifi, Air conditioning, Free parking on premises, Smoke alarm, Heating. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like TV, Coffee maker, Hot water are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Waco: Wifi, Air conditioning, Free parking on premises, Smoke alarm, Heating.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi, Air conditioning, Free parking on premises, Smoke alarm, Heating.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like TV or Coffee maker 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 Waco to stay competitive.
Which Airbnb Amenities Boost Revenue in Waco?
Not every amenity matters equally. This table focuses on the amenities most associated with higher revenue in Waco, which makes it more useful for prioritizing upgrades than a simple popularity list alone.
| Amenity | Prevalence | Revenue With | Revenue Without | Revenue Uplift |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Free parking on premises | 98.4% | $29,065 | $4,869 | 497.0% |
Heating | 96.7% | $29,450 | $6,333 | 365.0% |
Smoke alarm | 96.9% | $29,346 | $8,256 | 255.4% |
Pool tableHigh opportunity | 1.2% | $80,977 | $28,041 | 188.8% |
Outdoor kitchenHigh opportunity | 1.2% | $77,753 | $28,081 | 176.9% |
Hair dryer | 90.8% | $30,446 | $11,352 | 168.2% |
TV | 93.9% | $29,773 | $11,913 | 149.9% |
Coffee maker | 93.2% | $29,843 | $12,786 | 133.4% |
Microwave | 88.9% | $30,620 | $13,245 | 131.2% |
Ping pong tableHigh opportunity | 1.7% | $64,185 | $28,058 | 128.8% |
Revenue Impact Insights for Waco
- Free parking on premises tops the revenue impact list with a 497.0% uplift — listings with this amenity earn $29,065 vs. $4,869 without it.
- High-opportunity amenities — Pool table, Outdoor kitchen, Ping pong table — combine revenue uplift above 100% with prevalence under 10%, meaning most competitors haven't adopted them yet.
- Free parking on premises, Heating, Smoke alarm, Hair dryer, TV, Coffee maker, Microwave — while widespread — still correlate with meaningful revenue gains, making them table stakes rather than true differentiators.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Prioritize adding Pool table — it has the best combination of high revenue impact and low market saturation in Waco.
- 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 Waco STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Waco. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsWaco Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for Waco
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Waco consists of primarily domestic travelers (98%), often arriving from nearby Houston, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
- Domestic travelers account for 97.6% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (97.6%) and Canada (0.4%).
- Top languages spoken are English (75.9%) followed by Spanish (16.2%).
- 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 Houston and Dallas.
- 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 Waco?
Listings in Waco average 4.89 out of 5 overall, with about 134 reviews per active listing and 49.9% of listings carrying the Guest Favorite badge.
Rating Breakdown by Category
Guest Rating Insights for Waco
- With an overall rating of 4.89, Waco listings meet an exceptionally high bar. Guests consistently report strong satisfaction, which drives repeat bookings and referral traffic.
- The strongest subcategory is Communication (4.95), while Location (4.77) trails behind — a useful signal for hosts looking to prioritize upgrades.
- 49.9% 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 Location — 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.
Waco Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Waco
- The most common availability pattern in Waco falls within the 181-270 days range, representing 43.1% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 78.4% 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 Waco (43.7%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 22.1% 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 Waco?
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Waco
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Waco is 49 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during May (average 82 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in July (average 30 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Fall (63 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (37 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (49 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Waco.
- For May 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 Fall season well in advance (at least 63 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Waco averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
What Is the Average Length of Stay for Airbnb in Waco?
Guests in Waco stay about 4.8 nights on average, generating roughly 18,902 reservations and 32.9 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 Waco
Check-in Time Distribution
Check-out Time Distribution
Stay Pattern Insights for Waco
- 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 (4.7 nights) and shorten in Feb (2.7 nights). Adjust minimum-night requirements seasonally to match.
Recommendations for Hosts
- With shorter average stays, focus on streamlining turnover. Self-check-in, reliable cleaning crews, and pre-staged amenities can reduce per-booking operational costs.
- Set your check-in time to match or beat the market standard of 4:00 PM. Offering early check-in flexibility can be a low-cost differentiator.
- Monitor length-of-stay seasonality to adjust minimum-night requirements — longer minimums during peak periods maximize revenue while shorter minimums fill gaps in shoulder seasons.
Waco Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
223 listings
38.8% of total
2 Nights
162 listings
28.2% of total
3 Nights
2 listings
0.3% of total
4-6 Nights
2 listings
0.3% of total
7-29 Nights
31 listings
5.4% of total
30+ Nights
155 listings
27% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Waco is 1 Night, adopted by 38.8% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
- A strong majority (67.0%) of the Waco Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.
- A significant segment (27%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Waco, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 1 Night minimum stay, as 38.8% of Waco hosts use this setting.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 27% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Waco.
Waco Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Limited
8 listings
1.4% of total
Super Strict 60 Days
1 listings
0.2% of total
Super Strict 30 Days
4 listings
0.7% of total
Flexible
92 listings
16% of total
Moderate
239 listings
41.6% of total
Firm
181 listings
31.5% of total
Strict
49 listings
8.5% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Waco
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Waco is Moderate, used by 41.6% of listings.
- There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (57.6%) and stricter (40.0%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.
- Strict cancellation policies are quite rare (8.5%), potentially making listings with this policy less competitive unless justified by high demand or property type.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Consider adopting a Moderate policy to align with the 41.6% market standard in Waco.
- Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 8.5% 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 Waco.
How Much Are Airbnb Cleaning Fees in Waco?
Cleaning fees in Waco 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 Waco
- 89.9% of listings charge a cleaning fee, making it standard practice in Waco. Guests expect it and factor it into their booking decisions.
- The gap between the average ($267) and median ($102) cleaning fee indicates some high-end properties are pulling the average up considerably.
- Cleaning fees represent 12.1% 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 Waco median of $102. 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 Waco Look Like?
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Wacobased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
The Dr Pepper House
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Magnolia's Historic Hillcrest Estate
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
295 Steps To Silos| Pool (Heated)| 3 Min Baylor
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Uptown Peach ~ 4 homes + courtyard ~ Sleeps 20
Entire Place • 8 bedrooms
The Pepper Place
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Magnolia's Hillcrest Cottage
Entire Place • 1 bedroom
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 Waco?
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Waco 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| D&L Vacation Rentals | 49 | $1,859,701 | 4325 | 4.96/5.0 |
| Kenneth | 30 | $681,431 | 10634 | 4.89/5.0 |
| Waco Vacation Rentals | 13 | $468,965 | 990 | 4.72/5.0 |
| Jed | 4 | $381,938 | 325 | 4.99/5.0 |
| Magnolia Vacation Rentals | 2 | $298,607 | 502 | 4.97/5.0 |
| Miller | 13 | $274,611 | 2516 | 4.90/5.0 |
| Charmaine | 4 | $224,547 | 656 | 4.87/5.0 |
| Codi | 5 | $215,303 | 38 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Jim | 7 | $212,202 | 1026 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Sharon | 3 | $211,248 | 1153 | 4.86/5.0 |
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 Waco.
Who Are the Airbnb Hosts in Waco?
Waco is a quality-focused market, with a high Superhost share and fairly mature operating standards.
Host Profile Insights for Waco
- With 80.7% Superhosts, Waco has an experienced host base that sets high guest expectations. New entrants should plan for competitive quality standards.
- 16.0% of listings are professionally managed, reflecting a market still dominated by individual hosts.
- 5.4% of listings have Instant Book enabled. Lower Instant Book adoption means many guests must request approval, which can slow conversions.
- 80.5% 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 42.1% cohosted listings, there may be a growing local market for property management services.
- Benchmark your host metrics against these Waco averages regularly and adjust your hosting strategy based on what top performers do differently.
Top Professional Management Companies in Waco
These are the highest-grossing professional property management operations in Waco, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| D&L Vacation Rentals | 49 | $1,859,701 | $263 | 40.2% | 4.96/5 |
| Kenneth | 30 | $681,431 | $162 | 36.9% | 4.89/5 |
| Waco Vacation Rentals | 13 | $468,965 | $223 | 51.9% | 4.72/5 |
| Miller | 13 | $274,611 | $223 | 35.5% | 4.90/5 |
| Codi | 5 | $215,303 | $408 | 35.9% | 5.00/5 |
| Sharon | 3 | $211,248 | $239 | 79.5% | 4.86/5 |
| Harris | 4 | $189,634 | $352 | 35.2% | 4.96/5 |
| Andrew | 3 | $183,792 | $296 | 52.9% | 4.97/5 |
| Maggie | 5 | $151,308 | $189 | 42.8% | 4.90/5 |
| Wendy | 1 | $143,900 | $526 | 71.5% | 4.99/5 |
Management Company Insights for Waco
- The leading management company, D&L Vacation Rentals, operates 49 listings with $1,859,701 in gross revenue — a useful benchmark for what scale looks like in Waco.
- Top managers average 13 properties each, suggesting professional management in Waco still operates at a relatively boutique scale.
- Professionally managed listings in the top tier average 4.92/5 in guest ratings — demonstrating that scale and quality can coexist.
Recommendations
- With only 16.0% 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 Waco's Airbnb Market Compare to Nearby Cities?
How does the Waco 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 Red Oak, Waco has 9 percentage points lower occupancy and about $58 lower ADR. That helps frame whether this market is winning more on demand, pricing, or both.
| Market | Active Properties | Monthly Revenue | Daily Rate | Avg. Occupancy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strawn | 25 | $9,109 | $876.69 | 34% |
| Hudson Bend | 54 | $5,692 | $675.94 | 31% |
| Jonestown | 58 | $5,269 | $533.93 | 31% |
| Star Harbor | 11 | $4,945 | $759.04 | 34% |
| Kingsland | 250 | $4,302 | $601.33 | 26% |
| Gillespie County | 12 | $4,203 | $299.81 | 47% |
| Cottonwood Shores | 26 | $4,156 | $427.41 | 35% |
| West Lake Hills | 18 | $4,126 | $672.83 | 32% |
| Bluff Dale | 18 | $4,065 | $447.54 | 30% |
| Red Oak | 16 | $3,999 | $279.25 | 49% |
Frequently Asked Questions About Airbnb in Waco
These quick answers summarize the most common investor and operator questions using AirROI's latest market data for Waco.
How much do Airbnb hosts make in Waco?
Waco hosts earn about $28,686 per year on average, with an average nightly rate of $221 and RevPAR of $90. Those figures describe the typical revenue environment for active listings in Waco, Texas, not the ceiling for the best operators. Source: AirROI 2026 data, Waco market, April 2025 to March 2026.
What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Waco?
The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Waco is 39.8%. October is the strongest month and February is the softest, so hosts should expect demand to move meaningfully throughout the year rather than stay flat.
What is the average Airbnb daily rate in Waco?
Listings in Waco average $221 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 Waco?
Waco currently has about 575 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 Waco?
AirROI currently classifies the short-term rental regulation level in Waco as Low. The dataset also shows about 0.3% 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 Waco?
RevPAR in Waco is about $90. 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 Waco?
Occupancy of 39.8% means Waco 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 $28,686, 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 Waco?
The average booking lead time in Waco is about 49 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 Waco?
Based on AirROI's analysis, some of the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Waco include Baylor University, Downtown Waco, Richland Mall Area. 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 Waco?
entire_home listings make up 95.3% of the active supply in Waco. 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 Waco compare to nearby Airbnb markets?
Among neighboring markets, Strawn posts $109,311 in average annual revenue with 34.5% occupancy, compared to Waco's $28,686 and 39.8%. 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 Waco?
The average Airbnb stay length in Waco is about 4.8 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 Waco?
Airbnb listings in Waco average 4.89 out of 5 overall. About 49.9% 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 Waco?
Free parking on premises and Heating are among the strongest revenue-linked amenities in Waco. 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 Waco?
Yes. About 89.9% of active Airbnb listings in Waco charge a cleaning fee, and the average fee is $267. 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 Waco?
A 80.7% 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.