Cairns Regional Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Queensland, Australia
Is Airbnb profitable in Cairns Regional in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Cairns Regional, Queensland, Australia to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Cairns Regional, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the market of 798 active listings.
Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Cairns Regional, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Cairns Regional Airbnb data is crucial. Leveraging the low regulation environment is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Let's dive into the specifics.
Key Cairns Regional Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview
Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Cairns Regional (2025)
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Cairns Regional 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 Cairns Regional is typically July, while February often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Cairns Regional across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $8,383+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $5,450 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $3,103 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,609, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Cairns Regional
Cairns Regional Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Cairns Regional STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Julysees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while March 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 Cairns Regional:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 82%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 67% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 46%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 25% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Cairns Regional
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Cairns Regional (2025)
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Cairns Regional involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Cairns Regional typically peaks in January 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 $453+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $325 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $220 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $145 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Cairns Regional
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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Cairns Regional (2025)
Peak Season (July, August, June)
- Revenue averages $5,402 per month
- Occupancy rates average 59.5%
- Daily rates average $263
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $4,182 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 45.1%
- Daily rates hold near $268
Low Season (February, March, November)
- Revenue drops to average $2,788 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 35.7%
- Daily rates adjust to average $258
Seasonality Insights for Cairns Regional
- The Airbnb seasonality in Cairns Regional shows highly seasonal trends requiring careful strategy. While the sections above show seasonal averages, it's also insightful to look at the extremes:
- During the high season, the absolute peak month showcases Cairns Regional's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $6,237, occupancy reaching a high of 69.8%, and ADRs peaking at $299.
- Conversely, the slowest single month of the year, typically falling within the low season, marks the market's lowest point. In this month, revenue might dip to $2,444, occupancy could drop to 30.9%, and ADRs may adjust down to $247.
- 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 Cairns Regional.
Seasonal Strategies for Maximizing Profit
- Peak Season: Maximize revenue through premium pricing and potentially longer minimum stays. Ensure high availability.
- Low Season: Offer competitive pricing, special promotions (e.g., extended stay discounts), and flexible cancellation policies. Target off-season travelers like remote workers or budget-conscious guests.
- Shoulder Seasons: Implement dynamic pricing that balances peak and low rates. Target weekend travelers or specific events. Offer slightly more flexible terms than peak season.
- Regularly analyze your own performance against these Cairns Regional seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.
Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Cairns Regional (2025)
Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Cairns Regional? This section highlights key areas, outlining why they are attractive for hosts and guests, along with notable local attractions. Consider these locations based on your target guest profile and investment strategy.
| Neighborhood / Area | Why Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal) | Key Attractions & Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| Cairns City | The vibrant heart of Cairns with access to shops, restaurants, and the Esplanade. It's a popular area for tourists looking to explore the Great Barrier Reef and enjoy local attractions. | Cairns Esplanade, Cairns Night Markets, Great Barrier Reef Tours, Lagoon Pool, Cairns Aquarium |
| Port Douglas | A picturesque town situated just north of Cairns, known for its proximity to both the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest. Highly sought after for luxury stays and eco-tourism. | Four Mile Beach, Port Douglas Markets, Daintree Rainforest, Great Barrier Reef, Mossman Gorge |
| Palm Cove | A beautiful beachfront suburb known for its palm-lined beaches and relaxed atmosphere. It's a favorite for honeymooners and families looking for a serene vacation spot. | Palm Cove Beach, Cairns Tropical Zoo, Hugh Morrow Nature Park, Lifeguard Patrolled Swimming Areas, Tranquil Spa Resorts |
| Kuranda | Known as the village in the rainforest, Kuranda offers a unique appeal with its markets, wildlife parks, and stunning surrounding nature. Popular for eco-tourists and adventure seekers. | Kuranda Scenic Railway, Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Kuranda Markets, Birdworld Kuranda, Kuranda Koala Gardens |
| Trinity Beach | A laid-back beach suburb, perfect for families and travelers looking for a more relaxed beach experience while still having easy access to Cairns and its attractions. | Trinity Beach, Cairns Beaches, Local Cafes and Dining, Great Barrier Reef Access, Scenic Lookouts |
| Yorkeys Knob | Popular with locals and tourists alike for its beach and relaxed environment. It's ideal for those looking for a quiet getaway close to the water. | Yorkeys Knob Beach, Cairns Golf Club, Water Sports, Marina Activities, Tropical Gardens |
| Smithfield | Located just a short drive from Cairns, it's close to the Skyrail and offers access to both city life and nature, making it perfect for adventurous travelers. | Skyrail Rainforest Cableway, Smithfield Shopping Centre, Local Dining, Stoney Creek, Cairns Botanic Gardens |
| Ellis Beach | A long stretch of sandy beach with a relaxed vibe, ideal for backpackers and budget-conscious travelers looking for beach access without being in the city. | Ellis Beach, Beachside Camping, Local Bars, Scenic Walks, Tropical Environment |
Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Cairns Regional (2025)
While Cairns Regional, Queensland, Australia currently shows low STR regulations, specific Airbnb license requirements might still exist or change. Always verify the latest short term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Cairns Regional to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 0% licensed listings)
Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Cairns Regional (2025)
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Cairns Regionalbased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Belle Escapes Villa by the C
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Belle Escapes - Figtree Villas Palm Cove
Entire Place • 7 bedrooms
Belle Escapes Beach Manor
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Belle Escapes - Under the Mango Trees Holiday Home
Entire Place • 7 bedrooms
Belle Escapes - SeaChange @ Clifton Beach
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
BIG Beach House Tranquility - beachfront renovated
Entire Place • 8 bedrooms
Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.
Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in Cairns Regional (2025)
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Cairns Regional 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Antje | 69 | $5,829,134 | 1816 | 4.62/5.0 |
| Cairns Coast | 127 | $4,693,062 | 1634 | 3.97/5.0 |
| The Boutique Collection | 73 | $3,314,142 | 1317 | 3.89/5.0 |
| Thomas | 41 | $2,363,043 | 875 | 4.73/5.0 |
| Shane | 12 | $657,100 | 1321 | 4.75/5.0 |
| Char | 11 | $437,286 | 442 | 4.75/5.0 |
| Ari | 14 | $382,588 | 590 | 4.85/5.0 |
| Fab Properties | 12 | $374,209 | 433 | 4.88/5.0 |
| Northern Exposure Realty Palm | 12 | $354,911 | 256 | 4.28/5.0 |
| Alison | 7 | $344,346 | 263 | 4.82/5.0 |
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 Cairns Regional.
Dive Deeper: Advanced Cairns Regional STR Market Data (2025)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Cairns Regional. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsCairns Regional Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Cairns Regional
- The Cairns Regional Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 93.7% of the 798 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Cairns Regional, Apartment/Condo properties are the most common (60.5%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 32% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- Smaller segments like hotel/boutique, others, unique stays, outdoor/unique (combined 7.6%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
Cairns Regional Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Cairns Regional
- The dominant room capacity in Cairns Regional is 2 bedrooms listings, making up 35.6% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 2 bedrooms and 1 bedroom properties represent 60.9% of the active Airbnb listings in Cairns Regional, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 34.6% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Cairns Regional.
Cairns Regional Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Cairns Regional
- The most common guest capacity trend in Cairns Regional vacation rentals is listings accommodating 4 guests (29.9%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely small families or groups.
- Properties designed for 4 guests and 2 guests dominate the Cairns Regional STR market, accounting for 53.1% of listings.
- 35.2% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Cairns Regional.
- On average, properties in Cairns Regional are equipped to host 4.5 guests.
Cairns Regional Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Cairns Regional
- The most common availability pattern in Cairns Regional falls within the 181-270 days range, representing 33.7% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 66.5% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
- For booked days, the 91-180 days range is most frequent in Cairns Regional (34.2%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 34.1% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.
Cairns Regional Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
81 listings
10.7% of total
2 Nights
105 listings
13.9% of total
3 Nights
328 listings
43.3% of total
4-6 Nights
109 listings
14.4% of total
7-29 Nights
9 listings
1.2% of total
30+ Nights
125 listings
16.5% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Cairns Regional is 3 Nights, adopted by 43.3% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
- A significant segment (16.5%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Cairns Regional, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 3 Nights minimum stay, as 43.3% of Cairns Regional hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 10.7% currently do.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 16.5% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Cairns Regional.
Cairns Regional Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)
Super Strict 30 Days
23 listings
3.3% of total
Super Strict 60 Days
2 listings
0.3% of total
Flexible
58 listings
8.3% of total
Moderate
156 listings
22.4% of total
Firm
304 listings
43.7% of total
Strict
152 listings
21.9% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Cairns Regional
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Cairns Regional is Firm, used by 43.7% of listings.
- A majority (65.6%) of hosts in Cairns Regional 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 43.7% market standard in Cairns Regional.
- Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Cairns Regional.
Cairns Regional STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Cairns Regional
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Cairns Regional is 71 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during July (average 125 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 55 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Summer (109 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (65 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (71 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Cairns Regional.
- For July stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 125 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 109 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Cairns Regional averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Cairns Regional (2025)
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Cairns Regional
- Essential amenities in Cairns Regional that guests expect include: Air conditioning, TV, Wifi, Smoke alarm. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Kitchen, Free parking on premises, Hair dryer are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
- A pool is a highly desired but not standard amenity, making it a key feature for attracting guests seeking leisure in Cairns Regional.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Cairns Regional: Air conditioning, TV, Wifi, Smoke alarm.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Air conditioning, TV, Wifi, Smoke alarm.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Kitchen or Free parking on premises 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 Cairns Regional to stay competitive.
Cairns Regional Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)
Guest Profile Summary for Cairns Regional
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Cairns Regional consists of primarily domestic travelers (74%), often arriving from nearby Melbourne, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or German.
- Domestic travelers account for 74.4% of guests.
- Key international markets include Australia (74.4%) and United States (7%).
- Top languages spoken are English (67.8%) followed by German (6%).
- 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 Melbourne and Sydney.
- 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.
Nearby Short-Term Rental Market Comparison
How does the Cairns Regional 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.
| Market | Active Properties | Monthly Revenue | Daily Rate | Avg. Occupancy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Port Douglas | 628 | $3,131 | $326.85 | 42% |
| Douglas Shire | 156 | $2,839 | $285.24 | 43% |
| Tablelands Regional | 50 | $2,714 | $218.21 | 47% |
| Mission Beach | 60 | $2,544 | $262.59 | 40% |
| Cairns | 929 | $2,484 | $164.58 | 57% |
| Yungaburra | 50 | $2,284 | $187.52 | 43% |
| South Mission Beach | 36 | $1,957 | $242.65 | 31% |
| Mareeba Shire | 40 | $1,949 | $160.23 | 42% |
| Wongaling Beach | 52 | $1,759 | $244.38 | 36% |
| Wonga Beach | 17 | $1,703 | $184.82 | 36% |