George Town Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Penang, Malaysia
Is Airbnb profitable in George Town in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for George Town, Penang, Malaysia to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for George Town, based on AirROI data from June 2024 to May 2025, reveals key trends in the bustling market of 4,003 active listings.
Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in George Town, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the George Town 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 George Town Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview
Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in George Town (2025)
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in George Town 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 George Town is typically December, while October often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in George Town across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $1,891+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $1,204 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $639 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $287, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in George Town
George Town Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)
Maximize your bookings by understanding the George Town STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Decembersees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while May 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 George Town:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 75%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 55% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 33%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 17% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in George Town
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in George Town (2025)
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in George Town involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in George Town typically peaks in January and dips lowest during August. Leveraging Airbnb dynamic pricing tools or strategies based on this seasonality can significantly boost revenue. Here's a look at the typical nightly rates achieved:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) command rates of $153+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $97 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $63 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $40 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in George Town
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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in George Town (2025)
Peak Season (December, January, February)
- Revenue averages $1,118 per month
- Occupancy rates average 41.3%
- Daily rates average $90
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $837 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 37.8%
- Daily rates hold near $81
Low Season (May, October, November)
- Revenue drops to average $749 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 32.3%
- Daily rates adjust to average $83
Seasonality Insights for George Town
- The Airbnb seasonality in George Town shows moderate seasonality with distinct peak and low periods. 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 George Town's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $1,237, occupancy reaching a high of 44.3%, and ADRs peaking at $92.
- 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 $720, occupancy could drop to 29.5%, and ADRs may adjust down to $79.
- 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 George Town.
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 George Town seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.
Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in George Town (2025)
Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in George Town? 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 |
|---|---|---|
| Georgetown Historic Area | A UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved colonial architecture and vibrant street art. It attracts history buffs and cultural enthusiasts. | Cheong Fatt Tze Mansion, Kek Lok Si Temple, Penang Peranakan Mansion, Street Art Murals, 5-foot ways, Little India |
| Batu Ferringhi | A beachside resort area popular with tourists for its beautiful beaches, water sports, and night markets. Ideal for those looking for a seaside getaway. | Batu Ferringhi Beach, Ferringhi Night Market, Penang Tropical Spice Garden, Adventure Zone, Water sports activities |
| Little India | A vibrant district known for its Indian heritage, shops, and eateries. It offers a unique cultural experience and attracts food lovers and cultural travelers. | Sri Mariamman Temple, Little India Cultural Centre, Kesar's Restaurant, Textile shops, Indian street food |
| Gurney Drive | Famous for its seafront promenade and hawker centers. It is a favorite spot for both locals and tourists looking for culinary delights and seaside views. | Gurney Plaza, Gurney Paragon, Hawker food stalls, Hokkien Mee, Asam Laksa |
| Pulau Tikus | A residential area known for its local market and food scene. It attracts visitors seeking an authentic Penang experience away from the tourist spots. | Pulau Tikus Market, Penang Hill, Chew Jetty, Nearby temples, Local cafes |
| Tanjung Bungah | A quiet beach destination with a mix of local culture and modern amenities. It is great for families looking for a relaxing stay. | Tanjung Bungah Beach, Penang Floating Mosque, Local seafood restaurants, Tanjung Bungah Market |
| Bukit Bendera | An area known for its hilltop views and cooler climate. Popular for nature lovers and those seeking outdoor activities like hiking. | Penang Hill Railway, David Brown's Restaurant and Tea Terraces, The Habitat Penang Hill, Lookout points |
| Beach Street | The financial hub of George Town, filled with colonial buildings and modern cafes. It attracts business travelers and those looking for an urban experience. | Bangunan D.P.P.N., Penang Street Art, Cafes, Local offices, Historical buildings |
Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in George Town (2025)
While George Town, Penang, Malaysia 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 George Town to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 5% licensed listings)
Top Performing Airbnb Properties in George Town (2025)
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in George Townbased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
7-bed Executive House, RumahKu Georgetown 七床行政套房屋
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Luxurious House 7 ensuite rooms in great location
Entire Place • 7 bedrooms
8 Rooms (Entire place) @ Carnarvon House
Entire Place • 8 bedrooms
Mint Villa with Private Outdoor Jacuzzi Pool
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
SEAVIEW Gurney Penthouse ♥ 5BR SPACIOUS Home ♥ 71
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Sunrise Villa Family Resort/6BR 4068sf@FP_BGNO.1
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.
Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in George Town (2025)
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in George Town 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steven | 86 | $1,250,212 | 4246 | 4.70/5.0 |
| Oon | 109 | $784,208 | 1497 | 4.69/5.0 |
| Comfy Homestay | 80 | $614,022 | 4905 | 4.80/5.0 |
| Lim | 61 | $588,240 | 5106 | 4.73/5.0 |
| Kenny | 39 | $546,731 | 2232 | 4.84/5.0 |
| Penang | 26 | $486,555 | 667 | 4.43/5.0 |
| Wai Loon | 62 | $472,001 | 176 | 4.60/5.0 |
| Airlevate Suites | 20 | $445,553 | 1507 | 4.73/5.0 |
| Tony | 22 | $426,527 | 2539 | 4.84/5.0 |
| Thhelper Management Group | 64 | $410,227 | 5787 | 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 George Town.
Dive Deeper: Advanced George Town STR Market Data (2025)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for George Town. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsGeorge Town Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for George Town
- The George Town Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 81.6% of the 4,003 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in George Town, Apartment/Condo properties are the most common (70.1%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 21.1% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
- The presence of 8.1% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
- Smaller segments like others, outdoor/unique (combined 0.7%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.
George Town Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for George Town
- The dominant room capacity in George Town is 2 bedrooms listings, making up 29.8% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 2 bedrooms and 1 bedroom properties represent 54.6% of the active Airbnb listings in George Town, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 32.6% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in George Town.
George Town Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for George Town
- The most common guest capacity trend in George Town vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (35.2%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the George Town STR market, accounting for 50.9% of listings.
- 57.6% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in George Town.
- On average, properties in George Town are equipped to host 5.4 guests.
George Town Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for George Town
- The most common availability pattern in George Town falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 54.6% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 85.9% 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 George Town (34.8%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 15.0% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.
George Town Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
3258 listings
83.5% of total
2 Nights
346 listings
8.9% of total
3 Nights
33 listings
0.8% of total
4-6 Nights
26 listings
0.7% of total
7-29 Nights
74 listings
1.9% of total
30+ Nights
166 listings
4.3% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in George Town is 1 Night, adopted by 83.5% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
- A strong majority (92.4%) of the George Town Airbnb data shows acceptance of very short stays (1-2 nights), indicating a dynamic, high-turnover market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 1 Night minimum stay, as 83.5% of George Town hosts use this setting.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in George Town.
George Town Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)
Super Strict 30 Days
6 listings
0.2% of total
Super Strict 60 Days
11 listings
0.3% of total
Flexible
743 listings
20.7% of total
Moderate
1002 listings
28% of total
Firm
386 listings
10.8% of total
Strict
1435 listings
40.1% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for George Town
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in George Town is Strict, used by 40.1% of listings.
- A majority (50.9%) of hosts in George Town utilize Firm or Strict policies, indicating a market where hosts prioritize booking security.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Consider adopting a Strict policy to align with the 40.1% market standard in George Town.
- With 40.1% using Strict terms, this is a viable option in George Town, particularly for high-value properties or during peak demand periods.
- Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in George Town.
George Town STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for George Town
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in George Town is 25 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during January (average 33 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in July (average 20 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Winter (31 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Spring (24 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (25 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in George Town.
- Target marketing efforts for the Winter season well in advance (at least 31 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these George Town averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in George Town (2025)
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for George Town
- Essential amenities in George Town that guests expect include: Air conditioning, Wifi. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like TV, Hair dryer, Iron are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for George Town: Air conditioning, Wifi.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Air conditioning, Wifi.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like TV or Hair dryer to increase appeal.
- Highlight unique or less common amenities you offer (e.g., hot tub, dedicated workspace, EV charger) in your listing description and photos.
- Regularly check competitor amenities in George Town to stay competitive.
George Town Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)
Guest Profile Summary for George Town
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in George Town consists of a mix of domestic (51%) and international guests, often arriving from nearby Kuala Lumpur, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Malay.
- Domestic travelers account for 51.0% of guests.
- Key international markets include Malaysia (51%) and Singapore (10.5%).
- Top languages spoken are English (44%) followed by Malay (19%).
- A significant demographic segment is the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group, representing 50% of guests.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Balance marketing efforts between domestic and international channels based on the guest mix.
- 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 George Town 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Kuala Teriang | 16 | $2,044 | $178.57 | 31% |
| Tengah Island | 79 | $1,495 | $169.21 | 32% |
| Langkawi | 151 | $996 | $118.42 | 32% |
| Chemor | 11 | $726 | $125.65 | 22% |
| Ban Phru | 10 | $722 | $93.29 | 31% |
| Kampung Padang Gaong | 49 | $713 | $92.90 | 32% |
| Paya Mempelam Village | 82 | $638 | $125.22 | 28% |
| Ban Ko Li Pe | 131 | $620 | $226.15 | 25% |
| Kuah | 317 | $557 | $72.14 | 31% |
| Alor Setar | 85 | $524 | $106.38 | 23% |