Thurso Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Scotland, United Kingdom

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-06-01

Is Airbnb profitable in Thurso in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Thurso, Scotland, United Kingdom to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Thurso, based on AirROI data from June 2024 to May 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 43 active listings.

Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Thurso, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Thurso Airbnb data is crucial. Understanding the local regulations is key to maximizing your short term rental income potential. Let's dive into the specifics.

Key Thurso Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$152
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Thurso.
Occupancy Rate(?)
51.9%
High demand. Good booking frequency.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$22,998
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Thurso. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
22.5%
Strong growth (22.5%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
August
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Thurso.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
February
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Thurso.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Moderate
Regulation details vary. Check local government sources.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
43
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Thurso (2025)

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $4,163+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $3,141 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $2,238 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,315, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Thurso

Thurso Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Thurso STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Augustsees the highest demand (peak season occupancy), while November 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 Thurso:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 85%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 73% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 58%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 36% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Thurso

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Thurso (2025)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Thurso involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Thurso typically peaks in May and dips lowest during October. 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 $207+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $167 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $128 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $94 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Thurso

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Thurso (2025)

Peak Season (August, July, May)
  • Revenue averages $3,388 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 68.2%
  • Daily rates average $156
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $2,312 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 53.4%
  • Daily rates hold near $149
Low Season (February, November, December)
  • Revenue drops to average $1,737 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 45.3%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $145

Seasonality Insights for Thurso

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Thurso 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 Thurso's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $3,777, occupancy reaching a high of 77.7%, and ADRs peaking at $177.
  • 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 $1,658, occupancy could drop to 42.4%, and ADRs may adjust down to $142.
  • 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 Thurso.

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 Thurso seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Thurso (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Thurso? 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 / AreaWhy Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal)Key Attractions & Landmarks
Thurso Town Centre
The heart of Thurso, offering shops, restaurants, and services. Ideal for guests wanting to experience local culture and amenities.
Thurso Castle, Caithness Horizons Museum, Thurso East Surfing Spot, Local shops and cafes
Scrabster
A picturesque village just outside Thurso, known for its scenic harbor and ferry connections to Orkney. Great for guests exploring the Orkney Islands.
Scrabster Harbour, Orkney ferry terminal, Fishing and boat trips, Scenic coastal walks
Thurso East
Famous for its surfing spots and beautiful coastal scenery. Attracts surfers and nature lovers looking for outdoor activities.
Thurso East Surf Spot, Cliffs and beaches, Coastal walking trails
Dunnet Head
The northernmost point of mainland Britain, offering breathtaking views and wildlife. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and hikers.
Dunnet Head Lighthouse, Dunnet Bay Beach, Wildlife watching, Hiking trails
Bower
A rural village with a serene atmosphere, perfect for guests looking to escape the hustle and bustle of urban life.
Countryside views, Walking paths, Local farms and produce
Castletown
A charming village with historic sites and a close-knit community feel. Offers a quieter alternative to Thurso with access to unique attractions.
Old St Peter's Church, Castletown Harbour, Local heritage sites
Wick
Just a short drive from Thurso, this town has rich history and offers more amenities, making it convenient for travelers.
Wick Heritage Museum, Old Pulteney Distillery, Castle Sinclair Girnigoe
Dunnet Bay
Known for its stunning beaches and views of Orkney, it’s perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities, especially in summer.
Dunnet Bay Beach, Wildlife watching, Kayaking and water sports

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Thurso (2025)

With 26% of listings showing registration in 2025, understanding potential Airbnb license requirements is crucial in Thurso. Always verify the latest short term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Thurso to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 26% licensed listings)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Thurso (2025)

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

Private luxury riverside lodge

Private luxury riverside lodge

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$70,594
Revenue
43.2%
Occupancy
$496.66
Daily Rate
3 Bedroom House, Sea Views, On NC500 Route!

3 Bedroom House, Sea Views, On NC500 Route!

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$47,626
Revenue
75.7%
Occupancy
$167.53
Daily Rate
NC500 Cottage in Thurso! 2 bedrooms!Great location

NC500 Cottage in Thurso! 2 bedrooms!Great location

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$46,174
Revenue
75.9%
Occupancy
$164.03
Daily Rate
Apartment 500 Metro style 2 bed apartment on NC500

Apartment 500 Metro style 2 bed apartment on NC500

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$45,100
Revenue
67.4%
Occupancy
$193.30
Daily Rate
Angus House, 2 Bedroom House, Thurso, NC500 Route

Angus House, 2 Bedroom House, Thurso, NC500 Route

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$44,015
Revenue
61.7%
Occupancy
$172.75
Daily Rate
Dwarwick House

Dwarwick House

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$37,215
Revenue
66.6%
Occupancy
$153.61
Daily Rate

Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.

Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in Thurso (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Thurso based on the number of properties managed and estimated total revenue over the past year. Analyze their scale and performance metrics.

Host NamePropertiesGrossing RevenueStay ReviewsAvg Rating
Ben4$145,6693534.87/5.0
Richard5$106,4378594.77/5.0
William1$70,59475.00/5.0
Samantha5$45,789154.93/5.0
John1$45,100434.98/5.0
Dean1$44,0151434.95/5.0
Emma1$37,215534.74/5.0
Andy1$34,6994494.96/5.0
Graeme1$34,062454.98/5.0
Fiona1$33,854524.88/5.0

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 Thurso.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Thurso STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

Thurso Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Thurso

  • The Thurso Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 81.4% of the 43 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Thurso, House properties are the most common (58.1%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 58.1% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • The presence of 16.3% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
  • Smaller segments like outdoor/unique, others (combined 4.6%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Thurso Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Thurso

  • The dominant room capacity in Thurso is 1 bedroom listings, making up 39.5% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 1 bedroom and 2 bedrooms properties represent 69.7% of the active Airbnb listings in Thurso, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 20.9% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Thurso.

Thurso Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Thurso

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Thurso vacation rentals is listings accommodating 2 guests (30.2%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely couples or solo travelers.
  • Properties designed for 2 guests and 4 guests dominate the Thurso STR market, accounting for 55.8% of listings.
  • 21.0% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Thurso.
  • On average, properties in Thurso are equipped to host 3.6 guests.

Thurso Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Thurso

  • The most common availability pattern in Thurso falls within the 181-270 days range, representing 41.9% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 58.2% 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 Thurso (41.9%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 41.9% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Thurso Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (45.2%)

1 Night

19 listings

45.2% of total

2 Nights (31%)

2 Nights

13 listings

31% of total

3 Nights (14.3%)

3 Nights

6 listings

14.3% of total

4-6 Nights (2.4%)

4-6 Nights

1 listings

2.4% of total

30+ Nights (7.1%)

30+ Nights

3 listings

7.1% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Thurso is 1 Night, adopted by 45.2% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A strong majority (76.2%) of the Thurso 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 45.2% of Thurso hosts use this setting.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 7.1% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Thurso.

Thurso Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Flexible (39.5%)

Flexible

17 listings

39.5% of total

Moderate (30.2%)

Moderate

13 listings

30.2% of total

Firm

1 listings

2.3% of total

Strict (27.9%)

Strict

12 listings

27.9% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Thurso

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Thurso is Flexible, used by 39.5% of listings.
  • There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (69.7%) and stricter (30.2%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Flexible policy to align with the 39.5% market standard in Thurso.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Thurso.

Thurso STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Thurso

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Thurso is 51 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 March (average 29 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (70 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (43 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (51 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Thurso.
  • 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 Summer season well in advance (at least 70 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Thurso averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Thurso (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Thurso

  • Essential amenities in Thurso that guests expect include: Wifi, Smoke alarm. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Free parking on premises, Hot water, Heating are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Thurso: Wifi, Smoke alarm.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi, Smoke alarm.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Free parking on premises or Hot water 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 Thurso to stay competitive.

Thurso Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)

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 Thurso

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Thurso consists of a mix of domestic (61%) and international guests, often arriving from nearby England, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or German.
  • Domestic travelers account for 60.8% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United Kingdom (60.8%) and United States (8.7%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (62.5%) followed by German (9.6%).
  • 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 England and Edinburgh.
  • 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 Thurso 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.

MarketActive PropertiesMonthly RevenueDaily RateAvg. Occupancy
North Kessock10$5,788$394.7856%
Kirkhill10$5,122$745.7743%
Whitebridge10$4,879$410.0741%
Insh13$4,542$268.4260%
Foyers16$4,289$339.9756%
Dallas10$3,644$306.5845%
Nethy Bridge50$3,604$262.1250%
Dulnain Bridge17$3,456$301.5347%
Banchory19$3,402$268.1548%
Evanton18$3,259$259.3152%

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