Carlsbad Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in California, United States

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-08-01

Is Airbnb profitable in Carlsbad in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Carlsbad, California, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Carlsbad, based on AirROI data from August 2024 to July 2025, reveals key trends in the market of 637 active listings.

Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Carlsbad, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Carlsbad 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 Carlsbad Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$401
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Carlsbad.
Occupancy Rate(?)
47.2%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$54,001
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Carlsbad. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
20.6%
Strong growth (20.6%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
July
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Carlsbad.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
February
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Carlsbad.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
637
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

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

Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Carlsbad 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 Carlsbad 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 Carlsbad across different performance tiers:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $13,431+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $8,607 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $4,943 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $2,500, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Carlsbad

Carlsbad Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Carlsbad 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 Carlsbad:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 87%+ 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 52%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 28% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Carlsbad

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

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Carlsbad involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Carlsbad typically peaks in July and dips lowest during February. 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 $724+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $474 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $307 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $189 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Carlsbad

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Carlsbad (2025)

Peak Season (July, June, August)
  • Revenue averages $8,862 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 56.8%
  • Daily rates average $450
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $6,144 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 49.8%
  • Daily rates hold near $383
Low Season (January, February, November)
  • Revenue drops to average $4,819 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 46.3%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $349

Seasonality Insights for Carlsbad

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Carlsbad 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 Carlsbad's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $9,274, occupancy reaching a high of 61.9%, and ADRs peaking at $488.
  • 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 $4,774, occupancy could drop to 42.7%, and ADRs may adjust down to $346.
  • 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 Carlsbad.

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

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Carlsbad (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Carlsbad? 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
Carlsbad Village
Charming coastal neighborhood with a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, and beautiful beaches. Ideal for tourists looking for a local experience, close to the beach and amenities.
Carlsbad State Beach, Carlsbad Village Art Scenic Walk, Gorgeous beaches, Local boutiques, Restaurants, Paddleboarding
South Carlsbad State Beach
Popular beach area known for its scenic views and outdoor activities. Great for families and beach lovers.
Campgrounds, Surfing, Family-friendly beach spots, Picnic areas, Walking trails
The Flower Fields
Famous for its stunning 50-acre flower fields, attracting visitors especially in spring. Unique experience with beautiful blooms and a family-friendly atmosphere.
The Flower Fields, Carlsbad Ranch, Seasonal events, Photography opportunities
Legoland California
A major attraction for families, Legoland offers a fun-filled experience. Ideal for families with kids looking for adventure and excitement.
Legoland rides and attractions, Sea Life Aquarium, Water Park
Aviara
Upscale residential area with golf courses and luxury amenities, appealing to travelers looking for a relaxed, high-end vacation.
Aviara Golf Club, Luxury spas, Fine dining, Nature trails
Ponto Beach
A quieter beach area known for its stunning sunsets and relaxed vibe. Perfect for those seeking serenity away from the busier spots.
Ponto Beach, Sunset views, Surf spots, Secluded picnic areas
Carlsbad Premium Outlets
Shopping destination with a variety of major brands at discounted prices, attracting tourists looking for deals and shopping experiences.
Outlet shopping, Dining, Fashion finds, Seasonal events
Encinitas
A neighboring beach town with a laid-back surfer atmosphere and beautiful beaches. Attracts travelers looking for a relaxed beach vibe.
Moonlight Beach, Meditation Gardens, Surf spots, Boutiques and cafes

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

While Carlsbad, California, United States 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 Carlsbad to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 2% licensed listings)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Carlsbad (2025)

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

TheFarmHouz/Luxury/Modern/1.2ac/TeNNis/+2CaSita

TheFarmHouz/Luxury/Modern/1.2ac/TeNNis/+2CaSita

Entire Place • 7 bedrooms

$425,648
Revenue
36.1%
Occupancy
$3405.47
Daily Rate
Lagoon Front Villa C2375-0

Lagoon Front Villa C2375-0

Entire Place • 9 bedrooms

$336,777
Revenue
59.4%
Occupancy
$1406.45
Daily Rate
Oceanfront | Private Beach & Patio | Rare Find

Oceanfront | Private Beach & Patio | Rare Find

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$306,050
Revenue
64.7%
Occupancy
$1178.73
Daily Rate
61' Ocean Frontage * 3 Beachfront Patios * A/C

61' Ocean Frontage * 3 Beachfront Patios * A/C

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$289,927
Revenue
48.5%
Occupancy
$1725.40
Daily Rate
Tropical Oasis Beach Compound-3 unit-walk to beach

Tropical Oasis Beach Compound-3 unit-walk to beach

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$288,638
Revenue
64.5%
Occupancy
$1236.03
Daily Rate
Oceanfront | Private Beach Access | BBQ | Sonos

Oceanfront | Private Beach Access | BBQ | Sonos

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$273,906
Revenue
52.8%
Occupancy
$1549.11
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 Carlsbad (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Carlsbad 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
Haustay Vacation Rentals34$3,167,10814604.87/5.0
Judy10$1,518,01115444.96/5.0
Greg Or Melinda12$1,189,49224504.80/5.0
Ocean Villas9$959,322584.83/5.0
Vacation In15$743,6906114.91/5.0
Beachfront Only3$589,250274.86/5.0
Cynthia4$568,5466124.84/5.0
Kimberly6$533,0234074.88/5.0
Beach Palms8$485,06112344.87/5.0
Brenda2$482,9161035.00/5.0

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 Carlsbad.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Carlsbad STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

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

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Carlsbad

  • The Carlsbad Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 92% of the 637 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Carlsbad, House properties are the most common (52.3%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 52.3% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • The presence of 6.6% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
  • Smaller segments like others, outdoor/unique (combined 4.9%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Carlsbad Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Carlsbad

  • The dominant room capacity in Carlsbad is 2 bedrooms listings, making up 30% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 2 bedrooms and 1 bedroom properties represent 57.9% of the active Airbnb listings in Carlsbad, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 33.7% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Carlsbad.

Carlsbad Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Carlsbad

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Carlsbad vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (16.5%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 8+ guests and 5 guests dominate the Carlsbad STR market, accounting for 32.7% of listings.
  • 38.0% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Carlsbad.
  • On average, properties in Carlsbad are equipped to host 4.8 guests.

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

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Carlsbad

  • The most common availability pattern in Carlsbad falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 39.4% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 66.9% 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 Carlsbad (27.8%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 33.9% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Carlsbad Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (6%)

1 Night

38 listings

6% of total

2 Nights (17.6%)

2 Nights

112 listings

17.6% of total

3 Nights (13.1%)

3 Nights

83 listings

13.1% of total

4-6 Nights (8%)

4-6 Nights

51 listings

8% of total

7-29 Nights (11.7%)

7-29 Nights

74 listings

11.7% of total

30+ Nights (43.6%)

30+ Nights

277 listings

43.6% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Carlsbad is 30+ Nights, adopted by 43.6% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
  • A significant segment (43.6%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Carlsbad, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 43.6% of Carlsbad hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 6% currently do.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 43.6% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Carlsbad.

Carlsbad Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Super Strict 60 Days

28 listings

4.5% of total

Super Strict 30 Days (6.7%)

Super Strict 30 Days

42 listings

6.7% of total

Flexible (10.4%)

Flexible

65 listings

10.4% of total

Moderate (19.8%)

Moderate

124 listings

19.8% of total

Firm (28.9%)

Firm

181 listings

28.9% of total

Strict (29.8%)

Strict

187 listings

29.8% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Carlsbad

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Carlsbad is Strict, used by 29.8% of listings.
  • A majority (58.7%) of hosts in Carlsbad 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 29.8% market standard in Carlsbad.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Carlsbad.

Carlsbad STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Carlsbad

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Carlsbad is 52 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during July (average 99 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in April (average 44 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (73 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Spring (47 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (52 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Carlsbad.
  • For July stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 99 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 73 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Carlsbad averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Carlsbad (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Carlsbad

  • Essential amenities in Carlsbad that guests expect include: Wifi, TV, Smoke alarm. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Carbon monoxide alarm, Kitchen, Heating are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Carlsbad: Wifi, TV, Smoke alarm.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi, TV, Smoke alarm.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Carbon monoxide alarm or Kitchen 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 Carlsbad to stay competitive.

Carlsbad 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 Carlsbad

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Carlsbad consists of primarily domestic travelers (95%), often arriving from nearby Los Angeles, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 95.2% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (95.2%) and Canada (1.6%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (72%) followed by Spanish (13%).
  • 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 Los Angeles and Phoenix.
  • 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 Carlsbad 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
Rancho San Diego25$8,873$574.6354%
Thousand Palms35$8,417$734.4939%
Malibu334$7,974$1200.8338%
Newport Beach1,250$7,766$701.3146%
GlenOak Hills40$7,058$615.2639%
Del Mar122$6,926$615.2347%
Bermuda Dunes146$6,925$670.8240%
Manhattan Beach272$6,820$546.7053%
Rancho Santa Fe31$6,473$933.6837%
Avalon226$6,314$651.1537%

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