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

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-03-31

Is Airbnb profitable in Carmel in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Carmel, California, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Carmel, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 34 active listings.

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

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$521
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Carmel.
Occupancy Rate(?)
49.2%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$85,160
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Carmel. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
-9.9%
Slight decrease (-9.9%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
August
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Carmel.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
February
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Carmel.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
34
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

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

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $16,606+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $10,733 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $5,977 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $2,973, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Carmel

Carmel Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 78%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 69% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 53%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 30% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Carmel

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

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Carmel involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Carmel typically peaks in August 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 $1,025+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $629 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $328 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $198 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Carmel

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Carmel (2025)

Peak Season (August, July, June)
  • Revenue averages $10,811 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 64.1%
  • Daily rates average $532
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $7,561 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 48.7%
  • Daily rates hold near $509
Low Season (January, February, November)
  • Revenue drops to average $5,492 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 37.7%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $496

Seasonality Insights for Carmel

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Carmel 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 Carmel's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $12,427, occupancy reaching a high of 70.2%, and ADRs peaking at $555.
  • 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 $4,207, occupancy could drop to 33.1%, and ADRs may adjust down to $488.
  • 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 Carmel.

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

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Carmel (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Carmel? 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
Downtown Carmel
The bustling heart of Carmel, filled with art galleries, shops, and restaurants. Perfect for tourists looking to explore the charm of Carmel-by-the-Sea with easy access to local attractions.
Carmel Mission Basilica, Carmel Beach, Sunset Center, Carmel Plaza, Fairy Tale Cottages
Carmel Valley
A serene area known for wineries, vineyards, and outdoor activities. Ideal for those seeking a tranquil retreat in nature, away from the crowds.
Carmel Valley Ranch, Bernardus Winery, Garland Ranch Regional Park, Folktale Winery, Carmel Valley Village
Carmel Beach
Famous for its stunning views and white sandy shores, this area draws visitors for beach activities and picturesque sunsets. Excellent for families and romantic getaways.
Carmel Beach, Ocean Avenue, Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Carmel River State Beach, Mermaid's Cove
The Barnyard
A unique shopping and dining destination in Carmel, featuring quaint shops and restaurants. Popular for those looking for a more relaxed atmosphere with boutique experiences.
The Barnyard Shopping Village, Carmel Wine Walks, Galleries and Craft Shops, Dining Options, Art Exhibits
Pebble Beach
Renowned for its stunning coastline and golf courses, Pebble Beach attracts affluent travelers and golf enthusiasts, making it a prime location for luxury Airbnb listings.
Pebble Beach Golf Links, 17-Mile Drive, Lone Cypress, Cypress Point Lookout, The Pebble Beach Company
Monterey Bay Aquarium
A world-class aquarium appealing to families and nature lovers. Close proximity to various attractions in both Monterey and Carmel, making it a sought-after renting area.
Monterey Bay Aquarium, Cannery Row, Fisherman's Wharf, Lovers Point Park, Pacific Grove
Mission Ranch
This historic property offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, known for its rustic charm and scenic landscapes. Attractive for visitors wanting a unique experience.
Mission Ranch Restaurant, Dairy Queen, Carmel River State Beach, Horseback Riding, Scenic Views
Point Lobos
A natural reserve known for its breathtaking scenery and wildlife, popular for hiking and photography. Perfect for nature lovers and those wanting to explore the outdoors.
Point Lobos State Natural Reserve, Whalers Cove, Lobos Point, Bird Island, Lighthouse Trail

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

While Carmel, 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 Carmel to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2025, finding no licensed listings among those analyzed)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Carmel (2025)

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

Oceanfront, Private Cove, Walk to Beach.

Oceanfront, Private Cove, Walk to Beach.

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$317,904
Revenue
55.4%
Occupancy
$1548.80
Daily Rate
Art and Sound: Secluded Carmel Five bedroom home!

Art and Sound: Secluded Carmel Five bedroom home!

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$267,546
Revenue
69.7%
Occupancy
$1024.38
Daily Rate
Casa Bella Vita | Relaxed luxury living

Casa Bella Vita | Relaxed luxury living

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$205,482
Revenue
56.5%
Occupancy
$807.09
Daily Rate
Valley Views: Newly Remodeled 4br 4ba with Spectac

Valley Views: Newly Remodeled 4br 4ba with Spectac

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$163,338
Revenue
52.3%
Occupancy
$822.34
Daily Rate
Sea Struck: Stunning Ocean Views Close to Golf Win

Sea Struck: Stunning Ocean Views Close to Golf Win

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$143,415
Revenue
51.6%
Occupancy
$768.08
Daily Rate
Isolation Retreat - ocean view & hot tub

Isolation Retreat - ocean view & hot tub

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$139,277
Revenue
74.9%
Occupancy
$504.99
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 Carmel (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Carmel 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
Carmel Coast Estate4$709,0613014.89/5.0
Karen1$317,904964.94/5.0
Romina1$205,482155.00/5.0
Karin1$139,2771694.96/5.0
Kevin & Jill2$128,9635334.99/5.0
Mary1$125,3343534.93/5.0
Karol1$125,0455714.98/5.0
Sanctuary Vacation Rentals1$122,620114.91/5.0
Brianne1$120,456714.93/5.0
Michele1$101,5474784.98/5.0

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 Carmel.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Carmel STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

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

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Carmel

  • The Carmel Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 85.3% of the 34 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Carmel, House properties are the most common (61.8%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 61.8% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • The presence of 8.8% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.

Carmel Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Carmel

  • The dominant room capacity in Carmel is 1 bedroom listings, making up 35.3% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 1 bedroom and 2 bedrooms properties represent 55.9% of the active Airbnb listings in Carmel, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 29.5% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Carmel.

Carmel Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Carmel

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Carmel vacation rentals is listings accommodating 2 guests (41.2%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely couples or solo travelers.
  • Properties designed for 2 guests and 8+ guests dominate the Carmel STR market, accounting for 55.9% of listings.
  • A significant 44.1% of listings cater specifically to 1-2 guests, highlighting strong demand from couples and solo travelers in Carmel.
  • 32.3% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Carmel.
  • On average, properties in Carmel are equipped to host 3.9 guests.

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

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Carmel

  • The most common availability pattern in Carmel falls within the 91-180 days range, representing 52.9% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 44.1% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
  • For booked days, the 181-270 days range is most frequent in Carmel (44.1%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 55.9% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Carmel Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (12.1%)

1 Night

4 listings

12.1% of total

2 Nights (33.3%)

2 Nights

11 listings

33.3% of total

3 Nights (30.3%)

3 Nights

10 listings

30.3% of total

4-6 Nights (3%)

4-6 Nights

1 listings

3% of total

30+ Nights (21.2%)

30+ Nights

7 listings

21.2% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Carmel is 2 Nights, adopted by 33.3% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A significant segment (21.2%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Carmel, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 2 Nights minimum stay, as 33.3% of Carmel hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 12.1% currently do.
  • A 2-night minimum appears standard (33.3%). Consider this for weekends or peak periods.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 21.2% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Carmel.

Carmel Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Super Strict 60 Days (15.2%)

Super Strict 60 Days

5 listings

15.2% of total

Flexible (9.1%)

Flexible

3 listings

9.1% of total

Moderate (24.2%)

Moderate

8 listings

24.2% of total

Firm (18.2%)

Firm

6 listings

18.2% of total

Strict (33.3%)

Strict

11 listings

33.3% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Carmel

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Carmel is Strict, used by 33.3% of listings.
  • A majority (51.5%) of hosts in Carmel 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 33.3% market standard in Carmel.
  • With 33.3% using Strict terms, this is a viable option in Carmel, particularly for high-value properties or during peak demand periods.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Carmel.

Carmel STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Carmel

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Carmel is 59 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during July (average 81 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in March (average 30 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (74 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (45 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (59 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Carmel.
  • For July stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 81 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 74 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Carmel averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Carmel (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Carmel

  • Essential amenities in Carmel that guests expect include: Smoke alarm, Heating, Essentials, Hot water, Coffee maker, Hangers. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Wifi, Hair dryer, Free parking on premises are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
  • Warning: Wifi is not universally provided but is considered essential globally. Ensure reliable Wifi is offered.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Carmel: Smoke alarm, Heating, Essentials, Hot water, Coffee maker, Hangers.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Hot water, Coffee maker, Hangers.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Wifi 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 Carmel to stay competitive.

Carmel 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 Carmel

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Carmel consists of primarily domestic travelers (93%), often arriving from nearby San Francisco, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 92.6% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (92.6%) and United Kingdom (1.9%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (63.2%) 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 San Francisco and Los Angeles.
  • 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 Carmel 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
Carmel Point15$14,673$993.7055%
Del Monte Forest101$9,923$908.4245%
Moss Beach33$9,049$627.1454%
Carmel-by-the-Sea303$8,195$647.2847%
Castroville18$7,518$503.7251%
Stinson Beach91$6,976$683.2246%
Montara24$6,855$425.3953%
Sand City10$6,438$428.5660%
Ross10$6,326$481.0953%
Pleasure Point99$6,279$471.3052%

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