Cayucos 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 Cayucos in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Cayucos, California, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Cayucos, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 184 active listings.

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

Key Cayucos Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$395
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Cayucos.
Occupancy Rate(?)
41.0%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$51,570
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Cayucos. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
-11.5%
Significant decrease (-11.5%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
July
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Cayucos.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
January
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Cayucos.
STR Regulation Level(?)
High
Strict regulations. Compliance is crucial (licensing, taxes, stay limits may apply).
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
184
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

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

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $11,130+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $7,062 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $4,112 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $2,157, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Cayucos

Cayucos Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 77%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 59% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 40%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 22% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Cayucos

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

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Cayucos involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Cayucos typically peaks in March and dips lowest during April. 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 $631+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $465 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $345 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $262 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Cayucos

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Cayucos (2025)

Peak Season (July, June, August)
  • Revenue averages $7,379 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 54.8%
  • Daily rates average $405
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $5,157 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 40.1%
  • Daily rates hold near $384
Low Season (January, February, March)
  • Revenue drops to average $3,904 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 31.6%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $396

Seasonality Insights for Cayucos

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Cayucos 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 Cayucos's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $8,718, occupancy reaching a high of 64.6%, and ADRs peaking at $413.
  • 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 $3,783, occupancy could drop to 30.1%, and ADRs may adjust down to $377.
  • 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 Cayucos.

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

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Cayucos (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Cayucos? 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
Cayucos Beach
Beautiful beach community with gorgeous coastline and a relaxed atmosphere. Attracts families and beach lovers looking for a quiet getaway.
Cayucos State Beach, Cayucos Pier, Estero Bluffs State Park, Cayucos Morning Market, Surfing, Beachfront restaurants
Downtown Cayucos
Charming downtown area with local shops and eateries. Perfect for travelers wanting to experience the small-town charm of Cayucos.
Cayucos Historical Museum, Local boutiques, Sea Glass Festival, Cayucos Coffee, Cayucos Beachside BBQ
Cayucos Bluffs
Scenic area with stunning views of the ocean and coastline. Great for guests looking for a more secluded and picturesque stay.
Cayucos Bluffs Trail, Hiking and nature walks, Ocean view picnic spots
Morro Strand State Beach
Just north of Cayucos, this beach offers access to stunning sand dunes and is popular with nature enthusiasts.
Morro Strand State Beach, Dune hiking, Bird watching, Fishing spots
Estero Bay
Close to Cayucos, it offers beautiful views and various outdoor activities, appealing to nature lovers.
Estero Bay National Marine Sanctuary, Kayaking and boating, Wildlife viewing, Coastal hiking trails
Twin Lakes
A family-friendly area with access to Twin Lakes State Beach, ideal for those seeking family-oriented vacation spots.
Twin Lakes State Beach, Swimming and sunbathing, Picnic areas, Playgrounds
Cayucos Campground
Great for outdoor enthusiasts looking for camping experiences near the beach with easy access to the coast.
Cayucos Campground, Camping, Surfing access, Outdoor activities
Nearby San Luis Obispo
Just a short drive away, San Luis Obispo offers attractions like wine tasting and vibrant city life, appealing to those wanting to explore further.
Downtown San Luis Obispo, Wine tasting regions, California Polytechnic State University, Farms and markets

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

Yes, Cayucos, California, United States enforces high STR regulations. Obtaining a license and ensuring compliance is almost certainly required according to current 2025 STR laws. Always verify the latest short term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Cayucos to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 43% licensed listings)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Cayucos (2025)

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

Renovated Oceanfront Estate! Private Beach Access

Renovated Oceanfront Estate! Private Beach Access

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$343,241
Revenue
82.7%
Occupancy
$1051.71
Daily Rate
The Surf Shack -  Amazing Custom Beachfront Home

The Surf Shack - Amazing Custom Beachfront Home

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$213,358
Revenue
69.6%
Occupancy
$676.02
Daily Rate
The Beach House - On Cayucos Beach

The Beach House - On Cayucos Beach

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$210,714
Revenue
88.8%
Occupancy
$627.59
Daily Rate
Beautiful Ocean Front Cottage, Cayucos California

Beautiful Ocean Front Cottage, Cayucos California

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$200,725
Revenue
62.8%
Occupancy
$798.47
Daily Rate
Fabulous Cayucos Oceanfront Home!

Fabulous Cayucos Oceanfront Home!

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$162,631
Revenue
62.9%
Occupancy
$761.70
Daily Rate
Bright, beautiful home and stunning coastal views!

Bright, beautiful home and stunning coastal views!

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$162,503
Revenue
73.5%
Occupancy
$597.42
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 Cayucos (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Cayucos 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
Beachside27$1,528,5186334.77/5.0
SeeLyon Beach Rentals23$877,8532984.48/5.0
Beach-N-Bay7$852,3361274.21/5.0
Michele13$641,8999244.79/5.0
URelax Vacation Rentals10$563,2412354.21/5.0
Laura1$343,241484.96/5.0
Team Central Coast9$275,0491182.71/5.0
Angela3$270,8161884.99/5.0
Vacasa California14$229,2425634.58/5.0
Rene1$210,7142894.88/5.0

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 Cayucos.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Cayucos STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

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

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Cayucos

  • The Cayucos Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 93.5% of the 184 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Cayucos, House properties are the most common (72.8%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 72.8% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • Smaller segments like hotel/boutique, outdoor/unique (combined 6.5%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Cayucos Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Cayucos

  • The dominant room capacity in Cayucos is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 31% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
  • Together, 3 bedrooms and 2 bedrooms properties represent 59.8% of the active Airbnb listings in Cayucos, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 47.8% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Cayucos.

Cayucos Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Cayucos

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Cayucos vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (35.3%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Cayucos STR market, accounting for 64.6% of listings.
  • 66.2% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Cayucos.
  • On average, properties in Cayucos are equipped to host 5.8 guests.

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

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Cayucos

  • The most common availability pattern in Cayucos falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 37.5% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 74.5% 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 Cayucos (36.4%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 27.1% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Cayucos Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (10.9%)

1 Night

19 listings

10.9% of total

2 Nights (31.4%)

2 Nights

55 listings

31.4% of total

3 Nights (21.7%)

3 Nights

38 listings

21.7% of total

4-6 Nights (5.1%)

4-6 Nights

9 listings

5.1% of total

7-29 Nights (3.4%)

7-29 Nights

6 listings

3.4% of total

30+ Nights (27.4%)

30+ Nights

48 listings

27.4% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Cayucos is 2 Nights, adopted by 31.4% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A significant segment (27.4%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Cayucos, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 2 Nights minimum stay, as 31.4% of Cayucos hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 10.9% currently do.
  • A 2-night minimum appears standard (31.4%). Consider this for weekends or peak periods.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 27.4% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Cayucos.

Cayucos Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Super Strict 60 Days (8.3%)

Super Strict 60 Days

14 listings

8.3% of total

Super Strict 30 Days (8.3%)

Super Strict 30 Days

14 listings

8.3% of total

Flexible

8 listings

4.8% of total

Moderate (13.1%)

Moderate

22 listings

13.1% of total

Firm (15.5%)

Firm

26 listings

15.5% of total

Strict (50%)

Strict

84 listings

50% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Cayucos

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Cayucos is Strict, used by 50% of listings.
  • A majority (65.5%) of hosts in Cayucos 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 50% market standard in Cayucos.
  • With 50% using Strict terms, this is a viable option in Cayucos, particularly for high-value properties or during peak demand periods.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Cayucos.

Cayucos STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Cayucos

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Cayucos is 83 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during July (average 157 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in March (average 52 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (124 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Spring (63 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (83 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Cayucos.
  • For July stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 157 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 124 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Cayucos averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Cayucos (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Cayucos

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

Recommendations for Hosts

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

Cayucos 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 Cayucos

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Cayucos consists of primarily domestic travelers (96%), often arriving from nearby Fresno, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 96.2% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (96.2%) and United Kingdom (0.7%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (71.7%) followed by Spanish (13.2%).
  • 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 Fresno 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 Cayucos 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%
Los Olivos24$8,686$693.8049%
Montecito133$8,379$805.9647%
Carmel-by-the-Sea303$8,195$647.2847%
Castroville18$7,518$503.7251%
Santa Ynez93$7,462$539.3647%
Carmel34$7,097$521.0649%
Toro Canyon37$6,803$581.4342%
Sand City10$6,438$428.5660%

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