La Mesa 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 La Mesa in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for La Mesa, California, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for La Mesa, based on AirROI data from April 2024 to March 2025, reveals key trends in the market of 259 active listings.

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

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$270
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in La Mesa.
Occupancy Rate(?)
54.1%
High demand. Good booking frequency.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$44,708
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in La Mesa. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
9.1%
Positive growth (9.1%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
July
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in La Mesa.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
February
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in La Mesa.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
259
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in La Mesa (2025)

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $10,071+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $5,641 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $3,385 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,885, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in La Mesa

La Mesa Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 89%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 77% 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 35% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in La Mesa

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in La Mesa (2025)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in La Mesa involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in La Mesa typically peaks in March 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 $510+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $282 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $162 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $114 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in La Mesa

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in La Mesa (2025)

Peak Season (July, June, May)
  • Revenue averages $6,279 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 62.3%
  • Daily rates average $261
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $4,466 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 54.3%
  • Daily rates hold near $258
Low Season (January, February, October)
  • Revenue drops to average $3,396 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 51.0%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $247

Seasonality Insights for La Mesa

  • The Airbnb seasonality in La Mesa 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 La Mesa's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $6,579, occupancy reaching a high of 75.0%, and ADRs peaking at $274.
  • 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 $3,031, occupancy could drop to 48.8%, and ADRs may adjust down to $244.
  • 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 La Mesa.

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 La Mesa seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in La Mesa (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in La Mesa? 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
La Mesa Village
The historic downtown area with charming shops, restaurants, and a community vibe. Popular for tourists and locals, it offers a quaint atmosphere with easy access to local events.
La Mesa Farmer's Market, Village Park, La Mesa Depot Museum, Dining and shops on La Mesa Blvd, La Mesa Art Gallery
Grossmont Center
A key shopping and entertainment center featuring cinemas, restaurants, and stores. Ideal for guests looking for convenience and varied dining and shopping options.
Grossmont Center, AMC Theatres, Target, multiple dining options, shopping boutiques
Lake Murray
A beautiful park area with a scenic lake, popular for picnics, walking, and outdoor activities. Attracts families and nature lovers looking for a peaceful getaway.
Lake Murray Recreational Area, Trails for walking/biking, Fishing spots, Picnic areas, Playgrounds for kids
Mount Helix
A residential area known for its stunning views and hiking trails. Attracts nature enthusiasts looking for outdoor adventures and stunning vistas. Also has a local community spirit.
Mount Helix Park, Hiking trails, Scenic viewpoints, Local wineries, Picturesque neighborhoods
Collier Park
A suburban area that offers plenty of green space and parks, making it attractive for families and guests who enjoy outdoor activities and community events.
Collier Park, Community center, Sports fields, Playgrounds, Family-friendly events
San Carlos
A family-oriented neighborhood with easy access to outdoor activities and nearby attractions. Appeals to those who enjoy a close-knit community feel with various amenities.
Mission Trails Regional Park, Nearby golf courses, Local shops and restaurants, Hiking and biking trails, Community events
Alvarado Estates
An upscale residential area with larger homes and a more upscale vibe. Attracts luxury travelers looking for spacious accommodations.
Alvarado Canyon, Near to hiking trails, Close to Mission Valley shopping, Luxury home rentals, Nice views of the city
Banzai Beach
A hidden gem for those looking for a beach-like atmosphere close to the city. Offers a unique spot for relaxation and a getaway feel without leaving the San Diego area.
Banzai Beach, Picnic areas, Playgrounds, Relaxing environment, Close to La Mesa restaurants

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in La Mesa (2025)

While La Mesa, 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 La Mesa to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 0% licensed listings)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in La Mesa (2025)

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

San Diego Serenity Hills_Infinity Pool_Pickleball

San Diego Serenity Hills_Infinity Pool_Pickleball

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$217,095
Revenue
47.9%
Occupancy
$1295.61
Daily Rate
Paradise Lagoon: Resort-Style Pool Getaway

Paradise Lagoon: Resort-Style Pool Getaway

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$212,702
Revenue
79.2%
Occupancy
$694.28
Daily Rate
SD Family Getaway Pool Spa near Lake and Trails

SD Family Getaway Pool Spa near Lake and Trails

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$201,384
Revenue
73.2%
Occupancy
$683.90
Daily Rate
Groups 2 | Hot Tubs | Game Room

Groups 2 | Hot Tubs | Game Room

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$195,587
Revenue
37.3%
Occupancy
$1080.51
Daily Rate
Luxury 5br/3.5ba w/Pool & Hot Tub

Luxury 5br/3.5ba w/Pool & Hot Tub

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$194,848
Revenue
47.1%
Occupancy
$823.56
Daily Rate
XTRA 10% OFF Until March: Heated pool, outdoor fir

XTRA 10% OFF Until March: Heated pool, outdoor fir

Entire Place • 4 bedrooms

$191,226
Revenue
74.5%
Occupancy
$672.25
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 La Mesa (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in La Mesa 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
Host #813436234$437,9921034.79/5.0
Air Concierge2$371,7341164.79/5.0
Destiny And Sal2$285,2691145.00/5.0
Derek3$273,168914.92/5.0
Host #66883895$237,226212.95/5.0
Evan3$222,7372854.86/5.0
Host #357869941$217,095215.00/5.0
Cesar1$195,587154.87/5.0
Chris And Kecia1$194,848394.92/5.0
Cardo3$192,718273.03/5.0

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 La Mesa.

Dive Deeper: Advanced La Mesa STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

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

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for La Mesa

  • The La Mesa Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 88.8% of the 259 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in La Mesa, House properties are the most common (67.2%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 67.2% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • The presence of 15.1% Hotel/Boutique listings indicates integration with traditional hospitality.
  • Smaller segments like outdoor/unique, unique stays (combined 1.6%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

La Mesa Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for La Mesa

  • The dominant room capacity in La Mesa is 1 bedroom listings, making up 32.8% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 1 bedroom and 3 bedrooms properties represent 49.0% of the active Airbnb listings in La Mesa, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 36.3% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in La Mesa.

La Mesa Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for La Mesa

  • The most common guest capacity trend in La Mesa vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (28.6%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 8+ guests and 4 guests dominate the La Mesa STR market, accounting for 47.9% of listings.
  • 40.2% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in La Mesa.
  • On average, properties in La Mesa are equipped to host 4.6 guests.

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

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for La Mesa

  • The most common availability pattern in La Mesa falls within the 91-180 days range, representing 32% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 49.8% 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 La Mesa (33.2%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 52.5% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

La Mesa Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (14.9%)

1 Night

34 listings

14.9% of total

2 Nights (39.5%)

2 Nights

90 listings

39.5% of total

3 Nights (11.8%)

3 Nights

27 listings

11.8% of total

4-6 Nights (4.4%)

4-6 Nights

10 listings

4.4% of total

7-29 Nights (9.2%)

7-29 Nights

21 listings

9.2% of total

30+ Nights (20.2%)

30+ Nights

46 listings

20.2% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in La Mesa is 2 Nights, adopted by 39.5% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
  • A significant segment (20.2%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in La Mesa, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 2 Nights minimum stay, as 39.5% of La Mesa hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 14.9% currently do.
  • A 2-night minimum appears standard (39.5%). Consider this for weekends or peak periods.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 20.2% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in La Mesa.

La Mesa Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Flexible (19.5%)

Flexible

43 listings

19.5% of total

Moderate (29.1%)

Moderate

64 listings

29.1% of total

Firm (30%)

Firm

66 listings

30% of total

Strict (21.4%)

Strict

47 listings

21.4% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for La Mesa

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in La Mesa is Firm, used by 30% of listings.
  • A majority (51.4%) of hosts in La Mesa utilize Firm or Strict policies, indicating a market where hosts prioritize booking security.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Firm policy to align with the 30% market standard in La Mesa.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in La Mesa.

La Mesa STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for La Mesa

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in La Mesa is 39 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during July (average 73 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in March (average 36 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (59 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (42 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (39 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in La Mesa.
  • For July stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 73 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 59 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these La Mesa averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in La Mesa (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for La Mesa

  • Essential amenities in La Mesa that guests expect include: Wifi, Hot water, Smoke alarm, Heating, TV, Air conditioning, Carbon monoxide alarm. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Essentials, Dishes and silverware, Hangers are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for La Mesa: Wifi, Hot water, Smoke alarm, Heating, TV, Air conditioning, Carbon monoxide alarm.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Wifi, Hot water, Smoke alarm, Heating, TV, Air conditioning, Carbon monoxide alarm.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Essentials or Dishes and silverware 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 La Mesa to stay competitive.

La Mesa 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 La Mesa

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in La Mesa consists of primarily domestic travelers (91%), often arriving from nearby San Diego, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 91.1% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (91.1%) and Canada (2.5%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (65%) followed by Spanish (19.1%).
  • 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 Diego 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 La Mesa 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 Diego26$8,486$514.8053%
Thousand Palms32$8,286$679.7342%
GlenOak Hills37$7,383$604.1640%
Del Mar114$7,107$617.5449%
Newport Beach1,263$6,978$638.4145%
Tenaja10$6,811$584.2547%
Manhattan Beach230$6,766$492.4752%
Rancho Santa Fe29$6,753$823.1242%
Avalon216$6,558$624.2738%
Lakeside34$6,212$473.1949%

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