Horse Cave Airbnb Market Analysis 2026: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in Kentucky, United States
Is Airbnb profitable in Horse Cave in 2026? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Horse Cave, Kentucky, United States to uncover income potential. This 2026 STR market report for Horse Cave, based on AirROI data from January 2025 to December 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 19 active listings.
Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Horse Cave, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Horse Cave 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 Horse Cave Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview
Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Horse Cave (2026)
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Horse Cave 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 Horse Cave is typically June, while February often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Horse Cave across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $2,958+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $2,268 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $1,155 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $629, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Horse Cave
Horse Cave Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2026)
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Horse Cave STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Junesees 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 Horse Cave:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 56%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 49% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 23%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 16% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Horse Cave
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Horse Cave (2026)
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Horse Cave involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Horse Cave typically peaks in June 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 $240+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $188 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $143 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $114 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Horse Cave
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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Horse Cave (2025)
Peak Season (June, July, September)
- Revenue averages $2,150 per month
- Occupancy rates average 42.2%
- Daily rates average $169
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $1,437 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 30.6%
- Daily rates hold near $162
Low Season (January, February, December)
- Revenue drops to average $903 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 20.2%
- Daily rates adjust to average $158
Seasonality Insights for Horse Cave
- The Airbnb seasonality in Horse Cave 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 Horse Cave's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $2,444, occupancy reaching a high of 51.0%, and ADRs peaking at $173.
- 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 $820, occupancy could drop to 13.7%, and ADRs may adjust down to $154.
- 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 Horse Cave.
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 Horse Cave seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.
Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Horse Cave (2026)
Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Horse Cave? 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 / Area | Why Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal) | Key Attractions & Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| Horse Cave Historic District | Charming area with rich history and unique attractions. Ideal for visitors looking to explore the cultural and historical aspects of Horse Cave. | Kentucky Down Under Adventure Zoo, Caves and Caverns, Horse Cave Community Center, Local shops and eateries, Historic downtown buildings |
| Hiking Trails and Parks | Surrounding the Horse Cave area are beautiful hiking trails and parks, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor activities. Great for guests seeking adventure and relaxation. | Mammoth Cave National Park, Dinosaur World, Barren River Lake State Resort Park, Cave City, Green River |
| Cave City | Nearby Cave City offers additional attractions and amenities, making it a good base for visitors. Close to major tourist destinations while still retaining a small-town feel. | Cave City attractions, Shopping and dining options, Heritage Center, Guntown Mountain, Cave City Convention Center |
| Local Farms and Wineries | Visitors may enjoy the agricultural surroundings, and staying on or near local farms and wineries can provide unique experiences that attract tourists interested in local culture and cuisine. | Horse Cave Winery, Local farms and markets, Farm-to-table dining experiences, Wine tastings, Rural scenic routes |
| Family-friendly Attractions | Targeting families with children looking for fun and educational experiences, as Horse Cave offers several family-friendly options that are appealing for group stays. | Kentucky Down Under, Local festivals and events, Children's play areas, Mini-golf courses, Amusement parks nearby |
| Cultural Events | Horse Cave hosts various cultural events throughout the year, making it an attractive destination for those interested in local arts and culture. Focus on seasonal rentals. | Annual festivals, Art shows, Local live music events, Community theater, Cultural workshops |
| Antique Shopping | The area has several antique shops that attract collectors and those looking for unique decor items. A good area for short-term stays due to shopping and dining options. | Antique shops, Local boutiques, Craft fairs, Artisan markets, Unique dining experiences |
| Proximity to Mammoth Cave National Park | Being so close to Mammoth Cave, the largest cave system in the world, draws a significant amount of tourists who seek lodging options for easy access to park activities. | Cave tours, Hiking and nature trails, Visitor center, Wildlife watching, Camping sites |
Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Horse Cave (2026)
While Horse Cave, Kentucky, 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 Horse Cave to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2026, finding no licensed listings among those analyzed)
Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Horse Cave (2026)
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Horse Cavebased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Cozy Farmhouse near Mammoth Cave on 45+ acre farm
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Hidden Station
Entire Place • 2 bedrooms
Country Charm
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
A corner paradise close to Mammoth Cave
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Bluegrass Bliss
Entire Place • 3 bedrooms
Firefly Junction - 3-bedroom cottage, amazing view
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.
Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in Horse Cave (2026)
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Horse Cave based on the number of properties managed and estimated total revenue over the past year. Analyze their scale and performance metrics.
| Host Name | Properties | Grossing Revenue | Stay Reviews | Avg Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crystal | 1 | $33,397 | 211 | 4.92/5.0 |
| Jordan | 1 | $26,655 | 82 | 4.95/5.0 |
| Kerry | 1 | $25,601 | 66 | 4.98/5.0 |
| Missi | 1 | $23,814 | 8 | 5.00/5.0 |
| Larry | 1 | $20,284 | 79 | 4.92/5.0 |
| Katherine | 1 | $14,772 | 112 | 4.94/5.0 |
| Eliana | 2 | $14,238 | 39 | 4.87/5.0 |
| Chinar | 2 | $10,172 | 97 | 4.84/5.0 |
| Christie | 1 | $9,022 | 55 | 4.96/5.0 |
| Brandon | 1 | $6,254 | 45 | 4.76/5.0 |
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 Horse Cave.
Dive Deeper: Advanced Horse Cave STR Market Data (2026)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Horse Cave. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsHorse Cave Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2026): Property & Room Types
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Horse Cave
- The Horse Cave Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 100% of the 19 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Horse Cave, House properties are the most common (47.4%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 47.4% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
Horse Cave Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2026): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Horse Cave
- The dominant room capacity in Horse Cave is 1 bedroom listings, making up 52.6% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
- Together, 1 bedroom and 3 bedrooms properties represent 89.4% of the active Airbnb listings in Horse Cave, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- With over half the market (52.6%) consisting of studios or 1-bedroom units, Horse Cave is particularly well-suited for individuals or couples.
- A significant 42.1% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Horse Cave.
Horse Cave Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2026)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Horse Cave
- The most common guest capacity trend in Horse Cave vacation rentals is listings accommodating 6 guests (36.8%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 6 guests and 3 guests dominate the Horse Cave STR market, accounting for 57.9% of listings.
- 42.1% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Horse Cave.
- On average, properties in Horse Cave are equipped to host 4.4 guests.
Horse Cave Airbnb Booking Patterns (2026): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Horse Cave
- The most common availability pattern in Horse Cave falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 68.4% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 94.7% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
- For booked days, the 1-30 days range is most frequent in Horse Cave (42.1%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 5.3% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.
Horse Cave Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
13 listings
68.4% of total
2 Nights
2 listings
10.5% of total
3 Nights
3 listings
15.8% of total
30+ Nights
1 listings
5.3% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Horse Cave is 1 Night, adopted by 68.4% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for shorter, flexible bookings.
- A strong majority (78.9%) of the Horse Cave 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 68.4% of Horse Cave hosts use this setting.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 5.3% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Horse Cave.
Horse Cave Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2026)
Flexible
6 listings
31.6% of total
Moderate
3 listings
15.8% of total
Firm
10 listings
52.6% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Horse Cave
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Horse Cave is Firm, used by 52.6% of listings.
- A majority (52.6%) of hosts in Horse Cave 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 52.6% market standard in Horse Cave.
- Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Horse Cave.
Horse Cave STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2026)
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Horse Cave
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Horse Cave is 28 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during June (average 41 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 14 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Summer (35 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (15 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (28 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Horse Cave.
- For June stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 41 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- During February, focus on last-minute booking availability and promotions, as guests book with very short notice (14 days avg.).
- Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 35 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Horse Cave averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Horse Cave (2026)
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Horse Cave
- Essential amenities in Horse Cave that guests expect include: Free parking on premises. Lacking these (this) could significantly impact bookings.
- Popular amenities like Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, Fire extinguisher are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Horse Cave: Free parking on premises.
- Consider adding popular differentiators like Air conditioning or Smoke alarm 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 Horse Cave to stay competitive.
Horse Cave Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2026)
Guest Profile Summary for Horse Cave
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Horse Cave consists of primarily domestic travelers (99%), often arriving from nearby Cincinnati, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
- Domestic travelers account for 99.4% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (99.4%) and Canada (0.6%).
- Top languages spoken are English (80.9%) followed by Spanish (5.9%).
- 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 Cincinnati and Indianapolis.
- 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 Horse Cave 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.
| Market | Active Properties | Monthly Revenue | Daily Rate | Avg. Occupancy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lawrenceburg | 65 | $4,419 | $363.29 | 45% |
| Berry Hill | 138 | $4,184 | $321.59 | 44% |
| Crittenden | 18 | $4,184 | $263.13 | 50% |
| Walton | 22 | $3,890 | $220.11 | 58% |
| Bee Spring | 12 | $3,889 | $467.40 | 40% |
| Nashville-Davidson | 6,173 | $3,805 | $317.37 | 45% |
| Williamstown | 203 | $3,722 | $261.36 | 49% |
| Coxs Creek | 12 | $3,683 | $417.49 | 39% |
| Bloomfield | 11 | $3,680 | $415.27 | 35% |
| Mt. Juliet | 54 | $3,680 | $310.16 | 44% |