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

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-06-01

Is Airbnb profitable in Waterville in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Waterville, Maine, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Waterville, based on AirROI data from June 2024 to May 2025, reveals key trends in the niche market of 41 active listings.

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

Key Waterville Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$134
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Waterville.
Occupancy Rate(?)
37.8%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$13,162
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Waterville. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
-26.1%
Significant decrease (-26.1%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
August
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Waterville.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
May
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Waterville.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Moderate
Regulation details vary. Check local government sources.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
41
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

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

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $4,587+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $3,064 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $1,461 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $570, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Waterville

Waterville Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

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

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 78%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 64% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 44%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 20% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Waterville

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

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Waterville involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Waterville typically peaks in May and dips lowest during December. 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 $266+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $169 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $99 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $50 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Waterville

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Waterville (2025)

Peak Season (August, October, June)
  • Revenue averages $2,688 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 55.3%
  • Daily rates average $120
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $1,965 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 44.0%
  • Daily rates hold near $130
Low Season (April, May, December)
  • Revenue drops to average $1,557 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 34.2%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $134

Seasonality Insights for Waterville

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Waterville 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 Waterville's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $2,936, occupancy reaching a high of 60.9%, and ADRs peaking at $147.
  • 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 $1,510, occupancy could drop to 26.3%, and ADRs may adjust down to $116.
  • 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 Waterville.

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

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Waterville (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Waterville? 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 Waterville
The heart of the city, featuring shops, restaurants, and a thriving arts scene. Ideal for tourists looking to explore the local culture and amenities.
Waterville Opera House, Colby College Museum of Art, Main Street shops, Local parks and green spaces
Messalonskee Lake
A scenic area perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking for lake activities, hiking, and relaxation.
Messalonskee Lake, Water sports and fishing, Nature trails, Picnic areas
Summit area
A quiet residential neighborhood that appeals to families and longer-term visitors seeking tranquility and a suburban feel within reach of city amenities.
Local parks, Community events, Nearby schools and facilities
The Quarry Road Trails
Popular for outdoor recreation including hiking, biking, and skiing in the winter, attracting nature lovers and active travelers.
Quarry Road Recreation Area, Hiking and biking trails, Winter sports facilities
North Street
A vibrant area with historic homes, shops, and eateries, appealing to those interested in local history and charm.
Historic buildings, Local diners and cafes, Community events
Waterville Waterfront
A picturesque area along the Kennebec River, ideal for scenic walks and enjoying the outdoors, attracting visitors looking for leisure.
Kennebec River Rail Trail, Parks along the waterfront, Seasonal events and markets
Waterville High School Area
A convenient location near educational institutions, attractive to visiting families and students during school events and sports activities.
High school sports events, Community activities, Nearby dining options
Oakland
A nearby town offering a quiet rural feel while still close to Waterville amenities, great for those looking for a peaceful retreat.
Local farms, Outdoor parks, Community markets

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

With 22% of listings showing registration in 2025, understanding potential Airbnb license requirements is crucial in Waterville. Always verify the latest short term rental regulations and Airbnb license requirements directly with local government authorities for Waterville to ensure full compliance before hosting.

(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 22% licensed listings)

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Waterville (2025)

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

Waterville Home Rental w/ Private Yard + Deck!

Waterville Home Rental w/ Private Yard + Deck!

Entire Place • 5 bedrooms

$52,147
Revenue
36.6%
Occupancy
$392.56
Daily Rate
Sweet Retreat: 3 BDR Stylish Home Mins To Colby

Sweet Retreat: 3 BDR Stylish Home Mins To Colby

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$51,506
Revenue
42.2%
Occupancy
$323.16
Daily Rate
Cozy House in Waterville

Cozy House in Waterville

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$38,815
Revenue
74.6%
Occupancy
$141.94
Daily Rate
Sterling House

Sterling House

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$38,597
Revenue
69.8%
Occupancy
$150.37
Daily Rate
Sun-kissed Serenity - 2 Bdrm Apt with Sunroom

Sun-kissed Serenity - 2 Bdrm Apt with Sunroom

Entire Place • 2 bedrooms

$37,677
Revenue
63.1%
Occupancy
$199.14
Daily Rate
Cozy and comfy home

Cozy and comfy home

Entire Place • 3 bedrooms

$32,684
Revenue
54.0%
Occupancy
$265.39
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 Waterville (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Waterville 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
Lori5$109,9321514.94/5.0
Chelsey & Andrew2$81,0542785.00/5.0
Emily5$63,7734404.75/5.0
Evolve1$52,147134.77/5.0
Host #570437416$47,4104N/A/5.0
Andrea1$38,8151734.83/5.0
Barbara1$38,5971224.91/5.0
Areti3$38,246404.83/5.0
Andriana1$20,064334.61/5.0
Health11$13,470105.00/5.0

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 Waterville.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Waterville STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

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

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Waterville

  • The Waterville Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Private Room listings, which make up 51.2% of the 41 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Waterville, House properties are the most common (53.7%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 53.7% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.

Waterville Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Waterville

  • The dominant room capacity in Waterville is 1 bedroom listings, making up 39% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 1 bedroom and 2 bedrooms properties represent 65.8% of the active Airbnb listings in Waterville, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.

Waterville Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Waterville

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Waterville vacation rentals is listings accommodating 1 guest (22%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely couples or solo travelers.
  • Properties designed for 1 guest and 2 guests dominate the Waterville STR market, accounting for 39.1% of listings.
  • 19.5% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Waterville.
  • On average, properties in Waterville are equipped to host 2.8 guests.

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

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Waterville

  • The most common availability pattern in Waterville falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 56.1% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 87.8% 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 Waterville (31.7%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 12.2% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Waterville Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (27.5%)

1 Night

11 listings

27.5% of total

2 Nights (10%)

2 Nights

4 listings

10% of total

3 Nights (12.5%)

3 Nights

5 listings

12.5% of total

4-6 Nights (7.5%)

4-6 Nights

3 listings

7.5% of total

7-29 Nights (12.5%)

7-29 Nights

5 listings

12.5% of total

30+ Nights (30%)

30+ Nights

12 listings

30% of total

Key Insights

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

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 30% of Waterville hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 27.5% currently do.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 30% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Waterville.

Waterville Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Flexible (20%)

Flexible

7 listings

20% of total

Moderate (22.9%)

Moderate

8 listings

22.9% of total

Firm (40%)

Firm

14 listings

40% of total

Strict (17.1%)

Strict

6 listings

17.1% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Waterville

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Waterville is Firm, used by 40% of listings.
  • A majority (57.1%) of hosts in Waterville 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 40% market standard in Waterville.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Waterville.

Waterville STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Waterville

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Waterville is 33 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during June (average 91 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in January (average 17 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Summer (49 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (29 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (33 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Waterville.
  • For June stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 91 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
  • Target marketing efforts for the Summer season well in advance (at least 49 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Waterville averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Waterville (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Waterville

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

Recommendations for Hosts

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

Waterville 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 Waterville

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Waterville consists of primarily domestic travelers (92%), often arriving from nearby New York, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or French.
  • Domestic travelers account for 91.9% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (91.9%) and Canada (4.1%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (68.6%) followed by French (8.5%).
  • 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 New York and Portland.
  • 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 Waterville 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
Manchester10$5,177$393.0949%
Kennebunkport148$4,551$618.5443%
Bar Harbor480$4,121$375.5656%
Portland877$3,839$332.4352%
Tremont144$3,830$358.3056%
Mount Desert181$3,656$378.9953%
Kennebunk236$3,552$444.7846%
Woodstock49$3,551$400.7342%
Southwest Harbor235$3,543$376.4354%
Sanford25$3,492$315.2643%

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