Hilton Head Island Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in South Carolina, United States

Source: AirROI
Last updated: 2025-09-01

Is Airbnb profitable in Hilton Head Island in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Hilton Head Island, based on AirROI data from September 2024 to August 2025, reveals key trends in the bustling market of 4,248 active listings.

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

Avg. Daily Rate (ADR)(?)
$382
The average rental revenue earned for an occupied room per day in Hilton Head Island.
Occupancy Rate(?)
38.5%
Moderate demand with booking opportunities.
Median Annual Revenue(?)
$36,992
Typical annual income for an Airbnb listing in Hilton Head Island. Factors like property type, size, and location influence actual earnings.
Revenue Growth YoY(?)
14.7%
Strong growth (14.7%) vs. last year.
Peak Revenue Month(?)
July
The month with the highest average earnings, indicating peak season in Hilton Head Island.
Lowest Revenue Month(?)
January
The month with the lowest average earnings, indicating the low season in Hilton Head Island.
STR Regulation Level(?)
Low
Fewer regulations, offering more operational flexibility.
Active Airbnb Listings(?)
4,248
Total number of active short-term rentals listed.

Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Hilton Head Island (2025)

Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Hilton Head Island 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 Hilton Head Island 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 Hilton Head Island across different performance tiers:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $9,576+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $5,569 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
  • Typical properties (Median) generate around $3,281 per month, representing the average market performance.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $1,729, often with potential for optimization.

Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)

Maximize your bookings by understanding the Hilton Head Island 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 Hilton Head Island:

  • Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 79%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 61% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
  • Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 39%.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 19% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.

Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Hilton Head Island

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Hilton Head Island (2025)

Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Hilton Head Island involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Hilton Head Island typically peaks in June and dips lowest during January. 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 $699+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
  • Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $425 or more.
  • Typical properties (Median) charge around $269 per night.
  • Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $195 per night.

Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Hilton Head Island

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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Hilton Head Island (2025)

Peak Season (July, June, May)
  • Revenue averages $7,115 per month
  • Occupancy rates average 52.1%
  • Daily rates average $465
Shoulder Season
  • Revenue averages $4,326 per month
  • Occupancy maintains around 42.3%
  • Daily rates hold near $356
Low Season (January, November, December)
  • Revenue drops to average $2,701 per month
  • Occupancy decreases to average 28.1%
  • Daily rates adjust to average $311

Seasonality Insights for Hilton Head Island

  • The Airbnb seasonality in Hilton Head Island 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 Hilton Head Island's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $7,993, occupancy reaching a high of 56.6%, and ADRs peaking at $487.
  • 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 $2,400, occupancy could drop to 26.9%, and ADRs may adjust down to $309.
  • 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 Hilton Head Island.

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 Hilton Head Island seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.

Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Hilton Head Island (2025)

Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Hilton Head Island? 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
Coligny Beach
Coligny Beach is one of Hilton Head's most popular beaches, known for its lively atmosphere, beach access, and nearby shops and restaurants. It attracts families and tourists looking for a fun beach experience with various amenities.
Coligny Plaza, Coligny Beach Park, The Beach House, Oceanfront dining, Kayaking and water sports
Palmetto Dunes
Palmetto Dunes is a prestigious resort community that offers beach access, golf courses, and tennis facilities. It attracts vacationers looking for luxury accommodations and a tranquil environment.
Palmetto Dunes Oceanfront Resort, Robert Trent Jones Golf Course, Shelter Cove Marina, Tennis Center, Biking trails
Sea Pines
Sea Pines is a renowned gated community that is home to beautiful beaches and natural preserves. It is perfect for those looking for upscale rentals, nature trails, and recreational activities.
Harbour Town Lighthouse, Sea Pines Forest Preserve, South Beach Marina, Beach Club, Golf courses
Forest Beach
A family-friendly beach area that offers a variety of accommodation options, Forest Beach is ideal for guests looking for a laid-back beach experience with access to many activities and dining options.
Forest Beach, Shopping and dining on Pope Avenue, Coligny Beach Park, Bike rentals, Nearby golf courses
Shipyard Plantation
This plantation-style community is well-known for its stunning landscapes and beach access. It appeals to guests looking for leisurely golf and beach experiences in a serene environment.
Shipyard Golf Club, Beach access, Van Der Meer Tennis Center, Bike paths, Nature trails
Old Town Bluffton
Just a short drive from Hilton Head, Old Town Bluffton offers a historic charm with quaint shops and restaurants. It attracts those looking for a unique cultural experience away from the tourist crowds.
May River, Calhoun Street, Bluffton Farmers Market, Galleries and art studios, Historic churches
North Forest Beach
This area is known for its expansive beaches and family-friendly accommodations. North Forest Beach provides a delightful blend of relaxation and activities for tourists.
North Forest Beach, Private beach access, Dining options, Bike trails, Water sports
Dunes House
An oceanfront restaurant and beach access point that draws visitors for casual dining and relaxing day on the beach. It is popular among tourists looking for easy beach access.
Dunes House Restaurant, Beach access, Kids play area, Sunset views, Relaxation spots

Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Hilton Head Island (2025)

While Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, 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 Hilton Head Island to ensure full compliance before hosting.

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

Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Hilton Head Island (2025)

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

South Beach Serenity by AvantStay | Pool + Beach

South Beach Serenity by AvantStay | Pool + Beach

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$509,067
Revenue
71.6%
Occupancy
$1901.67
Daily Rate
Sleeps 24 Infinity Pool, Beach Boardwalk, Elevator

Sleeps 24 Infinity Pool, Beach Boardwalk, Elevator

Entire Place • 10 bedrooms

$445,065
Revenue
53.2%
Occupancy
$2029.22
Daily Rate
Dory by AvantStay | Walk to the Beach, Luxe Home

Dory by AvantStay | Walk to the Beach, Luxe Home

Entire Place • 9 bedrooms

$364,337
Revenue
54.5%
Occupancy
$1426.05
Daily Rate
Golf Sim~Pickleball~Theater~Sauna~Games~Sleeps 24

Golf Sim~Pickleball~Theater~Sauna~Games~Sleeps 24

Entire Place • 6 bedrooms

$361,100
Revenue
56.2%
Occupancy
$1861.02
Daily Rate
30 Dune Lane- 2nd Row Home on North Forest Beach,

30 Dune Lane- 2nd Row Home on North Forest Beach,

Entire Place • 7 bedrooms

$345,072
Revenue
50.2%
Occupancy
$1417.52
Daily Rate
Palmetto Dunes, 5 mins to Beach, Sleep 23 in beds

Palmetto Dunes, 5 mins to Beach, Sleep 23 in beds

Entire Place • 7 bedrooms

$332,429
Revenue
53.3%
Occupancy
$1370.14
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 Hilton Head Island (2025)

Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Hilton Head Island 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
Host2coast172$6,593,97511674.85/5.0
Sunset Rentals225$5,683,82412754.63/5.0
Beachside110$5,441,1658324.86/5.0
Beach Properties Of Hilton Hea210$4,998,7086234.63/5.0
Evolve146$4,842,58356954.65/5.0
AvantStay21$4,483,2735324.75/5.0
Beach House Boutique46$4,001,58115074.91/5.0
Island Rentals Of Hilton Head122$3,859,1597074.68/5.0
Host And Home57$3,805,4883574.78/5.0
Island Time93$3,751,5482234.68/5.0

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 Hilton Head Island.

Dive Deeper: Advanced Hilton Head Island STR Market Data (2025)

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

Explore Advanced Metrics

Hilton Head Island Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types

Room Type Distribution

Property Type Distribution

Market Composition Insights for Hilton Head Island

  • The Hilton Head Island Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 99.4% of the 4,248 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
  • Looking at the property type distribution in Hilton Head Island, Apartment/Condo properties are the most common (51.8%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
  • Houses represent a significant 47.6% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
  • Smaller segments like hotel/boutique, unique stays (combined 0.5%) offer potential for unique stay experiences.

Hilton Head Island Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution

Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms

Room Capacity Insights for Hilton Head Island

  • The dominant room capacity in Hilton Head Island is 2 bedrooms listings, making up 46.7% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for couples or solo travelers.
  • Together, 2 bedrooms and 3 bedrooms properties represent 65.2% of the active Airbnb listings in Hilton Head Island, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
  • A significant 34.3% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Hilton Head Island.

Hilton Head Island Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)

Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity

Guest Capacity Insights for Hilton Head Island

  • The most common guest capacity trend in Hilton Head Island vacation rentals is listings accommodating 6 guests (35.6%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
  • Properties designed for 6 guests and 8+ guests dominate the Hilton Head Island STR market, accounting for 70.8% of listings.
  • 75.9% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Hilton Head Island.
  • On average, properties in Hilton Head Island are equipped to host 6.3 guests.

Hilton Head Island Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days

Available Days Distribution

Booked Days Distribution

Booking Pattern Insights for Hilton Head Island

  • The most common availability pattern in Hilton Head Island falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 53.1% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
  • Approximately 83.3% of listings show high availability (181+ days open annually), indicating potential for increased bookings or specific owner usage patterns.
  • For booked days, the 31-90 days range is most frequent in Hilton Head Island (31.2%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
  • A notable 17.7% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.

Hilton Head Island Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis

Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement

1 Night (5%)

1 Night

209 listings

5% of total

2 Nights (14.7%)

2 Nights

620 listings

14.7% of total

3 Nights (14.7%)

3 Nights

620 listings

14.7% of total

4-6 Nights (11.6%)

4-6 Nights

490 listings

11.6% of total

7-29 Nights (3.1%)

7-29 Nights

129 listings

3.1% of total

30+ Nights (50.9%)

30+ Nights

2142 listings

50.9% of total

Key Insights

  • The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Hilton Head Island is 30+ Nights, adopted by 50.9% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
  • Very short stays (1-2 nights) are less common (19.7%), suggesting hosts prefer slightly longer bookings to optimize turnover.
  • A significant segment (50.9%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Hilton Head Island, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.

Recommendations

  • Align with the market by considering a 30+ Nights minimum stay, as 50.9% of Hilton Head Island hosts use this setting.
  • If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 5% currently do.
  • Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 50.9% of the market seeking extended stays.
  • Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Hilton Head Island.

Hilton Head Island Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)

Non-refundable

2 listings

0% of total

Super Strict 30 Days (13.8%)

Super Strict 30 Days

576 listings

13.8% of total

Refundable

3 listings

0.1% of total

Super Strict 60 Days (13.4%)

Super Strict 60 Days

562 listings

13.4% of total

Flexible

125 listings

3% of total

Moderate (21.1%)

Moderate

884 listings

21.1% of total

Firm (31.3%)

Firm

1311 listings

31.3% of total

Strict (17.3%)

Strict

726 listings

17.3% of total

Cancellation Policy Insights for Hilton Head Island

  • The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Hilton Head Island is Firm, used by 31.3% of listings.
  • There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (24.1%) and stricter (48.6%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Consider adopting a Firm policy to align with the 31.3% market standard in Hilton Head Island.
  • Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Hilton Head Island.

Hilton Head Island STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)

Average Booking Lead Time by Month

Booking Lead Time Insights for Hilton Head Island

  • The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Hilton Head Island is 75 days.
  • Guests book furthest in advance for stays during April (average 91 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
  • The shortest booking windows occur for stays in January (average 53 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
  • Seasonally, Spring (87 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (63 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Use the overall average lead time (75 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Hilton Head Island.
  • For April 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 Spring season well in advance (at least 87 days) to capture early planners.
  • Monitor your own booking lead times against these Hilton Head Island averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.

Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Hilton Head Island (2025)

Amenity Prevalence

Amenity Insights for Hilton Head Island

  • Essential amenities in Hilton Head Island that guests expect include: Air conditioning, TV, Smoke alarm, Wifi, Kitchen, Refrigerator, Coffee maker, Microwave. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
  • Popular amenities like Dishes and silverware, Dishwasher are common but not universal. Offering these can provide a competitive edge.

Recommendations for Hosts

  • Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Hilton Head Island: Air conditioning, TV, Smoke alarm, Wifi, Kitchen, Refrigerator, Coffee maker, Microwave.
  • Prioritize adding missing essentials: Air conditioning, TV, Smoke alarm, Wifi, Kitchen, Refrigerator, Coffee maker, Microwave.
  • Consider adding popular differentiators like Dishes and silverware or Dishwasher 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 Hilton Head Island to stay competitive.

Hilton Head Island 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 Hilton Head Island

  • The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Hilton Head Island consists of primarily domestic travelers (97%), often arriving from nearby Charlotte, typically belonging to the Post-2000s (Gen Z/Alpha) group (50%), primarily speaking English or Spanish.
  • Domestic travelers account for 97.1% of guests.
  • Key international markets include United States (97.1%) and Canada (1%).
  • Top languages spoken are English (79.8%) followed by Spanish (9.2%).
  • 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 Charlotte and Atlanta.
  • 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 Hilton Head Island 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
Sullivan's Island23$6,755$791.7138%
Folly Beach888$6,635$534.6147%
Isle of Palms947$6,584$709.1141%
Talahi Island43$6,190$354.0952%
Charleston1,860$5,418$372.9554%
Okatie10$4,728$494.2942%
Mount Pleasant447$4,400$293.7454%
Kiawah Island604$4,129$582.5434%
Tybee Island1,308$4,077$406.7040%
Whitemarsh Island89$4,066$286.7148%

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