Kiawah Island Airbnb Market Analysis 2025: Short Term Rental Data & Vacation Rental Statistics in South Carolina, United States
Is Airbnb profitable in Kiawah Island in 2025? Explore comprehensive Airbnb analytics for Kiawah Island, South Carolina, United States to uncover income potential. This 2025 STR market report for Kiawah Island, based on AirROI data from June 2024 to May 2025, reveals key trends in the market of 536 active listings.
Whether you're considering an Airbnb investment in Kiawah Island, optimizing your existing vacation rental, or exploring rental arbitrage opportunities, understanding the Kiawah 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 Kiawah Island Airbnb Performance Metrics Overview
Monthly Airbnb Revenue Variations & Income Potential in Kiawah Island (2025)
Understanding the monthly revenue variations for Airbnb listings in Kiawah 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 Kiawah Island is typically April, while January often presents the lowest earnings, highlighting opportunities for strategic pricing adjustments during shoulder and low seasons. Explore the typical Airbnb income in Kiawah Island across different performance tiers:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve $12,294+ monthly, often utilizing dynamic pricing and superior guest experiences.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) earn $7,450 or more, indicating effective management and desirable locations/amenities.
- Typical properties (Median) generate around $4,267 per month, representing the average market performance.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) see earnings around $2,075, often with potential for optimization.
Average Monthly Airbnb Earnings Trend in Kiawah Island
Kiawah Island Airbnb Occupancy Rate Trends (2025)
Maximize your bookings by understanding the Kiawah Island STR occupancy trends. Seasonal demand shifts significantly influence how often properties are booked. Typically, Aprilsees 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 Kiawah Island:
- Best-in-class properties (Top 10%) achieve 71%+ occupancy, indicating high desirability and potentially optimized availability.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) maintain 51% or higher occupancy, suggesting good market fit and guest satisfaction.
- Typical properties (Median) have an occupancy rate around 29%.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) average 16% occupancy, potentially facing higher vacancy.
Average Monthly Occupancy Rate Trend in Kiawah Island
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Airbnb Trends in Kiawah Island (2025)
Effective short term rental pricing strategy in Kiawah Island involves understanding monthly ADR fluctuations. The Average Daily Rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Kiawah Island typically peaks in May 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 $1,017+ per night, often due to premium features or locations.
- Strong performing properties (Top 25%) achieve nightly rates of $680 or more.
- Typical properties (Median) charge around $434 per night.
- Entry-level properties (Bottom 25%) earn around $301 per night.
Average Daily Rate (ADR) Trend by Month in Kiawah Island
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Airbnb Seasonality Analysis & Trends in Kiawah Island (2025)
Peak Season (April, July, May)
- Revenue averages $7,785 per month
- Occupancy rates average 41.9%
- Daily rates average $635
Shoulder Season
- Revenue averages $5,871 per month
- Occupancy maintains around 36.0%
- Daily rates hold near $548
Low Season (January, February, December)
- Revenue drops to average $3,561 per month
- Occupancy decreases to average 26.2%
- Daily rates adjust to average $500
Seasonality Insights for Kiawah Island
- The Airbnb seasonality in Kiawah 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 Kiawah Island's highest earning potential, with monthly revenues capable of climbing to $8,580, occupancy reaching a high of 46.4%, and ADRs peaking at $669.
- 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 $3,136, occupancy could drop to 22.3%, and ADRs may adjust down to $491.
- 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 Kiawah 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 Kiawah Island seasonality benchmarks and adjust your pricing and availability strategy accordingly.
Best Areas for Airbnb Investment in Kiawah Island (2025)
Exploring the top neighborhoods for short-term rentals in Kiawah 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 / Area | Why Host Here? (Target Guests & Appeal) | Key Attractions & Landmarks |
|---|---|---|
| East Beach | Popular for its beautiful sandy shore and proximity to the Kiawah Island Golf Resort. Ideal for families and vacationers wanting direct beach access. | Kiawah Beachwalker Park, The Ocean Course, Night Heron Park, Kiawah Island Golf Resort, The Sanctuary Hotel |
| West Beach | Known for its peaceful environment and nature trails. A great spot for nature lovers and outdoor activities. | West Beach Village, Kiawah Island Nature Center, Kiawah Island Trail System, Kiawah Island Golf Course, Osprey Point |
| Osprey Point | Features one of Kiawah’s top-rated golf courses and offers a tranquil setting perfect for relaxation and golfing enthusiasts. | Osprey Point Golf Course, Kiawah Island Club, Kiawah Island Nature Tours, Kayaking and Paddleboarding, Wildlife Viewing |
| Kiawah Island Club | Exclusive private community offering luxury amenities. Attracts high-end clientele looking for a peaceful retreat. | Kiawah Island Golf Courses, Private Beaches, Club Amenities, Culinary Experiences, Spa and Wellness |
| Night Heron Park | A family-friendly area with recreational activities and programs, perfect for kids and families. | Night Heron Park, Nature Trails, Playground, Biking, Outdoor Games |
| The Sanctuary Hotel | A luxurious beachfront hotel and resort that attracts upscale travelers and events, making it a prime investment location. | Beach Access, Spa Services, Fine Dining, Golf Packages, Family Resorts |
| Marsh Island | A scenic area ideal for vacation homes with beautiful views of marshes and golf courses, great for wildlife enthusiasts. | Kayaking in Marsh, Golf Courses, Bird Watching, Scenic Views, Nature Trails |
| Bohicket Marina | Charming marina area with shopping and dining options, catering to boaters and vacationers wishing to enjoy water activities. | Bohicket Marina, Dining at the Marina, Water Sports, Boat Rentals, Fishing |
Understanding Airbnb License Requirements & STR Laws in Kiawah Island (2025)
While Kiawah 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 Kiawah Island to ensure full compliance before hosting.
(Source: AirROI data, 2025, based on 2% licensed listings)
Top Performing Airbnb Properties in Kiawah Island (2025)
Benchmark your potential! Explore examples of top-performing Airbnb properties in Kiawah Islandbased on Trailing Twelve Month (TTM) revenue. Analyze their characteristics, revenue, occupancy rate, and ADR to understand what drives success in this market.
Lowcountry Oceanfront Kiawah Estate in Vanderhorst
Entire Place • 7 bedrooms
Oceanfront Surfsong Rd: Luxury Kiawah Estate!
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
194 Ballybunion Drive by Akers Ellis Rentals
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
The Birdie - Luxury Kiawah Beach House
Entire Place • 5 bedrooms
Turtle Beach | Live Oak House, Kiawah Island
Entire Place • 4 bedrooms
Brand new! Spacious w heated pool/hot tub
Entire Place • 6 bedrooms
Note: Performance varies based on location, size, amenities, seasonality, and management quality. Data reflects the past 12 months.
Top Performing Airbnb Hosts in Kiawah Island (2025)
Learn from the best! This table showcases top-performing Airbnb hosts in Kiawah Island 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sweetgrass | 88 | $5,630,724 | 724 | 4.75/5.0 |
| Espm | 86 | $5,304,028 | 771 | 4.85/5.0 |
| Akers Ellis | 105 | $4,035,898 | 368 | 4.76/5.0 |
| Kiawah | 77 | $2,006,473 | 149 | 4.77/5.0 |
| ITrip Charleston Beaches | 21 | $773,700 | 137 | 4.86/5.0 |
| Jeanette | 11 | $633,991 | 5 | N/A/5.0 |
| Vacasa South Carolina | 26 | $286,630 | 758 | 4.54/5.0 |
| Alex | 1 | $229,763 | 91 | 4.99/5.0 |
| Sewee | 5 | $229,078 | 60 | 4.95/5.0 |
| Vacasa South Carolina | 19 | $224,032 | 471 | 4.63/5.0 |
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 Kiawah Island.
Dive Deeper: Advanced Kiawah Island STR Market Data (2025)
Ready to unlock more insights? AirROI provides access to advanced metrics and comprehensive Airbnb data for Kiawah Island. Explore detailed analytics beyond this report to refine your investment strategy, optimize pricing, and maximize your vacation rental profits.
Explore Advanced MetricsKiawah Island Short-Term Rental Market Composition (2025): Property & Room Types
Room Type Distribution
Property Type Distribution
Market Composition Insights for Kiawah Island
- The Kiawah Island Airbnb market composition is heavily skewed towards Entire Home/Apt listings, which make up 100% of the 536 active rentals. This indicates strong guest preference for privacy and space.
- Looking at the property type distribution in Kiawah Island, House properties are the most common (70.1%), reflecting the local real estate landscape.
- Houses represent a significant 70.1% portion, catering likely to families or larger groups.
Kiawah Island Airbnb Room Capacity Analysis (2025): Bedroom Distribution
Distribution of Listings by Number of Bedrooms
Room Capacity Insights for Kiawah Island
- The dominant room capacity in Kiawah Island is 3 bedrooms listings, making up 30.6% of the market. This suggests a strong demand for properties suitable for families or small groups.
- Together, 3 bedrooms and 4 bedrooms properties represent 51.1% of the active Airbnb listings in Kiawah Island, indicating a high concentration in these sizes.
- A significant 65.8% of listings offer 3+ bedrooms, catering to larger groups and families seeking more space in Kiawah Island.
Kiawah Island Vacation Rental Guest Capacity Trends (2025)
Distribution of Listings by Guest Capacity
Guest Capacity Insights for Kiawah Island
- The most common guest capacity trend in Kiawah Island vacation rentals is listings accommodating 8+ guests (45.3%). This suggests the primary traveler segment is likely larger groups.
- Properties designed for 8+ guests and 6 guests dominate the Kiawah Island STR market, accounting for 72.5% of listings.
- 74.9% of properties accommodate 6+ guests, serving the market segment for larger families or group travel in Kiawah Island.
- On average, properties in Kiawah Island are equipped to host 6.4 guests.
Kiawah Island Airbnb Booking Patterns (2025): Available vs. Booked Days
Available Days Distribution
Booked Days Distribution
Booking Pattern Insights for Kiawah Island
- The most common availability pattern in Kiawah Island falls within the 271-366 days range, representing 59.5% of listings. This suggests many properties have significant open periods on their calendars.
- Approximately 92.7% 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 Kiawah Island (40.3%), reflecting common guest stay durations or potential owner blocking patterns.
- A notable 7.8% of properties secure long booking periods (181+ days booked per year), highlighting successful long-term rental strategies or significant owner usage.
Kiawah Island Airbnb Minimum Stay Requirements Analysis
Distribution of Listings by Minimum Night Requirement
1 Night
3 listings
0.6% of total
2 Nights
43 listings
8.3% of total
3 Nights
236 listings
45.5% of total
4-6 Nights
28 listings
5.4% of total
7-29 Nights
8 listings
1.5% of total
30+ Nights
201 listings
38.7% of total
Key Insights
- The most prevalent minimum stay requirement in Kiawah Island is 3 Nights, adopted by 45.5% of listings. This highlights the market's preference for longer commitments.
- Very short stays (1-2 nights) are less common (8.9%), suggesting hosts prefer slightly longer bookings to optimize turnover.
- A significant segment (38.7%) caters to monthly stays (30+ nights) in Kiawah Island, pointing to opportunities in the extended-stay market.
Recommendations
- Align with the market by considering a 3 Nights minimum stay, as 45.5% of Kiawah Island hosts use this setting.
- If feasible, allowing 1-night stays, especially midweek or during low season, could capture last-minute bookings, as only 0.6% currently do.
- Explore offering discounts for stays of 30+ nights to attract the 38.7% of the market seeking extended stays.
- Adjust minimum nights based on seasonality – potentially shorter during low season and longer during peak demand periods in Kiawah Island.
Kiawah Island Airbnb Cancellation Policy Trends Analysis (2025)
Super Strict 30 Days
30 listings
7.1% of total
Super Strict 60 Days
189 listings
44.6% of total
Flexible
1 listings
0.2% of total
Moderate
37 listings
8.7% of total
Firm
108 listings
25.5% of total
Strict
59 listings
13.9% of total
Cancellation Policy Insights for Kiawah Island
- The prevailing Airbnb cancellation policy trend in Kiawah Island is Super Strict 60 Days, used by 44.6% of listings.
- There's a relatively balanced mix between guest-friendly (8.9%) and stricter (39.4%) policies, offering choices for different guest needs.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Consider adopting a Super Strict 60 Days policy to align with the 44.6% market standard in Kiawah Island.
- Using a Strict policy might deter some guests, as only 13.9% of listings use it. Evaluate if potential revenue protection outweighs possible lower booking rates.
- Regularly review your cancellation policy against competitors and market demand shifts in Kiawah Island.
Kiawah Island STR Booking Lead Time Analysis (2025)
Average Booking Lead Time by Month
Booking Lead Time Insights for Kiawah Island
- The overall average booking lead time for vacation rentals in Kiawah Island is 79 days.
- Guests book furthest in advance for stays during June (average 123 days), likely coinciding with peak travel demand or local events.
- The shortest booking windows occur for stays in February (average 58 days), indicating more last-minute travel plans during this time.
- Seasonally, Fall (97 days avg.) sees the longest lead times, while Winter (74 days avg.) has the shortest, reflecting typical travel planning cycles.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Use the overall average lead time (79 days) as a baseline for your pricing and availability strategy in Kiawah Island.
- For June stays, consider implementing length-of-stay discounts or slightly higher rates for bookings made less than 123 days out to capitalize on advance planning.
- Target marketing efforts for the Fall season well in advance (at least 97 days) to capture early planners.
- Monitor your own booking lead times against these Kiawah Island averages to identify opportunities for dynamic pricing adjustments.
Popular & Essential Airbnb Amenities in Kiawah Island (2025)
Amenity Prevalence
Amenity Insights for Kiawah Island
- Essential amenities in Kiawah Island that guests expect include: Wifi, TV, Kitchen, Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, Free parking on premises, Coffee maker, Refrigerator, Microwave, Washer. Lacking these (any) could significantly impact bookings.
Recommendations for Hosts
- Ensure your listing includes all essential amenities for Kiawah Island: Wifi, TV, Kitchen, Air conditioning, Smoke alarm, Free parking on premises, Coffee maker, Refrigerator, Microwave, Washer.
- Prioritize adding missing essentials: Smoke alarm, Free parking on premises, Coffee maker, Refrigerator, Microwave, Washer.
- 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 Kiawah Island to stay competitive.
Kiawah Island Airbnb Guest Demographics & Profile Analysis (2025)
Guest Profile Summary for Kiawah Island
- The typical guest profile for Airbnb in Kiawah 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 96.9% of guests.
- Key international markets include United States (96.9%) and DC (1.8%).
- Top languages spoken are English (84.7%) followed by Spanish (6.9%).
- 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 Charlotte and Greenville.
- 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 Kiawah 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.
| Market | Active Properties | Monthly Revenue | Daily Rate | Avg. Occupancy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sullivan's Island | 24 | $6,554 | $873.28 | 40% |
| Folly Beach | 900 | $6,334 | $511.58 | 47% |
| Isle of Palms | 904 | $6,086 | $659.89 | 41% |
| Charleston | 1,883 | $5,063 | $372.44 | 53% |
| Talahi Island | 47 | $4,998 | $333.88 | 49% |
| Okatie | 10 | $4,725 | $597.27 | 39% |
| Mount Pleasant | 454 | $4,136 | $289.96 | 54% |
| Whitemarsh Island | 87 | $3,727 | $273.76 | 48% |
| Tybee Island | 1,349 | $3,721 | $392.96 | 40% |
| Edisto Island | 26 | $3,437 | $322.98 | 44% |