What is a Good Airbnb Occupancy Level?

Jun 13, 2025

What’s a good Airbnb occupancy? Around 60–70%—if you're hitting that, you're doing great! Whether you're renting a city flat or a glamping pod or tent with fairy lights and compost toilets, occupancy is king. Want to know why yours isn't higher (or how to push it there)? Keep reading—we’ve got tricks.

Beyond the "Average": What a Good Occupancy Rate Really Means

As an Airbnb host, getting the most out of your rental income matters. Your occupancy rate plays a big role—it’s one of the best indicators of how well your listing is performing.

To optimise occupancy, it helps to understand what affects it. With that knowledge, you can make smarter choices. These lead to more bookings and, of course, better earnings.

Cluster of A-frame glamping pods with dark shingle roofs in a green forest campsite setting, outdoor seating in front of each unit.

The Industry Benchmark: What the Data Says for 2025

The Average US Occupancy Rate (and Why It's Just a Starting Point)

In the UK, typical Airbnb occupancy sits between 40% and 65%. This varies depending on location, season, and listing type. It mirrors trends in the US but isn’t the whole story.

Average numbers can be helpful, but they’re only a base. The real performance of your listing depends on context—especially what you're offering and where.

How Occupancy Varies by Location, City, and Property Type

Big cities like London and Manchester usually see stronger performance thanks to year-round demand from tourists and business travellers. Meanwhile, glamping pods or tents in areas like Cornwall or the Lake District tend to peak during summer.

Here’s a quick guide:

London: 60–70%
Manchester / Birmingham: 50–65%
Rural and coastal areas: 30–50%, depending on season and local events

So whether you’re renting a stylish urban studio or a yurt with fairy lights, location and timing will shape your results.

How to Calculate Your Own Occupancy Rate

To work out your occupancy rate:
(Nights booked ÷ Nights available) x 100

For example, if your property was available for 30 nights and booked for 18, that’s a 60% occupancy rate. Track this regularly to identify dips, trends, or room for growth.

Why 100% Occupancy Can Be a Bad Sign

The Critical Relationship Between Occupancy and Your Average Daily Rate (ADR)

It’s tempting to think a full calendar equals success. But if you’re fully booked at rock-bottom prices, you may be leaving profit on the table.

Low rates boost bookings, yes—but they lower your Average Daily Rate. And that can seriously reduce overall earnings, especially once cleaning or maintenance costs are factored in.

Finding Your "Sweet Spot" to Maximise Total Revenue (RevPAR)

The goal isn’t simply to fill every date. It’s to find your revenue “sweet spot”—a balance where you earn more per night and stay competitively booked.

That’s where RevPAR (Revenue per Available Rental) comes in. Monitor this metric regularly and adjust pricing to strike the best balance between occupancy and profit.

Key Factors That Define a "Good" Rate for Your Listing

The Impact of Seasonality and Local Events

Seasonal demand plays a huge part in your occupancy rate. Peak times like summer holidays or major festivals often bring full calendars. Quiet months require a bit more hustle.

If you're near a seasonal attraction or event, you’ve got an edge—make sure your pricing and availability reflect that.

Comparing Your Property Type to Local Competitors

Your glamping pod won’t compete the same way as a city flat. That’s why it’s essential to compare like-for-like in your area.

If you’re offering unique features—like a private firepit, hot tub, or a secluded woodland setting—highlight them in your listing. These make a massive difference in competitive areas.

The Power of 5-Star Reviews and Superhost Status

Nothing sells like social proof. A string of five-star reviews and Superhost status can significantly increase your bookings.

Respond quickly to enquiries, keep your space spotless, and go the extra mile with thoughtful touches. A welcome basket or hand-written note can turn a good review into a glowing one.

Wooden oval camping pod with green shingle roof and full-length glass door, placed on a deck beside a residential building.

How to Achieve an Optimal Occupancy Rate for Your Property

Core Strategies to Improve Your Occupancy and Revenue

Implementing a Dynamic Pricing Strategy

Dynamic pricing helps you stay competitive throughout the year. During peak season, you can raise your rates by 20–30%. In off-peak months, consider reducing prices by 10–20% to keep bookings flowing.

Many hosts use tools like Airbnb’s Smart Pricing or third-party platforms to automate rate adjustments.

Optimising Your Listing with Professional Photos and SEO-Friendly Titles

First impressions matter more than you think. High-quality images can make your property shine. Good lighting, clean spaces, and warm tones go a long way.

Show off your amenities, garden, or local views. Pair these with a strong, keyword-friendly title that highlights what makes your place stand out.

Offering Flexible Booking Policies (e.g., Minimum Night Stays)

Rigid booking rules can turn away potential guests. Shortening your minimum night stay—especially during low-demand periods—can increase your occupancy.

Also, consider enabling Instant Book and being flexible with check-in/check-out times when you can. These small tweaks can add up to more bookings over time.

Light-coloured wooden glamping pod with dark shingle roof, double glass doors, and a bicycle leaning on the side.

Using Data to Outperform Your Local Market

The Importance of Competitive Analysis Tools (like AirDNA)

Tools like AirDNA offer valuable insights into your market. They help you compare your performance, monitor trends, and adjust your pricing and strategy accordingly.

Use them to understand where you stand—and where you can improve.

Identifying and Filling Gaps in Your Booking Calendar

Vacant days between bookings? That’s lost income. Try offering a discount on short gaps, or adjusting your settings to accept last-minute or one-night stays.

Even booking just one or two extra nights a month can make a big difference to your bottom line.

Targeting Your Ideal Guest Through Amenities and Marketing

Who are you marketing to? A glamping pod might appeal to couples looking for a romantic weekend, or solo travellers craving peace.

Tailor your photos, amenities, and descriptions to that specific guest. For example, offering a wood burner, board games, or fairy lights can instantly appeal to nature-lovers.

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