Airbnb occupancy rates vary significantly by city, suburb, property type and season. Understanding what occupancy rate you can realistically expect is the most important variable in any short-stay investment decision.
Average Airbnb Occupancy Rates by City 2026
| City | Avg Occupancy | Peak Occupancy | Low Occupancy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sydney (Inner) | 74% | 91% | 58% |
| Melbourne (Inner) | 70% | 88% | 54% |
| Brisbane (Inner) | 68% | 84% | 52% |
| Gold Coast | 72% | 92% | 55% |
| Sunshine Coast | 69% | 88% | 51% |
Factors That Affect Airbnb Occupancy
Distance to CBD, local events calendar, number of competing listings, property amenity (pool, parking, views), review score and listing photography all materially affect occupancy. A 5-star listing in a high-demand suburb can achieve 15-20% higher occupancy than the suburb average.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a good Airbnb occupancy rate in Australia?
An occupancy rate of 65-75% is considered good for Australian short-stay properties. Above 80% indicates a premium listing in a high-demand location. Below 55% typically means the property is struggling to compete or is in a lower-demand location.
How do I increase my Airbnb occupancy rate?
Professional photography, competitive pricing, fast response times, Superhost status, and accurate listing descriptions are the five highest-impact factors for increasing Airbnb occupancy in Australian markets.
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