Port Douglas Airbnb growth rate is real

The number of Port Douglas Airbnbs has grown by 7 per cent in the past year, with close to 50 more coming online since the end of June last year.

The total number of Airbnbs in the popular tourist destination now totals close to 700, up from nearly 650 last year, according to the latest figures out this month from market analyst GuestFavorites. The top-performing properties fetch about $830 per day, while the entry-level ones go for about $160 a day, according to the analysis. 

Airbnbs in Port Douglas earn on average about $104,000 per year, with a typical occupancy rate of 58 per cent and daily rates averaging $490. 

Premium accommodation is booked out 88 per cent of the time, with the peak months being June and August.

The top 10 per cent of properties earn about $145,000 per year, while the top 25 per cent earn close to $88,000. 

The typical properties earn about $47,000, and the bottom 25 per cent make about $21,000.

Industry body the Australia and New Zealand Short Term Rental Association (ASTRA) said there were now about 180,000 properties across Australia catering for short-term accommodation.

“The short-term rental industry has been delivering memorable guest experiences for more than 140 years, delivering real benefits to the economy, local communities, and tourism,” ASTRA states. 

Port Douglas has a range of companies that cater for the rapidly expanding market, including Port Douglas Realty, Port Douglas Accommodation, Ulysses Getaways and The Boutique Collection.