Introduction
In the world of short-term rental investments, every data point counts. Among these, one of the most powerful metrics is average booking lead time—the number of days guests book in advance.
This March 2025 update dives deep into booking trends across top Airbnb markets, revealing which destinations see early reservations and which attract last-minute guests.
For Airbnb investors, understanding these patterns is crucial to tailoring pricing strategies, managing property availability, and maximizing returns. Here, we explore the markets with the shortest and longest booking lead times, backed by data and actionable insights.
What is the Average Booking Lead Time, and Why Does it Matter?
Average booking lead time tells investors how far in advance guests book their stays. It’s more than just a statistic; it’s a tool that enables you to anticipate demand and fine-tune your strategy to boost occupancy. For example, if you know that guests in your market book months in advance, you can set premium rates early on. Conversely, if you operate in a last-minute market, offering flexible pricing close to the booking date can capture spontaneous bookings.
March 2025 Analysis of Booking Lead Times
This October, we analyzed booking data across popular Airbnb markets with over 150 listings. Below, you’ll find the top 10 markets with the shortest and longest booking lead times, complete with insights on how to leverage these trends for better returns.
Top 10 Markets with the Shortest Booking Lead Times
The following markets show the shortest average lead times, with guests typically booking less than 40 days in advance. These insights are especially valuable for investors looking to capitalize on last-minute booking trends.
| City | Average Booking Lead Time (Days) | Total Listings |
|---|---|---|
| Brownsville | 30 | 228 |
| Lawrenceville | 33 | 207 |
| Big Bear | 36 | 1116 |
| Hallandale Beach | 37 | 658 |
| Houston | 37 | 4526 |
| Little Rock | 38 | 301 |
| Oklahoma City | 38 | 956 |
| Overland Park | 38 | 162 |
| Canyon Lake | 39 | 764 |
| Corpus Christi | 39 | 1357 |
Investor Insights:
- Urban Flexibility: Markets like Houston and Oklahoma City feature short lead times, indicating that guests book closer to the travel date. Investors here can adjust prices within weeks of peak periods to capture last-minute demand.
- Seasonal Variability: For destinations like Big Bear and Canyon Lake, lead times may be shorter during off-seasons but can extend during holiday periods. Investors can maximize revenue by adjusting prices dynamically based on seasonality and occupancy goals.
