Malibu, CA Short-Term Rental ROI Calculator
Analyze your Airbnb investment with live Malibu market data. Pre-populated with real ADR, occupancy, and revenue benchmarks.
Investor Quick Take
Strengths
- Premium ADR — $452/night average
- High revenue potential — $94K+ avg/yr
- STR-friendly regulations — low compliance burden
Risks
- High seasonality — significant off-season revenue drop
- High acquisition cost — median home $2.5M
Moderate Market
Based on ADR, occupancy, and supply metrics
Malibu properties generate above-average revenue with $94K in annual income potential.
We've pre-populated this calculator with Malibu's market averages. Adjust the values to match your specific property.
Malibu Short-Term Rental Market Overview
Malibu is one of the nation's premier beach destinations, attracting millions of visitors annually seeking sun, surf, and waterfront accommodations. Demand peaks sharply in summer but the mild climate extends the shoulder season well into spring and fall, giving STR operators a longer revenue window than inland markets.
The average STR in Malibu generates approximately $94,000 in annual revenue, with an average daily rate of $452 and a 57% occupancy rate across the year. These metrics position Malibu among the higher-performing US STR markets — particularly attractive to investors seeking consistent year-round cash flow.
Active listings in Malibu grew by 4% year-over-year, currently sitting at approximately 1,100 active STR units. This moderate growth rate suggests a market finding equilibrium between supply and demand, which typically supports stable occupancy and ADR. Investors should track supply trends quarterly using tools like AirDNA or Rabbu before committing capital.
Key considerations for Malibu investors: regulatory risk is rated low — Malibu currently has minimal STR regulation, making it an investor-friendly market from a compliance perspective. Monitor local policy, as regulations can change. Property management costs, cleaning turnover for short stays, and platform fee optimization are the primary levers operators use to improve net margin in this market.
Market Metrics
Malibu Airbnb Revenue by Property Size
| Property Size | Avg ADR | Avg Occupancy | Avg Annual Revenue | Est. Cap Rate Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Studio | $226 | 57% | $47K | 0.9–1.2% |
| 1BR | $316 | 57% | $68K | 1.3–1.7% |
| 2BR | $475 | 57% | $103K | 2.0–2.7% |
| 3BR | $687 | 57% | $152K | 2.9–3.9% |
| 4BR+ | $994 | 57% | $226K | 4.3–5.8% |
Malibu STR Revenue Calendar
Seasonal Insight: Peak season runs July, June, and August. Expect up to 58% higher revenue during peak months. Plan for January and November as your slowest period — approximately 32% below the annual average.
Is Malibu a Good Market for Short-Term Rentals?
Why investors choose Malibu
- ✓High revenue ceiling: top-performing properties average $132K+ annually
- ✓Reliable occupancy: 57% market average provides predictable income baseline
- ✓Premium pricing power: Malibu's destination appeal supports $452/night average — significantly above national STR average of ~$180
- ✓Growing market: 4% annual listing growth signals strong investor and visitor confidence
Key risks to consider
- !Moderate seasonality: revenue varies materially by month — budget conservatively for shoulder and off-peak periods
Malibu STR Regulatory Overview
ModerateMalibu requires STR permits and has active enforcement given environmental sensitivity and neighbor concerns. The high-value market is well-established but compliance is essential.
Key Requirements
- ·City STR permit required
- ·Coastal Commission compliance for coastal properties
- ·Transient occupancy tax
- ·Significant fines for violations
Source: City of Malibu Planning Department · Last verified: 2026-01. Regulations change frequently — always verify current requirements with local authorities before investing.
Compare Malibu to Similar Markets
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| Metric | Malibu | Scottsdale | Sedona | Tucson |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| ADR | $452 | $267 | $398 | $142 |
| Occupancy | 57% | 58% | 71% | 52% |
| Avg Revenue | $94K | $57K | $103K | $27K |
| Median Home Value | $2.5M | $765K | $895K | $295K |
| Regulatory Risk | Low | Moderate | Low | Low |
Malibu Short-Term Rental FAQs
Is Malibu a good market for short-term rentals?+
Malibu, CA is one of the stronger US STR markets. With an average daily rate of $452 and 57% occupancy, the average listing earns approximately $94,000 per year. Market performance varies significantly by property type, location within the city, and management quality — this calculator helps you model your specific scenario.
What is the average Airbnb income in Malibu?+
The average STR listing in Malibu generates approximately $94,000 in gross annual revenue at a $452 average daily rate and 57% occupancy. Top-performing listings with premium amenities, strong reviews, and professional management can earn 30–50% above the market average. After platform fees (3–5%), cleaning costs, and other expenses, net revenue typically ranges 60–75% of gross.
What occupancy rate can I expect for an Airbnb in Malibu?+
The market-average occupancy in Malibu is approximately 57%. New listings typically underperform the market average for the first 3–6 months while accumulating reviews. Properties with professional photography, competitive pricing, and consistently high ratings can reach 69–75% occupancy. This market is moderately seasonal — plan for meaningful variation between peak and off-peak months.
What are the STR regulations in Malibu?+
Regulatory risk in Malibu is rated Low. Malibu currently has minimal STR regulation, making it investor-friendly from a compliance standpoint. Always verify current requirements — local policies can change. Regulations change frequently; always confirm current rules with local authorities.
What type of property performs best as an Airbnb in Malibu?+
In Malibu, the highest-performing STR properties are typically 3-bedroom beach houses and condos with ocean views. Guests in Malibu prioritize proximity to key attractions, unique character, and outdoor space. The premium segment by revenue-per-dollar-invested is typically the 2-bedroom category.
What is the best season for Airbnb in Malibu?+
Malibu sees peak STR demand during June through August. During peak season, top properties can command rates 58% above their annual average. The off-peak period sees materially lower rates and occupancy — conservative underwriting should assume 40–50% of peak revenue during the slowest months.
How much does it cost to buy an STR investment property in Malibu?+
The median home value in Malibu is approximately $2,450,000. With a 20% down payment, you'd invest roughly $564K in cash (including closing costs and setup). At the market-average revenue of $94,000/year, a property at median value would generate a gross revenue yield of approximately 3.8%. Use this calculator to model your specific purchase price, financing terms, and expense assumptions.
How does Malibu compare to other STR markets?+
Malibu ranks among the top-tier US STR markets by revenue potential. The $452 ADR is above the national STR average of roughly $185. For comparison, markets like Aspen and Malibu exceed $450 ADR but require significantly higher acquisition costs. Malibu offers a strong combination of revenue potential and market accessibility.
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