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Airbnb properties in Antigua can generate significant rental income, with beachfront villas and upscale condos achieving the highest occupancy rates and nightly rates.
As of September 2025, successful Airbnb properties in Antigua's prime neighborhoods like Dickenson Bay and English Harbour can achieve gross yields of 6-10% annually, though net yields after expenses typically range from 4-7%. Properties in popular tourist areas command average nightly rates between $106-$144, with top-performing listings reaching $229+ during peak season.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Guatemala, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
Beachfront properties in prime neighborhoods generate the highest Airbnb returns in Antigua, with net yields ranging from 4-7% annually.
Seasonal fluctuations significantly impact income, with high season generating up to $3,226+ monthly for top properties versus $1,127 in low season.
| Property Type | Average Nightly Rate | Typical Occupancy | Monthly Revenue (High Season) | Monthly Revenue (Low Season) | Annual Gross Yield | Annual Net Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Beachfront Villa | $229+ | 45-78% | $3,226+ | $1,217 | 8-10% | 6-7% |
| Upscale Condo | $144 | 32-46% | $1,909 | $1,127 | 6-8% | 4-6% |
| Standard Property | $106 | 29-44% | $1,132 | $800 | 5-7% | 3-5% |
| Family House (Pool) | $150-180 | 35-50% | $2,100 | $1,050 | 7-9% | 5-6% |
| City Center Apartment | $90-120 | 30-40% | $1,080 | $720 | 5-6% | 3-4% |
| Historic Property | $160-200 | 40-55% | $2,400 | $1,280 | 7-8% | 5-6% |
| Marina Community | $170-220 | 42-60% | $2,750 | $1,360 | 8-9% | 6-7% |
What types of properties perform best for Airbnb in Antigua?
Beachfront villas and upscale condos dominate the Antigua Airbnb market, attracting the highest demand from international travelers.
Properties offering ocean views, modern amenities, and proximity to tourist hotspots consistently achieve superior booking rates. Beachfront villas can command nightly rates of $229+ during peak season, while upscale condos average $144 per night.
Family-friendly accommodations with pools also perform exceptionally well, particularly in neighborhoods popular with longer-stay visitors. These properties benefit from group bookings and extended stays, which can increase overall occupancy rates by 15-20% compared to standard apartments.
Houses and villas with 3-4 bedrooms generate higher revenue per booking than smaller units, as they attract families and groups willing to pay premium rates for space and privacy. Properties with unique features like historic charm, marina access, or panoramic views command the highest nightly rates in the Antigua market.
It's something we develop in our Guatemala property pack.
Which neighborhoods in Antigua generate the highest Airbnb bookings and rates?
Dickenson Bay leads the Antigua Airbnb market, offering stunning beaches and proximity to restaurants and water sports facilities.
English Harbour commands premium rates due to its historic charm, sailing culture, and attraction of high-end tourists. Properties in this area consistently achieve occupancy rates 10-15% higher than the Antigua average of 32%.
Jolly Harbour and Jolly Beach attract visitors seeking marina communities with beach access, restaurants, bars, and comprehensive water sports facilities. The integrated resort environment allows property owners to charge premium rates year-round.
St. John's city center provides vibrant local experiences, shopping, cultural events, and nightlife, making it attractive for travelers seeking authentic Guatemalan experiences. Properties here achieve steady bookings throughout the year with less seasonal variation.
Saint Mary appeals to families and travelers seeking quieter, scenic stays away from crowded tourist areas while maintaining reasonable access to attractions.
What are the current average nightly rates for Airbnb properties in Antigua?
Average nightly rates in Antigua vary significantly by property type and location, ranging from $106 to $229+ per night as of September 2025.
Standard properties in St. John's average $106 per night, while top-tier properties in the same area command $144 nightly. High-end beachfront villas and premium properties can achieve daily rates of $229+ during peak tourist periods.
The general average across Antigua ranges from $136-$143 depending on season and specific neighborhood. Peak season rates (December through April) typically run 20-30% higher than off-season pricing.
Premium properties with ocean views, pools, and modern amenities consistently command rates above the market average. Properties in Dickenson Bay and English Harbour can charge 15-25% more than comparable properties in less tourist-focused areas.
Seasonal pricing strategies significantly impact annual revenue, with successful hosts adjusting rates based on local events, holidays, and tourist arrival patterns throughout the year.
What occupancy rates can Airbnb property owners expect in Antigua?
Airbnb occupancy rates in Antigua average 32% annually for median-performing properties in St. John's, with top properties achieving up to 78% during peak months.
| Property Performance Level | Annual Occupancy Rate | Peak Season Occupancy | Low Season Occupancy | Revenue Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Top Performers | 55-70% | 78% | 35-40% | $25,000-40,000 |
| Above Average | 40-50% | 60-65% | 25-30% | $18,000-28,000 |
| Market Average | 32% | 46.6% | 20-25% | $13,500-20,000 |
| Below Average | 25-30% | 35-40% | 15-20% | $10,000-15,000 |
| Poor Performers | 15-25% | 25-30% | 5-15% | $6,000-12,000 |
Peak season occupancy (January through April) ranges from 44.7% for average properties to over 75% for premium beachfront locations. Low season occupancy drops significantly, with September showing rates as low as 29.4-31.1% for most properties.
Location plays a crucial role in occupancy rates, with beachfront properties in Dickenson Bay and English Harbour maintaining higher year-round occupancy compared to inland or city center locations. Properties with unique amenities like pools, ocean views, or historical significance consistently outperform standard accommodations.
How much monthly rental income can property owners expect during high and low seasons?
Monthly Airbnb revenue in Antigua fluctuates dramatically between high and low seasons, with top properties generating over $3,226 in January compared to $1,217 in September.
During high season (January-April), median properties earn approximately $1,909 monthly with occupancy rates reaching 44.7%. Top-performing properties can exceed $3,226 monthly during this period due to premium pricing and high demand.
Low season revenue drops substantially, with median properties earning around $1,127-$1,132 monthly in September when occupancy falls to 29.4-31.1%. Even top properties see significant decreases, earning approximately $1,217 during the slowest months.
Average monthly revenue across all seasons for median properties stands at $1,132, while top properties maintain an average of $2,059 monthly. Properties in prime beachfront locations experience less dramatic seasonal variations due to consistent appeal to international visitors.
Successful property owners implement dynamic pricing strategies, adjusting rates based on local events, holidays, and tourist patterns to maximize revenue during both peak and off-peak periods.
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What are the main operating costs for running an Airbnb in Antigua?
Operating costs for Antigua Airbnb properties typically consume 25-35% of gross rental income, significantly impacting net profitability.
- Cleaning costs: $40-$70 per turnover, averaging $200 monthly for properties with 4 turnovers
- Utilities: $120-$200 monthly depending on property size, air conditioning usage, and occupancy rates
- Maintenance and repairs: $50-$150 monthly for routine upkeep, emergency repairs, and property improvements
- Insurance: $40-$60 monthly for short-term rental specific policies with liability coverage
- Airbnb platform fees: 3% of booking subtotal deducted automatically from each reservation
- Supplies and amenities: $40-$80 monthly for toiletries, linens, welcome packages, and guest essentials
- Marketing and photography: $50-$100 monthly for professional photos, listing optimization, and promotional activities
Additional costs may include internet service ($30-50/month), security systems ($20-40/month), and local tourism taxes or permit fees. Properties in remote locations may face higher utility and maintenance costs due to limited service provider access.
Successful operators budget for unexpected expenses like appliance replacements, storm damage repairs, and seasonal maintenance requirements that can significantly impact annual profitability.
How much does professional property management cost for Airbnb properties in Antigua?
Professional property management for Antigua Airbnb properties typically costs 15-25% of monthly booking revenues for full-service management.
Full-service management includes guest communication, check-in/check-out coordination, cleaning arrangements, maintenance oversight, pricing optimization, and listing management. This comprehensive service justifies the higher percentage fee but significantly reduces owner involvement.
Booking-only management services charge 10-12% but exclude cleaning, guest services, maintenance coordination, and property oversight. This option works for hands-on owners who want to maintain direct property control while outsourcing booking management.
Local property management companies in Antigua often provide additional services like emergency response, supplier relationships, and market knowledge that can improve property performance and guest satisfaction ratings.
It's something we develop in our Guatemala property pack.
What are the estimated gross and net yields for Airbnb properties in Antigua?
Gross rental yields for prime Antigua Airbnb properties range from 6-10% annually, while net yields after all expenses typically fall between 4-7%.
Top-performing beachfront properties in Dickenson Bay and English Harbour can achieve gross yields approaching 10% due to premium pricing and high occupancy rates. These properties benefit from consistent international tourist demand and limited supply of comparable accommodations.
Average properties in secondary locations typically generate gross yields of 6-8%, depending on property condition, amenities, and management effectiveness. Net yields decrease to 4-6% after accounting for operating costs, management fees, and maintenance expenses.
The yield calculation formula considers annual rental income divided by total property acquisition cost, including purchase price, legal fees, renovation costs, and initial furnishing expenses. Properties requiring significant renovations may see yields reduced by 1-2% in the first few years.
Market conditions, regulatory changes, and tourism trends can significantly impact long-term yield sustainability, making conservative projections essential for investment planning.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Guatemala versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.
How does Airbnb income compare to long-term rental income in Antigua?
Short-term Airbnb rentals in Antigua routinely generate 2-3 times more income than long-term lease arrangements for well-managed properties in prime locations.
Long-term rentals in Antigua average $500-$1,500 monthly depending on property size, location, and condition. This represents significantly lower income potential compared to peak monthly Airbnb revenues of $1,909-$3,226 for comparable properties.
However, long-term rentals provide stable, predictable income with lower operating costs, reduced maintenance from frequent turnovers, and minimal management requirements. Vacancy periods are typically shorter, and tenant relationships can last several years.
Airbnb properties require active management, higher operating costs, seasonal income fluctuations, and greater market risk from tourism downturns or regulatory changes. The higher income potential comes with increased responsibility and operational complexity.
Many successful investors use hybrid strategies, operating properties as short-term rentals during peak tourist seasons and converting to long-term leases during slower periods to maximize annual income and minimize vacancy risks.
What are the current laws, taxes, and permit requirements for Airbnb operations in Antigua?
Antigua maintains relatively lenient short-term rental regulations compared to other tourist destinations, but hosts must register with local authorities and comply with specific licensing requirements.
| Requirement Type | Description | Cost | Renewal Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| Business License | Municipal registration for short-term rental operation | $100-200 | Annual |
| Tourism Tax | Per-guest tax collected and remitted to local government | $2-5 per night | Monthly reporting |
| Safety Inspection | Fire safety and building code compliance verification | $150-300 | Every 2 years |
| Insurance Requirement | Liability coverage for short-term rental activities | $500-1200/year | Annual |
| Zoning Compliance | Verification that property zoning allows short-term rentals | $50-100 | One-time |
Income from Airbnb operations is subject to standard Guatemalan income tax rates, which range from 5-7% for rental income depending on total annual earnings. Property owners must maintain detailed records of income and expenses for tax reporting purposes.
Certain residential developments or historic districts may have additional restrictions on short-term rental operations. Always verify local zoning laws and homeowners association rules before beginning Airbnb operations.
What restrictions and risks should potential Airbnb investors consider in Antigua?
Regulatory changes represent the primary long-term risk for Airbnb investors in Antigua, as local governments may implement stricter licensing requirements or operational restrictions.
Tourism downturns significantly impact Airbnb profitability, with events like economic recessions, natural disasters, or global pandemics potentially reducing visitor arrivals by 30-50% for extended periods. The seasonal nature of Antigua tourism creates inherent income volatility.
Increasing competition from new Airbnb listings and traditional hotels can reduce occupancy rates and force price reductions. The market has grown substantially, with supply potentially outpacing demand growth in certain neighborhoods.
Infrastructure limitations including unreliable internet, power outages, and water supply issues can negatively impact guest experiences and property ratings. Maintenance costs may be higher due to climate conditions and limited local service providers.
Currency fluctuation risks affect international property owners, as rental income is earned in Guatemalan quetzals while many expenses and property values may be dollar-denominated.
It's something we develop in our Guatemala property pack.
How quickly can investors expect to recover their initial investment in Antigua Airbnb properties?
Well-located Airbnb properties in Antigua can realistically recover initial investment in 7-10 years based on current market yields and operational performance.
Top-performing beachfront properties in Dickenson Bay or English Harbour with net yields of 6-7% may achieve faster recovery periods of 7-8 years if consistently well-managed, properly marketed, and maintaining high occupancy rates.
Average properties generating net yields of 4-5% typically require 10-12 years for full investment recovery, assuming stable market conditions and effective property management throughout the period.
Recovery timelines depend heavily on initial purchase price, renovation costs, financing terms, property management effectiveness, market conditions, and regulatory stability. Properties requiring substantial improvements may extend recovery periods by 2-3 years.
Conservative investors should plan for longer recovery periods and consider factors like maintenance capital expenditures, potential vacancy periods, and market downturns that can impact actual returns compared to initial projections.
Conclusion
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
Airbnb properties in Antigua can generate attractive returns for investors willing to actively manage their investments and navigate seasonal income fluctuations.
Success depends heavily on location selection, property quality, professional management, and understanding local regulations and market dynamics.
Sources
- Airbnb Antigua Beachfront Properties
- Airbnb Antigua Houses
- Boundless Roads Antigua Airbnb Guide
- The Broke Backpacker Antigua Accommodation Guide
- AirROI Antigua Market Report
- 10xBNB Airbnb Operating Expenses
- TallyBreeze Airbnb Costs Analysis
- Reddit Airbnb Property Management Costs
- QuickStay Airbnb Management Cost Guide
- The Latinvestor Antigua Property Analysis