Tourism Trends & Market Insights

The short-term rental (STR) market in the Phoenix metro area is heavily influenced by traveler preferences, booking behaviors, and seasonal demand shifts. Understanding these trends can help STR owners optimize their pricing, marketing, and property offerings to maximize occupancy and revenue.

Key Tourism Trends Impacting Short-Term Rentals in Phoenix Metro

The short-term rental (STR) market in the Phoenix metro area is heavily influenced by traveler preferences, booking behaviors, and seasonal demand shifts. Understanding these trends can help STR owners optimize their pricing, marketing, and property offerings to maximize occupancy and revenue.

1. Traveler Preferences

   a. Experience-Driven Stays

   • Guests are increasingly looking for unique, local, and experience-rich accommodations.
   • Properties that offer Instagram-worthy aesthetics, themed décor, or curated local experiences perform better.

   b. Remote Work & Digital Nomads

   • Many travelers are booking STRs for “workcations”, prioritizing fast Wi-Fi, comfortable workspaces, and extended stays.
   • Demand for monthly or long-term rentals is rising, especially in quieter suburban areas like Chandler and Mesa.

   c. Pet-Friendly Accommodations

   • More travelers are seeking pet-friendly STRs, making it a key differentiator for properties.
   • Homes with secure yards, pet amenities, and proximity to parks attract higher bookings.

2. Booking Behaviors

   a. Last-Minute Bookings Are Increasing

   • Travelers are booking closer to arrival dates, making dynamic pricing strategies essential.
   • Properties with flexible cancellation policies tend to get more last-minute reservations.

   b. Direct Bookings on the Rise

   • More guests are bypassing major platforms like Airbnb and VRBO to book directly with hosts.
   • Having a personal booking website and strong social media presence can drive direct reservations and reduce platform fees.

   c. Extended Stay Bookings Growing

   • Travelers looking for longer stays (7+ days) have increased, especially during winter months when snowbirds flock to Phoenix.
   • Offering weekly or monthly discount rates helps attract these guests.

3. Seasonal Insights & Event-Based Demand

   Phoenix experiences strong seasonal demand fluctuations, making timing and pricing key for STR owners.

   a. Peak Season (October – April)

   • Highest occupancy & ADR (Average Daily Rate) during cooler months.
   • Major events drive demand:
     • Spring Training (Feb–Mar) – Big influx of baseball fans.
     • Waste Management Phoenix Open (Feb) – High-end luxury rentals in demand.
     • Barrett-Jackson Car Auction (Jan) – Attracts high-spending travelers.
     • Tourism Boom (Oct–Apr) – Snowbirds escaping winter book extended stays.

   b. Shoulder Season (May & September)

   • Gradual slowdown as temperatures rise, but still steady bookings.
   • Discounted pricing strategies and value-added perks (like pool heating) help maintain occupancy.

   c. Low Season (June – August)

   • Hottest months = lower demand, but local travelers and digital nomads still book.
   • Adjust pricing & market to staycationers seeking resort-style experiences.

4. Key Takeaways for STR Owners

   • Optimize pricing strategies to capture peak season demand while maintaining competitiveness in slower months.
   • Invest in guest-friendly upgrades like fast Wi-Fi, workspaces, pet-friendly features, and unique aesthetics.
   • Capitalize on major events by adjusting rates and marketing to target audiences.
   • Build direct booking channels to reduce dependency on third-party platforms.
   • By aligning with these trends, STR owners in Phoenix can increase occupancy, attract the right guests, and boost profitability year-round.