Is the Short-Term Rental Market Recovering? September Data Explained

After several challenging years for short-term rental operators, are things finally starting to turn around? In this episode of The STR Data Lab, AirDNA’s Chief Economist Jamie Lane and Bram Gallagher break down September’s STR performance data and explore what slowing supply growth, improving occupancy, and stronger nightly rates mean for hosts, property managers, and investors heading into the holiday season and 2027. The conversation explores the economic forces shaping the STR industry, from elevated mortgage rates and cautious consumers to a housing market that’s limiting new competition. With supply growth slowing dramatically and pricing power improving in many markets, existing operators may finally be getting some breathing room. But the outlook isn’t the same everywhere. The hosts examine why Western ski markets are facing a different booking trajectory, how lead times affect demand forecasts, and why New Year’s could present a particularly strong opportunity for operators. Will supply growth turn negative? Which markets are showing signs of recovery? And what should hosts be watching as they prepare for the months ahead? Jamie and Bram unpack the latest data, discuss the risks and opportunities, and share their outlook for the remainder of the year and beyond. You don’t want to miss this episode! Key Takeaways Why slowing STR supply growth could improve occupancy and give operators more pricing power. How rising mortgage rates and economic uncertainty are affecting new listings and investment decisions. Why forward booking trends are improving nationally while Western ski markets face a different outlook. How calendar effects could make New Year’s a major opportunity for higher occupancy and nightly rates. Why STR supply growth could remain extremely low—or even turn negative—heading into 2027. Sign up for AirDNA for FREE 👇 https://bit.ly/4j6s6qy  ————— Connect with Jamie on social media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamiehlane/   Twitter: https://twitter.com/Jamie_Lane ————— Connect with Bram on social media LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bram-gallagher/ ————— Connect with AirDNA on social media: Instagram: https://instagram.com/airdna.co LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/airdna/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/airdna TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@airdna.co ————— Episode 201