Carp Lake, MI Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

Carp Lake Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Carp Lake, MI stands out as a small but compelling short-term rental market with an ROI score of 81 out of 100, driven by above-average revenue-to-price ratios and favorable supply/demand dynamics. With just 18 active Airbnb listings and average home values around $397,475, investors face relatively low competition in a lakeside Michigan destination that generates roughly $28,159 in average annual revenue. The market's pronounced summer seasonality — July revenues top $6,100 — makes it particularly attractive for investors comfortable with a vacation-rental cadence.

Key Market Statistics

According to Rabbu market data, the Carp Lake short-term rental market shows:

Data sources: Rabbu proprietary analytics as of Apr, 27 2026 and Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) as of Apr, 27 2026.

Why Investors Consider Carp Lake

Carp Lake appeals to investors seeking a high revenue-to-price ratio in a low-competition lakeside market with strong seasonal demand.

Expert Market Assessment

"Carp Lake earns a "Standout Opportunity" designation, reflecting its strong revenue-to-price fundamentals and tight supply. The market's deep seasonality is unmistakable — July and August alone account for a disproportionate share of annual income, while shoulder months like April and March dip below $1,000. For investors who can weather the quieter winter and spring periods, the compressed summer earning window still produces meaningful annual returns relative to entry costs. Pairing this seasonal cash flow with modest year-round bookings from winter visitors and remote workers could further stabilize returns."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Key Airbnb Metrics & Trends in Carp Lake

Average revenue by month in Carp Lake

Carp Lake displays extreme seasonality: July peaks at $6,144 in average monthly revenue — nearly ten times the April low of $638. The June-through-September window generates the lion's share of annual income, making summer occupancy the single most critical factor for investment returns.

Active Airbnb listings by property size in Carp Lake

Supply is concentrated in one-bedroom units (9 listings) and two-bedroom properties (6 listings), with no larger configurations currently active. Investors considering three-plus-bedroom properties may find an underserved niche, particularly for family groups visiting during the summer season.

Average daily rate (ADR) by property size in Carp Lake

ADR scales modestly from $117 for one-bedroom listings to $155 for two-bedroom properties, representing a 32% premium for the added bedroom. This step-up suggests that two-bedroom units can capture meaningfully higher nightly rates without a proportional increase in acquisition or operating costs.

Average RevPAN by property size in Carp Lake

Revenue per available night is relatively close across property sizes, with two-bedroom units at $38 edging out one-bedrooms at $35. The narrow gap indicates that while two-bedroom properties command higher nightly rates, one-bedroom units partially offset the difference through slightly stronger occupancy.

Average occupancy rates by property size in Carp Lake

One-bedroom properties maintain a 30% average occupancy rate compared to 25% for two-bedroom units, suggesting smaller properties attract more frequent bookings, likely from couples or solo travelers. Both figures sit below the state average of 42%, consistent with the market's seasonal demand cycle.

Average monthly revenue by property size in Carp Lake

Two-bedroom properties lead with $2,381 in average monthly revenue versus $2,038 for one-bedroom units, a roughly 17% advantage. The higher ADR of two-bedroom listings more than compensates for their lower occupancy, making them the stronger monthly earners despite fewer bookings.

Average annual revenue by property size in Carp Lake

At $28,583 per year, two-bedroom properties deliver roughly $4,100 more in annual revenue than one-bedroom units at $24,460. Given comparable home acquisition costs, two-bedroom configurations likely offer the stronger return potential for investors targeting this market.

Most common amenities for Airbnb listings in Carp Lake

Kitchens (94%), parking (83%), and outdoor furniture (78%) dominate the amenity landscape, reflecting guest expectations for self-sufficient lakeside stays. Lake access appears in 61% of listings, and BBQ grills and patios each show up in 67%, signaling that outdoor living and waterfront proximity are key differentiators in Carp Lake.

Understanding Carp Lake's ROI Score: 81/100

Rabbu's ROI Score is a proprietary metric that evaluates short-term rental investment potential based on multiple factors.

How the ROI Score is Calculated

What This Means for Investors

Carp Lake's ROI score of 81 out of 100 places it in the "Standout Opportunity" band, reflecting above-average marks in revenue-to-price ratio, occupancy stability, and supply/demand balance. The one softer signal — below-average market growth trend — warrants attention, as rapid listing growth (163% year-over-year) could pressure individual returns if supply continues to expand faster than demand. Investors should pair these data-driven indicators with up-to-date local regulatory research and on-the-ground property analysis before committing capital.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Carp Lake

Understanding local STR regulations is essential before investing in Carp Lake. Here's the current regulatory landscape:

Permit Requirements

Short-term rental operators in Carp Lake, Michigan may need to obtain permits or register with the local township, as many Michigan communities have adopted STR ordinances in recent years. Investors should verify current requirements directly with Emmet County or Carp Lake Township before listing a property.

Key Restrictions

Common restrictions in Michigan lake communities can include occupancy limits based on bedroom count, minimum stay requirements during peak season, noise and quiet-hour ordinances, parking limitations, and septic system capacity rules. HOA covenants in some lakefront developments may impose additional limitations or outright prohibitions on short-term rentals.

Tax Obligations

Michigan imposes a 6% use tax on short-term accommodations, and Emmet County may levy additional local lodging or assessment fees. Major booking platforms typically collect and remit state-level taxes on behalf of hosts, but investors should confirm local obligations with a tax professional.

Regulations subject to change. Always verify with local authorities before purchasing. A Rabbu partner agent specializing in Carp Lake can provide current regulatory guidance.

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Carp Lake's short-term rental performance is expected to remain anchored by its strong summer peak, with July and August likely continuing to drive the bulk of annual revenue. While market growth trend scored below average, the 163% year-over-year increase in active listings suggests rising investor interest that could moderate per-listing returns if supply outpaces demand. Investors should anticipate occupancy hovering in the 25–30% range annually, with ADR holding steady around $130–$145 as the market remains a niche lakeside getaway rather than a high-volume destination."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Carp Lake, MI

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Carp Lake?

The average occupancy rate for Airbnb listings in Carp Lake is currently 28%, which falls below Michigan's 42% state average. This reflects the market's strong seasonal nature — occupancy surges during the summer lake season and drops considerably in the off-peak months. One-bedroom properties tend to run slightly higher at 30%, while two-bedroom units average around 25%.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Carp Lake?

Airbnb hosts in Carp Lake earn an average of $2,346 per month and approximately $28,159 per year based on trailing 12-month booking data. Two-bedroom properties lead with about $28,583 annually, while one-bedroom units bring in roughly $24,460. Revenue is heavily weighted toward summer, with July averaging over $6,100 in monthly income.

Is Carp Lake a good market for Airbnb investment?

Carp Lake scores 81 out of 100 on Rabbu's ROI Score, earning a "Standout Opportunity" rating. Its above-average revenue-to-price ratio and favorable supply/demand balance make it particularly appealing, though investors should factor in below-average market growth trends and pronounced seasonality. With average home values around $397,475 and limited competition from just 18 active listings, the market offers solid fundamentals for investors comfortable with a vacation-rental income pattern.

What is the average daily rate (ADR) for Airbnb in Carp Lake?

The average daily rate in Carp Lake is $137, significantly below Michigan's $350 state average. One-bedroom properties average $117 per night, while two-bedroom listings command about $155. The lower ADR reflects the market's rural lakeside character, but it also means lower barriers for guests, which can support consistent bookings during peak season.

Are short-term rentals legal in Carp Lake?

Short-term rentals are generally permitted in Carp Lake, MI, though local regulations may require permits, registration, or compliance with specific zoning and safety requirements. Michigan communities have been increasingly active in regulating STRs, so investors should check with Carp Lake Township and Emmet County for the most current rules before purchasing or listing a property.

When is peak season for Airbnb in Carp Lake?

Peak season in Carp Lake runs from June through September, with July being the highest-earning month at an average of $6,144 in revenue. August follows closely at $5,505. The off-peak trough hits in March and April, when monthly revenue drops below $1,000. This pattern aligns with Northern Michigan's summer lake and outdoor recreation season.

How many Airbnbs are there in Carp Lake?

As of April 2026, there are 18 active Airbnb listings in Carp Lake. The supply is split between one-bedroom properties (9 listings) and two-bedroom properties (6 listings), making it a very small and intimate market. Year-over-year listing growth of 163% indicates rising investor interest, though absolute numbers remain low.

How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Carp Lake?

The annual and monthly revenue figures for Carp Lake are derived from the trailing 12 months of historical booking performance for active comparable Airbnb listings in the market — not a forward-looking projection. Rabbu averages each comparable listing's actual revenue per available night (RevPAN) by month over the past year, drops regional outliers, and rolls the remainder up to a market-level historical average. This approach anchors figures to what hosts have actually earned recently while naturally reflecting seasonal peaks and slower months, since each month uses its own historical performance. Individual results can vary based on property quality, pricing strategy, and operational management.

About Rabbu Market Data

Rabbu provides Airbnb and short-term rental market data and statistics across the United States. Our mission is to empower investors with accurate insights and easy-to-use tools, so they can confidently identify and act on the best opportunities in the Airbnb market.

What this data includes

• Regularly updated active Airbnb and STR listing counts for the Carp Lake market
• Average daily rate, occupancy, and RevPAN metrics by property size
• Monthly and annual revenue trends based on trailing 12-month booking data
• Amenity prevalence data across active listings
• Home value estimates sourced from the Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI)

Sources and disclaimers

Rabbu proprietary analytics as of Apr, 27 2026 and Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) as of Apr, 27 2026. Revenue projections are estimates based on comparable properties and do not guarantee future performance. Data reflects trailing 12-month historical averages and may not capture very recent market shifts. Local regulations, permit requirements, and tax obligations can change; investors should verify current rules with local authorities before purchasing.