Maunaloa, HI Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

Maunaloa Short-Term Rental Market Overview

Maunaloa sits on Molokai's west end, offering investors access to Hawaii's short-term rental market at a price point well below the state's luxury hotspots. With 52 active Airbnb listings generating an average annual revenue of $24,119 and a 60% occupancy rate, the market delivers modest but consistent cash flow driven by island tourism and a limited supply of visitor accommodations. A 44% year-over-year increase in active listings signals growing investor interest, though the below-average revenue-to-price ratio means careful deal sourcing is essential to hit return targets.

Key Market Statistics

According to Rabbu market data, the Maunaloa 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 Maunaloa

Maunaloa appeals to investors seeking Hawaii exposure in a smaller, less saturated market where limited accommodation options can support steady visitor demand year-round.

Expert Market Assessment

"Maunaloa presents a competitive but measured opportunity for STR investors. The ROI score of 53 reflects a market where demand exists but higher property costs relative to revenue require investors to be selective about acquisitions and pricing strategy. Seasonality is a defining feature — revenue peaks in the winter months (January at $2,468) and dips to a low of $1,492 in September, creating a roughly $1,000 monthly spread that must be factored into cash-flow planning. Investors who secure well-located properties with strong amenity packages should find this a viable niche within Hawaii's broader vacation rental landscape."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Key Airbnb Metrics & Trends in Maunaloa

Average revenue by month in Maunaloa

Revenue in Maunaloa peaks during winter, with January leading at $2,468 and March close behind at $2,454, while September marks the seasonal low at $1,492. The roughly $1,000 spread between peak and off-peak months signals meaningful seasonality that investors should build into their cash-flow models.

Active Airbnb listings by property size in Maunaloa

One-bedroom units dominate Maunaloa's supply with 31 of the 52 active listings (60%), followed by 12 two-bedrooms and just 8 studios. The absence of any 3+ bedroom listings could represent an untapped niche for investors willing to offer larger accommodations to families or groups.

Average daily rate (ADR) by property size in Maunaloa

ADR scales predictably with size in Maunaloa — studios command $115 per night, 1-bedrooms $161, and 2-bedrooms $191. The jump from studio to 1-bedroom ($46/night) is proportionally larger than from 1-bedroom to 2-bedroom ($30/night), suggesting 1-bedrooms may offer the strongest rate-per-dollar efficiency for investors.

Average RevPAN by property size in Maunaloa

Two-bedroom properties deliver the highest RevPAN at $110, followed by 1-bedrooms at $98 and studios at $66. The $44 gap between studios and 2-bedrooms highlights how larger units convert their rate premium into meaningfully more revenue per available night even at similar occupancy levels.

Average occupancy rates by property size in Maunaloa

Occupancy rates are remarkably flat across property sizes in Maunaloa, ranging from 58% for studios and 2-bedrooms to 61% for 1-bedrooms. This consistency suggests demand isn't disproportionately concentrated in any one size category, giving investors flexibility in property selection without worrying about occupancy cliffs.

Average monthly revenue by property size in Maunaloa

Two-bedroom units are the clear top earners at $2,582 per month, nearly doubling the $1,385 average for studios. One-bedrooms land in the middle at $1,773, making them a solid mid-range option for investors who want respectable revenue without the higher acquisition cost of a larger property.

Average annual revenue by property size in Maunaloa

Annual revenue ranges from $16,630 for studios to $30,993 for 2-bedroom properties, with 1-bedrooms generating $21,275. For investors evaluating return potential, the 2-bedroom configuration offers the highest gross revenue and likely the best basis for penciling out acquisition costs against the $757,243 average home value.

Most common amenities for Airbnb listings in Maunaloa

Kitchen access (100%), parking (98%), and pool access (98%) are near-universal in Maunaloa, establishing a high baseline for guest expectations. Beach access at 56% and waterfront location at 58% represent potential differentiators — listings that offer these features likely command a pricing premium in a market where outdoor island experiences drive booking decisions.

Understanding Maunaloa's ROI Score: 53/100

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

Maunaloa's ROI Score of 53 out of 100 places it in the 'Competitive Opportunity' band, reflecting a market where demand exists but returns require disciplined deal sourcing. The below-average revenue-to-price ratio is the primary drag, as average home values of $757,243 are high relative to the $24,119 in average annual revenue, while occupancy stability, market growth, and supply/demand balance all score in the average range. Pairing this data with thorough local regulatory research — especially around Maui County's STR permit landscape — will help investors determine whether a specific property can overcome the market-level headwinds.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Maunaloa

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

Permit Requirements

Short-term rental operators in Maunaloa, Hawaii are generally required to obtain permits or registration through Maui County, which governs Molokai. Investors should verify current permit availability and application requirements directly with Maui County's planning department, as permit caps and eligibility rules may apply.

Key Restrictions

Common restrictions in Hawaii's STR markets include occupancy limits, minimum stay requirements, noise and parking regulations, and prohibitions on rentals in certain residential zones. HOA rules can further limit or prohibit short-term rentals in specific developments, so reviewing governing documents before purchasing is critical.

Tax Obligations

Hawaii imposes both a transient accommodations tax (TAT) and a general excise tax (GET) on short-term rental income, and Maui County may levy an additional surcharge. Major booking platforms typically collect and remit these taxes on behalf of hosts, but operators should confirm compliance with the Hawaii Department of Taxation.

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

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, Maunaloa's STR market is likely to see continued listing growth as investors seek affordable Hawaii entry points, which could put mild downward pressure on occupancy if demand doesn't keep pace. Seasonal patterns suggest revenue will remain strongest from January through March, with softer months like September potentially dipping below $1,500 in average monthly revenue. ADR may edge up modestly — in the range of 1–3% — as hosts invest in amenity upgrades to differentiate in an increasingly competitive field. Investors should plan around the pronounced seasonal swing and budget conservatively for the quieter summer-to-fall stretch."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in Maunaloa, HI

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in Maunaloa?

The average Airbnb occupancy rate in Maunaloa is currently 60%, which falls slightly below the Hawaii state average of 67%. Occupancy varies modestly by property size, with 1-bedroom units achieving the highest rate at 61%, while studios and 2-bedrooms each average around 58%. These figures reflect consistent year-round demand from visitors drawn to Molokai's quieter, more authentic Hawaiian experience.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in Maunaloa?

Airbnb hosts in Maunaloa earn an average of $2,009 per month, or roughly $24,119 per year based on trailing 12-month performance. Earnings vary significantly by property size: studios average $16,630 annually, 1-bedrooms bring in about $21,275, and 2-bedroom properties lead at $30,993 per year. Actual results depend on factors like property quality, pricing strategy, guest reviews, and seasonal demand fluctuations.

Is Maunaloa a good market for Airbnb investment?

Maunaloa earns a Rabbu ROI Score of 53 out of 100, placing it in the 'Competitive Opportunity' category. The market benefits from limited supply on Molokai's west end and steady visitor interest, but the below-average revenue-to-price ratio means investors need to be strategic about acquisition costs. Those who can source properties below the $757,243 average home value and differentiate with strong amenities stand the best chance of achieving solid returns.

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

The average daily rate for Airbnb listings in Maunaloa is $163, which is considerably lower than the Hawaii state average of $709. ADR scales with property size: studios average $115 per night, 1-bedrooms come in at $161, and 2-bedroom properties command $191. The lower ADR relative to the state reflects Maunaloa's positioning as a more budget-friendly Hawaiian destination compared to resort-heavy areas on Maui or Oahu.

Are short-term rentals legal in Maunaloa?

Short-term rentals are subject to regulation in Maunaloa as part of Maui County, which oversees permitting on Molokai. Operators typically need to secure the appropriate permits and comply with local zoning rules. Regulations can change, so prospective investors should consult Maui County's planning department and review any applicable HOA restrictions before committing to a purchase.

When is peak season for Airbnb in Maunaloa?

Peak season in Maunaloa runs from roughly January through March, with January being the highest-earning month at $2,468 in average revenue. March follows closely at $2,454, and July sees a secondary bump at $2,113 driven by summer travel. The slowest period is September, when average revenue drops to $1,492 — about 40% below the January peak. Investors should plan for this seasonal swing in their financial projections.

How many Airbnbs are there in Maunaloa?

As of April 2026, there are 52 active Airbnb listings in Maunaloa. The supply is concentrated in smaller properties: 31 listings are 1-bedroom units, 12 are 2-bedrooms, and 8 are studios. Notably, the market has seen 44% year-over-year growth in active listings, indicating rising investor interest in this area of Molokai.

How is Airbnb revenue calculated in Maunaloa?

The annual and monthly revenue figures for Maunaloa are derived from the trailing 12 months of historical booking performance for active comparable Airbnb listings in the market — they are not forward-looking projections. We average each comparable listing's actual revenue per available night (RevPAN) by month over the past year, remove regional outliers, and aggregate the results to a market-level historical average. This approach anchors the figures to what hosts have actually earned recently while naturally reflecting seasonal peaks and slower months, since each month uses its own historical performance data. 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 Maunaloa market
• Average daily rate, occupancy, and RevPAN metrics tracked over time
• Monthly and annual revenue estimates based on trailing 12-month booking performance
• Supply distribution and performance breakdowns by property size
• Data sourced from Rabbu proprietary analytics and Zillow Home Value Index for consistency

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. Local regulations, permit availability, and tax obligations may change; investors should verify current rules with Maui County authorities before purchasing. Individual property results will vary based on location, condition, pricing strategy, and management quality.