National City, CA Airbnb Market Data, Statistics, and Occupancy Rates

National City Short-Term Rental Market Overview

National City, CA sits in the heart of the San Diego metro—a region fueled by military presence, cross-border commerce, and year-round Southern California tourism. With 70 active Airbnb listings generating an average annual revenue of $32,576 and an ADR of $192 (well below the $551 state average), the market offers a more affordable entry point into coastal California short-term rentals. However, a 37% occupancy rate trailing the 43% state average and a below-average revenue-to-price ratio mean investors will need to be strategic about property selection and pricing to unlock meaningful returns.

Key Market Statistics

According to Rabbu market data, the National City short-term rental market shows:

Data sources: Rabbu proprietary analytics as of Apr, 27 2026 and Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) as of Mar, 17 2026.

Why Investors Consider National City

National City appeals to investors seeking an affordable foothold in the San Diego metro with moderate year-round demand from military, business, and leisure travelers.

Expert Market Assessment

"National City presents a competitive but measured opportunity for STR investors. The ROI score of 54 out of 100 reflects a market where demand exists but margins can be tight—especially given a below-average revenue-to-price ratio against average home values of $769,218. Seasonality is a key consideration: July revenue peaks at $4,507 per month, more than double the January low of $1,848, so cash-flow planning must account for meaningful winter dips. Investors who target 3-bedroom properties and optimize for peak-season pricing stand the best chance of outperforming market averages."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Key Airbnb Metrics & Trends in National City

Average revenue by month in National City

Revenue in National City peaks sharply in July at $4,507—nearly 2.4 times the January low of $1,848—revealing pronounced summer seasonality driven by San Diego-area tourism. The June–August corridor accounts for the strongest earning months, while November through February represents the softest stretch, with revenue hovering between $2,100 and $2,200.

Active Airbnb listings by property size in National City

Two-bedroom properties dominate supply with 24 of 70 listings (34%), followed by 1-bedrooms at 19. Studios (7) and 3-bedrooms (13) represent smaller shares, with the limited 3-bedroom supply potentially offering less competition for investors targeting that higher-earning segment.

Average daily rate (ADR) by property size in National City

ADR scales steadily from $112 for studios to $227 for 3-bedroom properties, roughly doubling across the size spectrum. The jump from 1-bedroom ($123) to 2-bedroom ($182) represents the steepest rate increase at nearly 48%, suggesting guests place a premium on that additional living space.

Average RevPAN by property size in National City

Three-bedroom listings lead RevPAN at $92—nearly 75% higher than the 2-bedroom figure of $59 and more than double the studio's $37. This gap underscores that larger properties not only command higher nightly rates but also convert enough bookings to generate meaningfully better revenue per available night.

Average occupancy rates by property size in National City

One-bedroom and 3-bedroom properties share the highest occupancy rates at 43% and 41% respectively, while studios (34%) and 2-bedrooms (33%) lag behind. The relatively tight range across all sizes suggests that no property type faces dramatically different demand dynamics, though the slight edge for 1- and 3-bedroom units may signal stronger guest preference for those configurations.

Average monthly revenue by property size in National City

Three-bedroom listings are the top earners at $3,530 per month, outpacing 2-bedrooms ($2,632) by about 34% and nearly doubling studios ($1,891). Studios and 1-bedrooms perform almost identically at roughly $1,900 per month, suggesting limited revenue differentiation for smaller unit sizes.

Average annual revenue by property size in National City

At $42,361 per year, 3-bedroom properties generate roughly 85% more annual revenue than studios ($22,692) and significantly outpace 2-bedrooms ($31,595). For investors weighing acquisition costs against income potential, the 3-bedroom configuration offers the strongest top-line return in this market.

Most common amenities for Airbnb listings in National City

Kitchens (99%) and parking (97%) are near-universal, reflecting guest expectations in a car-dependent Southern California market. Self check-in (89%) has become a baseline, while outdoor features like patio/balcony (66%), backyard (59%), and BBQ grill (51%) signal that guests value private outdoor living—amenities that could differentiate a listing in this competitive environment.

Understanding National City's ROI Score: 54/100

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

National City's ROI score of 54 out of 100 places it in the "Competitive Opportunity" band, indicating that while investor interest and demand are present, returns require careful deal selection. The below-average revenue-to-price ratio is the primary drag, reflecting elevated home values ($769,218) relative to achievable rental income, while occupancy stability, market growth, and supply/demand balance all score in the average range. Investors should pair this data with thorough local regulatory research and target property types—particularly 3-bedrooms—that offer the best revenue-to-cost dynamics.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in National City

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

Permit Requirements

Short-term rental operators in National City, California may be required to obtain a business license and STR permit before listing their property. Investors should verify current requirements directly with the City of National City and review any California state-level compliance obligations.

Key Restrictions

Common restrictions in California STR markets can include occupancy limits, minimum-stay requirements, noise ordinances, and parking mandates. HOA rules may impose additional limitations, and some municipalities cap the total number of STR permits issued, so confirming local regulations before purchasing is essential.

Tax Obligations

Short-term rental hosts in California are typically subject to transient occupancy tax (TOT) and may owe state sales tax on rental income. Major booking platforms often collect and remit some of these taxes automatically, but hosts should confirm their full obligations with the city and the California Department of Tax and Fee Administration.

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

Future Outlook & Long-Term Forecast

"Over the next 12–18 months, National City's STR market is expected to remain steady rather than explosive. The 112% year-over-year growth in active listings signals rising investor interest, which could put additional pressure on occupancy unless demand keeps pace. Seasonal patterns suggest summer months (June–August) will continue to drive the bulk of revenue, with ADR potentially firming by 1–3% as San Diego-area tourism demand remains resilient. Investors should plan for softer winter months where monthly revenue may dip below $2,200 and budget accordingly."

— Rabbu Market Analysis Team

Frequently asked questions about Airbnb in National City, CA

What is the average Airbnb occupancy rate in National City?

The average occupancy rate for Airbnb listings in National City is currently 37%, which trails the California state average of 43%. Occupancy varies by property size—1-bedroom units lead at 43%, while studios and 2-bedroom properties sit in the low-to-mid 30s. Investors can potentially improve on these averages through competitive pricing, strong amenities, and optimized listing quality.

How much do Airbnb hosts make in National City?

On average, Airbnb hosts in National City earn approximately $2,714 per month or $32,576 per year based on trailing 12-month performance data. Revenue varies significantly by property size: 3-bedroom listings average $3,530 per month ($42,361 annually), while studios and 1-bedrooms earn closer to $1,900 per month. Peak summer months like July can push monthly revenue above $4,500.

Is National City a good market for Airbnb investment?

National City carries an ROI score of 54 out of 100, placing it in the "Competitive Opportunity" category. The market benefits from its San Diego metro location and relatively affordable home prices compared to coastal neighbors, but a below-average revenue-to-price ratio means investors need to be selective in deal sourcing. Targeting larger properties—particularly 3-bedrooms—and optimizing for summer peak season can help improve returns.

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

The current average daily rate in National City is $192, which is significantly below the California state average of $551. ADR scales with property size, ranging from $112 for studios up to $227 for 3-bedroom listings. This lower ADR relative to the state reflects National City's more affordable positioning within the broader Southern California market.

Are short-term rentals legal in National City?

Short-term rentals may be permitted in National City, CA, but operators should expect to comply with local permitting, licensing, and tax requirements. Regulations can change, so it's important to verify current rules directly with the City of National City and consult any applicable HOA restrictions before purchasing or listing a property.

When is peak season for Airbnb in National City?

Peak season in National City runs from June through August, with July being the clear standout at $4,507 in average monthly revenue. The shoulder months of March ($3,050) and August ($3,606) also perform well. The slowest period is January through February, when monthly revenue drops to roughly $1,848–$2,150, so investors should plan for meaningful seasonal variation.

How many Airbnbs are there in National City?

As of April 2026, there are 70 active Airbnb listings in National City. The market has seen significant growth, with a 112% year-over-year increase in active listings. Two-bedroom properties make up the largest share of supply at 24 listings, followed by 1-bedrooms (19), 3-bedrooms (13), and studios (7).

How is Airbnb revenue calculated in National City?

The annual and monthly revenue figures for National City are derived from the trailing 12 months of historical booking performance for active comparable Airbnb listings in the market—not a forward-looking projection. We average each comparable listing's actual revenue per available night (RevPAN) by month over the past year, remove regional outliers, and roll the remainder up to a market-level historical average. This approach anchors the figures to what hosts have actually earned recently rather than to forecasts, while still naturally reflecting seasonal peaks and slower months because 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 by market and property size
• Average daily rate, occupancy, and RevPAN metrics across property configurations
• Monthly and annual revenue trends based on trailing 12-month booking performance
• Home value estimates from the Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) for investment context
• Data sourced from Rabbu proprietary analytics and third-party providers for consistency

Sources and disclaimers

Rabbu proprietary analytics as of Apr, 27 2026 and Zillow Home Value Index (ZHVI) as of Mar, 17 2026. Revenue projections are estimates based on comparable properties and do not guarantee future performance. Local regulations, permit requirements, and tax obligations may change; always verify with municipal authorities before investing. Individual property results will vary based on location, condition, pricing strategy, and management quality.