Right when most Americans are kicking back, Airbnb hosts are kicking into high gear: July Fourth marks the peak of summer rental season, and the top markets aren’t where you might think.

Short-term rental (STR) data site Beyond found that the most packed area for bookings during the July Fourth week is a tie between the Florida Panhandle and the Alabama Gulf Coast, with an occupancy rate of 67%. Who would have guessed?

The popularity of these two destinations may, in part, boil down to budget constraints. Although short-term rental rates in upscale beach destinations like the Hamptons on New York’s Long Island can cost several thousands of dollars a day, fees in the Florida Panhandle and Alabama Gulf Coast average just over $600 per day over the July Fourth weekend.

Beyond also found that this summer’s vacationers are suffering from the strains of an uncertain economy—showing greater price sensitivity, booking shorter stays, and waiting longer to lock in their plans. Summer 2025 travelers booked just 26.1 days out, an 11% decrease from last year. Some guests may be holding out in the hopes of landing a last-minute deal.

Travelers also gravitated to rentals within driving distance rather than flying further afield. “People still want to take trips, but those trips might be closer to home,” said Julie Brinkman, CEO of Beyond. “They need to know that they have job security, that they’re able to fund their trip.”

Even though summer travelers are leery of overspending, STR hosts in the top markets are still raking in decent profits and stand to make $1,200 this holiday weekend (July 4–6) and over $64,000 by the end of the year.

July marks the height of the short-term rental season—and the most profitable month for hosts nationwide. During this peak, nightly rates for guests average $474, while hosts earn an average of $381 per available night. After that, day rates (and profits) slide downward as the temperature cools, bottoming out in January at $67 per night. Which, come to think of it, makes that a great time to book your next bargain vacation.

Curious what it takes to turn a dilapidated old house into a popular party venue? Andy Saintilus learned the ropes after purchasing a three-bedroom, two-bath fixer-upper in Miami for $202,500. He then spent $150,000 over 10 months renovating it into an Airbnb listing, which now earns $423 per night and has raked in a total of $400,000 over the past four years. Here’s his story, plus before-and-after pics that prove just how far a fixer-upper can go with a little elbow grease and creativity.

How’d you get started? “I spent 16 years in sales, but once I saw colleagues getting laid off, this made me realize how dependent I was on a traditional nine-to-five job. Motivated by the need for financial security and independence, I pivoted into real estate investing. I started by acquiring rental properties, then expanded to short-term rentals.”

What were some of the biggest challenges? “There were many moments in my journey when quitting would have been easy. For example, tenants damaged my properties after I had invested a lot of money in them. I also bought my first short-term rental just before the pandemic hit.”

How did you turn things around? “I didn’t have much experience, but I did know how to create a fun and unique experience. So, I designed the property to reflect my idea of a great time. I finished renovations in 2021, right around the time travel restrictions were lifted. That timing worked in my favor, and the property ended up being one of my most profitable investments.”

Any advice for others who want to become an Airbnb host? “I recommend working with a mentor. That’s how I got my start, and it’s why I now mentor others who have successfully launched their first Airbnbs. There are multiple ways to fund your first property—some investors use their 401(k), others rely on personal savings. You can also partner with a co-host, but it’s important to understand the difference: A mentor guides you through selecting a property, renovations, and creating an experience, while a co-host primarily helps manage the listing once it’s live.”

What tips do you have for picking a property with potential? “Location matters, but the guest experience is what truly sets you apart. In Florida, for example, a pool is a major advantage since the weather is warm year-round. Beyond that, it’s all about designing a space where people can relax and enjoy themselves. The great thing is that we all have different definitions of fun, and setting up your Airbnb allows you to bring your vision to life while attracting like-minded guests.”

Check out more before-and-after photos of Andy’s investment here.