Saunas and Airbnbs: Let’s Do the Math
As the number of Airbnbs, VRBOs, and other short-term rentals (STRs) continues to grow, operators are under increasing pressure to differentiate their listings in an already saturated market. At the same time, traveller preferences are shifting. According to the Global Wellness Economy Monitor, wellness tourism is projected to reach USD $9 trillion by 2028, driven by travellers actively seeking accommodations that support relaxation and recovery.
Amenities that align with wellness - particularly outdoor saunas - are proving to be a measurable way for STR hosts to stand out, increase bookings, and improve overall revenue performance. Here’s what the data shows.
Increased Revenue, Occupancy, and Booking Velocity
Short-term rental properties with saunas consistently outperform comparable listings without them.
Industry data and operator reporting indicate:
10–30% higher nightly rates, depending on local market
10–15% higher year-round occupancy
Faster booking velocity due to amenity-based filtering (e.g., Airbnb’s “sauna” filter), especially in colder climate markets
Beyond pricing power, saunas contribute to:
Higher guest satisfaction scores
More repeat bookings
Stronger reviews that emphasize “experience” rather than just accommodation
In practice, a sauna shifts a property from being a place to stay to a destination in itself.
What Are the Strongest ROI Markets for Sauna-Equipped Airbnbs?
While saunas can add value in many regions, ROI is strongest in markets where wellness, climate, and experience intersect:
Ski towns and mountain resorts
Coastal and lakefront properties
Scenic or remote properties with increased privacy
Wellness-focused stays and retreats
Premium or design-forward holiday homes
Properties that pair saunas with outdoor decks, cold plunges, showers, hot tubs, or firepits
In these settings, a sauna is a core feature that supports higher positioning and pricing.
How to Estimate Your Airbnb Sauna ROI
If you’re considering investing in a sauna for your STR, a simple ROI calculation can clarify the payback timeline.
Start by:
Estimating your current average daily rate (ADR)
Choosing a conservative nightly rate increase (e.g., 10–15%)
Estimating total booked nights per year
Calculating annual added revenue from the sauna
Dividing the sauna investment by annual added revenue to determine payback
In many STR markets, hosts report payback periods of 1–3 years.
Saunas and Long-Term Property Value
Beyond short-term rental performance, saunas also enhance buyer appeal and marketability.
Available real estate and industry data suggests:
~40% of buyers view a sauna as a desirable feature
Homes with saunas attract more interest and showings
Properties often sell faster in cold-climate or wellness-oriented markets
A Measurable Amenity, Not a Luxury Add-On
For Airbnb and short-term rental operators, a sauna is a strategic investment. When thoughtfully integrated, a high-quality sauna can increase nightly rates, improve occupancy, accelerate bookings, and strengthen guest satisfaction, all while enhancing long-term property appeal. In a crowded STR market where photos and pricing alone no longer win bookings, experience-driven amenities matter.