January 2026 Market Review: Strong Bookings, Falling Occupancy

STR Data Lab™ by AirDNA · Feb 19, 2026 · 26m

Is 2026 shaping up to be a breakout year for short-term rentals — or another year of mixed signals? In this January market review, the STR Data Lab team unpacks early indicators that could define performance for the rest of the year, from rising bookings and shifting travel patterns to economic tailwinds and major event demand. For hosts, property managers, and investors, these first-month signals offer critical clues about where revenue opportunities — and risks — are emerging.

While occupancy dipped year over year due to continued supply growth, bookings surged at one of the strongest rates…