St. George Vacation Rental Trends: What Guests Want in 2025

As 2024 comes to an end, we've seen the vacation rental market in St. George, Utah, continue to expand. And while new vacation communities like Desert Color show there is room for luxurious short-term rentals in the market, competition is heating up. Read more to see the latest St. George vacation rental trends.

For those who are unfamiliar with St. George and the surrounding areas of Southern Utah, it's known for its stunning red rock landscapes and access to world-class outdoor activities. Data shows that the area continues to attract travelers from around the world. Staying ahead of vacation rental trends in St. George and the surrounding area is crucial for property owners looking to maximize bookings and revenue in 2025 and beyond.

Recent data shows the average occupancy rate for St. George vacation rentals is 50%, with an average daily rate of $262, translating to approximately $31,140 in annual revenue per property (source: AirDNA). As tourism continues to grow, property owners have a unique opportunity to adapt to new trends and stand out in this competitive market.

Here are the Top 10 St. George Vacation Rental Trends

1. Guests Are Seeking Unique Stays

St. George vacation rental trends showed that in 2024, travelers are looking for properties that go beyond the basics. They want unique accommodations that reflect the local environment and provide memorable experiences. This becomes challenging, as many communities in the area made for Airbnb rentals are often "cookie cutter."

While full remodels may not make financial sense, owners can include decor inspired by St. George’s natural beauty, such as desert tones and red rock motifs, as well as standout amenities like hot tubs, outdoor fire pits, or panoramic views.

Properties with unique features tend to perform better, and owners who invest in these touches can see a noticeable increase in bookings. Highlighting your property’s proximity to Zion National Park or Snow Canyon State Park can also attract nature-loving travelers.

2. Sustainability Is Key

Eco-conscious travel is becoming a priority for many guests. A growing number of travelers are choosing properties that demonstrate sustainable practices, including energy-efficient appliances, recycling programs, and eco-friendly materials.

And while Utah may not be leading the charge on sustainability, vacation rental trends in St. George show this to be a considerable factor. According to Booking.com, 81% of travelers in 2023 said they would like to stay in a sustainable property. In St. George, incorporating eco-friendly upgrades such as solar panels or water-efficient landscaping not only appeals to this demographic but can also reduce operating costs for owners.

3. Pet-Friendly Rentals Are a Must

AirDNA data shows that more travelers than ever are bringing pets on their trips, making pet-friendly vacation rentals highly sought after. St. George’s outdoor attractions, such as Snow Canyon State Park and the Virgin River trails, are perfect for pet owners looking to explore with their furry companions.

Pet-friendly properties often command higher nightly rates and longer stays. Features like secure fencing, pet beds, and food bowls can make your rental more appealing to this growing market segment.

4. Outdoor-Centric Properties Dominate

Localized data shows strong correlation with homes with featured outdoor-centric features and higher booking rates. With St. George’s warm climate and breathtaking landscapes, outdoor spaces are a top priority for guests. Amenities like comfortable outdoor seating, shaded patios, and BBQ grills can significantly enhance a property’s appeal. Often minor updates can help you stay ahead of this St. George vacation rental trend.

Proximity to outdoor attractions is another major draw. Guests visiting for activities like hiking, mountain biking, or golfing will prioritize rentals near key spots like Sand Hollow State Park or the Red Cliffs Desert Reserve.

5. Workcationers Are Driving Longer Stays

Remote work continues to influence travel trends, with many travelers opting for “workcations” that combine business and leisure. St. George’s peaceful environment and reliable internet make it a top destination for remote workers seeking an inspiring backdrop for productivity.

Properties with high-speed Wi-Fi, dedicated workspaces, and peaceful surroundings appeal to this demographic. According to AirDNA, remote workers tend to book longer stays, providing property owners with consistent income and fewer turnovers.

6. Family Travel Remains Strong

St. George’s family-friendly activities, such as hiking, biking, and exploring the St. George Dinosaur Discovery Site, make it a popular choice for families. Vacation rentals that cater to this demographic see strong demand, particularly during school breaks and holidays.

Adding family-oriented amenities like bunk beds, board games, or childproofing features can make a property more appealing to families. Highlighting proximity to attractions like Sand Hollow Reservoir or local splash pads can further boost bookings.

7. Proximity to Events Drives Bookings

Annual events like the St. George Marathon, Huntsman World Senior Games, and Ironman races attract thousands of visitors to the area. Rentals located near these event venues see spikes in demand and can command premium pricing during these periods.

To capitalize on this trend, property owners should update their availability calendars around major events and highlight event proximity in their listings. Offering flexible check-in and check-out times to accommodate participants can also improve guest satisfaction.

8. Thoughtful Guest Experiences Make a Difference

Exceptional guest experiences lead to positive reviews and repeat bookings. Small touches, like welcome baskets with local products or personalized recommendations for nearby restaurants and activities, can leave a lasting impression on guests.

According to Airbnb, listings with an average guest rating of 4.8 stars or higher are significantly more likely to appear in search results. Prompt and friendly communication also contributes to better reviews and guest satisfaction.

9. Professional Management Is a Game-Changer

Managing a vacation rental requires time, expertise, and attention to detail. Partnering with a professional property management company like TruStay can help property owners stay competitive while ensuring their rentals meet evolving guest expectations.

TruStay stays on top of St. George vacation rental trends to ensure your property is a top performer.

With services like dynamic pricing, professional photography, and full-service guest support, TruStay simplifies the management process and maximizes returns for property owners. St. George’s competitive market demands professional expertise, and partnering with a trusted management company can make all the difference.

Conclusion

While the vacation rental market in St. George is thriving, competition is heating up and understanding the latest trends is essential for success in 2025. From offering unique stays and sustainable amenities to catering to families and workcationers, property owners who adapt to these trends will attract more bookings and earn higher revenues.

For those looking to elevate their vacation rental business, TruStay provides expert property management services tailored to the St. George market. Contact us today to learn how we can help your property thrive.