Selling in Cairns: How to Leverage Short‑Term Rental Growth & Tourism Spikes This Year

Cairns Property Collective Client • January 13, 2026

Cairns is set for a strong property performance this year, thanks to a perfect mix of post-pandemic tourism resurgence and the continued expansion of the short-stay market. 

For sellers, this presents a rare opportunity. Properties that appeal to both holidaymakers and investors are in high demand, and understanding how to position your home accordingly can help you command a stronger sale price.

Let’s explore how you can leverage short term rental growth in Cairns this year to attract the right buyers and maximise your income.


Why Cairns’ Short-Term Rental Market Is Booming in 2026

Cairns continues to benefit from increasing tourism, infrastructure upgrades, and lifestyle migration. According to new figures from CommBank, “Cairns and Far North Queensland have experienced strong growth across key sectors in the June quarter to date compared with the same period last year,” with tourism spending playing a major role in rejuvenating the region’s economy.

CBA transaction data shows:

  • Bars and drinking establishments are up 31%
  • Caravan parks and campgrounds up 18%
  • Travel agencies and tour operators up 17%
  • Accommodation and lodging up 6%

This is great news for sellers. Buyer confidence is increasing alongside tourism spending, and more investors are looking to secure properties suited to the short-stay market.

Occupancy rates for short-term rentals during peak seasons (April to October) have consistently hovered around 80%, with daily rates climbing in line with growing demand. Popular draws like reef cruises, the turtle hatching season, and annual events like the Cairns Festival are fuelling a steady rise in bookings.

Dual-Use Appeal: Long-Term + Short-Term Potential

Being versatile is key in today's market. More investors are seeking properties that offer both long-term rental security and the flexibility to switch to short-term letting when needed. Properties with this hybrid appeal are becoming hot commodities.

Think of dual-key apartments, self-contained granny flats, or two-bedroom units close to the city or waterfront. We recently saw a self-contained unit in Parramatta Park attract multiple offers above asking price, purely because it was “Airbnb-ready” and offered solid long-term rental yields.


Seasonal Timing: Capitalise on Tourism Peaks

Listing your property at the right time can make a significant difference. Tourism peaks from April through October offer more buyer interest, especially if you promote the property’s short-stay potential.

To maximise visibility:

  • Mention proximity to attractions like the Esplanade Lagoon or the Reef Fleet Terminal.
  • Include Airbnb revenue projections in your listing description.
  • Consider offering the home fully furnished for a “turnkey” rental setup.

Tip: Sea turtle season (November to March) and reef cruise spikes mean properties marketed for holiday use see up to 20% more listing views on realestate.com.au during this window.

The Data Is on Your Side

Buyers are increasingly driven by data, and Cairns stacks up well. Cairns’ Airbnb properties are achieving strong average daily rates and high occupancy. In many cases, short-term rental yields outpace long-term rentals, especially for well-located, professionally styled homes.

CommBank Group Executive Business Banking, Mike Vacy-Lyle, noted: “It’s great to see that Cairns and Far North Queensland continue to be major drawcards for both domestic and international travellers, offering a vibrant yet diverse mix of nature, marine life and scenic attractions… We are thrilled to see a resurgence in the tourism industry with recent figures giving an early indication that the region will soon return to pre-pandemic levels”.

This investor confidence is mirrored in commercial activity too. CommBank’s asset finance data revealed a 227% increase in funding from Cairns-based businesses over the past 12 months, driven by growth in tourism and related sectors.

Preparing Your Property for a Profitable Sale

A few small improvements can help position your property as a standout short-term rental:

  • Add smart locks and keyless entry systems.
  • Install split-system air conditioning in every bedroom.
  • Style with a light, coastal palette that appeals to both tourists and owner-occupiers.
  • Invest in professional photography that highlights lifestyle potential and comfort.


Why Local Expertise Matters

At Cairns Property Collective, we understand the local market and the tourism trends driving buyer interest. From Edge Hill to Palm Cove, we help sellers highlight what makes their property not just a home, but a smart investment opportunity.

Whether your ideal buyer is a hybrid investor or a local family seeking flexibility, we can tailor your listing to appeal to both.


Your Window of Opportunity Is Now

By showcasing your property’s potential as a short-term rental and timing your sale with tourism peaks, you can capture more attention and achieve a higher price. Cairns’ short term rental growth this year is a window of opportunity you won’t want to miss.

Ready to list in 2026? Let’s chat about how we can position your property to attract the highest offer.  Contact us today to get started.