The Rise of Short-Term Rentals in Cambridge
The Cambridge property market is undergoing a transformation. More landlords than ever are shifting from long-term rentals to short-term lets, particularly Airbnb.
Why? The answer is simple: higher profits, more flexibility, and fewer risks.
With Cambridge’s thriving tourism industry, booming tech sector, and increasing demand from business travelers, short-term rentals are proving to be far more lucrative and hassle-free than traditional tenancies.
If you're a landlord in Cambridge considering the switch, here’s why short-term rentals are quickly becoming the smarter choice.
1. Higher Profit Potential Than Long-Term Lettings
One of the biggest advantages of Airbnb and short-term rentals is the higher income potential.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Rental Income: The Numbers
The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Cambridge is around £1,400 per month.
Meanwhile, a well-managed Airbnb in a central location can generate £100-£150 per night.
Even at 70% occupancy, that’s £2,100-£3,150 per month—over double the income of a long-term let.
Case Study: Real Revenue Example
A landlord in Central Cambridge converted their 2-bedroom property from a long-term rental (£1,800/month) to an Airbnb (£140 per night).
With a 75% occupancy rate, they now earn £3,150 per month—a 75% increase in revenue!
2. More Flexibility & Control for Landlords
With short-term rentals, you’re in control.
No Long-Term Contracts
Unlike traditional tenancies, you’re not locked into a 12-24 month agreement. You can adjust pricing, take breaks, and switch strategies based on market conditions.
Use the Property When You Need It
Need to stay in Cambridge for a few weeks? Hosting family? With short-term lets, you can block off dates for personal use—a luxury long-term landlords don’t have.
💡 Example:A landlord with a property in Cambridge’s city centre spends two months abroad each year. With an Airbnb setup, they generate income for 10 months while keeping the home available for personal stays.
3. Increasing Demand from Tourists & Business Travelers
Cambridge is a magnet for visitors—from tourists exploring the historic colleges to business travelers attending conferences or working at the city’s thriving BioTech and technology hubs.
Why Tourists & Business Travelers Prefer Airbnbs
✅ More space & home comforts compared to hotels✅ Fully equipped kitchens for self-catering✅ Better value for money (especially for families & long-stay professionals)✅ Prime locations near Cambridge University, Addenbrooke’s Hospital, and the Science Park
With over 8 million visitors annually, Cambridge’s short-term rental demand isn’t slowing down.
4. Lower Risk of Problem Tenants & Evictions
Avoid Non-Paying Tenants & Lengthy Evictions
One of the biggest risks for long-term landlords is dealing with tenants who stop paying rent. In the UK, eviction laws are strict, and landlords often face:
❌ Months of unpaid rent❌ Costly legal proceedings❌ Property damage from bad tenants
With short-term rentals, this problem disappears.
Airbnb’s Built-In Guest Accountability
Unlike traditional rentals, Airbnb guests:
✔ Pay upfront (no chasing late rent)✔ Are reviewed by previous hosts (reducing risk)✔ Can be screened before accepting bookings
This means more security and peace of mind for landlords.
5. Ability to Adjust to Market Conditions & Maximize Profits
Unlike fixed rental agreements, short-term lets allow landlords to be agile.
Dynamic Pricing for Higher Earnings
Platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Vrbo offer dynamic pricing tools that automatically adjust rates based on demand, seasonality, and local events.
💡 Example:During Cambridge’s graduation season, short-term rental prices double due to high demand. A landlord can capitalize on this surge, whereas a long-term tenant’s rent remains fixed.
Adjust Strategy as the Market Changes
Whether it’s tourism spikes, business events, or university schedules, short-term rental owners can increase or decrease availability to align with market trends.
6. Professional Management Makes Short-Term Rentals Easy
Many landlords worry that managing an Airbnb is too time-consuming—but with a professional property management service, it’s completely hassle-free.
How a Full-Service Airbnb Management Company Like Cambridge Stays Helps:
✅ Handles guest communication & bookings✅ Optimizes pricing for maximum occupancy & revenue✅ Provides professional cleaning & maintenance✅ Ensures properties comply with UK short-term rental regulations
With expert management, landlords enjoy higher profits without the stress of daily operations.
Why Cambridge Landlords Are Making the Switch
✅ Higher income potential compared to traditional lettings✅ More flexibility & control over the property✅ Growing demand from tourists & business travelers✅ Lower risk of problem tenants & evictions✅ Dynamic pricing advantages to maximize revenue✅ Professional management services make short-term rentals stress-free
Thinking About Switching to Short-Term Rentals? Let Cambridge Stays Help!
At Cambridge Stays, we specialize in maximizing rental income for landlords while handling all aspects of Airbnb management.
📞 Contact us today to see how we can help you earn higher returns with zero hassle!
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