Real revenues from short-term rentals in the main Italian cities
Last update: April 2025
How much can you really earn with your apartment on Airbnb? It's the question every owner asks themselves before deciding whether it's worth it. The honest answer is: it depends — on the city, the location, the quality of the property and, above all, how it is managed. In this guide you will find concrete data and a direct comparison with traditional rent.
Average Revenues by City: The Real Numbers for 2025
Here is an estimate of the monthly gross revenues for a well-located and professionally managed two-room apartment (40-60 m2):
City | Estimated monthly revenue | Average occupancy rate |
|---|---|---|
Milan (Navigli, Brera, Porta Romana) | 1.500 – 2.500 € | 75-85% |
Rome (Centre, Trastevere, Prati) | 1.200 – 2.000 € | 70-80% |
Florence (UNESCO Center) | 1.000 – 1.800 € | 70-80% |
Venice (Historic Center) | 1.200 – 2.200 € | 65-75% |
Naples (Centre, Chiaia) | 800 – 1.500 € | 65-75% |
Bologna (Centre) | 800 – 1.400 € | 70-80% |
Turin (Centre) | 700 – 1.200 € | 65-75% |
These numbers assume: professional photography, optimized listing, dynamic pricing, quick response to guests. With non-optimized DIY management, revenues typically drop 20-30%.
Short-term rentals vs traditional rentals: the comparison
A traditional long-term rental in Milan for a two-room apartment generates around €900-1,100/month net. The same well-managed property on Airbnb can generate €1,500-2,500/month gross, with greater earnings after the platform commission (3-15%) and operating expenses (cleaning, utilities).
The economic advantage of short-term rentals is real but not automatic: it requires marketing, pricing and operational management skills that not all owners have. Complete comparison: short-term rentals vs traditional rentals.
The role of the property manager: the numbers
A professional property manager like YouBnb charges a commission on the revenue generated. This commission is self-paying for two reasons:
Dynamic pricing — automatically updating prices based on demand, local events and seasonality — generates 20-40% above-average revenue
The freed up time is worth it: managing a property on Airbnb requires on average 10-15 hours/week between messages, check-in, cleaning coordination, tax obligations
In practice: with professional management you earn more (optimized prices) and work less (everything delegated). How to choose the right property manager.
Factors influencing revenues
In addition to the city, these are the factors that make the difference:
Position: proximity to the centre, transport, main attractions
Photographs: professional photos increase bookings by 30-40% compared to amateur photos
Pricing: static prices penalize a lot — during Milan Fashion Week prices can rise by 100%
Reviews: a rating above 4.8 out of 5 increases visibility on the Airbnb algorithm significantly
Seasonality: understanding how to manage the low season is the difference between a property that makes money and one that loses money. Guide to seasonality in short-term rentals.
FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions about Earnings with Short-Term Rentals
How much do you really earn with Airbnb in Italy?
A well-managed two-room apartment in large Italian cities generates between €800 and €2,500/month gross. Net income after tax (the 21% flat-rate tax) and operating expenses (cleaning, utilities and platform commissions) is typically 60–70% of the gross amount.
Are short-term rentals more convenient than traditional rentals?
On average yes, 40-60% more in big cities. But the advantage is reduced if management is not optimized. Complete in-depth analysis here.
How much do I pay in taxes with Airbnb?
The most convenient regime is the flat-rate tax: 21% on the first property and 26% from the second onward. It applies to gross rent without expense deductions. Complete guide to the flat-rate tax regime.
Can I make money from the guest room without opening a business?
Yes, if you rent rooms in your main home for short periods, you can do so as a private individual with flat rate tax, without VAT or SCIA number, up to certain income limits. Consult an accountant for your specific case.
Short-term rentals vs traditional rentals: the comparison that changes decisions
Do you want to know exactly how much your property can make? YouBnb offers one Free Evaluation with a personalized estimate of possible revenues, based on the real location of your property, the local market and booking data in your area. Response within 24 hours, without obligation. If you then decide to proceed, we will manage everything: reservations, cleaning, guests, taxes. You cash in every month, without worries.
Content reproduced from the current YouBnB website for this preview. Figures, returns and regulatory information have not been verified or updated in this version.
