Top 10 Towns in Yorkshire Where Airbnb Properties Perform Best

Short-term rentals have grown rapidly across the UK, and Yorkshire has become one of the strongest regions for Airbnb properties. With historic cities, beautiful countryside and popular coastal destinations, the area attracts millions of visitors every year.

For property owners and investors, this creates a great opportunity to generate income through Airbnb and short-term rental properties.

But location plays a huge role in how successful an Airbnb can be.

In this guide, we explore 10 towns and cities in Yorkshire where Airbnb properties tend to perform particularly well, based on visitor demand, attractions and travel links.

1. York

York is one of the most visited cities in the UK and consistently performs well for short-term rentals.

Visitors travel to York to explore:

• York Minster

• The Shambles

• Historic city walls

• Christmas markets

Because of its year-round tourism, Airbnb properties in York often achieve strong occupancy rates and higher nightly prices.

2. Leeds

Leeds is one of the UK’s largest business centres outside London, attracting a steady flow of professionals and visitors.

Guests staying in Leeds often include:

• Business travellers

• Contractors working on projects

• Visitors attending events and concerts

• Families visiting universities

This mix of demand helps Airbnb properties in Leeds maintain consistent bookings throughout the year.

3. Harrogate

Harrogate is well known for its historic charm, elegant architecture and conference events.

The Harrogate Convention Centre hosts exhibitions and conferences that bring thousands of visitors to the town.

As a result, Airbnb properties in Harrogate are popular with both leisure and business travellers.

4. Whitby

Whitby is one of Yorkshire’s most popular coastal destinations.

Visitors travel here for:

• The famous Whitby Abbey

• Coastal walks and beaches

• Seafood restaurants and harbour views

Holiday homes and apartments in Whitby often perform well as Airbnb properties, particularly during the summer and holiday seasons.

5. Skipton

Often known as the Gateway to the Yorkshire Dales, Skipton attracts visitors exploring the surrounding countryside.

Popular attractions include:

• Skipton Castle

• The Leeds and Liverpool Canal

• Walking routes in the Yorkshire Dales

Properties in Skipton can attract couples, families and outdoor enthusiasts looking for countryside accommodation.

6. Ilkley

Ilkley is a picturesque spa town popular with visitors exploring the surrounding moorland and countryside.

Guests are drawn to attractions such as:

• Ilkley Moor

• Local independent shops and restaurants

• Scenic walking routes

Airbnb properties in Ilkley are often popular with weekend visitors and walkers.

7. Scarborough

Scarborough is one of the UK’s oldest seaside resorts and attracts families and tourists throughout the year.

The town offers:

• Sandy beaches

• Coastal attractions

• Entertainment venues and events

Holiday apartments and houses near the seafront can perform particularly well as short-term rentals.

8. Knaresborough

Knaresborough is a charming market town known for its dramatic riverside views and historic architecture.

Visitors often explore:

• Knaresborough Castle

• The River Nidd

• Local cafes and independent shops

Its proximity to Harrogate also makes it a convenient location for visitors looking for a quieter place to stay.

9. Huddersfield

Huddersfield has strong demand for short-term accommodation from contractors and business travellers.

The town attracts visitors due to:

• University events and graduations

• Business travel

• Nearby countryside and attractions

Properties catering to contractors can perform well as Airbnb rentals here.

10. Halifax

Halifax has become increasingly popular thanks to regeneration projects and historic attractions.

Visitors often come to see:

• The Piece Hall

• Historic architecture

• Nearby countryside

Short-term rentals in Halifax can appeal to both tourists and professionals working in the area.

What Makes a Town Good for Airbnb?

Several factors influence whether a location performs well for short-term rentals.

Strong Airbnb markets usually have:

• Tourist attractions or natural scenery

• Business travel demand

• Good transport links

• Restaurants, cafes and local amenities

Locations that combine several of these features often attract consistent guest bookings throughout the year.

The Importance of Professional Airbnb Management

While Airbnb properties can generate strong income, running a successful short-term rental requires active management.

Hosts must manage:

• Guest enquiries and bookings

• Cleaning and property turnover

• Pricing adjustments

• Maintenance and guest support

• Reviews and listing optimisation

For many property owners, this can become time consuming.

This is why many landlords choose to work with an Airbnb management company in Yorkshire.

Airbnb Opportunities Across Yorkshire

From major cities like Leeds and York to coastal destinations like Whitby and Scarborough, Yorkshire offers a wide range of opportunities for short-term rental properties.

With the right location and management, Airbnb properties across the region can generate strong occupancy rates and attractive rental income.

Thinking About Turning Your Property Into an Airbnb?

If you own a property in Leeds, York, Harrogate, Whitby, Skipton, Ilkley or anywhere across Yorkshire, short-term rentals could help maximise your property’s income potential.

At Northern Retreats, we specialise in Airbnb and short-term rental management across West and North Yorkshire, helping property owners increase their earnings while removing the stress of hosting.

Our team handles everything from listing optimisation and pricing to guest communication, cleaning and full property management.

Discover Your Property’s Potential

If you're considering turning your property into an Airbnb in Yorkshire, we’d be happy to help you understand how much it could earn.

👉 Contact Northern Retreats today to learn more about professional Airbnb management across Yorkshire.