Owning an Airbnb in the Philippines: Is It Still a Good Investment in 2025?

Overview

• Owning an Airbnb in the Philippines remains a smart investment in 2025, especially in high-demand areas like Makati, Ortigas, and Cebu. 
• With travel recovering and remote work trends continuing, short-term rentals can generate strong income, particularly when units are well-located, amenity-rich, and cost-efficient. 
• Empire East developments offer ideal conditions for Airbnb investing, with prime locations, lifestyle features, and flexible payment terms. Their communities are designed to support both modern living and long-term earning potential.

Introduction

Owning a condo that pays for itself? That’s every smart Filipino’s dream. In recent years, owning an Airbnb in the Philippines has become one of the most accessible ways to enter real estate, offering a flexible income stream for young professionals, OFWs, retirees, and first-time investors alike. 

As travel continues to bounce back in 2025, the demand for short-term rentals remains strong, but so does the competition. That’s why knowing where to invest, how to manage, and what to expect is more important than ever. In this blog, we’ll break down what’s changed in the market, what still makes Airbnb profitable, and how you can make smart, strategic moves. 

We'll also show how Empire East developments can give you the foundation for a well-located, well-loved Airbnb investment.

Is Airbnb Still Profitable in 2025?

Yes, owning an Airbnb continues to be a worthwhile venture in 2025, especially in high-demand areas. The vacation rental market in the Philippines is projected to reach US$532.66 million nationwide, showing strong confidence in the platform’s earning potential.

Seasonality plays a key role in maximizing income. December remains the top-performing month in most urban and tourist areas, with some Manila hosts earning up to $536 monthly, driven by 43% occupancy rates and an ADR of $41.

What fuels this stability? A mix of returning tourism, remote work flexibility, and lenient local regulations has made longer guest stays more common and more profitable. Hosts in major hubs like Makati, BGC, Ortigas, Quezon City, and Cebu typically break even with just 8–10 booked nights per month, making a strategic location a key to success.

What Makes an Airbnb Investment Worthwhile?

When it comes to short-term rentals, not all properties perform the same. To make a smart investment, you need to consider what today’s guests value most, starting with location, lifestyle features, and cost flexibility.

Here at Empire East, we make sure our condos are affordable for a wide range of Filipinos, especially those who are looking to invest. 

Location

Proximity to business districts, lifestyle hubs, and transportation links makes your property more attractive to travelers and remote workers alike. The easier it is to get around, the more likely your unit will stay booked.

Amenities

Guests want more than just a place to sleep. They want an experience. Access to pools, gyms, security, and walkable spaces adds serious value to your listing.

Flexibility & Ownership Costs

Short-term rental income can outperform long-term leasing when the unit is well-located and well-managed. Keep an eye on monthly dues and maintenance costs to make sure your earnings stay ahead.

Challenges to Consider in 2025

While owning an Airbnb can be a rewarding investment, it’s not without its hurdles, especially as the market becomes more competitive. Before jumping in, it’s important to know what to expect so you can prepare and plan smarter. Here are some of the common challenges hosts may face in 2025:

• Higher competition – More listings mean you’ll need better photos, pricing, and guest experience to stand out.
• Fluctuating occupancy – Peak seasons boost income, but slower months can make cash flow unpredictable.
• Stricter condo rules – Some properties limit short-term rentals, so always check building policies before investing.

Staying informed and choosing the right location helps you overcome most of these barriers. It also helps to partner with a developer who understands flexibility and long-term value. That’s where Empire East comes in—with communities designed for both modern lifestyles and investment potential.

Why Choose Empire East for Your Airbnb Investment

If you’re looking to grow your income through property, Empire East offers the ideal balance of strategic location, value, and long-term potential. Our developments are thoughtfully placed near MRT lines, business hubs, and lifestyle centers—features that short-term guests actively seek when booking a stay. With added benefits like 24/7 security, resort-style amenities, and walkable neighborhoods, our communities are built to create comfort and convenience for both residents and Airbnb guests.

Several of our projects also offer pre-selling opportunities, allowing you to lock in lower prices and enjoy flexible payment terms while your investment appreciates in value. Here are a few Empire East properties worth considering:

• Empire East Highland City (Pasig-Cainta) – Pre-selling; ideal for long-term appreciation with vast green spaces and a future lifestyle mall.
• The Paddington Place (Shaw Blvd., Mandaluyong) – Pre-selling; right by MRT-3 Shaw Station, perfect for business travelers and urban tourists.
• Pioneer Woodlands (Mandaluyong) – Ready-for-occupancy; directly connected to MRT-3 Boni Station for unbeatable accessibility.
• San Lorenzo Place (Makati) – Ready-for-occupancy; near CBDs and shopping malls, great for professionals and weekend travelers.

With Empire East’s flexible payment options and expertly planned communities, you’re investing in a space built to work for you.

Key Takeaway

Owning an Airbnb in the Philippines remains a promising investment in 2025, especially when you choose the right property in the right location. With tourism rebounding, demand for short-term rentals staying strong, and platforms like Airbnb continuing to empower everyday Filipinos, there’s still plenty of opportunity for smart, value-driven investors. 

If you’re ready to explore this income-generating path, now’s the perfect time to get started. Talk to a property specialist from Empire East today to learn more about pre-selling and ready-for-occupancy units that are ideal for Airbnb hosting. We’re here to help you find a home that doesn’t just house your dreams—it funds them, too.