Short-term rentals may have the word “short” in them, but not all guest stays are fleeting. Understanding how long guests typically stay — and why — is key to optimizing cleaning schedules, pricing strategies, and overall occupancy.

Using Casa Co-Host’s internal property data and publicly available Airbnb market reports, we’ve identified trends across several under-discussed yet promising Ontario cities.

Ajax: The Unexpected Mid-Term Hub
Ajax Waterfront

With its proximity to Durham College and growing commercial zones, Ajax has become popular for short-term stays that blur into mid-term territory. Many guests are:

  • Healthcare professionals on contracts at Lakeridge Health
  • Families relocating within the GTA
  • Construction crews on local projects

Average Stay Duration: 6.2 nights
Most common type of stay: Weekly family transitions or relocations
Key guest need: Garage parking and easy access to 401

📌 Related Service: Airbnb Booking Management

Kingston: Weekend History & Business Mix
Bellevue House - credit: Sarah Rouleau

As a university and government town, Kingston hosts a mix of:

  • Parents visiting Queen’s University students
  • Conference attendees and civil servants
  • Weekend tourists exploring the historic waterfront

Average Stay Duration: 3.8 nights
Peak booking windows: Thursdays–Sundays
Pro tip: Listings near downtown or waterfront get double the exposure

📌 Related Guide: Creating a Top-Ranking Listing

Barrie: Nature & City Balance

Barrie’s lakeside charm and accessibility from Toronto make it ideal for:

  • Couples looking for weekend getaways
  • Families seeking affordable alternatives to Muskoka
  • Corporate guests attending Simcoe County events

Average Stay Duration: 4.5 nights
Most active seasons: Spring and Fall shoulder seasons
Top amenities: Firepits, BBQs, and workspace Wi-Fi

📌 Explore: Barrie Airbnb Hosting Services

Guelph: Academic & Conference Traffic

Guelph benefits from its university and agricultural research economy, making it ideal for:

  • Academics and researchers
  • Short-term student housing
  • Families during convocation weekends

Average Stay Duration: 5.1 nights
Biggest draw: Proximity to the university and onsite laundry
Guest profile: Educated professionals with high cleanliness expectations

📌 Service Match: Airbnb Cleaning Services

Final Insight: Plan Listings Based on Expected Stay Duration

Knowing whether your city attracts 2-night tourists or 7-day project crews allows for smarter investment, more efficient cleaning schedules, and more dynamic pricing. Cities like Kingston and Barrie may require high turnover speed, while Ajax and Guelph benefit from mid-length optimization.

Casa Co-Host tracks this data weekly to help our hosts maximize bookings and guest experience. Whether you’re targeting families, professionals, or seasonal travelers, stay duration insights give you the edge.

📍 Want to see the trend for your property? Speak with our local team or call 289-778-4678.

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