Vacation Rentals

Question

First time going to KW next month. We are a family of 4 with 2 adult children. They each want their own bedroom (with separate bathrooms). We want to stay in KW proper, but it seems all available Airbnb's with those requirements in that location are over $1K a night. Is this normal?

Answer

Key West is known for its popularity, charm, and limited space, which drives up rental prices—especially in the peak tourist season. Finding a vacation rental within Key West proper that has multiple bedrooms with en-suite bathrooms for four adults can be expensive, so seeing rates over $1,000 per night is unfortunately quite normal for this type of property.

Factors Affecting Pricing:

Location: Properties in Key West proper, especially near Duval Street or the historic Old Town, command the highest rates because of convenience, walkability, and proximity to attractions, restaurants, and beaches.
Property Features: Rentals with multiple bedrooms and private bathrooms for each guest are rare in Key West, which drives the price up. Luxury amenities like pools, outdoor spaces, and modern kitchens also add to cost.
Season: Key West is busiest in winter and spring months. Rates naturally spike during high season, major holidays, or local events. Booking for the upcoming month means you are likely still in a high-demand period.

Alternatives to Consider:

Look slightly outside of Key West proper, such as Stock Island or the lower Keys. You may find comparable homes for less than $1K per night while still being a short drive (10–15 minutes) from Key West attractions.
Consider smaller or older properties that may not have all the luxury amenities but still offer separate bedrooms and bathrooms. Sometimes boutique inns or guesthouses provide private rooms with bathrooms at a lower overall cost.
Check local vacation rental websites in addition to Airbnb and Vrbo. Some owners only list on local sites, and you may find better deals or flexible rates.
Consider splitting the trip between a rental in Key West proper for a few nights and a nearby lower-cost location for the remainder of your stay.

In summary, high prices for multi-bedroom rentals in Key West proper are normal due to limited supply, high demand, and desirable location. Exploring nearby islands or slightly less central properties can help reduce costs while still providing a comfortable stay.