Chicago Airbnb Searches Surge After Memorial Day — Here’s How Hosts Can Cash In
Hello, fellow Airbnb enthusiasts!
Searches for “Airbnb Chicago” don’t just spike before Memorial Day. They surge again right after the holiday weekend.
Last year, the Wednesday AFTER Memorial Day - May 29th - had the highest number of searches for the first half of 2024 (pictured below).
“Airbnb Chicago” search volume for the United States January 1 - June 1, 2025. Screenshot from Google Trends. Search volume is the highest for the whole year up to that point on May 29, 2024 (highlighted in yellow) - the Wednesday after Memorial Day that year.
Here’s what’s happening — and how you can get ahead of it.
Why Are Searches Surging After Memorial Day?
That burst in search activity isn’t random. Several things drive this post-holiday wave:
✨ Locals looking for post-holiday deals — Chicagoans who stayed home for Memorial Day often search for a quick staycation or weekend escape once crowds clear.
✨ Tourists already in Chicago extending their stay — Visitors who came in for Memorial Day may decide to tack on a few more days, especially if the weather turns nice or events pop up.
✨ Nearby travelers booking for the following weekend — People from suburbs or neighboring cities often plan last-minute weekend trips to Chicago after Memorial Day once rates dip and availability improves.
What Smart Airbnb Hosts Can Do Right Now
If you’re a Chicago Airbnb host, this is your signal to jump in and capture those bookings. Here’s how:
✅ Offer last-minute weekday & weekend discounts
Attract those post-holiday deal-seekers by adjusting your pricing calendar. Even a small drop can help you snag extra reservations when competition’s still high.
✅ Highlight staycation-friendly amenities
Promote perks like Netflix, patios, outdoor spaces, or free parking. Chicagoans love a local escape — especially if it feels easy and indulgent.
✅ Enable flexible bookings
Open up shorter stays and self-check-ins to accommodate spontaneous guests. Many travelers hesitate to book if listings have rigid, multi-night minimums or limited check-in options.
✅ Promote early summer availability
Use this moment to push your open dates for June and July, when searches for “Airbnb Chicago” historically hit their peak.
Pro Tip: Don’t Let the Weather Fool You
Even if Memorial Day weather is overcast or chilly (like this year’s 50-degree forecast), bookings still spike. People are hunting for options, whether it’s a cozy staycation or a rain-or-shine trip extension.
Thanks for reading — here’s to smarter, data-backed hosting!
– Hermioni from Airsmart