Tulum to Gain 700 New Airbnb Listings by 2026

Tulum, Quintana Roo — The number of active Airbnb accommodations in Tulum continues to rise, with projections indicating that between 9,300 and 9,600 short-term rental spaces will be available by mid-2026. Recent analyses from specialized platforms such as AirROI and AirDNA highlight a sustained growth trend driven by tourism expansion and federal infrastructure development.

Current Market Landscape

As of June 2025, Tulum has an estimated 8,400 to 8,900 active Airbnb listings. AirROI reports the exact figure at 8,837 listings, while AirDNA places the number slightly lower at 8,397.

The majority of these properties cater to solo travelers or couples, with 46.9% consisting of single-room units. When combined with two-bedroom accommodations, these categories account for 74.1% of the total market, reflecting a preference for compact and affordable rental options.

Projected Growth and Key Drivers

Industry analysts from The Latinvestor forecast an annual growth rate of 5% to 8% for the short-term rental market, including Airbnb. This expansion is attributed to two major infrastructure projects: the inauguration of the Tulum International Airport and the completion of the Tren Maya, both of which are reshaping the region’s tourism and mobility profile.

In concrete terms, a 5% growth rate would add 442 new listings, while an 8% increase would bring 707 additional units. This would elevate Tulum’s total inventory to between 9,279 and 9,544 active listings, setting a new record for the platform in the area.

Challenges Amid Expansion

The steady rise in Airbnb accommodations underscores Tulum’s emergence as a premier destination in the Mexican Caribbean. However, it also raises concerns about regulation, sustainability, and housing balance, particularly in high-growth zones such as La Veleta, Aldea Zama, and the coastal strip, where real estate development continues unabated.

The influx of short-term rentals has prompted calls for stricter oversight to ensure equitable housing access and environmental preservation in the rapidly evolving tourist hotspot.