Holiday Rental Demand and Investment Returns in Mersin

Mersin is emerging as one of Turkey’s most promising coastal destinations for property investors and holidaymakers. With a growing economy, improving infrastructure, and a Mediterranean coastline full of beaches and cultural sites, the city is attracting increasing attention from both domestic and international visitors. Its neighborhoods, accessibility, and natural attractions create unique opportunities for short-term rentals, while new developments and transport projects continue to enhance the city’s appeal.

Holiday Rentals in Mersin and Their Investment Potential

Mersin's holiday rentals and short-term market are rapidly growing. According to 2025 market data, demand for holiday rentals in Mersin has increased by about 40% over the past two years, driven by the city’s coastline, beaches, ports, new roads, shopping areas, and cultural sites. There are roughly 607 active vacation rental listings, and Airbnb holds 98% of the market. Most rentals are entire homes, with one-bedroom units making up 60% and two-bedroom units 26%.

Flexible cancellation policies appear in 64% of listings, which helps bookings stay high. Some districts stand out: Mezitli has an average daily rate of $91.37, Erdemli earns $573 monthly per property, and Yenişehir and Silifke also offer competitive returns. Top properties can make over $1,800 per month, while the median property earns $691.

Average rental yields for different property types in Mersin

In Mersin, rental yields vary depending on the type of property. Mersin’s Airbnb returns on apartments and Mersin vacation rentals, especially one-bedroom units, are typically steady. Two-bedroom coastal flats bring slightly higher income, while villas generate much higher nightly rates, especially in Silifke near Kızkalesi Castle. Sea-view properties have the highest premiums, particularly near Viranşehir Beach. You can expect the following approximate rental yields in Mersin 2025:

• One-bedroom apartments (from short term): $1,575 per month
• Two-bedroom coastal flats: $1,180–$1,440 per month
• Inland apartments: $787 per month
• Villas in prime locations: double the yield of standard apartments

Mersin in comparison with other Turkish coastal cities in 2025

Mersin’s market is more competitive than those of other Turkish coastal cities. Its 7–8% rental yield is similar to Muğla's, slightly below Antalya’s 8–10%, and higher than Istanbul’s 6–7%. Property prices are lower than in most coastal cities, giving you a cheaper entry point for investment. Compared with Marmaris, which averages $1,918 monthly revenue at 51% occupancy, Mersin has lower acquisition costs, fewer competitors, and faster payback periods. Investors can benefit from the city’s growing tourism, developing infrastructure, attractive property prices, and emerging reputation as a Mediterranean holiday destination.

Projected Seasonal Occupancy Rates of Mersin for 2025

Mersin’s rental market in 2025 has clear seasonal patterns:

Peak months, July and August, show 45–60% occupancy, with August reaching the highest demand. In July and August, Mersin has packed beaches, warm 28–33°C temperatures, and maximum bookings.

High season months, June and September, have 30–40% occupancy as summer holidays start and extend into early autumn. September remains strong because European holidays end, but Mediterranean conditions stay ideal.

Shoulder season months, April, May, October, and November, see 20–25% occupancy, attracting families and travelers with flexible schedules. April–May and September–October offer pleasant 15–25°C weather and attract families, cultural tourists, and domestic visitors. Hotel prices drop about 35%, which attracts budget travelers.

Low season from December to March shows 15–20% occupancy, though March improves slightly. November to March have cooler temperatures and more rainfall. Still, visitors come because beaches stay swimmable and inland areas offer winter activities.

Top-tier properties can earn $1,842 or more in peak months, while low-season months drop to around $314. You can clearly see how seasonal occupancy affects potential income.

In Mersin, tourism-driven rental demand is huge. It has a massive effect on Mersin’s real estate market. International visitors generate strong interest from potential rental income in Mersin, especially European digital nomads and travelers exploring glamping parks, beaches, and rural attractions. Foreign property sales increased, showing growing investment from outside Turkey.

Domestic tourists are equally important. Young professionals, families, and corporate teams from inland Turkey visit beaches, castles, and weekend destinations. Infrastructure improvements, such as the Çukurova Airport with 9 million passenger capacity, boost both domestic and international access. New flights from Europe and the Middle East make travel easier, increasing rental demand.

The Best Mersin Neighbourhoods for Short-Term Rentals

Mersin has several neighborhoods that perform well for short-term rentals. Here are the top areas in Mersin for Airbnb investment.

• Mezitli: Known for beachfront properties and modern infrastructure. Tece, Soli, Viransehir, and Davultepe are its main developed areas.
• Yenişehir: Central district with Mersin Marina, sports grounds, bike paths, green alleys, and Forum Shopping Center.
• Erdemli: Slightly inland but top-performing. Ottoman-style villas attract visitors seeking history.
• Silifke: Emerging boutique tourism district. Close to Kızkalesi Castle and cultural experiences.
• Çeşmelibeli: Targets weekly holidaymakers and family stays. This neighborhood suits longer seasonal rentals.

For a more complete guide on Mersin, check out our blog!

Location strongly influences rental demand in Mersin. Properties near beaches, historical sites, and transportation links earn higher occupancy and rental rates. Mersin has 40 certified beaches across 321km of coastline. Viranşehir Beach adds a 30% price premium because of Blue Flag status. Historical attractions like Kızkalesi Castle and Soli-Pompeiopolis draw hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

Typical Maintenance and Management Costs for Mersin Airbnbs

Operating a short-term rental in Mersin involves several costs that affect your profits. Here are most of the maintenance costs for holiday rentals in Mersin:

• Monthly site maintenance fees in residential complexes range 200–2,000 TRY ($4.84–$48.90), depending on amenities.
• Utilities vary seasonally: electricity costs 1,000–1,500 TRY ($24–$37) in summer, water 500 TRY ($12), gas 850 TRY ($21) per bottle lasting several months, and internet about 300 TRY ($7).
• Annual taxes and insurance include property tax 0.1–0.2% of value, garbage tax 500 TRY ($12), and DASK earthquake insurance around 3,000 TRY ($73).
• Cleaning and turnover costs reach 10,000–20,000 TRY ($245–$489) yearly for properties with frequent bookings.
• Professional management adds $300–$500 monthly plus 10–15% of rental income.
• Repairs and maintenance usually require 2–5% of property value annually. These expenses directly affect your net income and require careful budgeting.

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Mersin

Mersin properties must comply with strict regulations since January 2024. For Mersin short-term rentals, you need a Tourism Accommodation Rental Permit from the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Only property owners can apply, and violating rules leads to fines starting at 100,000 TRY. Rentals are limited to 100 days per year, unless properties meet special quality standards with reception, cleaning, gyms, or pools. Multi-unit buildings require unanimous owner consent to apply.

You must display a permit plaque and submit documents such as the title deed, owner's passport, and tax number. Properties in complexes with charters allowing rentals need 80% owner approval. Following these rules ensures your rental is legal, avoids fines, and protects your investment.

Impact of Çukurova Airport Expansion on Rental Demand

The opening of Çukurova International Airport in August 2024 has transformed Mersin’s rental property market. Mersin, Çukurova Airport has 9 million annual passenger capacity and shortens travel from Europe and the Middle East to just 90 minutes to the city’s beaches. This accessibility attracts tourists and business travelers year-round.

Nearby properties have seen higher demand and early appreciation of 15–30% within 18–36 months. Other infrastructure projects, including the Adana-Antalya highway, tunnels, and port expansions, further boost property value and bookings. Population growth, the Akkuyu Nuclear Power Plant, and rising tourism revenues strengthen long-term demand. You can expect higher rental income and capital gains by investing near new transport and airport hubs.

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