In an unprecedented leap, Sydney’s hotel sector concluded 2023 triumphantly, setting new benchmarks in both occupancy and room rates, as revealed in the latest data from CoStar.The bustling New Year’s Eve celebrations notably spearheaded this pinnacle of success, which saw Sydney morph into a hotspot for domestic and international travellers.
In the heart of the holiday season, Sydney’s hotels not only filled their rooms but did so at prices previously unseen. The average daily rate (ADR) soared to a staggering AUD313.27, marking a 4.8% increase compared to the previous year. This growth was underpinned by an impressive occupancy rate of 77.1%, a significant jump of 9.9% from the year before.
The zenith of this remarkable trend was reached on New Year’s Eve when the ADR reached an all-time high of AUD776.69. The city’s iconic status as a New Year’s Eve destination was pivotal in this surge. Hotels achieved their highest occupancy level on this night at an astounding 94.0%, closely followed by 93.8% on Saturday, 2 December. This robust performance was consistent throughout the month, with daily occupancy rarely dipping below 60%.
Another metric, Revenue per Available Room (RevPAR), a key indicator in the hospitality industry, recorded a 15.3% increase, reaching AUD241.66. This figure reflects the higher room rates and underscores the growing demand for Sydney’s accommodation options.
The data, meticulously compiled and analyzed by CoStar, a leader in online real estate marketplaces and analytics, paints a vivid picture of a city that has recovered from the past year’s challenges and is now thriving beyond expectations. Sydney’s allure, bolstered by its world-renowned New Year’s Eve celebrations, has proven irresistible to leisure and business travellers.
This remarkable performance by Sydney’s hotel industry is a testament to the city’s enduring appeal and ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic global tourism landscape. As Sydney continues to captivate visitors with its unique natural beauty, vibrant culture, and world-class amenities, the hotel sector stands poised for continued success in the coming years.
Written by: Michelle Warner