Pass the Keys Blog

Short-Term Letting in Cambridge: A Growing Opportunity

Written by Pass the Keys Cambridge | Jul 18, 2025 8:07:53 AM

Cambridge isn’t just a university city steeped in history—it’s a thriving, year-round destination with global appeal. From academics and tech professionals to international tourists and visiting families, thousands of people pass through the city every week in need of high-quality accommodation.

If you’re a property owner in Cambridge, this presents a unique opportunity. Whether you own a city-centre apartment, a house in Chesterton, or a second home near the Science Park, the short-let market has never been more rewarding—or accessible.

At Pass the Keys Cambridge, we help local homeowners, landlords and investors turn their properties into hands-free, high-earning short-term lets. Here’s why more owners are making the switch.

The Cambridge Short-Let Advantage

1. Year-Round Demand

Cambridge welcomes a steady flow of visitors all year, thanks to:

  • International university events and conferences

  • Tech and biotech industry travel linked to the Cambridge Cluster

  • Tourists drawn to the city’s architecture, museums and punting tours

  • Families visiting students and alumni events

  • Temporary relocations and academic sabbaticals

Unlike traditional holiday towns, Cambridge doesn’t rely on a single “peak season”—making it ideal for consistent short-let income.

2. Strong Nightly Rates

Short-let properties in Cambridge consistently outperform long-term rental income when managed professionally. With the right pricing strategy and listing exposure, even a modest flat can generate significant returns—particularly in central locations or near major employment hubs.

3. Flexibility for Property Owners

One of the biggest draws of short-letting is control. Whether you use the property part of the year or are planning a future move, short-term letting allows you to:

  • Earn income without giving up access

  • Avoid long-term tenant contracts

  • Keep your property in top condition

Common Questions We Hear from New Hosts

At Pass the Keys Cambridge, we regularly speak with local owners who are curious—but cautious—about getting started. Here are the questions we hear most:

“Will it really earn more than a long-term let?”
Yes—in many cases, short-term letting can increase income by 30–50% annually when properly managed.

“Do I need to live nearby or be available to guests?”
No—we handle everything, including guest communication, check-in, cleaning, linen and maintenance.

“What about damage or guest issues?”
We provide guest vetting, insurance guidance, and ongoing support to protect your property.

What Pass the Keys Cambridge Offers

As an official Airbnb co-host and one of the UK’s leading short-let management companies, Pass the Keys combines national expertise with local, Cambridge-based support.

We offer:

  • Free property income assessments

  • Listing creation with professional photography

  • Distribution across Airbnb, Booking.com, Vrbo and more

  • Dynamic pricing tools to maximise revenue

  • 24/7 guest communication and key management

  • Hotel-standard cleaning and linen service

  • Transparent owner dashboard for full visibility

From Newnham to Mill Road, Cherry Hinton to the city centre, our team understands what works in each area and will tailor your strategy accordingly.

Start Earning Without the Stress

Short-letting in Cambridge offers flexibility, increased earnings, and a smart way to make your property work for you. But managing it yourself? That’s a full-time job.

Let Pass the Keys Cambridge do the heavy lifting—so you can enjoy the benefits without the hassle.

👉 Book a free consultation today and discover how much your property could earn.

Pass the Keys Cambridge
Your Local Short-Let Experts www.passthekeys.com/cambridge