Here are some interesting facts about Bed & Breakfast properties based on the biannual Industry Study of Innkeeping Operations and Finance for 2008.
The study shows that the median occupancy for B&B’s held steady at 44% in 2008, after results of 44% in 2007, 38% in 2006 and 35% in 2005.  Overall, this four year increase (2005-2008) represents a net gain for the industry of about 20%.
The typical B&B provides a long list of amenities that are inclusive of the room rate. The report shows that 93% of B&B’s offer free high speed internet access in the common areas and rooms, and that the majority of B&B’s provide luxury bedding and linens, bath robes, premium toiletries, jetted tubs and televisions.  Most B&B’s still report hosting afternoon events for their guests, such as teas, wine tastings, etc.  The study provides that there was a slight decrease in the offering of common area services while there was an increase of in-room services.  More guests are opting to enjoy services privately in their room; innkeepers are happy to oblige as one of the nice features of staying at a B&B is that you can make the experience as social or as private as you like.
Some other interesting statistics from the study include:

• 72% of B&B’s are run by couples
• 79% of Innkeepers live on the premise
• The typical B&B has between 4 to 11 rooms, with 6 guest rooms or suites being the average
• The average B&B has been open for 15 years
• The average age of the oldest part of a B&B is 107
• 29% of B&B’s were in rural locations, 23% in urban, 5% in suburban, and 43% were in a village
• 94% of rooms have a private bath
• 36% have achieved a “historical distinction” by a local, state, or national historic preservation organization
• 5700 square feet is the average size for a B&B
• 93% offer free high speed wireless internet connection
• Most B&B’s provide the following in common areas: internet, magazines, hot/cold beverages, board games, fireplace, refrigerator, newspapers, telephone, cookies/cakes/candies/fruit, fresh flowers and televisions.
• Most B&B’s provide the following in the guest room: internet, television, luxury bed linens, premium brand toiletries, robes, fireplaces, magazines, and jetted tubs.

The 2009-2010 Industry Study was conducted in the spring of 2009 in partnership with Industry Insights, an independent professional research and consulting firm that specializes in conducting operating surveys, compensation studies, market assessment surveys, and other forms of customized research.  The study includes detailed information about the operations and financial performance of B&B’s segmented by size, type, region, and other factors. Copies of the study may be obtained by contacting the PAII office at 856-310-1102 or by visiting http://www.innkeeping.org.