Airbnb
6 comparisons available
About Airbnb
Airbnb Inc. is a global online marketplace for short-term rentals, homestays, and unique accommodations, founded in 2008 by Brian Chesky, Joe Gebbia, and Nathan Blecharczyk and headquartered in San Francisco. Airbnb lists 7.7 million+ active listings across 220+ countries and regions — from city apartments to treehouses, castles, and yurts — providing more variety than any hotel chain. Airbnb went public in December 2020 (NASDAQ: ABNB) in one of the largest tech IPOs of the year. In 2023, Airbnb hosted 448 million guest arrivals and generated $9.9 billion in revenue with $4.8 billion in net income (51% net margin). The platform charges guests a service fee (typically 14-16%) and hosts a commission (3%). Airbnb Rooms (shared spaces) and Airbnb Experiences (local activities hosted by locals) diversify the product. The company recovered strongly from the COVID-19 pandemic, driven by 'work-from-anywhere' and longer-stay trends.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Airbnb cheaper than hotels?
It depends heavily on destination, travel group size, and length of stay. Airbnb is often cheaper for groups of 4+ and longer stays (the per-night cost drops). Cleaning fees ($50-$200+) and service fees (14-16%) inflate short stays — a 1-night Airbnb can be more expensive than a hotel. For solo travelers or 1-2 nights, hotels often win on price and convenience. For families, groups, or stays of 4+ nights, Airbnb's larger spaces and kitchen facilities often provide better value.
Airbnb vs VRBO: what's the difference?
VRBO (Vacation Rental By Owner) lists only entire homes — no shared spaces, no room rentals. Airbnb lists everything: entire homes, private rooms, shared rooms. VRBO is better for traditional vacation rental homes (beach houses, cabins, ski chalets) and skews toward families. Airbnb has more urban inventory and unique stays. VRBO's guest fee (~12%) is comparable to Airbnb's (~14-16%). For urban trips: Airbnb wins on selection. For vacation home rentals: VRBO is often comparable or better.