Is it Cheaper to Live in a Hotel or an Airbnb?

When Airbnb and Vrbo first came on the scene, they were a game-changer. People could rent rooms in other people’s homes and have more space and a local experience than staying in a hotel. Now, though, it seems like hotels are regaining popularity. This is likely because Airbnb prices have been rising, and owners are charging higher fees for cleaning and rental rates to help them break even. Whether an Airbnb or hotel is cheaper depends on what’s most important to you and your travel and living needs.

A hotel is usually cheaper than an Airbnb if you’re traveling with children. Families with kids may prefer a room that has a separate space for sleeping and playing versus sharing a room. This option also offers a full kitchen and laundry, so you can save money by cooking your own meals instead of dining out every night. Some hotels also offer perks for families, like free breakfast or activities and kids’ clubs.

What’s more, some cities place restrictions on Airbnb cheaper to live in a hotel or airbnb? rentals, which can drive up prices and make it more difficult to find a good deal. And if you’re looking to book a stay during high season, it may be better to book a hotel because the best Airbnbs tend to go quickly.

Airbnbs have different amenities than hotels, such as a full kitchen and laundry facilities. This makes them a more affordable option if you plan to cook meals in your home, and it’s easy to add on extra amenities like towels and linens when you book.

The downside is that Airbnbs can feel spartan and impersonal. Some have limited furniture, no TVs or other entertainment options, and a lack of personal touches and decor. However, some have backyards or patios, spacious bathrooms, and modern kitchens. They also tend to have more flexible check-in and checkout times than hotels.

It’s worth noting that Airbnb pricing has been creeping toward or above hotel prices, and a NerdWallet analysis found that hotel stays are often the better option for travelers. The analysis compared Airbnb prices to those of hotels in the same locations and class of accommodations, looking at both short-term stays and long-term rentals.

In some cases, an Airbnb is still cheaper than a hotel — for example, when you’re visiting Amsterdam or London, a hotel will cost you $82 and $74 less on average, respectively, than a one-bedroom Airbnb rental in the same area. The analysis also factored in booking fees, taxes, and cleaning charges to determine which option was cheapest. You can view the results of NerdWallet’s analysis here.