"There are more Airbnb hosts in the EU than anywhere else in the world.".
Airbnb expressed its support for the European Parliament's approval of the new EU regulations for short-term rentals, which will make the rules clearer, simpler, and easier to follow across the European Union (EU). The new framework will make it easier for authorities in each member state to access the necessary data on this activity and apply fair and proportionate regulations.
The new European rules mark a turning point for Airbnb and the industry, according to a statement from the platform, which explains that for the past two years it has led discussions and called for a community-wide approach to short-term rental rules that will help make regulations more consistent across the EU.
The statement explains that platforms and authorities will now have clearer guidelines on how to share data, and it will be easier for hosts to register and comply with the provided rules.
It highlights that Airbnb's priority now is to expand its collaboration with cities and governments in EU countries and regions, in order to provide support to families who act as hosts and help find solutions to local problems, such as the housing shortage.
“The EU rules mark the beginning of a new chapter for short-term rentals in Europe. For the first time, the roadmap is clear, which benefits hosts, authorities, and the European tourism offering for travelers. We are ready to work with Member States and local authorities on implementing the rules to ensure they are a success for everyone.” Georgina Browes, Director of EU Public Policy at Airbnb
Airbnb maintains that once the regulations come into force, authorities and platforms will have 24 months to comply with the new EU rules on short-term rentals. It adds that Airbnb is currently working with the European Union and member states to develop technical tools for the new data-sharing frameworks, with the aim of ensuring that these systems are as harmonized and efficient as possible for all stakeholders.
“Short-term rental hosts—like those on Airbnb—offer Europeans a flexible way to boost their income and an authentic way to travel with affordable options. They account for almost a quarter of all tourist accommodation in the EU, and there are more Airbnb hosts in the EU than anywhere else in the world. Last year, these hosts welcomed more guests from Europe than from any other region globally. In fact, the number of guests from Europe was almost ten times higher than that from North America,” the statement said.
He explains that the vast majority of hosts share a single listing and the typical EU host earned almost 4,000 euros in 2023.
For many hosts, the income they earn on Airbnb represents a financial lifeline:
- Nearly half of EU hosts (41%) said they offer Airbnb accommodations to make ends meet. Almost two-thirds (62%) said they plan to use their rental income to offset the rising cost of living.
- A third of the hosts (33%) indicated that they have increased their offering due to the current economic outlook.
- More than half of the hosts (54%) said they used the income to fund home improvements.
- More than half of the hosts (57%) shared their home while traveling for work or vacation, while around a quarter (24%) were looking to make the most of events taking place in their region.
- Nearly one-fifth of the hosts (18%) said they worked in the health and social care, education or public service sector, and 56% of the hosts claimed to be women.
