Why “be an Airbnb host in the United States” is a profitable opportunity and how to list your property (“how to list your property on Airbnb”) like a pro
When you first think about opening the doors of your home to travelers, it’s natural to feel a mix of excitement and uncertainty. In the last decade, however, millions of property owners across the globe have turned their extra bedrooms and vacation homes into income‑generating assets through Airbnb. Data from 2024 show that the platform supported eight million active listings worldwide and about five million hosts, with U.S. hosts earning roughly $14,000 per year on average.
Airbnb’s reach is immense: guests booked 491 million stays in 2024 alone, and hosts collectively earned more than $180 billion. For entrepreneurs, families or retirees looking to supplement their income, being a host in the United States offers both financial rewards and the pleasure of sharing your space with people from around the world.
In this comprehensive guide you’ll learn everything you need to know about being an Airbnb host in the U.S. We’ll cover earnings potential, the most lucrative states and cities, the costs and regulations you must be aware of, strategies for optimizing your listings, and how Guestfier’s tools can help you maximize your profits. To make the most of this article, sign up as a host here and start your journey toward hospitality success. Whether you’re curious about be an Airbnb host in the United States or want to know how to list your property on Airbnb for the first time, this post will equip you with data‑driven insights and actionable advice.
Why Become an Airbnb Host in the United States?
Growing market and strong demand
Airbnb has moved from a fringe idea into a mainstream part of the hospitality industry. According to iPropertyManagement’s 2025 research, Airbnb’s revenue topped $11.1 billion in 2024, and the average daily rate (ADR) for U.S. listings was $158. The average host earned around $14,000 per year, and hosts have collectively earned over $180 billion. These numbers underscore the economic potential of the platform for part‑time or full‑time hosts.
Beyond the national averages, the opportunity to earn varies widely by location and type of property. For example, listing a private room typically brings in about $203 per night, whereas renting out an entire unit for up to four guests averages $305 per night. Occupancy rates and daily rates differ dramatically by city, which we’ll explore later, but overall demand for short‑term rentals remains strong; 45 % of Airbnb bookings are at least a week long, and nearly 58 % of bookings occur via the mobile app. With over 275 million estimated users worldwide, the platform provides an enormous marketplace for hosts.
Flexible income and lifestyle benefits
Being an Airbnb host is not just about money; it’s also about flexibility. More than 60 % of U.S. hosts report renting out their primary residence while they’re on vacation, effectively monetizing a space that would otherwise sit empty. Seniors are one of the fastest‑growing host demographics—over 400,000 senior hosts now leverage Airbnb to supplement retirement income. Women make up 56 % of hosts and have earned billions collectively, demonstrating that the platform empowers a diverse group of people. Even families are getting in on the action; families book about 20 % of nights, and the platform’s “AirCover” insurance program provides up to $3 million in coverage for hosts.
Immediate start—use our referral link
The barriers to entry are low. Whether you own your home, rent an apartment (subject to landlord approval) or possess a vacation property, listing on Airbnb can be done in minutes. You’ll discover how to create an attractive listing later in this guide, but if you’re ready to jump in right away, click our referral link to sign up. Not only will you earn potential bonuses, but you’ll also join a supportive community of hosts and get immediate access to Airbnb’s resources and protections.
Understanding the Airbnb Market: Hosts and Guests
Host demographics and superhosts
Airbnb’s community is diverse, but a few trends stand out. Globally, 56 % of hosts are women, and in the U.S. women have earned more than $4 billion collectively. Seniors represent one of the fastest‑growing groups of hostsipropertymanagement.com, reflecting how retirees are using the platform to bolster their income.
If you aim to maximize earnings, strive to become a Superhost. The Superhost program rewards hosts with outstanding service. According to iPropertyManagement, there are one million Superhosts worldwide, and they earn 64 % more than regular hosts. About 34 % of U.S. hosts are Superhosts. To qualify, you must maintain at least a 4.8 rating, host 10 or more stays per year, keep cancellation rates below 1 %, and respond to 90 % of messages within 24 hours. Other sources estimate the advantage at 29 % higher earnings. Either way, Superhost status significantly boosts your visibility and revenue because guests book about 12 % more nights with Superhosts year over year.
Guest demographics and travel patterns
Understanding who stays in Airbnbs helps you tailor your listing. Research shows that 54 % of guests are female and 36 % are between 25 and 34 years old. Guests choose Airbnb because they want to “live like locals” (77 %) and find the locations more convenient than hotels (86 %). The average booking window is about 33 days, and many stays are extended: 45 % of bookings are at least one week long. These statistics suggest that appealing to millennials, remote workers and families seeking longer stays can increase your occupancy.
Income Potential: Where the Money Is
National averages and the earnings ladder
Across the United States, the average host earns around $13,800 to $14,000 a year. Earnings have risen roughly 43.8 % since 2021 and 85 % since 2019, reflecting both increased demand and rising ADRs. For hosts renting private rooms, the average nightly rate is about $203, while an entire unit can command $305 per night. Large homes and unique properties such as tiny houses and lakefront cabins command even higher rates.
However, averages only tell part of the story. If you live or invest in the right location, your potential income is far higher. A 2025 study summarized by Thrillist shows that U.S. hosts are among the world’s highest earners, with average annual earnings of $44,235. The same report lists the top ten states and cities for Airbnb revenue, highlighting a sharp difference between high‑performing markets and national averages.
Top states for Airbnb earnings
Below is a table summarizing the ten most profitable states for Airbnb hosts, based on the Tipalti study cited by Thrillist. It compares average annual host earnings in 2024 and demonstrates the wide geographical spread of lucrative markets.
| Rank | State | Average annual host earnings (US$) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Hawaii | $73,247 |
| 2 | Tennessee | $67,510 |
| 3 | Arizona | $60,448 |
| 4 | Colorado | $58,108 |
| 5 | California | $54,461 |
| 6 | Florida | $53,209 |
| 7 | South Carolina | $49,641 |
| 8 | Utah | $48,568 |
| 9 | Oregon | $42,964 |
| 10 | Alabama | $41,937 |
These figures show that coastal and mountain states with strong tourism appeal yield the highest returns. For example, Hawaii’s tropical climate and year‑round tourism drive nightly rates and occupancy to extremes. Southern states like Tennessee and Alabama benefit from lower housing costs and booming music and sports tourism. Meanwhile, Western states such as Arizona and Utah attract visitors to national parks, ski resorts and cultural hotspots.
Top cities by earnings and demand
The same study points out the cities where individual hosts earn the most. The top performers include vacation‑hotspot cities and conference hubs.
| Rank | City and state | Average annual host earnings (US$) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | San Diego, CA | $77,990 |
| 2 | Austin, TX | $72,241 |
| 3 | Kissimmee, FL | $70,539 |
| 4 | San Francisco, CA | $69,382 (approx., based on high ADR) |
| 5 | Nashville, TN | $67,510 (state-level figure) |
San Diego and Austin top the list because of strong conference business, high tourist demand and limited hotel supply. Kissimmee, located near Walt Disney World, draws families year‑round. San Francisco commands one of the highest average nightly rates—about $394 per —reflecting high demand and limited housing stock. Note that cities such as Kissimmee and Miami also top the list of most active Airbnb markets by number of listings, signifying both large supply and strong demand.
Nightly rates, occupancy and revenue by city
Beyond these headline numbers, a deeper look at nightly rates and occupancy can help you choose a market or set expectations. A 2024 analysis of 25 U.S. cities by Rabbu (via Hospitable) shows the range of prices and occupancy rates. Here are some highlights:
- Highest average nightly rates: Luxury vacation destinations command sky‑high prices. Westhampton Beach, NY ($2,575), Amagansett, NY ($2,501) and Ocean Beach, NY ($2,224) top the list. These are exclusive seaside communities where large homes cater to affluent travelers.
- Highest occupancy rates: Hawaiian towns lead, with Hanalei (69 %), Kahuku (68 %) and Koloa (66 %). These markets enjoy year‑round tourism and limited hotel supply.
- Highest monthly revenue: Again, Hawaii and ski towns dominate: Hanalei, HI ($25,624 per month), Snowmass Village, CO ($21,920) and Nantucket, MA ($21,467).
Understanding these figures can guide your investment strategy. Some hosts choose high‑ADR markets to maximize revenue from fewer bookings; others prefer moderate rates with high occupancy for more consistent cash flow. Regardless of location, hosts who respond quickly, maintain excellent reviews and provide thoughtful amenities consistently outperform the averages.
Taxes, Fees and Regulatory Obligations
Federal taxation and reporting
As a U.S. host, you must report your Airbnb income to the IRS. The tax rules are straightforward but vary based on your level of involvement. The IRS requires platforms like Airbnb to issue a Form 1099‑K to hosts when payments exceed $5,000 in 2024, a threshold that drops to $2,500 in 2025 and $600 in 2026. Even if you do not receive a form, all rental income must be reported.
Another key rule is the 14‑day exception: if you rent out your property for fewer than 14 days in a year and personally use it for at least 14 days or 10 % of the days it’s rented (whichever is greater), the income is tax‑free. This exception benefits hosts who occasionally rent a vacation home and do not treat the rental as a business.
When you host more regularly, the IRS distinguishes between passive and active income:
- Schedule E (Supplemental Income): If you provide only basic services—such as cleaning between guests—and do not offer significant amenities like meals or daily housekeeping, your income is considered passive rental income reported on Schedule E. You will pay federal income tax but not self‑employment tax.
- Schedule C (Business Income): If you actively manage the property as a business—offering breakfast, tours or concierge services—and have frequent turnover, your income is reported on Schedule C. This income is subject to self‑employment tax in addition to income tax.
Understanding this distinction can save you money and ensure compliance. In general, occasional hosts who provide minimal services file Schedule E, while more active operators file Schedule C. Regardless of which schedule applies, keep detailed records of all income and expenses and consult a tax professional.
Tourism and occupancy taxes
Hosts must also collect and remit state and local taxes. Since 2014, Airbnb has collected $13.5 billion in tourism taxes worldwide, with $2.4 billion collected in the U.S. and Canada in 2024 alone. Individual states see significant revenue: Florida hosts generated $410 million, California $221 million, Arizona $92 million, and Georgia $109 million. These figures underscore how hosting contributes to local services and infrastructure.
In many jurisdictions, Airbnb automatically collects and remits occupancy taxes. However, in some areas you are responsible for registering with the local tax authority and submitting payments. Regulations vary widely. For example, New York City’s Local Law 18 restricts short‑term rentals to stays longer than 30 days and requires hosts to register with the city. Boston, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Portland also impose strict licensing requirements. Always check your city’s rules to avoid fines or penalties. Later in this article, we’ll provide a checklist for navigating these regulations.
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Navigating local regulations
The short‑term rental boom has prompted many cities to pass legislation aimed at balancing tourism with housing availability. Although regulations differ by municipality, common themes include registration, primary residence requirements and stay duration limits:
- New York City: Hosts must register with the city and are generally limited to renting their primary residence for stays of 30 days or longer; they must also be present during the stay.
- Boston, MA: Rentals under 28 days require a short‑term rental operator license and a business certificate; hosts must notify neighbors.
- Los Angeles, CA: Only primary residences where hosts live at least six months of the year may be rented, and hosts are limited to 120 days per year of short‑term rentals.
- Portland, OR: Hosts must live in the home for at least 270 days per year and obtain a permit.
Rules change frequently, so consult your city’s government website or Airbnb’s regulation portal. In general, compliance involves verifying that your home meets safety standards (e.g., smoke detectors), applying for a local license, posting your registration number on your listing and collecting taxes where required. Many hosts hire professional property managers or use platforms like Guestfier to stay on top of changing requirements.
Becoming a Superhost: Standards and Benefits
Steps to achieve Superhost status
- Maintain a high rating. Superhosts must uphold an average rating of at least 4.8 out of 5 over the past year.
- Host at least 10 stays or have 100 nights with at least 3 reservations. This shows Airbnb that you provide consistent service.
- Minimize cancellations. Your cancellation rate should be below 1 %, unless extenuating circumstances apply.
- Respond quickly. Superhosts reply to 90 % of booking inquiries within 24 hours.
Rewards of being a Superhost
- Higher earnings: Superhosts earn 29 %–64 % more than regular hosts, depending on the source.
- Greater visibility: Listings receive a prominent badge and ranking boost, resulting in more bookings.
- Exclusive perks: Airbnb offers travel coupons, priority customer support and early access to new features.
If you’re striving to be a Superhost, tools like Guestfier can automate guest communication, track response times and manage reviews, making it easier to meet Airbnb’s performance metrics.
How to Get Started on Airbnb
Embarking on your hosting journey is straightforward. Follow the steps below to create a compelling listing and start accepting guests.
- Research local regulations and HOA rules. Before listing, verify that short‑term rentals are legal in your area and permitted by your homeowners association or landlord. This early step avoids fines or evictions later.
- Prepare your space. Clean thoroughly, declutter and make necessary repairs. Think about which amenities will appeal to your target guests—fast Wi‑Fi, a dedicated workspace, a fully equipped kitchen or child‑friendly items.
- Create an Airbnb account. Use our referral link to sign up. The site will guide you through identity verification and tax information collection.
- Craft your listing. Write an engaging title and description emphasizing unique features. Use keywords like “cozy two‑bedroom near downtown” instead of generic phrases. Incorporate the Portuguese keywords “be an Airbnb host in the United States” and “how to list your property on Airbnb” naturally in your description to capture bilingual search traffic.
- Upload high‑quality photos. Good photos drive clicks and bookings. Shoot during daylight and show all rooms. Consider hiring a professional photographer or using Airbnb’s photography program.
- Set pricing and availability. Use Airbnb’s Smart Pricing tool as a starting point, but also research comparable listings in your area. Adjust prices for weekends, holidays and peak seasons based on occupancy data (e.g., summer peaks in Fort Collins or Seattle).
- Establish house rules and expectations. Be clear about check‑in times, smoking policies, pet rules and quiet hours. Clear communication reduces misunderstandings and negative reviews.
- Publish and promote. Once your listing is live, share it on social media and network with friends and colleagues. Consider offering a first‑guest discount to attract initial bookings and reviews.
- Deliver a great experience. Provide thoughtful touches like local guides, snacks or welcome notes. Use Guestfier to automate check‑in messages, answer common questions and offer upsells such as airport transfers or early check‑in.
Optimizing Your Listing and Maximizing Earnings
Pricing strategies
Dynamic pricing is crucial for maximizing income. Demand fluctuates due to holidays, events and seasonal trends. For example, Fort Collins and Seattle experience peak occupancy in July, while ski towns like Snowmass Village peak during winter. Tools like Airbnb’s Smart Pricing and third‑party platforms can adjust your rates automatically. When just starting, monitor competitor listings within a three‑mile radius to identify pricing bands. Offer discounts for longer stays and early bookings to increase occupancy.
Enhancing your listing’s appeal
- Professional photos and staging: High‑resolution images with proper lighting can dramatically increase click‑through rate. Stage your space with fresh flowers or decorative pillows to create a welcoming vibe.
- Amenities and unique features: Travelers love unique experiences. Offer extras like bicycles, board games, premium coffee or streaming subscriptions. According to iPropertyManagement, unique categories such as treehouses and tiny homes have thousands of listings and high demand.
- Responsive communication: Quick replies improve your search ranking and guest satisfaction. Use automated messaging to provide instant responses and personalized instructions.
- Encourage reviews: After a successful stay, ask guests to leave a review. Positive reviews boost your listing’s credibility and help you achieve Superhost status.
Diversify revenue streams through upselling
Beyond nightly rates, you can increase revenue by offering add‑on services. Examples include paid early check‑in/late check‑out, airport transfers, welcome baskets, tours or breakfast packages. Guestfier’s upselling tools allow you to present these options during and after booking, capturing extra revenue while enhancing guest experience.
Managing occupancy and minimizing gaps
Use a calendar management tool (such as Guestfier or Airbnb’s built‑in features) to avoid double bookings and optimize gaps between reservations. Consider adjusting your minimum‑stay requirements; for example, lowering the minimum stay during slow seasons can fill gaps, while increasing it during peak demand reduces turnover costs. Monitor occupancy data—cities like Seattle (76 % in July) and Boston (81 % in September) have predictable high seasons—and adjust your strategy accordingly.
Guestfier: Your Partner in Maximizing Profits
Guestfier is a suite of tools designed to help Airbnb hosts streamline operations, improve guest satisfaction and boost revenue. Here’s how it can transform your hosting business:
Guest management
Guestfier centralizes communication, allowing you to automate check‑in instructions, respond to common questions and schedule messages such as welcome notes and checkout reminders. This ensures you meet Airbnb’s 90 % response time requirement for Superhosts and enhances guest satisfaction. By providing a consistent, professional touchpoint, you reduce the likelihood of misunderstandings and negative reviews.
Upselling platform
Guestfier’s upselling module lets you offer premium add‑ons like late check‑out, guided tours or spa packages. These extras are presented to guests at strategic times, increasing uptake and boosting your revenue without altering your nightly rate. In high‑earning markets—where monthly revenues can exceed $25,000—these add‑ons can be significant.
Reservation and pricing optimization
Guestfier integrates with your Airbnb calendar to manage pricing dynamically. By analyzing market data and occupancy trends (for instance, the high ADR of $392 in San Francisco or the moderate $292 in Los Angeles), it recommends adjustments that keep your rates competitive. It also syncs with multiple booking platforms, ensuring your calendar is always up to date and helping you avoid double bookings.
Tax and compliance tools
With constantly changing regulations and tax thresholds—such as the declining Form 1099‑K limits and city‑level licensing rules—Guestfier offers reminders and record‑keeping features to stay compliant. Proper documentation helps you file the right tax forms (Schedule E or Schedule C) and leverage deductions for expenses like cleaning, repairs and utilities.
By combining these features, Guestfier acts as your personal assistant, saving time and enabling you to focus on creating memorable experiences for guests.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much can I earn as an Airbnb host in the U.S.?
Earnings vary widely by location, property type, and effort. Nationally, hosts earn around $13,800–$14,000 per year. Top‑earning hosts in Hawaii and California can make $70,000+ annually, and luxury properties in exclusive markets generate $20,000+ per month.
Do I need to pay taxes on my Airbnb income?
Yes. Airbnb will issue a Form 1099‑K if your total payments exceed the threshold ($5,000 in 2024, $2,500 in 2025 and $600 in 2026). Even if you don’t receive a form, you must report all rental income. You may be eligible for the 14‑day rule if you rent fewer than 14 days a year.
How do I become a Superhost?
Maintain an overall rating of 4.8 or higher, host at least 10 stays annually, keep cancellations below 1 % and respond to 90 % of messages within 24 hours.
What are the main costs of hosting?
Expect to pay for cleaning, utilities, supplies (linens, toiletries), maintenance, insurance and platform service fees. Airbnb typically charges a 3 % host service fee. Additional costs include local licenses, occupancy taxes and potential property management fees if you hire help.
Can I host if I rent my home?
Many renters successfully host on Airbnb, but you must obtain landlord permission and ensure your lease allows subletting. You’re still responsible for taxes and compliance with local laws.
Conclusion: Start Your Airbnb Journey Today
Becoming an Airbnb host in the United States is a rewarding way to generate income, meet people from around the world and participate in a community built on hospitality. With millions of guests seeking authentic experiences and flexible accommodations, now is the perfect time to explore be an Airbnb host in the United States. By understanding market trends, choosing the right location, optimizing your pricing and offering excellent service, you can significantly surpass the national average earnings of $14,000.
As you embark on this journey, remember that success requires more than listing your property. You must manage taxes and regulations, adapt to market changes and continuously refine your guest experience. Tools like Guestfier make these tasks easier by automating communication, pricing and upselling, helping you stand out and achieve Superhost status.
Ready to turn your extra space into a profitable venture? Take the first step today by registering on Airbnb using our referral link . Then explore Guestfier’s solutions to maximize your bookings and revenue. With the right approach and support, your property could soon be one of the next success stories in America’s booming short‑term rental market.
