The average rating for U.S. homes on Airbnb, excluding room rentals, was 4.74 stars in 2022, with nearly identical or identical averages in 2021 and 2019, according to AirDNA data. Hosts are facing more competition for bookings because Airbnb has added more properties for rent, and as a result hosts say their ratings matter more to set them apart. Some hosts are experiencing what they’ve named an “Airbnbust,” or a drop-off in bookings due to the jump in short-term rental properties. Adding to the pressure is the Airbnb algorithm that determines which property comes up during a guest’s search. Superhosts who have an overall average of at least 4.8 stars, among other factors, typically earn more than regular hosts.
Wall Street Journal (02/23/23) Allison Pohl