Airbnb and hotel prices have been compared ever since the app launched. In fact, one of Airbnb’s strongest selling points was offering accommodations at lower costs than hotel chains, but over time the balance shifted, until recently, when Reddit users began noticing the change. The new trend is that there are finally cities where renting through Airbnb is cheaper than hotels, and we’ll reveal them below!
Orlando and Kissimmee, Florida
The cities of Orlando and Kissimmee boast a large number of rental properties, among the largest in the United States. Around Disney, hotels face stiff competition from houses with kitchens, allowing families to cook there and save money on food at the parks. And as is common in many destinations, the longer your stay, the cheaper your Airbnb becomes compared to a hotel. Reddit user cwestpvb commented: “Airbnbs have much more space than hotels, buy in Orlando you have to drive 20 to 45 min because they are in less convenient locations further south of Disney.”
Gatlinburg, Tennessee
Travelers heading to Gatlinburg, Tennessee will likely want to visit the Smoky Mountains and part of that involves renting cabins located near them. These Airbnb cabins offer a much wider selection than hotels, plus a full kitchen that can save you money on meals and makes it easy to prepare food at any time. And the views from the cabin are simply incomparable to those from a hotel. Reddit user WRankin noted: “For the best price, use Airbnb and find the cabin you want and then Google the cabin name to find it, and then direct book through the property manager’s website.”
Pigeon Forge, Tennessee
The tourism generated by Gatlinburg extends to Pigeon Forge, where families gather and groups of friends rent houses instead of staying in hotels. These properties often feature game rooms and entertainment options, making them a valuable asset. And if you’re traveling in a group, the cleaning fee can be split, making it significantly cheaper. Reddit user osuguy2009 revealed: “I did a couple of searches and I saw a few Airbnb for around $120 per day before cleaning and the rest of fees.”
Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Given the amount of condos Airbnb manages, Myrtle Beach with its oceanfront location, can compete directly with hotels. After all, if you’re traveling with your family, having your own room, separate from the others and with a common area to divide people, is usually a plus. Reddit user HustlaOfCultcha revealed: “You have to understand the difference between Oceanfront and Oceanview. If you want a panoramic view of the ocean as you got out of the balcony… you want Oceanfront. Oceanview just means that there is ‘some’ view of the ocean from the room.”
Gulf Shores, Alabama
The comparison between condo rentals and resort properties is always a topic of conversation in Gulf Shores, Alabama. Having laundry facilities can tip the scales in favor of Airbnb, and if you’re traveling with more people, that extra space will also be appreciated. And since the competition among these rental properties is fierce, the customer benefits from lower prices. Reddit user Ejb0305 said: “Get the Airbnb app and look there for Gulf Shores houses, there are a lot you can rent and the hotel resorts are extremely expensive.”
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Outer Banks, North Carolina
In the Outer Banks region, vacation rentals are the most popular accommodation option. Many travelers rent them for the whole week, often on the beach, and the prices are very affordable when split between more than one person. A positive aspect of Airbnbs in the area is that they offer a better view of nature than hotels. Reddit user tdbeaner1 noted: “There are a few smaller houses but might be harder to find if you are committed to a specific week.”
Scottsdale, Arizona
Golf enthusiasts often travel to Scottsdale, Arizona, and when traveling in groups, they can find great deals on Airbnb. A room in the area cost between US$ 200 and $800 per night, while a hotel room can start around u$d 350, not counting the savings on food in the first case. Reddit user FayeMoon reveals: “Scottsdale law limits occupancy to 6 adults in Airbnb and occupancy violations will get police involved.”
Phoenix, Arizona
Travelers often compare vacation rentals to resort hotels, though it depends on whether or not they value extra room space when traveling to Phoenix, Arizona. The market offers a wide variety of accommodations in the area, and prices vary considerably. Reddit user JackOvall_MasterNum observed: “Most of the area is fairly commercial, but you can probably save some money by staying further or near the light rail map.”
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Branson, Missouri
In Branson, Missouri, people often choose Airbnb as an alternative because its houses are located within the city, not in a remote resort. These vacation rentals offer more freedom because it’s like having your own home; you can bring food to your room, unlike in hotels. Reddit user Branson_Knights commented about what surround the condos: “A gated community with private hiking trail and access to Lake Taneycomo for excellent trout fishing.”
Wisconsin Dells, Wisconsin
By renting an Airbnb in Wisconsin Dells, you can enjoy the company of your loved ones without having to deal with elevator noise, footsteps, and other guests’ conversations, as is common in hotels. In this city, you can easily spend a whole day in the water parks and then return to your rental without any hassle. Reddit user redline_blueline suggested that the best option to stay there is: “In a condo or villa-style rooms at the wilderness. With full kitchen and laundry.”
Destin, Florida
Reddit user RareSwimming suggested that “If you are renting for a group of people, Airbnb is all in, but if not, you could check Henderson Park Inn or Hilton” when you’re planning to stay in Destin, Florida. But since Destin has one of the largest condominium collections on the Gulf Coast, you’ll likely find a good deal on Airbnb from the competition. And if you’re planning a week-long stay, rather than just a few days, these rental homes are also to your advantage.
Traverse City, Michigan
Cabin rentals are especially appealing when you arrive in Traverse City, Michigan. You can find properties overlooking the lake, as well as more luxurious homes farther north. If you’re traveling with family, you’ll save money by not having to spend on eating out because of the kitchen in the rental. Reddit user vwulfermi commented: “They have heated outdoor pool with cabanas, indoor pool with sauna and hot tub. Plus walkable to downtown and on the bay.”
San Antonio, Texas
The price of hotels in San Antonio is often undercut by vacation rentals, and compared to hotels, the inventory they leave available in these properties has increased, so travelers value them more. Reddit user No-Okra-8332 revealed: “The Pearl region in San Antonio is great! But hotels are expensive, maybe look for an Airbnb. La Cantera or The Rim are also good options with shopping and restaurants.”
Puerto Rico
Throughout the hotel grounds, you’ll find villa rentals and apartments, which are a favorite among families. In these areas, you can have direct contact with locals and people from the region, unlike in a hotel where everyone is a tourist. Competition is high in many of Puerto Rico’s tourist areas, so you can find affordable prices by venturing beyond the traditional options. Reddit user TravelingTexan91 commented: “I was quite surprised to find out that typical hotel chains often run US$400 night on average and Airbnb’s closer to $200 per night.”
Lake Tahoe, California / Nevada
One of the destinations that groups of friends often choose is Lake Tahoe for skiing, hiking or enjoying water activities. Those houses with lake views offer unforgettable experiences that hotels simply can’t match. Reddit user Madfish2021 noted: “You can rent an Airbnb that is not within 1/4 mile of a ski resort or a beach, but the locals are going to hate you if you make much noise because these properties are located in residential neighborhoods.”
Bigger Picture / Why It Matters
This new advantage that Airbnb is regaining is appearing in less sought-after destinations, thus expanding the market with more cabins, condos, and vacation spots, which translates to better prices for customers. This app works best in places where rental properties are a popular vacation option for tourists. Airbnb is very valuable; it offers you a place to stay at the beach, in the mountains, whether you’re traveling alone or with your family.
