Airbnb half a billion benefits in UK

Generates £502 Million in Economic Activity supports 11,629 Jobs, Helps Residents Meet Cost of Living Challenges in UK

Airbnb, today released a new study highlighting the disruptive innovation’s community’s positive economic impact in the United Kingdom. The study found that Airbnb generated £502 million in economic activity in the UK in one year and supported 11,629 jobs.

"Airbnb is creating a door to an open world and bringing tourists to neighbourhoods they might have missed," said Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky. "With Airbnb, more people are earning the extra money they need to pay their bills or pursue their dreams."

The study found that 80 percent of Airbnb hosts in the UK rent out the home they live in — their primary residence — and use the money they earn to help afford the increasing costs of living.  63 percent of hosts said that their Airbnb income helped them pay bills they would otherwise struggle to pay, 53 percent use their Airbnb income to pay their energy bills, and 44 percent said that this income helped them afford to stay in their homes.

Hosting also helps UK residents to pursue innovative careers and non-traditional forms of work. The study found that 42 percent of hosts are self-employed, freelancers or part-time workers.

Airbnb attracts new travellers who are seeking authentic, local experiences in cities throughout the UK with 85 percent of Airbnb guests wanting to "live like locals." Additionally, Airbnb guests spend more time and money in the UK than typical visitors. Airbnb guests stay on average 4.6 nights, compared to 3.1 nights for typical visitors to the UK, and spend twice as much over the course of their trips.

"This study shows that Airbnb guests stay longer, spend more, and explore new neighbourhoods," said economist Dr. Margarethe Theseira. "This undoubtedly has a positive impact on cities and residents across the UK." 

Highlights from the study include:

• The typical host earns £2,822 per year
• Airbnb guests stay on average 4.6 nights (compared to 3.1 for typical visitors to the UK) and spend twice as much over the course of their trips (£911 compared to £434 for the average visitor).
• 42% of hosts are self-employed or part-time workers
• Airbnb appeals to a new segment of travellers seeking authentic and personal experiences. 85 percent of Airbnb guests want to "live like locals."
• Guests stay in traditionally less visited towns and neighbourhoods and  support the local businesses there.

Valere Tjolle

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