Big Bucks For MA Airbnb Renters In 2019

BOSTON — Over just 15 days in 2019, Airbnb hosts in Massachusetts had more than 194,000 guests stay at their properties and earned more than $25 million, according to data recently released by Airbnb.

All of those guests and revenue came during five three-day weekends, according to Airbnb: the last two weekends in July and the first three weekends of August.

"2019 continued to demonstrate the positive impact of our short-term rental community across the Bay State — from millions of dollars in the pockets of the local residents who share their home, to hundreds of thousands of visitors driving dollars into small businesses across all wards, to new tax revenue," said Kelley Gosset, head of Massachusetts Public Policy for Airbnb, in a statement.

"But these top weekends reveal another benefit of this expanded tourism economy, by helping to meet peak demand for accommodations when needed," Gosset said. "As we dive into this new year, we hope to continue demonstrating to officials statewide the significant value of short-term rentals, as we work together to implement new regulations and make our hosts aware of their roles and responsibilities."

During 2019, Suffolk County renters had the most guests, with 448,400, and also made $100.9 million, the most of all the state's counties. Every Massachusetts county saw at least $1.7 million come in from its Airbnbs.

See how much renters in your county made in 2019's peak season below:

Airbnb also says that rentals have big impacts on the communities, too. According to Airbnb surveys, many hosts recommend local restaurants, businesses and attractions to their guests. In Boston alone, Airbnb guests spent an estimated $87 million at restaurants and cafes in 2019, up from $77 million in 2018.

Airbnb has been facing backlash, however, from municipalities across the country, including here in Massachusetts. Some communities like Salem have regulated short-term rentals by limiting them to certain zoning areas and requiring homeowners to register them. Beacon Hill has also passed regulations that tax short-term housing units. The bill was signed by Gov. Charlie Baker in December 2018.