There is a growing trend of economical travelers opting to rent a room from a host’s home rather than checking into a traditional hotel. Vacation rental websites such as Airbnb make it easy for people to rent out and purchase lodging, and many Airbnb users claim it makes travel more affordable. But just how well do Airbnb’s prices stack up against the cost of booking a room at a hotel? We compared rates in popular tourist destinations around the U.S. for a family of four to stay three days and two nights on Memorial Day weekend. For each city, we compared locations with similar amenities and accommodations, and the listed prices were found on the same day for the same travel period.
Orlando
For a total of $143, a family of four could rent a private room at a home in Orlando for three days and two nights on Airbnb. The room has two comfy double beds, and the host provides a free breakfast and allows guests access to their kitchen to cook meals. This location has 50 reviews, with a spectacular average rating of 5 out of 5 stars.
A stay at Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham Orlando International Drive would run a family of four $256.28. This hotel includes a free buffet breakfast, a pool and fitness center. Many reviews say the hotel was at a great location, but that the rooms needed to be improved. It has an average user rating of 3.7 out of 5 stars.
New York City
Using Airbnb, you could enjoy a private room in a luxury apartment near Times Square for $482. Pets are allowed for an additional fee at the location, which has an average rating of 4 out of 5 stars. The host can accommodate a family of four with one double bed, one sofa bed and a floor mattress.
A two-night stay at the Roosevelt Hotel in New York City would cost a family of four $675.13. This hotel has a user rating of 3.5 stars. There are three restaurants inside the hotel for guests to visit.
Los Angeles
A beautiful private room at an apartment in downtown L.A. can host a family of four for $317 through Airbnb. The apartment includes a gym, pool and hot tub that offers swimmers a view of downtown L.A. Guest would have access to a kitchen stocked with utensils and ingredients for cooking. The rental has only two reviews on the site, and they both are positive.
Renaissance Los Angeles Airport Hotel has a 4 out of 5 star rating from visitors on Hotels.com. A stay here would run a family of four $312.98. This hotel includes an outdoor pool and fitness center.
Dallas
A stay in a large, charming guesthouse nestled on a quiet street in East Dallas would cost a family of four $280. Guests would have access to a full kitchen stocked with utensils, cookware, herbs and spices. Upstairs, there is a balcony and large deck.
SpringHill Suites by Marriott Dallas Addison would run a family of four $201.16. This hotel is rated 4.4 out of 5 stars by Hotels.com visitors, and includes an outdoors pool, fitness facilities and free continental breakfast.
