As the world’s largest accommodation provider, Airbnb is anticipating over 300 million guests this year, which in itself is a large number, but when you factor in the estimated 1.4 billion guests it has housed since its start, you can see how popular the booking platform has become.
So far in 2023, Airbnb guests have already booked rentals in over 72,00 cities and towns for stays this summer, with categories such as national parks, iconic cities, amazing pools, and beach houses seeing the biggest demand right now.
Despite its popularity worldwide, Airbnb can come with some drawbacks.
The company has recently seen a social media backlash with people complaining about high fees, unreasonable requests from hosts, and the lack of amenities compared to a hotel stay.
While Airbnb was once a much cheaper option than a traditional hotel stay, rising costs and demands have driven up prices, and nowadays, the average stay is comparable to the price of a mid-range hotel, often with fewer amenities and more rules.
Despite its downsides, Airbnb shows no signs of slowing down anytime soon, and the millions of users who stay in properties all over the world tend to remain loyal to them. The United States is the largest market for Airbnb users, and bookings are up across the board.
The following U.S. cities are the most sought-after Airbnb domestic destinations, according to user searches in the first quarter of 2023.
1. Louisville, Kentucky
Selected by Airbnb as the top trending destination in the U.S. this year, Louisville is having a moment with travelers.
Well known for hosting the Kentucky Derby, the city is growing in popularity among those who are looking for a lesser-known American city with unique attractions and great weather.
2. Laconia, New Hampshire
Popular for summer tourism, this quaint town in New Hampshire is well known for its proximity to the ever-popular Lake Winnipesaukee.
As one of the many great lake towns across the country to lounge around during the summer, Laconia is also home to the Laconia Motorcycle Week, which will celebrate its 100th anniversary this summer.
3. Lexington, Kentucky
The third most popular city in the United States for Airbnb this summer brings us back to the state of Kentucky. Lexington is popular with travelers due to its numerous breweries, restaurants, cafes, shopping areas, and other tourist attractions.
Lexington is also known as the horse capital of the world, and many flock here in the summer to watch races and purchase top-tier thoroughbreds at the horse sales which take place.
4. Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
While many associate this northeast city with football and factories, the reality is that Steel City has now become a major tourist attraction for many reasons.
Travel and Leisure magazine named it as one of its top 50 international destinations last year, and as the 4th most booked U.S. city on Airbnb for summer 2023, it seems people are eager to visit.
Perhaps many are coming for the city’s famous Picklefest or to take in a baseball game, but no matter the reason, Pittsburgh looks to have a busy summer travel season
5. Panama City, Florida
With over 27 miles of powdery white sand beaches to enjoy and a few state parks as well, Panama City offers loads of opportunities to get into nature this summer. Many lists have placed Panama City Beach as a top beach destination for the U.S., and Airbnb bookings are up for this hotspot.
While the sargassum might put a damper on any beach activities, don’t worry, as there are loads of other ways to spend your days here.
6. Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Back in early 2020, Milwaukee was named the world’s most up-and-coming destination by Airbnb. While that might not have happened as anticipated due to the pandemic, it seems the city might finally get its moment.
As one of the most German cities in America, Milwaukee is home to the largest German Fest in North America. With common nicknames such as German Athens, Cream City, and Brew Town, Milwaukee is winning people over with its charm.
To round off the top 10 most sought-after cities in the U.S. for Airbnb rentals, we have :
- 7. Surf City, New Jersey
- 8. Bolivar Peninsula, Texas
- 9. Kansas City, Missouri
- 10. North Topsail Beach, North Carolina