If you’re a vacation rental owner looking to boost bookings and increase your revenue, one of the first questions that usually comes up is: Should I list on Airbnb or Vrbo? It’s a smart question—after all, these two platforms dominate the short-term rental space and each comes with its own strengths.
But here’s the thing: It’s not always about choosing one over the other. In many cases, the best strategy might just be… both.
Let’s dive into the key differences between Airbnb and Vrbo so you can decide what’s best for your property—or discover why you might not have to choose at all.
Airbnb vs. Vrbo: What Sets Them Apart
Airbnb has built a name for itself with its eclectic range of listings. Think shared spaces, tiny homes, and even off-grid treehouses. It’s become the go-to for younger travelers, budget-conscious adventurers, and digital nomads seeking one-of-a-kind experiences. With its modern app design, easy booking process, and global reach, it’s no surprise Airbnb has captured a massive user base.
Vrbo (short for Vacation Rentals by Owner), on the other hand, focuses exclusively on whole-home rentals. It’s a favorite for families, large groups, and travelers who value space, privacy, and often a more traditional vacation experience. The platform tends to attract those planning longer, higher-end stays—think full kitchens, backyards, and plenty of room to stretch out.
Who Gets More Eyes on Listings?
Airbnb leads the charge when it comes to sheer volume. Currently with over 150 million users and more than 7 million listings worldwide, it offers tremendous visibility. Vrbo sees fewer users—around 48 million monthly—and has approximately 2 million listings, but it makes up for it in other ways, including added exposure through the Expedia Group.”
In general, Airbnb tends to generate more short, frequent stays, while Vrbo often brings in guests who stay longer and spend more per night. So it’s not just about traffic—it’s about the type of traffic.
Understanding Your Guests
The platforms attract different audiences, which can impact the kind of guest experience you’re offering.
Airbnb travelers are often solo explorers, couples, or remote workers looking for convenience, character, and affordability. They’re drawn to charm and personality—maybe even a little quirk. On the other hand, Vrbo guests typically include families and larger groups who are seeking space and comfort. They’re often planning more traditional vacations and may prioritize things like multiple bedrooms, outdoor areas, and a quiet place to unwind.
Understanding who your rental is best suited for can help you decide where it belongs—or reinforce the idea that it deserves a place on both platforms.
How the Fees Stack Up
Airbnb charges hosts a service fee of about 3-5% per booking, while guests cover additional service and cleaning fees. It’s straightforward and widely accepted.
Vrbo offers two payment models: an 8% fee per booking or a flat annual subscription (around $599). For properties that book frequently, the flat fee can lead to savings over time. It’s a flexible setup, especially for owners with in-demand homes.
What’s the Booking Experience Like?
Both platforms aim to make the booking process seamless—but in slightly different ways.
Airbnb is known for its polished interface, instant booking feature, and a Superhost program that rewards top-performing hosts. That said, it also comes with more detailed guest expectations, including thorough cleaning requirements and sometimes lengthy house rules.
Vrbo tends to offer a simpler, more transparent experience, especially for guests. There are fewer surprise fees at checkout, and hosts often find the platform less demanding in terms of guest expectations and pre-arrival prep.
Which Platform Is Best for Your Rental?
It really depends on your property.
If you’re offering a cozy, affordable, or unique space—something with a bit of personality that’s perfect for quick stays—Airbnb might be your best bet. If your property is a family-friendly home with plenty of space, ideal for groups or extended vacations, Vrbo may attract more of your target guests.
But here’s the truth: You don’t actually have to pick just one.
At GoodNight Stay, we take the guesswork out of platform selection by doing it all for you. When you partner with us, your property is automatically listed not just on Airbnb and Vrbo, but on 350+ top booking sites, including Booking.com, Expedia, and Homes & Villas by Marriott.
And here’s an added bonus: our own direct booking website is one of our top-performing platforms. In Q1 of 2025, 10% of all bookings we received came through our website—ranking just behind Airbnb (57%) and Vrbo (20%). That means when you work with GoodNight Stay, you’re not only tapping into the biggest names in the business, but also gaining exclusive access to our powerful direct booking channel.
Our team handles everything from:
- Professional photography and design staging
- Smart pricing strategies and dynamic revenue management
- 24/7 guest communication and support
- Listing optimization and targeted marketing
That means you don’t have to worry about which platform will perform better—we make sure your property is getting maximum exposure and the best possible return, across every channel.
List With Goodnight Stay
Want to increase your bookings, improve your nightly rate, and save yourself the time and stress of managing it all? Partner with us and let our experts take your vacation rental to the next level. Reach out today and see how we can help grow your rental business—no matter which platform you thought was the right one.
