Everything to Know About the Airbnb Search Algorithm

Understanding the Airbnb algorithm is crucial if you're an Airbnb host looking to rank higher in search results and generate more bookings. In this article, we explain how the Airbnb algorithm works, factors affecting your listing's visibility and actionable strategies for improving your search ranking and maximizing revenue.

What is the Airbnb Search Algorithm?

The Airbnb algorithm determines which listings appear in search results based on a guest's search criteria. Its goal is to show the best matches to potential guests by evaluating multiple data points like quality, popularity and pricing.

What is Airbnb SEO?

SEO is search engine optimization. And Airbnb SEO refers to optimizing your listing page to appear higher in Airbnb search results.

Just like with search engines such as Google, Airbnb hosts can use search algorithm best practices to attract guests, secure more bookings and stay competitive in the hospitality industry.

Why is Airbnb SEO Important?

It is a rare user who will search through pages and pages of search results. On Google, 75% of people never venture beyond the first page of search results. Similarly, most guests on Airbnb will scroll through the first and maybe the next few pages of results before making their decision.

With more guests using mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets for trip planning and even booking, ranking higher up the results matters even more.

With over 8 million active listings, it’s more critical than ever to stand out. Without strong Airbnb SEO, your rental property can easily get buried beneath similar listings.

How Does Airbnb Algorithm Work?

You might wonder, how does the Airbnb algorithm work exactly? Airbnb considers multiple factors to match guest inquiries with the most relevant listings. The Airbnb algorithm also encourages variety within the results so potential guests are presented with different hosts and characteristics and a range of prices.

The factors that have the largest impact on Airbnb search results are:

Quality

Airbnb uses multiple characteristics to determine quality. Having high-quality photos, detailed listing descriptions including characteristics and amenities, high ratings and positive reviews, customer service and information on cancellations will all contribute to enhancing your listing score.

Popularity

The Airbnb algorithm assesses popularity using a wide range of data points, from guest engagement with the listing such as how often it is saved to their wishlist, booking frequency and how often a guest messages a host.

The more popular a listing is evaluated to be the higher it ranks in search.

Price

To gauge how attractive the price of a listing is, the Airbnb algorithm uses a range of price data. This includes the total price and its competitiveness — i.e. how it compares to other listings in the area with similar amenities and guest capacities on the given date.

More competitively priced vacation rentals will rank higher in search.

Location

Location is a key factor for any potential guest and has a large impact on how a listing appears in search results.

Airbnb properties that are located in places where guests prefer to stay will rank higher. For example, a short-term rental that is located close to a popular landmark or experience.

Variety

The Airbnb algorithm intentionally diversifies search results to avoid showing only similar listings.

What are the Factors that Influence Airbnb Search Ranking?

Some of the factors that affect search ranking have been disclosed by Airbnb. Others have been deduced by experienced hosts and external analysts. And some factors are out a host’s control, but many are not.

By qualifying for and doing better on as many factors as possible, you can increase the visibility of your listing on search.

Response rate

Airbnb defines response rate as the percentage of new inquiries and reservation requests that a host of one listing responds to within 24 hours. The response rate is calculated for the past 30 days.

Responses include accepting or declining booking requests and replying to new inquiries from guests. Responses made 24 hours after first receiving an inquiry are considered to be late responses, whether or not you have seen them.

Respond to reservation requests and other inquiries quickly to provide a great guest experience. You don't have to hire a new staff member, simply use automated messaging with an al-in-one vacation rental software like Hostaway to manage your guest communication in a timely and proactive fashion.

Reviews & ratings

Guest reviews are an important factor for ranking high in search results.

Providing an amazing guest experience every time is crucial to ensuring you receive high rating and good reviews.

Prevent negative reviews by checking in with guests mid-stay so you can fix any issues or concerns they may have so they don't leave you with low ratings that can lead to fewer bookings in the future.

Cancellation policy

Airbnb listings offering a flexible cancellation policy rank better. Airbnb has a specific filter for flexible listings, making it easier for potential guests to find.

However, always balance guest flexibility with your operational needs, especially during local events and high-demand periods.

Pricing strategy

The Airbnb algorithm considers a range of price data when ranking for competitive pricing.

Make sure you offer good value for the location, property type and amenities that you provide. Also, ensure price competitiveness amongst other Airbnb listings in the area. A dynamic pricing tool like that offered by Hostaway helps your listing stay competitive while also making a profit.

Other supplementary pricing options open to Airbnb property managers are:

• Listing properties at two different price points. A standard rate with your regular cancellation policy and a 10% lower rate that is non-refundable. Airbnb even shows the lowest price point on searches

• A discount for early bird bookings (at least 1 month ahead)

• Last-minute deals for dates within 0-7 days

Listing content

Your listing description, title and photographs directly influence ranking in search results. They are also key to converting potential guests into confirmed bookings.

• Include top guest expectations such as high-speed wi-fi, pools, etc

• Showcase special amenities and proximity to attractions

• Update photos seasonally and use a professional photographer if possible

• Make the title SEO-friendly but natural, e.g., "Modern Beachfront Condo with Pool & Free Parking"

A detailed listing description that mentions features, location advantages and guest benefits improves performance.

Don’t neglect your host profile. You want to provide a welcoming and professional picture of yourself as a host. Take the step of getting verified by providing all the information and documentation required by Airbnb to do so. This provides a trustworthy persona.

Also, make sure you categorize your listing by property type accurately. Is it a house, an apartment, a B&B or a tent cabin? This makes sure your Airbnb listing shows up in the right searches.

Amenities

Beyond basics, amenities like smart TVs, Nespresso machines, baby gear or bicycles can set your vacation rental apart.Stay up-to-date with what guests are looking for in terms of amenities in your location, the season and the current trends.

For example, if you are renting in the summer or you're located in an area known for its warm climes like Florida, you want to make sure you provide air conditioning. If you are looking to attract corporate travelers or college students you should ensure to provide wi-fi and ergonomic workspaces. Pet-friendly vacation rentals too continue to be popular.

Enhance your Airbnb listing and search ranking further by offering amenities that your competition does not.

Synced calendar

Keep your calendar updated to ensure you don’t accidentally double book or miss out on bookings because a canceled reservation has not been unblocked on your calendar.

Use a reliable channel manager like Hostaway's to sync calendars across the booking platforms you list on and your direct booking website.

Instant Book

Activating Instant Book improves your search ranking dramatically. Airbnb even prioritizes these listings in last-minute search results.

While many Airbnb property managers are not fans of the feature, it can be useful for hosts who want to quickly rise up the ranking and attract guests.

Use "recommended by other hosts" settings to maintain some control over who books your Airbnb property.

Declining bookings

Limit declined bookings. Accept booking requests promptly or risk penalties that lower your listing's ranking.

Cancellations

There are always exceptional circumstances that can lead to your having to cancel a booking. But frequent cancellations will not only see you drop down the rankings in search but may even get you kicked off the platform.

Occupancy rate

More frequent Airbnb bookings means more visibility. Consider adjusting your minimum night requirements and actively promoting open dates during off-peak seasons.

Location

Location matters. Proximity to local events, local festivals downtown areas or beaches can boost relevance in search criteria.

Airbnb Categories

Include your listing in relevant Airbnb Categories like "Ski-in/Ski-out," "Tiny Homes" or "Historical Homes". This boosts exposure among niche audiences.

Availability & stay flexibility

Opening more nights, offering flexible minimum stay durations and listing for long stays improves your listing's visibility. Airbnb’s Split Stays feature also increases exposure for longer or more flexible searches.

Wishlists

Encourage guests and followers to save your listing to their wishlists. The more saves, the better your listing's ranking.

Social media traffic

Use Instagram and Facebook to drive external traffic back to your listing page. Pinterest and Twitter are other social media platforms to consider.

Airbnb rewards listings that receive inbound links.

Superhost status

While Superhost status isn’t a direct ranking factor, many guests filter for Superhosts. Achieving Superhost status enhances trust and drives more bookings. Plus, all the criteria that lead to becoming a Superhost such as host responsiveness, cancellation frequency, reviews and ratings definitely impact search rankings.

How Does Airbnb Search Work for New Listings?

It takes approximately 24 hours for a newly activated listing to show up on search. To help hosts of new listings get started, the Airbnb algorithm is designed to give it an immediate boost in search. This helps new hosts establish themselves and improve their chances of getting booked even though they have no reviews or ratings.

Use this 24-hour window strategically:

• Offer competitive pricing at launch

• Publish all high-quality photos

• Highlight unique amenities

• Ensure your calendar is wide open

• Enable Instant Book

New hosts who leverage the initial exposure well typically establish momentum quickly.

Advanced Airbnb SEO Tips for 2025

Host updates

Update your description, amenities and photos. Make sure guests can picture themselves staying at your property and what the experience will feel like.

Local content

Mention nearby local events, landmarks and attractions to appear in broader search criteria.

Host responsiveness

Use Hostaway's automated messaging feature to improve your response rate and guest satisfaction

Offer discounts

Smart discounts for longer stays, early bookings or slow seasons can help you rank higher, stimulate demand and bring in more bookings

Data analysis

Use Airbnb’s "Performance" tab to review how your listing's visibility compares to similar properties. You can also use Hostaway's reporting and analytics for more detailed analysis

Optimizing for the Airbnb Search Algorithm

Because Airbnb considers a large number of factors in determining search ranking, it's essential to improve upon as many of these various factors as possible to boost your listing’s visibility. That said, many hosts may choose to skip certain aspects they aren’t ready to compromise on — like enabling Instant Book or offering a fully flexible cancellation policy — and that’s okay.

Equally important as visibility in search results is your ability to convert clicks into actual bookings. Fortunately, many of the same elements that improve your Airbnb SEO, such as compelling listing content, competitive pricing and earning positive reviews, also lead to a better booking process and ultimately more revenue. For example, a responsive and dedicated host who delivers a seamless guest experience from booking to checkout will encourage guests to leave positive reviews.

Finally, remember that SEO success doesn’t happen overnight. It requires ongoing optimization, attention to detail and an understanding that the Airbnb algorithm will continue to evolve. Stay updated on platform changes and trends in the OTA space to maintain your competitive edge over time.

And make sure you're leveraging a channel manager for vacation rentals to identify trends related to Airbnb and all other major OTAs.