Photo from Airbnb Newsroom.
In 2023, travel facilitated through Airbnb significantly contributed to Canada's economy, generating over $10 billion and supporting nearly 110,000 jobs across the country. The guests traveling via Airbnb spent $10.4 billion during their visits, boosting the local economy. Additionally, their spending resulted in over $7.6 billion in taxes for various levels of government.
The dispersal of Airbnb guests in 2023 was remarkable, with travelers visiting more than 100,000 destinations worldwide, marking it as the most dispersed year of travel on the platform. In Canada alone, guests explored over 1,700 cities and towns, highlighting the popularity of Airbnb as a means for experiencing diverse Canadian destinations.
Airbnb's impact goes beyond economic figures. It plays a crucial role in supporting local communities by enabling hosts to retain the majority of their earnings within their neighborhoods. This direct contribution to local economies is particularly significant in areas that historically haven't benefited from tourism.
The platform also offers guests affordable accommodation options with additional amenities compared to traditional hotels. By staying in neighborhoods suggested by hosts, guests further contribute to the local economy by patronizing local restaurants and small businesses.
A recently released economic analysis sheds light on the positive effects of Airbnb on Canada's economy. The analysis reveals that for every $100 spent on an Airbnb stay, guests spent approximately $283 on other goods and services, further stimulating economic activity.
Moreover, the report underscores Airbnb's role in job creation. In 2023, Canadian hosts, 86% of whom provided recommendations to guests regarding local attractions, restaurants, and shops, helped support nearly 110,000 jobs across various sectors. These jobs span industries such as food services, accommodation, arts and entertainment, retail, and transportation, generating an estimated $6.2 billion in income for Canadian workers.
Guest spending on Airbnb in Canada also had a significant impact, totaling $10.4 billion in 2023. Approximately 40% of this spending occurred in the neighborhoods where the listings were located, benefiting local businesses and services. Additionally, guest spending contributed over $7.6 billion in taxes, including taxes collected and remitted by Airbnb on behalf of hosts.
Since 2014, Airbnb has collaborated with cities and towns worldwide, including Canada, to ensure hosts pay their fair share of taxes, thereby providing vital funding for governments.
In terms of hosting, Airbnb serves as an economic lifeline for many Canadians. In 2023, the typical Canadian host earned around $12,200, providing essential supplementary income to cover living expenses, save for retirement, or prevent eviction.
Airbnb hosts reported that hosting on the platform helped them cover the rising cost of living, allowed them to remain in their homes, and even helped some avoid eviction or foreclosure. These findings underscore the significant socio-economic role played by Airbnb in supporting Canadian communities.
Overall, Airbnb's presence in Canada not only contributes to economic growth but also fosters community engagement and supports local businesses, making it a vital component of the country's tourism industry.
