The realities of hosting outlined in new PriceLabs survey

PriceLabs has released the Global Host Report 2025, based on insights from more than 1,400 short-term rental property managers worldwide. Here are the 10 headline takeaways shaping the reality of hosting today.

1. Hosting isn’t passive – it’s real work

83% of hosts work another job. Hosting has evolved into a second shift – not a side hustle – even though most spend under 10 hours a week on hosting tasks.

2. Tech has reduced friction, but not the biggest headaches

Automation helps with tasks like calendar syncing, but cleaning, maintenance, and reliable labour remain the top operational problems.

3. Regional pressures shape host experience

Global challenges are universal, but sharper in some regions. European hosts feel greater pressure around OTA visibility and regulation.

4. The OTA paradox: essential but frustrating

Hosts rely heavily on OTAs like Airbnb and Booking.com, yet feel constrained by opaque algorithms, inconsistent policies, and guest-centred dispute resolution.

5. Hosts want more control over who stays

Stronger guest screening tools and transparency are high on the wish list. Hosts want protection without the threat of lower rankings.

6. Airbnb still dominates satisfaction

Despite criticism, Airbnb remains the most effective channel, scoring 4.1/5 – well ahead of Booking.com and Vrbo. Performance outweighs policy frustration.

7. Direct bookings are gaining momentum

Independence is a major theme: 90% of hosts plan to maintain or increase investment in direct booking websites.

8. AI is dividing the community

43% feel overwhelmed by AI; only 14% fully embrace it, and neither group reports meaningful time savings. AI is not yet reducing workload.

9. Hosting is becoming a business, not a hobby

Motivations are shifting. Nearly half of hosts are planning to scale. Many now reinvest earnings, optimise operations, and treat hosting as a serious enterprise.

10. Pride and optimism remain high

Despite long hours and operational challenges, 69% of hosts are proud of what they’ve built, and 41% expect a better year ahead. The community remains resilient and optimistic.

Why the PriceLabs Global Host Report 2025 matters for Host Planet readers

This report confirms a clear pattern: hosting is maturing into a professionalised, strategy-driven industry. Hosts are seeking greater control, stronger systems, and reliable education. Host Planet will continue breaking down major reports like this to equip hosts and property managers with clarity, insight, and direction.