Airbnb: A Catalyst for Domestic Travel in Canada
Written by: James Tarrant
Airbnb: A Catalyst for Domestic Travel in Canada
Airbnb, a global leader in the sharing economy, has been instrumental in reshaping the travel landscape in Canada. In 2023, Canada had a record year with close to eight million domestic guest arrivals, an increase of almost 30% since 2019. This surge in domestic travel has brought significant economic benefits to communities nationwide.
Expanding Destinations
Airbnb has expanded the travel map within Canada, with more than 1,700 destinations across the country welcoming guests. Forty new cities and towns welcomed guests last year, with approximately 95% being non-urban destinations. This dispersed travel pattern has allowed Canadians to explore their country's unique cultures and landscapes deeply. Some of the most booked, affordable destinations in 2023 included Winnipeg, Kitchener, Saskatoon, Gatineau, and Prince George.
Economic Impact
The economic impact of Airbnb on domestic travel in Canada is substantial. In 2023, travel on Airbnb generated more than $10B in economic impact across Canada. It includes $10.4B in visitor spending and more than $7.6B in taxes for governments nationwide. This spending has supported nearly 110,000 Canadian jobs, contributing to workers' income in food services, accommodation, arts and entertainment, retail, transportation, and other vital industries.
Boosting Local Economies
Airbnb's model of home sharing has not only made travel more affordable but also boosted local economies. For every $100 spent on an Airbnb stay, guests pay about $283 for other goods and services. This spending supports local businesses, restaurants, attractions, shops, and more. With many Airbnb listings located in areas without hotels, this income benefits people in communities outside of traditional tourism hubs.
Impact on the Rock
Airbnb has significantly contributed to the growth of domestic travel in the province. Although over 350 listings across the province and 800 on Northeast Avalon alone, finding exact numbers won’t be possible until all Airbnb properties are registered. It’s a mandatory registration in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Even though the total number is inaccurate, Airbnb has significantly impacted Newfoundland’s local economy. In 2023, using data from Destination St. John’s on its 800 unregistered Airbnb listings, the 68,000 rooms booked last year earned 14 million in revenue. As domestic travel continues to rise in Canada, so will tourism, local businesses and Airbnb hosts across the island.
The Future of Domestic Travel
The trend of domestic travel in Canada is expected to continue. Canadians who intend to travel in 2024, 71 percent plan to do so domestically, including 44 percent planning to travel within their province. As Airbnb grows and diversifies its offerings, it is poised to play a more significant role in promoting domestic travel.
As we look to the future, Airbnb's impact on domestic travel in Newfoundland and Labrador will likely grow even more vital. If you have any questions or want to learn more about Airbnbs on the Rock, contact Home Base NL.
