How to Improve Search Ranking on Airbnb

Airbnb’s search algorithm uses many factors to determine the order of listings in search results. It’s designed to help guests quickly find places that meet their needs.

The algorithm reflects what it has learned from the millions of searches that have led to bookings in the past. This includes details provided by the guest, such as destination, previous trips, and saved listings. Rankings are not about luxury or prime location however they are more about catering to the searcher's needs/preferences.

How can I improve my ranking?

1. Enhance your listing

Airbnb’s algorithm factors in how guests engage with your listing, when guests attempt to contact you from your listing page, and whether guests add your listing to their wish lists.

To spark the guests’ interest:

• Feature a high-quality cover photo that sets an inviting scene.

• Describe the unique characteristics of your space in specific, accurate details that let guests know exactly what to expect.

• Offer amenities that guests want, such as high-speed wifi and free parking.

2. Make your price more competitive

Airbnb’s algorithm factors in your total price before taxes, including any discounts or additional fees, and compares it with the prices of similar spaces in your area. Setting a competitive price can help improve your ranking because listings offering the best value in any given region tend to appear higher in search results. 

One way to make your price more competitive is by using RaccoonRev, which lets you know how your competition is doing and how your rates are in comparison to theirs. The idea is to give you more data so that you are able to make more informed decisions and maintain a competitive advantage.

3. Open additional availability

Airbnb’s algorithm factors in your listing’s availability, your response times to inquiries, and how often you accept bookings. The more open dates you offer on your calendar, the more likely your listing will meet a guest’s search criteria and appear in their search results.

4. Become a Superhost

Airbnb’s algorithm factors in whether you’re a Superhost—or if you’re meeting some or all of the requirements to become one. For example, having your listing booked regularly and receiving positive guest ratings and reviews tend to help your listing rank higher. Guests also have the option to filter their search results to display only listings offered by Superhosts. In general, providing excellent hospitality typically helps improve the performance of your listing over time.

Good to know

• Respond to requests within 24 hours to help improve your ranking in search.

• Try to avoid repeatedly declining booking requests. Though it’s occasionally necessary to decline a booking, doing so often can negatively affect your search ranking because having reservations rejected is a poor experience for guests.

• Try not to cancel bookings once you’ve confirmed them, which can negatively impact your search ranking.