Should you do long-term Airbnb rentals in 2025? A guide for hosts and guests

The landscape of hospitality is evolving rapidly. As remote work becomes increasingly common, the demand for flexible living arrangements is surging. This trend has propelled long-term rentals on Airbnb into the spotlight. But is venturing into this territory the right move for you? 

This comprehensive guide explores the world of long-term Airbnb rentals in 2025, outlining the benefits, challenges, and key considerations for both hosts and guests, plus explains how a Touch Stay digital guidebook can enhance the guest experience while saving precious time for hosts. Read on to discover more or jump to a specific section:

• What are long-term rentals on Airbnb?
• Benefits of long-term rentals for hosts
• Challenges of long-term rentals for hosts
• Benefits of long-term rentals for clients
• Challenges of long-term Airbnb rentals for clients
• Key considerations for hosts and clients in 2025
• Tips for success in long-term Airbnb rentals
• Comparing long-term rentals to short-term rentals
• Final thoughts: should you do long-term rentals on Airbnb?
• FAQs on long-term Airbnb rentals

What are long-term rentals on Airbnb?

Long-term rentals on Airbnb typically refer to stays lasting 28 days or more. Airbnb has adapted its platform to cater to this growing segment by offering features like:

• Monthly discounts: hosts can incentivise longer stays with automatic discounts applied to bookings exceeding a certain duration.
• Monthly payment options: guests can choose between upfront payment for the entire stay or convenient monthly installments.

The rise of extended stays is largely driven by the remote work revolution. Professionals with location-independent jobs are seeking temporary accommodations that combine the comforts of home with a change of scenery. Relocation needs, sabbaticals, and students on semester-long programs also contribute to the demand for long-term rentals. As remote work becomes even more mainstream in 2025, we can expect the long-term Airbnb market to continue its upward trajectory.

List your property on Airbnb and reach a wider audience of long-term renters. Explore our guide to creating a compelling Airbnb listing.

Benefits of long-term rentals for hosts

There are several compelling reasons for hosts to consider offering long-term rentals on Airbnb:

• Steady income

Long-term stays reduce vacancy rates, leading to a more predictable and stable cash flow. This is particularly beneficial for properties in areas with consistent demand, like university towns or urban centres, or for hosts looking to weather seasonal fluctuations in tourist numbers.

• Lower turnover costs 

Fewer guest turnovers translate to reduced expenses associated with cleaning, restocking amenities, and property management. Additionally, long-term guests may require less frequent communication and maintenance requests compared to a constant stream of short-term visitors.

• Appeal to a growing market

By catering to digital nomads, temporary workers relocating for projects, or families on extended stays, hosts can tap into a lucrative and expanding market segment. Airbnb itself has been actively targeting remote workers in recent years, further highlighting the potential of this demographic.

Before diving headfirst into long-term rentals, it's crucial to be aware of the potential challenges and how to navigate them:

Challenges of long-term rentals for hosts

• Legal and regulatory issues 

Stays exceeding a certain duration may fall under local landlord-tenant laws, which differ from short-term rental regulations. Familiarise yourself with eviction processes, security deposits, and lease agreements specific to your location to ensure compliance.

• Guest compatibility

Since long-term guests reside in your property for extended periods, there's a slightly higher risk of encountering difficult tenants. Thorough screening with background checks and reference checks can help mitigate this risk. Additionally, clear communication of house rules and expectations upfront sets the stage for a positive experience.

• Potential for wear and tear

Extended stays naturally lead to increased wear and tear on your property and its amenities. Factor in potential maintenance costs when setting your rental price and consider offering cleaning services at regular intervals.

Streamline guest communication and avoid misunderstandings with a professional house manual. Discover Touch Stay's guide to creating an Airbnb house manual (including a free template).

Benefits of long-term rentals for clients

For guests seeking flexible living arrangements, long-term Airbnb rentals offer numerous advantages:

• Flexibility and convenience

No need to commit to traditional leases with long lock-in periods. Booking a long-term Airbnb provides flexibility while offering a fully-furnished property ready for immediate move-in. This is ideal for temporary assignments, relocations, or extended vacations.

• Cost savings

Many hosts offer monthly discounts for long-term stays, making them competitive with traditional rentals. Additionally, guests can avoid upfront costs associated with traditional rentals, such as broker fees and security deposits.

• Variety of options

Airbnb boasts a plethora of unique, fully-furnished homes in diverse styles and locations, catering to a wide range of guest preferences. This allows you to explore a new neighbourhood before committing to a permanent move or find a unique space for a longer stay.

Challenges of long-term Airbnb rentals for clients

While offering flexibility and convenience, long-term Airbnb rentals come with some potential drawbacks for guests:

• Higher costs compared to traditional rentals

Despite monthly discounts, long-term Airbnb rentals may still be more expensive per month than a traditional lease, especially for longer stays.

• Lack of legal protections

Airbnb agreements may not offer the same legal protections as formal leases. It's crucial to carefully review cancellation policies, terms of service, and any additional agreements before booking.

• Limited customisation or stability

As a guest, you may have limited control over the property's interior design or layout. Additionally, there's always the uncertainty of the host deciding to stop renting or sell the property, potentially disrupting your long-term plans.

Key considerations for hosts and clients in 2025

Before embarking on a long-term Airbnb rental, both hosts and guests should carefully consider the following:

For hosts:

• Research local laws: understand local laws and regulations governing long-term rentals to ensure compliance and avoid legal issues.
• Offer a well-furnished property: provide essential amenities like high-speed Wi-Fi, a dedicated workspace, and a fully-equipped kitchen to cater to the needs of remote workers and extended-stay guests.
• Screen guests thoroughly: conduct thorough background checks and reference checks to ensure guest compatibility and reliability.

For clients:

• Compare options: compare long-term Airbnb rentals with traditional rentals to determine the best fit for your budget and needs.
• Assess property suitability: ensure the property meets your long-term needs, including adequate kitchen appliances, laundry facilities, and storage space.
• Communicate expectations clearly: establish clear communication with the host about your expectations and any specific requirements you may have.

Tips for success in long-term Airbnb rentals

For hosts:

• Optimise your listing: highlight features appealing to long-term renters, such as monthly discounts, dedicated workspace setups, or proximity to essential amenities.
• Adjust your pricing: set competitive monthly rates while ensuring profitability.
• Create an Airbnb digital guidebook: provide clear instructions on house rules, amenities usage, and emergency procedures to set expectations and minimise potential issues.

For clients:

• Look for flexibility: prioritise listings with flexible cancellation policies to accommodate potential changes in your plans.
• Book early: book early to secure high-demand properties, especially during peak seasons.
• Enquire about additional costs:ask the host about potential additional costs like utilities, cleaning fees, or maintenance charges.

Comparing long-term rentals to short-term rentals

To help you decide if long-term rentals are the right fit, let's compare them to short-term rentals:

Final thoughts: should you do long-term rentals on Airbnb?

Long-term Airbnb rentals can be a mutually beneficial arrangement for both hosts and guests. However, it's essential to weigh the benefits and challenges carefully. For hosts, it offers steady income and reduced operational costs. For guests, it provides flexibility and convenience.

By understanding the key considerations and following the tips outlined in this guide, you can make informed decisions and maximise the potential of long-term Airbnb rentals.

Remember, effective communication and clear expectations are key to a successful long-term rental experience. A Touch Stay digital guidebook lets hosts reclaim precious time, enhances the guest experience and streamlines communication.

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