As the SXSW festival gets underway, we’re releasing data showcasing how hosting during big events empowers local residents across Austin to earn extra income, provides affordable accommodation options for travelers, and helps support local businesses. With the festival kicking off in Austin, local Hosts are preparing to open their doors and welcome guests to their community, offering them a comfortable and authentic stay in Texas’ capital city.
For years, SXSW has been a magnet for creatives, innovators, and entrepreneurs from all over the world. For locals in Austin, SXSW represents a significant economic opportunity. According to a recent report, the festival generates a staggering $280 million in economic activity each year for the city. Last year, during the virtual edition of SXSW, Hosts in Austin collectively earned nearly $13 million.
By sharing their homes with festival-goers, Hosts can not only earn extra income, but also showcase the best of what Austin has to offer, as guests are looking for unique and authentic ways to experience new destinations, making home sharing a great option.
In past years, the festival has drawn visitors from all over the world, including Europe, Asia, and South America, in addition to a significant number of domestic visitors as well.
Where SXSW guests are coming from:
Los Angeles, CAHouston, TXNew York City, NYDallas, TX London, United KingdomChicago, ILSeattle, WABrooklyn, NYSan Francisco, CASan Antonio, TX
At Airbnb, we’re proud to support the economic growth of cities like Austin by connecting visitors with local Hosts who can offer them a unique and authentic stay. Fortunately, we’ve made it easier than ever before to become a Host. Last year, during the 2022 Winter Release, we launched Airbnb Setup, which provides new Hosts with the options to match for free with a Superhost for one-to-one guidance, host an experienced guest as a first guest, and receive one-tap access to a specially trained team of Community Support agents. In the first few months since its November launch, twice as many prospective Hosts have matched with Superhosts in their area and have received personalized guidance as they navigate the process of becoming first-time Hosts.
Those interested in joining our Host community to start earning meaningful additional income can visit https://www.airbnb.com/host/homes.
The post Hosts prepare to welcome guests for the iconic SXSW festival appeared first on Airbnb Newsroom.
