Apps Like Airbnb: Business Model, Features and It’s Development Cost

 

In the fast-moving gig economy world, one thing that’s shaken up how we live is the idea of sharing stuff or services. It’s this very sharing principle that birthed Airbnb. More than a mere on-demand platform, apps like Airbnb today are a broad platform. It lets you reserve places to stay, buy travel tickets, and even compare the prices of electronics, all just by tapping on your phone.

Because of this, a lot of property owners/hosts and travel businesses are now eyeing Airbnb clone mobile app development services as an investment. The goal? To seriously boost their business profits. But a big question is on everyone’s mind: How does one build an app like Airbnb, and what would it cost? 

If these questions have been bouncing around in your head, don’t worry. In what follows, we will give you a deep dive into Airbnb’s business model, its key features, and the costs of making an Airbnb clone app that works on iOS and Android.

So, come along and let’s embark on a thrilling journey into the fascinating realm of other apps like Airbnb.

What is Airbnb and How Does it Work?

Airbnb has etched itself as a top pick in the world of travel and lodging booking services worldwide. It works like a virtual plaza that bridges the gap between property holders and travelers. From this platform, travelers get the privilege to book a space, a single room, or even a whole property straight from the owners for a set time.

Moreover, property holders get the benefit of putting their flats or houses up on the platform using their mobile phones. This feature can also be seen in many Airbnb-like apps as per the top mobile app development companies in USA. The simplicity of this process in booking travel stays has played a huge part in its wide acceptance all over the world.

Next, let’s peer at some striking data that show the rise of on-demand mobile app development, specifically, Airbnb like apps, and their growing popularity worldwide. The use of such Apps like Airbnb and the comfort they bring is revolutionizing how we travel. It’s truly intriguing to see this change taking place.

Highlights of Airbnb

 

• More than 1.5 billion stays have already been booked on the platform as of 2024.
• More than 90% of Airbnb properties in New York are long-term categorized.
• 5 million guests stay at hotels per night via Airbnb.
• 10 billion miles of travel people made till now to Airbnb destinations
• 38 billion USD is the estimated worth of Airbnb

 

Airbnb App Global Success

 

• 2nd most downloadable app in the travel category of Play Store.
• 4.7 billion USD worth of profit in 2024.
• 150 million global users

Business Model of Airbnb

 

In today’s modern world, growing digital solutions enable companies to soar to unprecedented heights. The constant progress of technology, coupled with the demand for cozy, reasonably-priced places to stay, has led to the rise of house rental apps like Airbnb. Hence, the information we will share with you today may indeed serve as the spark you’ve been searching for to enhance your company’s growth. 

Building an another app like Airbnb might be the key to unlocking new potential and expanding your business visibility. A strong Airbnb clone app, be it for iOS or Android, skillfully adapted to your needs, can substantially increase your earnings. However, to use this tactic effectively, you must first grasp Airbnb’s distinctive business model and key features.

A crucial part of Airbnb’s business structure is the mutual benefit between property owners and travelers. Airbnb’s model is based on the idea of aggregators, a concept also used by renowned companies such as Ola and Uber. This structure plays a critical role in the sharing economy.

With a platform like this, property owners can make money from their unused properties, earning some extra income. At the same time, travelers find unique, budget-friendly accommodations, thus enriching their travel experiences. Therefore, apps like Airbnb in USA promote a “win-win” situation, offering mutual advantages to both property owners and travelers.

If you dream of creating an app like Airbnb, you’re not just putting money into an app. You’re adopting a tried and tested business model that guarantees benefits for all parties involved. Just as an Airbnb clone could reshape your business identity, it could also give the much-needed push for its future growth.

How does Airbnb Make Money?

Ever wondered how an exceptional platform such as Airbnb rakes in the cash? This worldwide cherished app, boasting a straightforward design and myriad choices, is a splendid illustration of a lucrative enterprise model. It operates on the lines of an ‘app like Airbnb.’ The platform boasts an outstanding count of nearly 30 lakh bookings yearly, which further breaks down to roughly 2.50 lakh bookings each month.

Airbnb’s primary sources of earnings are twofold, comprising fees from both holiday-goers and property owners:

 

Commission from Travellers

When utilizing an ‘app like Airbnb,’ clients are met with assorted charges. Take Airbnb, for instance, which imposes a 6-12% commission for bookings covering varied experiences. These costs materialize as reservation fees (calculated per room), cleaning fees, service fees, occupancy costs, extra guest charges, and currency exchange fees, to name a few. 

 

Fees from Property Owners

Airbnb like app development has made it possible for property owners to engage a broader audience. In providing this service, platforms charge property owners for featuring their space. Airbnb extracts 3 to 5% in listing fees from its host members. Moreover, a service fee of 10% is also taken off for each booking secured by the host. 

The rewarding business structure of similar apps like Airbnb is designed around comfort and a broad array of choices for travelers. It also provides property owners with a stage to exhibit their spaces. The commission-based revenue framework caters to the requirements of all parties concerned, thereby making ‘Airbnb-like app development’ a fruitful pursuit.

Why Invest Your Money in On-Demand Apps Like Airbnb?

 

Airbnb, a shining star in the world of on demand rental app development, has a net worth of billions, hitting a remarkable $4.7 billion profit in 2024. Launching an “app like Airbnb” for your enterprise may be profitable. You can rely on a skilled mobile application consulting services team from a company specializing in Android or iOS app development. They can help bring to life your Airbnb-style app using a range of successful business plans: 

 

Commission-based Model

Your app becomes a bridge connecting property owners and travelers. It’s a place where those wanting to rent out their homes can meet folks who are looking for such places. You can charge a commission from both parties for making this transaction possible. 

 

Advertising Model

Permitting ads from hotels and eateries on your property-letting service website or app could be profitable. Each time a user taps an ad and goes to a third-party site, you earn commission from the advertisers.

 

Subscription Model

Another option is to offer a subscription service for property owners and travelers. This scheme lets users access a range of services, like air ticket booking, car rentals, or holiday packages. They can do this via your online marketplace platform in exchange for a fee that can be monthly, quarterly, or yearly. 

 

To “create an app like Airbnb” is not merely about copying a successful blueprint but also innovating within that set-up. After all the feasibility analysis, if you think of investing your money in creating an app like Airbnb, it could lead to a considerable return on your investment. 

5 Airbnb App Alternatives to Inspire Your App Idea

These 5 Airbnb alternatives inspire your app-like Airbnb development project, regardless of your preference for a chic metropolitan loft, a luxurious coastal home, or an upscale, quaint cabin in the woods.

Vrbo (Vacation Rentals by Owner)

Vrbo specializes in whole vacation houses, so it’s perfect for families and groups. With amenities such as sophisticated search filters, safe payments, and direct host communication, it’s a solid template for an app that serves travelers who prefer private over shared spaces.

Booking.com

Renowned for its huge listings, Booking.com features hotels, apartments, and vacation rentals. With its smooth booking experience, instant confirmation, and intuitive interface, it is a perfect guide to follow when building a rental app with a combination of short-term accommodations and conventional hotel bookings.

Tripadvisor

Tripadvisor merges vacation rentals with user-generated reviews and travel tips. It blends local activities, attractions, and restaurant reviews, and hence is a perfect inspiration for a one-stop travel app that offers accommodation, activity ideas, and itinerary planning.

Hotels.com

Hotels.com features both hotels and vacation homes with a robust rewards program that helps users accumulate free stays. With its simple booking process, favorable pricing, and loyalty benefits, it is an excellent template for apps emphasizing customer loyalty and one-of-a-kind deals.

HomeToGo

HomeToGo collects vacation rentals from various sites and provides users with a price-comparison feature for the most affordable options. Its meta-search and extensive property network make it an excellent point of reference for an app that focuses on affordability and availability of varied rental choices from various providers.

How to Make Apps Like Airbnb?

Are you thinking about making an app like Airbnb? If yes, you’re heading the right way. Crafting an app that has a perfect app development lifecycle can be tough, yet with proper guidance; it’s doable. 

Step 1: Develop a Unique Business Strategy

 

The initial step to develop an app like Airbnb is forming a unique business concept as per the top mobile app development company in the USA. Keep in mind, Airbnb isn’t the only one in the property-rental and travel field. Other players like HomeAway, TripAdvisor, and Tripping.com are also in the game, each having its charm. They draw customers with fresh features, freebies, and easy booking experiences. So, you should find your unique charm. Begin with a solid business plan to stay focused and achieve your targets. Teaming up with a reliable app development firm can make this smoother. 

Step 2: Team Up with a Proficient Mobile Development Team

You’ll need leading mobile app development company skills to craft an app like Airbnb. You can build an in-house team or hire specialized mobile app development services. Both have benefits and drawbacks, but the key point is working with seasoned pros. 

Step 3: Design an Attractive and Intuitive UI/UX

One vital thing to remember when developing an app like Airbnb is the significance of a pleasing and easy UI/UX design. Part of Airbnb’s success is due to its user-friendly interface. Apps with lackluster design often see high drop-off rates. So, focusing on UI/UX design will ensure a smooth user experience, which is key for keeping users.

Step 4: Build an MVP and Gather User Feedback

Your MVP version of the Airbnb-like app should include all basic features related to accommodation service. Collecting user feedback in the beta phase is a precious way to know what users want, letting you tweak your app’s functionality.  

Step 5: Thoroughly Test Your App

Before you launch your app like Airbnb, it’s crucial to test it thoroughly through custom mobile app development services. This step is best done by quality experts who can spot any bugs or flaws in the app’s functionality, ensuring a flawless user experience.

Step 6: Launch and Maintenance

Finally, it’s time to launch your app. After the launch, remember to perform regular app support & maintenance and keep users updated with new features. This keeps your app fresh, engaging and, more importantly, maintains superior user involvement. 

By adhering to these steps, you’ll be well on the path to crafting an app akin to Airbnb that differentiates from others. Best of luck with your venture!

Key Features in Airbnb Clone App

As an expert in the field of ‘on demand app development‘, we aim to understand what makes an app like Airbnb so loved. This travel and stay app has numerous features that shape the overall user experience. These characteristics need to be expertly mirrored while building an Airbnb-like app.

Crafting an app similar to Airbnb calls for a detailed grasp of the three main user types in the Airbnb market. This insight is critical for defining the unique aspects of your Airbnb-style app. 

 

Front-end Users

The first type of user you need to consider while designing your replica app is the Front-end User. This group consists of two subgroups: the Property Owners or Hosts, and the Travelers or Guests. Each of these subgroups needs distinct features to meet their unique needs. For instance, hosts require tools for listing and managing their properties, while guests need user-friendly search and booking features. 

 

Backend Users

The second type of user is the Back-end User, also known as the Admin. The admin interface is vital for handling the whole platform, overseeing user activity, and ensuring the smooth functioning of the app.

At the heart of it, the app’s functions considerably impact the final cost of building an Airbnb-like app. So, as an ‘on demand app development company,’ we recommend a deep understanding of these features to match the development cost. 

Remember, the aim is to make an app like Airbnb that provides a flawless user experience. It should merge the ease of enterprise mobile application development service with the joys of travel and accommodation. 

Key Features for User/Guest

 

Signup: To start with the Airbnb platform, travelers need to sign up on the platform. Add this basic functionality to your clone app.

 

Login: After registration, users must log in to the app easily. Provide login options via Google account, social media platforms, etc., to users.

 

Search: Through this option, travelers can explore different properties, apartments or hotels available for rent.

 

Filter: This option enables travelers to search for properties available for rent using different search criteria like home type, amenities geolocation, etc. 

 

Favorites: Travellers can keep the fancy accommodations in their saved places list using this option.

 

Chats: Travellers can send or reply to a message received from property owners using this functionality.

 

Payments: This option provides various payment options to guests for online booking of rented spaces.

 

Order: Users or guests can confirm the request to rent a property by paying the initial booking amount and confirming the order. 

 

Notifications: This option provides in-app or push notifications to travelers. 

 

Ratings: Travelers can rate properties based on their experiences using this option. 

 

Booking History: The history of previous accommodation bookings can be seen by travelers using this option.

 

Edit Profile: Guests can edit their profile details like name, phone, address, etc., using this option. 

 

Key Features of Host/Property Owner

So, you’ve set your sights on creating an “app like Airbnb.” It’s crucial to reflect on the must-have features that make for a smooth ride, especially for the landlord or property owner. These vital elements craft the app’s practicality and hold sway over its victory in the cutthroat realm of custom mobile app development. 

 

Login: Just as tourists, hosts, or property owners should be able to sign in after registering. This login trait is a conduit between landlords and the app, letting them reach their accounts swiftly and streamlined.

 

Manage Listings: The Manage Listings function is another irreplaceable component in developing a custom mobile app task like this. It gives users a chance to give a complete portrayal of the lodgings they’re putting up for rent. Details such as visuals, location, sleeping arrangements, and so on can be added, giving potential renters a clear view of what the property holds in store.

 

See Requests: This feature lets property owners give the green or red light to rental booking inquiries. It puts them in the driver’s seat over who rents their property, making sure they can orchestrate bookings according to their liking.

 

Rate & Review Guests: Once their guests have checked out, property owners get to grade and comment on them based on their stay. This feature not only dishes out feedback to the guests but also lends a hand to future hosts to understand what to anticipate from potential renters. 

 

Booking History: This function doles out a meticulous account of all past reservations as per the top iOS app development companies. It showcases details like booking data, hosting benchmarks, and so forth. The Booking History function acts as a handy instrument for hosts to track the rise and fall of their rental business and discover ways to level up in the time to come. 

 

Key Features for Admin

 

Interactive Dashboard: Through the dashboard option, the admin can get 360-degree (graphical data) of entire bookings on the marketplace. 

 

Manage Users: Admin has the rights like edit, update, delete, modify, etc., for platform users, and different permissions are given to them.

 

Manage Bookings: The admin can manage the entire bookings with permissions like update, modify, delete, etc. 

 

Manage Payment: Admin can confirm payments received on the platform users – hosts, guests, advertisers, etc. 

 

Manage Amenities: The admin can add, update, and delete amenities available under different properties listed on the platform. 

 

Reports & Analytics: Admin can get detailed insights related to bookings and transactions carried on the Airbnb clone app – using this option. 

 

How to Build an App Like Airbnb: Team Structure and Technology Stack

Looking to craft an app similar to Airbnb involves careful planning, a committed team, and robust tech tools. Due to modern mobile app development companies in USA, you’ll find skilled people who can turn your idea into reality. Let’s discuss the team roles and duties you should look for when setting up a team for your Airbnb-style app. 

The usual team involves:

 

• Business Analyst
• Project Manager
• UI/UX Designer 
• Android and iOS Developers
• Quality Assurance Engineer 
• Database Administrator 

In choosing the tech tools to craft an app like Airbnb, you must consider various current technologies. Swift and Kotlin are among the top programming languages used for app creation for iOS and Android, respectively. At the same time, JavaScript is used to make dynamic and interactive elements within the app. Chatting with expert iOS or Android app development companies in the USA will offer useful insights into choosing the right tech tools for your project. 

Airbnb Technology Stack  

 

• Programming Languages: Ruby, Javascript 
• Framework: React, Ruby on Rails 
• Web Server: Niginx
• Cloud Storage: Amazon S3, EB3 
• Cloud Hosting: Amazon EC2
• Cloud Database: Amazon EDS, MySQL 
• Big Data: Presto, Druid, Airpal 

Key Factors Affecting the Cost of the Airbnb Clone App

Understanding the cost of developing an app like Airbnb requires considering various elements. Don’t forget, you can pick Airbnb app templates – a savvy way to handle the overall costs of creating an Airbnb-style app. 

 

Team Size for Development

A good grasp of the outsource app development process lets you become a project manager and guide your Airbnb-like app project. This method can notably trim down your development team’s size, making it more budget-friendly. Yet, lacking enough know-how, bringing on board folks like project managers, app designers, and developers is crucial. Keep in mind, the team size directly shapes your Airbnb clone app’s final price tag.

 

Development Team’s Location

Often, we see that mobile app developers in the US usually ask for higher rates for crafting an app like Airbnb, particularly when stacked against developers from Asia. Thus, your app development team’s location is critical in figuring out your entire project cost. 

 

App Developer’s Rates based on the location

 

• India: 10-80 USD
• Australia: 50 to 150 USD
• United States: 80 to 250 USD 
• Eastern Europe: 50 to 200 USD 
• United Kingdom: 80 to 150 USD 

These rates depend on multiple factors. 3 of the most crucial ones that affect your budget are –  

 

Platform Support

iOS, Android or both – the platform on which you choose to launch your app will also affect the final project cost. Remember, Android app development takes about 20 to 30% more time than iOS. Remember your target audience’s location when choosing the platform to launch your Airbnb clone app.

 

App Features & Complexity

Don’t forget to classify your requested app features or elements as simple, medium, and high complexity. The time – developers will take to implement each of these features will impact the final cost of your app. 

 

App Design

If you want unique visual elements and tools in your ios app design for Airbnb clone app -the final price will change quite a bit also. 

How Much Does it Cost to Build an App like Airbnb?[Total Cost]

Ever thought, “What’s the cost of making an app like Airbnb?” The answer isn’t simple. It hinges on many elements. Let’s dig in 

The total cost to design and build an Airbnb-style app often falls between 40,000 to 65,000 USD. This price covers all essential user needs. 

Let’s simplify. Making an Airbnb clone for Android could be around 40,000 USD. On the other hand, working with a top-notch iOS App Development Company for the iOS version may raise the cost to roughly 65,000 USD. 

Please remember: These figures are just guided prices based on the features of an Airbnb clone app as described here. Costs may shift more, depending on the unique user’s wishes about the app’s features or look. Be it the Android version or an app like Airbnb for iOS, personalizing the app to match distinct user likes can alter the final development cost.

Don’t forget crafting an app like Airbnb is a major investment. It involves many elements: development, design, testing, and upkeep. Hence, when you choose to take this step, make sure you pick a skilled custom mobile application development company if you’re aiming for the Apple space. This choice is key to the end quality, functionality, and user experience of your Airbnb-like app.

Final Thoughts

Building a home-sharing platform poses many challenges but also opportunities to disrupt the hospitality industry with innovative sharing economy models. With proper funding, team and strategic execution an Airbnb clone can successfully compete in this high growth market space globally. Overall marketplace app development costs will vary but a minimum investment of $150,000 should allow for an MVP version.

FAQs

Q: What programming languages are used typically?

A: Popular choices of Programming Languages for App Development include React Native, Swift or Java for the app and Ruby on Rails, Python or Node.js for the backend.

Q: How difficult is integrating payments?

A: Payment processing involves several integrations and is one of the more complex parts. Dedicated payment teams are recommended.

Q: What licenses and regulations apply?

A: Rules regarding home-sharing vary by city and country. Researching short-term rental laws is important before launching.

Q: How can user acquisition be achieved?

A: Effective user acquisition strategies include influencer marketing, referral programs, targeted Facebook/Google ads and PR outreach after product/market fit is established.

Q: Can the app be white-labeled for specific markets?

A: Yes, a platform built with a modular architecture by a reputed white label app development company can often be customized or white-labeled relatively easily for targeted regional or niche markets. The modular approach facilitates flexible configuration to meet specialized needs of individual clients while retaining core functionality. This enables quick localization and personalization and tapping into various verticals of interest, ultimately helping businesses scale globally in a cost-effective manner.