Airbnb’s 2025 Algorithm Overhaul: What Hosts and Guests Need to Know

        As of 2025, Airbnb has made significant changes to its search and ranking algorithm on the platform. These innovations directly impact both hosts’ and guests’ experiences. In this article, we will examine Airbnb’s new algorithm in detail, highlight the key changes, and discuss how hosts can adapt to these updates.

1. Key Features of the New Algorithm

One of the most notable changes in Airbnb’s new algorithm is the removal of the “listing boost” granted to new listings. Previously, when you created a new listing, it was possible for it to appear at the top of the search results for a short period. However, this advantage has now been eliminated.

Instead, the importance of repeat guests has increased significantly. In other words, if a guest books your property again, your listing’s ranking rises noticeably. This is seen as a “reward” mechanism that Airbnb uses to discourage hosts from seeking bookings outside the platform.

Additionally, the ranking of search results is now fully personalized. Airbnb analyzes users’ past reservations and preferences to highlight the homes that are most suitable for them.

For example, a user who frequently searches for pet-friendly places will mostly see pet-friendly properties on the first page of results. Similarly, search results change for families with children or users who tend to prefer certain locations. 

The Homesberg mobile application allows you to view your raw ranking by searching outside of personalized search results. Seeing this ranking—and working to improve it—generally makes it easier to achieve higher positions in various personalized searches as well.

2. The Growing Importance of Ratings and Reviews

Previously, having a 5/5 star rating was enough to keep your listing at the top of the rankings. However, in the new algorithm, not only the rating but also the content of the reviews holds great importance. Even if you receive 5 stars, if your reviews are neutral or contain slightly negative language, your ranking may drop.

On the other hand, if your most recent reviews are enthusiastic and positive, the algorithm significantly rewards you. Properties with especially “glowing” recent reviews and a high “click-to-book” ratio can remain at the top of the search results longer.

This means that hosts are now required not only to provide good service, but also to actively encourage guests to leave positive and detailed reviews. Additionally, even experiences outside of Airbnb—such as a recommended restaurant or tour—can negatively impact the host’s rating if they go poorly. For example, one user reported receiving a low rating due to maintenance on a metro line, even though it had nothing to do with the property itself. This shows that the algorithm can sometimes produce unfair outcomes.

3. “In-Home Services” and Their Impact on Ranking

Airbnb’s new “in-home services” feature allows guests to book various professional services—such as a chef, spa treatments, photographer, or personal trainer—either during or outside their stay. However, if hosts decline to participate in this feature, their ranking is negatively affected. Some hosts have stated that, due to city regulations or property rules, they are unable to offer these services and feel they are being unfairly penalized as a result.

Additionally, having these services provided by third-party vendors introduces new risks for hosts, such as insurance, safety, and legal liability concerns. Many hosts on social media are discussing these risks and argue that Airbnb does not provide adequate support regarding these issues.

4. Practical Tips and Experiences for Ranking

We suggest the following strategies to maintain a high ranking in the algorithm:

• Regularly update both interior and exterior photos, as well as images of neighborhood attractions, to reflect each season (autumn, winter, spring, and summer), and refresh your photos whenever you change bedding, décor, or local highlights.
• Make small changes in your listing description and update it regularly according the reviews from your guests.
• Despite changing algorithms, you can maintain competitive pricing by using our dynamic pricing tool. Automatically update your prices daily to ensure you never fall behind the competition.            

These kinds of regular updates signal to the algorithm that you are an active and engaged host, which can positively affect your ranking. Such details can make a significant difference, especially in highly competitive areas.

5. Criticisms and Issues with the Algorithm

Many longtime hosts complain about the algorithm’s lack of transparency and its frequent changes. In particular, the algorithm is said to be unsupportive of mid-term rentals, instead favoring properties that receive short-term and frequent bookings. Additionally, because the algorithm focuses on “clicks” and “reservations,” hosts who accommodate guests for longer stays may find their listings pushed down in the rankings.

6. Strategic Recommendations for Hosts

Airbnb’s new algorithm presents both opportunities and challenges. For hosts who want to stay at the top of the rankings, standout strategies include:

• Encouraging repeat guests and building a loyal customer base
• Strengthening communication with guests to receive not only high ratings but also positive and detailed reviews
• Regularly updating your listing and changing photos to match the season
• Participating in new features like “in-home services” when possible, to avoid penalties from the algorithm

• Utilize dynamic pricing tools to automatically adjust your rental rates in real time based on market demand, seasonal trends, and local competition, ensuring your property remains competitively priced and maximizing both occupancy and revenue throughout the year

Airbnb’s algorithm is constantly evolving, and hosts need to quickly adapt to these changes. Experiences shared within the community continue to be an important resource for both information sharing and support throughout this process.

Conclusion:

Being successful on Airbnb now requires more than just being a good host; it’s essential to understand the dynamics of the algorithm, adapt quickly to new changes, and establish strong communication with guests. Greater transparency and fairness from the platform remains a shared expectation among hosts.