Vacation rentals are contributing to their communities in many ways, from supporting the local economy, to providing extra income for residents, to expanding the tourism industry. Learn about the specific ways Vrbo and our vacation rental partners are helping communities grow and thrive.
DRIVING ECONOMIC & TAX BENEFITS Vacation rentals provide millions in tax revenue to cities and states each year, through sales, tourist, hotel and occupancy taxes. In some cities, Vrbo also collects a fee which goes towards the cities’ affordable housing funds.
HELPING HOMEOWNERS EARN EXTRA INCOME Vacation rentals provide new opportunities for people to support themselves and their families with extra income. This is critical for those who work part-time, are on fixed incomes, or need help paying for their rent or mortgage, affording their children’s education, or saving for retirement.
CREATING AND SUPPORTING GOOD JOBS Vacation rental homeowners hire cleaning services, landscapers, contractors, and others to help maintain their homes. These jobs rely on a steady stream of business, which vacation rentals provide.
INCREASING FOOT TRAFFIC FOR SMALL BUSINESSES Vacation rentals owners take pride in being able to refer their guests to nearby shops and restaurants. Many owners create welcome books with a list of their favorite local stops. Local businesses rely on this foot traffic for a steady stream of new customers throughout the day.
SPREADING THE BENEFITS OF TOURISM Vacation rentals often fall outside of concentrated tourist areas, which helps travelers discover new local shops and restaurants they otherwise may not have found. This benefits underserved neighborhoods the most.
IMPROVING NEIGHBORHOODS & PROPERTY VALUE Vacation rentals can help bring life back to neighborhoods where homes and yards have been neglected or abandoned. They also can raise property values because owners make constant improvements and upgrades to their homes so they’re more attractive to renters. This doesn’t always happen with long-term rentals, when owners may only fix up the property before new tenants take over the lease.