## Airbnb Prices Soar During Holidays: Cities With the Biggest Price Hikes
The holiday season is fast approaching, and for many, that means travel. If you’re planning to book an Airbnb for your Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s trip, be prepared for some sticker shock. A recent study by Upgraded Points revealed significant price increases for Airbnb accommodations during peak holiday periods.
The study, which analyzed Airbnb nightly rates across various U.S. cities, found that travelers can expect to pay, on average, 64% more for their stays during the holidays. However, some cities are experiencing even more dramatic price hikes, with prices exceeding double the usual rates.
### Cities With the Highest Holiday Premiums
Here are some of the U.S. cities with the highest price increases for Airbnb rentals during the holidays:
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Fort Myers, Florida:
This popular coastal destination sees a staggering 126% increase in prices during the holiday season, making it one of the most expensive places to stay.*
Las Vegas, Nevada:
The City of Lights is known for its vibrant nightlife, but it also comes with a hefty price tag during the holidays. Travelers can expect to pay 118% more for their Airbnb stays.*
Madison, Wisconsin:
While not a traditional holiday destination, Madison experiences a significant 107% price increase during the holidays. This suggests that the city is becoming increasingly popular for holiday travelers.These cities are seeing dramatic increases in Airbnb prices, with travelers paying more than double the usual rates during peak holiday periods. This makes planning ahead and booking well in advance crucial to avoid exorbitant costs.
### Cities With the Lowest Holiday Premiums
While some cities are experiencing steep price hikes, others remain more affordable for travelers. Here are four of the five cities with the lowest price increases, all located in California:
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Santa Cruz:
A popular beach destination, Santa Cruz sees a relatively modest 14% increase in Airbnb prices during the holiday season.*
Oxnard:
This coastal city experiences a 17% increase, offering travelers a relatively budget-friendly option.*
Palm Springs:
Known for its desert landscapes and mid-century modern architecture, Palm Springs sees a 20% price increase during the holidays.*
San Luis Obispo:
This charming city, known for its wineries and beaches, experiences a 23% increase in Airbnb prices during the holiday season.These destinations offer more budget-friendly options for travelers looking to enjoy the holidays without paying steep premiums on accommodation.
### Breakdown by Holiday Period
The Upgraded Points study also examined price changes during specific holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. Here’s a closer look at the cities with the highest price hikes for each holiday period:
Thanksgiving:
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Baton Rouge, Louisiana:
This city sees a significant price increase of 108% during Thanksgiving week.*
Madison, Wisconsin:
This city, already experiencing high holiday premiums, also sees a considerable increase during Thanksgiving, with prices rising by 107%.*
Columbus, Ohio:
This midwestern city sees a 100% price increase during Thanksgiving.Christmas:
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Fort Myers, Florida:
This popular coastal destination sees prices more than double, with a 126% increase during Christmas week.*
Ocean City, Maryland:
This beach town experiences a 106% increase in prices during the holiday season.*
Santa Barbara, California:
Known for its picturesque beaches and Spanish architecture, Santa Barbara sees a 104% price increase during Christmas.New Year’s:
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Fort Myers, Florida:
This city remains a top destination for New Year’s celebrations, with prices increasing by 126%.*
Las Vegas, Nevada:
The City of Lights sees a 118% increase in prices during New Year’s week.*
Palm Springs, California:
This desert oasis sees a 117% increase in prices during New Year’s week.### Conclusion
As holiday travel approaches, travelers need to be aware of the significant price increases in Airbnb accommodations across the U.S. Cities like Fort Myers, Las Vegas, and Madison are seeing some of the highest premiums, while others, particularly in California, offer more affordable options.
For a closer look at the data and to plan your holiday stays, visit Upgraded Points’ full study online.
