Want Your Airbnb to Rank Higher? Start Here.
Did you know you can look at your listing's performance on Airbnb? Views? Conversion rates?
If you’ve ever searched for your listing and had to scroll…and scroll…and scroll… you’re not alone. The Airbnb algorithm can feel like a mystery, but can also be surprisingly simple:
👉 Airbnb rewards listings that convert.
Think of it like Google or Facebook. It rewards content that gets good engagement because it's viewed as stuff their users want to see.
Think prettier photos and more feelings.
Here are some tactics to get your listing higher in the search results:
1️⃣ Start With a Scroll-Stopping Cover Photo
Your cover photo is your billboard; it's your first impression.
Choose the photo that makes someone pause. Think a wide, bright, well-lit shot. A unique feature (fire pit, view, hot tub, cozy corner) or lifestyle moments (coffee setup, outdoor seating, game room).
If someone clicks, Airbnb thinks: “People like this listing.”
2️⃣ Write a Clear, Guest-Focused Title
Titles aren’t about squeezing in every keyword. They’re about clarity + vibe.
This is my formula:
Highlight location + an amenity + a unique feature
Don't waste characters on stuff that is obvious in your listing itself (i.e. sleeps 6, wifi, full kitchen).
The goal is to spark interest and set expectations. Clear titles = more clicks = better rank.
3️⃣ Turn on Instant Book + Offer Flexible Cancellation
Ok, I had a hard time putting this in because I do not do this. I like to vet my guests, and I am not OK with full refunds on last minute cancellations…But if you are comfortable with it, it does boost your visibility on Airbnb.
Airbnb pushes listings that remove friction. Instant Book tells the platform you're ready to host and don't need back and forth messages. Flexible cancellation tells travelers to book now and worry less.
More bookings = more momentum = better placement
4️⃣ Get Reviews That Mention Specifics
Not all reviews are created equal. Reviews like:
“Super clean”
“Great communication”
“Beds were super comfortable”
…hold more weight than generic “Great stay!” reviews.
At checkout, you can encourage this with language like:
“If there was something you loved (like the beds, cleanliness, or amenities) feel free to mention it in your review. It helps future guests!”
Keyword-rich reviews signal quality. Quality boosts ranking.
5️⃣ The #1 Ranking Hack: Improve Your Conversion Rate
Airbnb wants guests to view → click → book.
If your listing consistently gets clicked and booked, Airbnb places you higher - plain and simple.
You need to help Airbnb see that your listing is one guests love. Better photos, quick responses, strategic titles, listing updates that show an attentive host, and great reviews work together.
