Wondering how Airbnb search results work? You’ve come to the right place. Airbnb uses an algorithm to generate search results that appeal to guests. The algorithm sorts through the millions of listings on Airbnb to find the right listings for each search. Guests enter search criteria and the algorithm returns listings that reflect those criteria.
The algorithm considers many factors to determine how to order search results, but some factors have a larger impact than others. In particular, the quality, popularity, price, and, for homes, location of a listing heavily influence how a listing appears in search results. The algorithm also encourages variety within search results—so that guests are presented with listings that have different hosts, different characteristics, and a range of prices.
We offer a variety of search filters and other settings that guests can use to adjust their search results. For example, guests can filter homes by the type of place, price range, amenities, booking options, and accessibility features, while experiences and services can be filtered by type. We also offer guests the ability to find homes search results on a map. To help guests understand the geographic distribution of homes that meet their search criteria, the listings that appear on the map may differ from those that appear in the list. Guests also have the option to browse grouped listings, such as homes near popular landmarks, experiences happening soon, and popular services.
Guests can shape their search results by entering information like a location, dates, and the number of guests and pets. Guests can also find specific types of listings and use filters or the map to refine their search results. If there aren’t enough high quality listings available that match a guest’s search criteria, we may show other listings that we think might appeal to the guest, even if they do not meet all of the guest’s criteria.
We also use information we have about a guest to personalize their user experience based on their interactions with the Airbnb Platform, like suggesting listings, destinations or categories they might like and determine and rank their search results. For example, if a guest’s past bookings share certain characteristics, the algorithm may rank listings with those characteristics higher for that guest. Similarly, if a guest has a home reservation, the algorithm may rank higher experiences and services that are available nearby during the dates of that reservation.
To help hosts get started, the algorithm is designed to make sure new listings show up well in search results. New listings usually show up in search results within 24 hours, but in some cases they may take longer.
Note: Our ranking algorithms will evolve over time to reflect changes to our business and technology, in our community, and around the world. Find out which factors impact search and how to improve your ranking in the Resource Center.