Airbnb 15.5% Host Fee: What It Means in 2025

This guide explains the Airbnb 15.5% host fee, how the single host fee compares with the legacy split model, and the steps that protect payout without adding guest friction.

Overview of the Airbnb 15.5% host fee

The platform is standardizing a single host service fee of 15.5% in many regions. Under this model the guest sees one inclusive price. The platform deducts the fee from the booking subtotal and sends the remaining payout to the host account.

Key point: The booking subtotal usually includes nightly rate, cleaning fee, and extra guest charges. The Airbnb 15.5% host fee applies to that subtotal.

How the Airbnb 15.5% host fee compares with the split model

Official context and definitions can be found in these resources: Airbnb help: service fees and Airbnb resources: simplified fees.

Example math for the Airbnb 15.5% host fee

Target a similar payout by setting calendar prices that account for the fee on the subtotal.

Numbers are illustrative. Local terms and taxes vary. Confirm details in the official pages linked above.

Pricing playbook for the Airbnb 15.5% host fee

1. Measure the baseline. Track average nightly price, cleaning fee, occupancy, and net payout for a recent period.
2. Model the subtotal. Apply 15.5% to the subtotal that includes add ons. Note the gap to the target payout.
3. Set a markup rule. Increase nightly price and adjust fees so the payout aligns with targets while keeping totals competitive.
4. Use demand signals. Dynamic pricing can raise busy dates and protect value in peak periods.
5. Communicate clarity. The guest total already includes platform costs which reduces surprise at checkout.

Helpful tools and related reading

Operations can be streamlined with the Airbnb Multi Property Tracker. For communication changes, see Airbnb temporary phone numbers. For promotion strategy, review Airbnb custom promotion. Market commentary on the fee shift is available at Rental Scale-Up and Beyond Pricing.

This article focuses on the Airbnb 15.5% host fee and offers a framework for pricing and payouts. It is informational content and not legal or tax advice.