Airbnb data shows local travelers are powering community commerce across PR
By THE STAR STAFF
As more Puerto Ricans look beyond traditional coastal hotspots, new data from Airbnb points to a growing wave of local tourism that is reshaping commerce and revitalizing communities across the island.
The company’s latest findings show that travelers who book through the platform are spending more in the towns where they stay, helping drive economic activity in emerging destinations.
According to Airbnb’s survey on guest spending through June 2026, nearly 55% of all non‑lodging expenses were made in the same neighborhood where travelers stayed, underscoring the platform’s role in channeling tourism dollars directly into local businesses. The data also shows that about 70% of guests saved money by choosing Airbnb, and roughly 60% of those reinvested that savings into restaurants, shops and activities during their trip.
Airbnb’s Emerging Destinations LATAM Report highlights a shift in traveler interest toward mountainous and inland municipalities. San Germán led reservation growth in 2025 with nearly 60%, followed by Coamo and Barranquitas. Jayuya and Maunabo also saw sustained increases in searches and bookings. Collectively, the five destinations recorded over 25% growth in reservations between 2024 and 2025, while searches rose an average of 10%.
This trend reflects a broader appetite for rural, nature‑driven experiences. Travelers cited privacy, convenient location and affordability as key reasons for choosing Airbnb. More than 60% valued having a private space for their group, and over 25% prioritized saving money.
Hosts are also playing a central role in shaping visitor experiences. Sixty percent of guests received restaurant recommendations from their hosts, and 35% were guided toward outdoor activities. Nearly 60% of those suggestions pointed travelers to businesses within the same neighborhood, reinforcing the host’s role as a connector between visitors and the community.
The economic impact is notable: the average daily spend per person reached some $290, and median host earnings in the five emerging destinations were about $9,200 over the year. Price remains a decisive factor, with more than 95% of travelers identifying cost as an important element when choosing between Airbnb and other lodging options.
With the findings, Airbnb says it aims to continue supporting Puerto Rico’s tourism ecosystem by helping distribute visitor traffic beyond traditional hubs and strengthening ties between travelers and the communities they explore. The company emphasized its commitment to fostering opportunities for local businesses, municipalities and hosts.
Founded in 2007, Airbnb now counts more than five million hosts worldwide and has welcomed over 1.5 billion guests.
