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In the United States and around the world, more than 100 million travelers use Airbnb to book accommodations. As more people embrace remote work and digital nomad lifestyles, Airbnb can expect to attract additional bookings for longer periods of time.

The platform routinely garners high praise for giving people access to affordable lodging when they travel and fostering a wholesome sense of community around the world. At the same time, homeowners who are willing to rent out their homes can generate considerable amounts of income on a monthly basis.

Over the years, Airbnb's expanded beyond just offering rentals for people to enjoy across the globe. The platform also provides experiences where travelers can partake in a variety of fun activities hosted by locals in their respective destinations.

As 2024 kicks off, Airbnb is making new headlines due to a council it's established to focus on America's housing supply.

Everything you need to know

Stephanie Rawlings-Blake, the former mayor of Baltimore, will oversee Airbnb's new board. At the heart of the group's work will be efforts to boost the supply of housing in the United States, while also lowering its costs.

In recent years, home and land fees alike have increased. As many Americans' wages fail to follow suit, more individuals find themselves priced out of home ownership. Joining Rawlings-Blake will be other city officials like Mayor Levar Stoney of Richmond, Virginia and Clarence Anthony, the executive director and CEO of the National League of Cities. 

Airbnb is committed to ascertaining how its own platform can collaborate with localities as they develop regulations for temporary rentals. In a public statement, Rawlings-Blake said progress in expanding housing access will only come with long-term efforts and consistent partnerships.

More from Airbnb to make housing more affordable

While many travelers and hosts benefit from Airbnb, critics of the platform have accused it of exacerbating unaffordable housing costs.

In spite of this, Airbnb gifted the nonprofit Californians for Affordable Housing Now with a $3 million donation. It also supported Colorado's Proposition 123, which aimed to send hundreds of millions of tax dollars to programs centered around affordable housing development.