Airbnb Will Push Rooms as Low-Cost Option to House Rentals

Airbnb is making a renewed push into renting single rooms in a nod to its beginnings and a realization that renting an entire house is too expensive for many travelers, especially younger ones

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The short-term rental company rolled out a new offering this week that it calls Airbnb Rooms. Guests can rent a room in the same house or apartment as their host at prices that Airbnb says will average $67 a night.

"It is an admission that travelers care more about affordability than they did a year ago," said CEO Brian Chesky.

Airbnb has always listed single rooms in houses and apartments. The company said the new offering will give more biographical information about hosts, and consumers can sort listings to learn details including whether their bedroom door locks and the bathroom is private or shared.