Airbnb in NYC: The Real Numbers Behind the Sharing Story
Photo Credit: The five biggest neighborhoods for Airbnb are in parts of Brooklyn and Manhattan with few hotels. Mapbox / Skift
Skift Take
Airbnb's business in New York is a fascinating look at how the sharing economy has evolved, as well as the challenges that remain ahead of it.
Editor's Note: This is the first in a series of data dives into Airbnb's listings in New York City. We believe Airbnb Vs. NYC is the defining fight of the sharing economy, and some understanding of how the platform is being used will help clear up the laws as they change. Part two here.
Airbnb versus New York City is one of the defining fights of the sharing economy.
It is so important that the highest profile sharing economy company is waging a three-pronged political, legal, and public relations battle in the city. The impending battle with the state Attorney General -- court proceedings begin in late March -- is easily one of the most important challenges Airbnb has faced in its six-year history.
The Attorney General and a host of other state and local politicians say many hosts on Airbnb are violating a state law that prohibits most short-term rentals of less than 30 days. They also share concerns that hosts aren't paying their fair share of taxes.
Airbnb responds
