In the heart of Rome, a lively debate is unfolding around the impact of short-term rentals on the city’s historic center. Airbnb, a key player in this sector, has stepped forward with data-driven insights and constructive proposals to address the concerns raised by institutions and operators.
The platform has demonstrated its commitment to Rome by contributing 50 million euros in tourist tax for 2026. However, Airbnb’s involvement goes beyond financial contributions, as it seeks to challenge misconceptions and offer solutions to the complex issues at hand.
Airbnb’s Data on Rome’s Short-Term Rental Market
Airbnb’s recent analysis sheds light on the dynamics of short-term rentals in Rome. With approximately 20,000 hosts on the platform, the data reveals that 82% of them rent out just one property. Moreover, for 59% of these hosts, short-term rentals serve as a supplementary income rather than a primary source of revenue. On average, hosts earn around 9,500 euros annually from this activity.
Focusing on Rome’s historic center, Airbnb’s data shows that out of 26,000 available apartments12,987 are located in central areas, accounting for 34.5% of the total. Despite this, Airbnb’s impact on tourism is relatively modest, contributing to just 8% of the city’s total tourist presence. The majority of visitors still prefer traditional accommodations like hotels.
Airbnb’s Proposals for a Sustainable Tourism Model
Airbnb argues that the depopulation of Rome’s historic center is not solely attributable to short-term rentals. Instead, the platform suggests that the perceived risks associated with long-term rentals are a significant factor. To encourage the return of residents, Airbnb proposes tax incentives for those opting for long-term rentals and enhanced legal protections against tenant default.
Additionally, Airbnb opposes the implementation of limits on short-term rental nightsas this could exacerbate seasonal imbalances. Instead, the platform advocates for destagionalization and redirecting tourists towards lesser-known neighborhoods such as PortonaccioCentocelleand the Esquilino district.
The Comune di Roma’s Stance on Short-Term Rentals
Despite Airbnb’s proposals, the Comune di Roma has intensified its oversight of short-term rentals. Between and May 2026the city issued 1,185 fines for violations, primarily related to the failure to register on the tourist tax portal and the lack of quarterly guest communications. These measures have resulted in the collection of over 234,000 euros in fines from 260 property owners.
The debate surrounding short-term rentals in Rome is multifaceted and requires a balanced approach. Airbnb’s data and proposals aim to foster a constructive dialoguewhile the Comune di Roma continues to enforce regulations to ensure the sustainable management of tourism in the Eternal City.
