STRs Enter New Phase of Scrutiny and Structural Growth
Phocuswright's Global Short-Term Rentals 2026 report shows gross bookings reached $219.9B in 2025, projected to grow at 5.3% CAGR to $270.6B by 2029. The sector has shifted from unregulated growth to enforcement and scrutiny, reshaping supply. Technology shifts including generative AI and Airbnb's expansion beyond stays are transforming discovery and booking, though impact on incremental demand remains unclear. North America STR bookings grew 4% in 2025 to $78B, projected 5% growth in 2026 to $81.8B. Europe will reach $79.7B in 2026. APAC projected 8.9% CAGR to $49.3B by 2029.
Impact and considerations
Structural shifts in STR market affect corporate travel lodging choices and costs; increased regulation may reshape supply.
Key points
- Global STR bookings reached $219.9B in 2025, projected to $270.6B by 2029.
- North America STR bookings grew 4% in 2025 to $78B, projected 5% growth in 2026.
- U.S. STR usage incidence leaped from 24% to 30%, largest single-period increase.
- European markets show higher or on-par usage: France 44%, UK 31%, Germany 26%.
- APAC projected to grow at 8.9% CAGR to $49.3B by 2029.
Sources and time
- Primary source
- PhocusWire / Phocuswright
- Other sources
- 0
- First source publication
- 11 Aug 2026, 15:00
- Page published
- 12 Aug 2026, 14:14
- Last updated
- 11 Aug 2026, 15:00
- Original links
- PhocusWire All News：STRs enter a new phase of scrutiny and structural growth (opens in a new tab)Primary source · en · Published 11 Aug 2026, 15:00