This research project was sparked by our observation of the diverse relationships Airbnb establishes with various cities worldwide. In examining the impact of Airbnb’s operation on the socioeconomic aspects of London and New York City, our research aims to uncover the key differences between these two influential cities. We are particularly interested in understanding how regulatory adjustments have influenced the supply and demand for short-term rentals and, subsequently, how these changes affect affordability and housing availability.

This research project was initiated based on our observation of the varied relationships Airbnb establishes with cities globally. These relationships play a significant role in shaping and being shaped by socioeconomic disparities that extend beyond individual communities. Our objective is to delve into the effects of city-wide policies on Airbnb listings, exploring their social and cultural implications for both hosts and customers.

Our primary data source, Inside Airbnb, serves as an independent platform providing organized data directly from Airbnb, offering valuable insights into the dynamics of short-term rentals. To conduct a thorough investigation, we have chosen to focus specifically on neighborhoods in New York City and London. We chose these locations due to their historical ties with Airbnb. This strategic choice enables us to compare two major cities from different countries, providing a substantial dataset for comprehensive contextualization and analysis.