Majority of New Yorkers Oppose Airbnb Access to City Housing Market

A recent poll indicates that most residents of New York City are against allowing Airbnb to operate freely within the city’s housing sector. The survey, funded by Hotel Gaming and Trades Council—an organization opposing Airbnb—revealed that 56% of residents prefer to avoid the short-term rental system altogether.

Despite Airbnb investing over $5 million into a super PAC to influence local elections, public opinion remains largely critical. Support for Airbnb is modest, with only 38% of respondents favoring the platform and 6% unsure. Notably, opposition spans party lines, with 57% of Democrats and 58% of Republicans opposing short-term rentals. Concerns primarily focus on the housing shortage, with more than 80% worried that Airbnb and similar platforms reduce the availability of long-term housing options.

In response to the controversy, organizations like Churches United for Fair Housing emphasize that many families are struggling to maintain their homes amidst the housing crisis. “The vast majority of families want policies that make housing more affordable, not less,” said Whitney Hu, director of civic engagement.

Recent legislation, such as Local Law 18 passed in 2023, effectively bans Airbnb rentals where the tenant isn’t present. Although efforts to revive the short-term rental market are underway, including introducing bills supported by various city council members, the opposition from housing advocates and public opinion remains strong.

The company has also allocated significant funds to run ads opposing mayoral candidates who advocate for strict restrictions on Airbnb, including a $1 million ad campaign targeting candidates like Zohran Mamdani and Scott Stringer. These moves reveal the ongoing battle between short-term rental interests and efforts to protect affordable housing in the city.