For years, Airbnb Superhost status was one of the most valuable rewards a host could earn on Airbnb, signaling reliability and trust to potential guests. But with the introduction of the Guest Favorite badge and continuous changes to Airbnb’s ranking algorithm, hosts are left wondering: which recognition actually helps your listing get seen more?
In this blog, we’ll break down the differences, how each impacts your visibility, and what you can do to maximize your Airbnb success, with or without a badge.
What does Guest Favorite mean on Airbnb
The Guest Favorite badge, introduced in Winter 2023, highlights properties that consistently receive high ratings from guests. Unlike Superhost status, which applies to a host’s entire portfolio, the Airbnb Guest Favorites is awarded to individual listings, showcasing properties that stand out for their guest satisfaction, location, and value.
How does a listing qualify for the Airbnb Guest Favorites badge?
To earn this badge, your listing needs to consistently meet high standards that reflect guest satisfaction and reliability. Here’s what Airbnb looks for:
- A listing must maintain a 4.9+ average rating from past guests.
- Have a minimum of five positive reviews.
- Maintain a record of strong reliability, with no more than 1% average cancellation rate and quality-related customer service issues.
Airbnb verifies listings with the Guest Favorite badge daily to ensure they continue to meet the badge's criteria.
Why does the Guest Favorites Airbnb badge matter?
It may seem like a small badge, but the numbers tell a different story. Listings with the Guest Favorite badge get more visibility, with on average 242 daily impressions compared to an average of 159 for those without it. They’re also more likely to appear on the first page of search results, giving them an edge. While the click rate difference is small, the booking rate jumps from 0.7% to 0.8%, which can add up to more reservations.
Beyond the stats, this badge builds trust. It signals to guests that your property consistently delivers a top-tier experience, making them more confident in booking. Plus, Airbnb highlights the badge more prominently on listing pages than the Superhost badge, helping your listing stand out.
More visibility also means more opportunities. Travelers can filter specifically for Guest Favorite listings, increasing your chances of getting noticed. With a mix of trust and exposure, this badge can lead to higher conversion rates and more bookings; giving you a competitive edge.
How to earn the Guest Favorite badge on Airbnb
If you're aiming to earn the prestigious Guest Favorite badge on Airbnb, focusing on delivering an outstanding guest experience is key. Here’s how you can increase your chances of winning the badge:
Aim for 5-star reviews
The foundation of an Airbnb Guest Favorite badge is consistently earning 5-star reviews. To achieve this, focus on exceeding guest expectations across several areas, such as:
- Cleanliness: Ensure your property is spotless for every guest.
- Check-in process: Provide clear, easy check-in instructions to avoid any hassle.
- Location: Highlight the unique aspects of your location, but be honest about its proximity to popular destinations.
- Value: Offer competitive pricing for the experience you provide.
- Communication: Be responsive and helpful throughout the guest’s stay.
- Accuracy: how well do your reviews match your description, this one is the most impactful in receiving your Guest Favorite badge. Further down in this blog we will discuss how you can improve this.
Aiming for these 5-star reviews in areas like cleanliness, value, and check-in will help boost your overall rating, making it easier to qualify for the Guest Favorite badge.
Did you know?
The first 15 reviews are crucial in determining whether your listing will earn the Guest Favorite badge. Hosts who secure consistent 5-star reviews early on have a significantly higher chance of getting the badge. If your listing starts with a few lower ratings, it may be more challenging to catch up, but by the time you reach 35+ reviews, your odds stabilize.
For more tips, check out our blog on how to earn 5-star reviews on Airbnb.
Highlight unique & standout features
Showcase your distinctive amenities and unique design elements. Guests are more likely to be drawn to listings with memorable, high-quality features that set them apart from the competition. Find out the best Airbnb amenities proven to increase revenue in this blog.
Moreover, listings with unique designs, such as luxury or personalized touches, are also favored. 51% of unique stays, such as huts, barns, and farm stays, earn the Guest Favorite badge according to AirDNA. Offering something special can help your listing stand out in the competitive market of Airbnb.
Keep cancellations to a minimum
One factor Airbnb evaluates when deciding who earns the Guest Favorite badge is cancellation rates. Frequent cancellations can hurt your eligibility, so it’s crucial to maintain consistency. Ensure your calendar is up-to-date and avoid cancellations unless absolutely necessary. A good reputation for reliability goes a long way in maintaining guest satisfaction and meeting Airbnb's expectations for eligibility.
Encourage guest feedback
Politely ask your guests to leave a review after their stay. Positive feedback will boost your profile, especially if guests mention aspects of their stay that stand out. You can gently remind them during checkout or in your messaging post-stay. Remember, feedback is essential to boost your rating and build a strong reputation that could help you earn the Guest Favorite badge.
Improve listing accuracy
Be transparent and clear about every aspect of your listing. Accurate listing descriptions are crucial to maintaining high ratings. If your property has specific quirks; like street noise, seasonal amenities, or limited space, make sure to mention them upfront. Setting the right expectations ensures guests aren’t disappointed by what they find upon arrival, minimizing the chance of negative reviews.
Optimize your listing
The first impression matters. An optimized listing with a strong title, a compelling description, and a complete list of amenities is more likely to attract the right guests. On top of that it is important to integrate the right keywords at the right time. What guests are looking for changes based on upcoming events, seasonality and many other factors. By using impactful keywords, you customize your listings to the demand.
Not only does this improve your visibility in Airbnb’s search engine, but it also helps potential guests understand exactly what to expect from your property. Strong SEO and an engaging listing will help your guests find you, book your space, and leave glowing reviews.
Learn more about improving your Airbnb SEO in this detailed guide.
Now that we have covered the Guest Favorite badge, let’s take a look at the power of the Superhost status and how you can attain this status.
What is Airbnb Superhost status?
Airbnb’s Superhost status is a recognition awarded to hosts who consistently provide exceptional hospitality. Unlike the Guest Favorite badge, which is tied to a specific listing, Superhost status applies to an individual host and all of their properties. It signals trust, reliability, and a high standard of service, making it a powerful tool for attracting bookings.
How does a host qualify for Superhost status?
To qualify for Superhost status, hosts must meet the following requirements:
- Maintain an average rating of 4.8 or higher.
- Have a response rate of 90% or higher within 24 hours.
- Complete a minimum of 10 stays in the past year or 3 reservations totaling at least 100 nights.
- Maintain a cancellation rate of 1% or lower, except in extenuating circumstances.
Airbnb evaluates Superhosts every three months to ensure they continue to meet these criteria.
Why does Superhost status matter?
Superhost status comes with valuable perks that can enhance your hosting success. Superhosts rank higher in Airbnb search results, increasing visibility and booking potential. On average, they earn 29% more per year than regular hosts and enjoy higher occupancy rates, as guests are more likely to choose a host with a strong track record.
Beyond increased earnings, Airbnb rewards Superhosts with exclusive benefits like priority customer support, an extra 20% referral bonus, a $100 Airbnb coupon for maintaining status for a year, and early access to new features. Superhosts also get insider access to exclusive Airbnb events and product launches, offering valuable networking and learning opportunities.
These perks make Superhost status a worthwhile achievement for dedicated hosts, helping them stand out, earn more, and access unique rewards.
How to achieve Superhost status on Airbnb
Becoming a Superhost isn’t just about hosting more guests; it’s about delivering exceptional service consistently. If you meet the following Airbnb criteria, you’ll increase your chances of winning the badge. Here’s what it takes:
S.jpg)
Meet the reservation requirements
To qualify, you need to complete at least 10 stays in the past year or 100 nights across at least three stays. This structure ensures that both short-term and long-term hosts have a fair shot at Superhost status. Keep in mind that longer stays count as a single reservation, and cancellations won’t contribute to your total.
Maintain a high response rate
Communication is key to a great guest experience. To qualify, you must maintain a 90% response rate, meaning you should reply to at least 9 out of 10 guest messages within 24 hours. Using automated responses or scheduling tools can help you stay on top of inquiries. If you work with co-hosts, ensure they follow the same standard to avoid delays.
Minimize cancellations
Superhosts are known for reliability, so Airbnb requires you to keep your cancellation rate under 1%; that means no more than one cancellation per 100 reservations. Avoid canceling bookings unless absolutely necessary, and keep your calendar updated to prevent accidental double bookings. Exceptions are made for extenuating circumstances, but frequent cancellations can impact your Superhost eligibility.
For more tips on how to stand out on OTAs throughout the booking journey read this blog.
Achieve a high overall rating
Your guest reviews reflect the quality of your hosting. To qualify, you need to maintain an average rating of 4.8 stars or higher over the past year. While many hosts achieve a 4.5-star rating, Airbnb holds Superhosts to a higher standard. Encourage positive reviews by ensuring your property is clean, well-maintained, and accurately described. Respond professionally to feedback, and use guest suggestions to improve your listing.
Deliver a seamless guest experience
Beyond the numbers, Airbnb looks at overall guest satisfaction. Providing thoughtful hospitality, accurate listing descriptions, and a well-stocked space can help keep your ratings high. Small touches; like clear check-in instructions, local recommendations, or extra amenities, can make a big difference in guest satisfaction.
The trade-offs of becoming a Superhost
Becoming a Superhost can seem like the ultimate goal for any Airbnb host, but here's something most hosting guides won’t tell you: when you manage multiple listings, being a Superhost may not always work in your favor over time.
Diminishing Returns with Multiple Listings
As your portfolio grows, you may experience diminishing returns. Superhosts typically see around two extra bookings per month, but the trade-off is a drop in personalized service. This, in turn, can affect guest satisfaction and impact your ratings. When you're juggling several listings, it becomes harder to maintain that level of personal attention that often leads to top-notch reviews.
The review gap: Keeping Listings Fresh
Another challenge is the review gap. Airbnb’s ranking algorithm places a premium on recent, frequent reviews. If you manage 10 or more listings, keeping them all fresh with new reviews becomes nearly impossible. In other words, it’s tough to maintain the momentum needed to stay at the top of the rankings.
Superhost status doesn’t always mean more revenue
Interestingly, Superhost status doesn’t automatically translate to more revenue either. Superhosts typically charge about 11% less than regular hosts, but they make up for this with higher occupancy rates, 81% higher on average.
This, combined with 60% higher daily revenue than regular hosts, shows that Superhost status can boost bookings, but it doesn’t always equate to higher profits. It’s a balancing act, and the key is managing the right combination of service, guest experience, and property performance to keep those ratings, and revenue, high.
Consider co-hosting
If maintaining Superhost status feels challenging, consider partnering with an experienced co-host who already holds the title. Airbnb allows co-hosts to manage listings on behalf of other hosts, and having a Superhost co-host can enhance your chances of meeting the necessary criteria. However, this comes with a cost, so evaluate whether the benefits outweigh the expense for your business strategy. Learn more about co-hosting in this blog.
By meeting these key requirements, you’ll not only be eligible to earn Superhost status but also build a strong reputation that attracts more bookings and boosts your earnings.
How to track your Superhost status and progress
To monitor your Superhost status, head to the Performance section and select Superhost. Here, you can track your progress toward meeting each of the Superhost requirements.
Since assessments occur throughout the 12-month evaluation period, it’s a good idea to check your progress regularly.
How you’ll be notified about your Superhost status
You’ll receive an email notification from Airbnb informing you whether you’ve gained, maintained, or lost your Superhost status.
Key differences: Guest Favorite vs. Superhost
As we discussed, the Guest Favorite badge is all about the property itself, emphasizing unique features and memorable guest experiences. In contrast, Superhost status focuses on the host’s ability to consistently deliver reliable, high-quality hospitality.
Properties with the Guest Favorite badge often attract guests looking for unique, standout stays, while Superhosts appeal to travelers who prioritize trust and dependable service over distinctive features.
Understanding these differences can help hosts decide which one best aligns with their hosting goals, whether it’s creating unforgettable experiences with a unique property or building a reputation for reliable, top-tier hospitality.
Here's a comparison table highlighting the key differences between the Guest Favorite badge and Superhost status on Airbnb:
Guest Favorite vs. Superhost, which one has the biggest impact on visibility?
Airbnb’s algorithm treats them differently. Our analysis of hundreds of U.S. listings reveals something surprising:
Guest Favorite listings have nearly 2X the predictive power for high search rankings compared to Superhost status.
Our research shows:
- Guest Favorite listings consistently push predictions toward higher rankings, while non-badged listings drag them down.
- Superhost status has a mild positive effect, but doesn’t separate winners from losers as clearly.
In other words, if you’re choosing where to focus your energy, Guest Favorite moves the needle more for visibility.
Can you earn both?
Yes, it is possible to earn both the Guest Favorite badge and Superhost status, and doing so can maximize your success on Airbnb. Interestingly, 72% of Guest Favorite listings are run by Superhosts, proof that great hospitality leads to better ratings and more badges. But 28% aren’t Superhost properties, so while it’s possible to earn the badge without it, being a Superhost definitely helps.
Boost your credibility
Earning both the Guest Favorite and Superhost badges significantly increases your credibility. Nearly two-thirds of Guest Favorites are hosted by Superhosts, which means guests see the powerful combination of a "verified great place + trusted host." This instantly builds confidence and reduces hesitation.
Maximize your visibility
Both badges work together to enhance your visibility. Superhost status helps your profile stand out, while the Guest Favorite badge ensures your top listings dominate search results. This gives you more exposure and makes it easier for guests to find you.
The elite 1% perk
The real benefit? Hosts with both badges earn up to 40% more than those with just one. This gives you a strong advantage in the competitive Airbnb market, helping you drive more bookings and increase revenue.
How AutoRank supports badge eligibility
Earning Airbnb’s coveted Guest Favorite or Superhost badge goes beyond just accumulating positive reviews. It’s about getting the small details right, things like accuracy in your listing and a seamless check-in process. These elements play a major role in whether or not your listing qualifies for these badges, and getting them perfect is key.
The importance of accuracy
For both the Guest Favorite and Superhost badges, having accurate listing details is crucial. If your listing has even slight inaccuracies or a check-in process that could be improved, it may hurt your chances of earning these badges, despite having high ratings in other areas.
Interestingly, location ratings matter the least when it comes to these badges. Although location is still important, the data shows that listings with lower location ratings can still qualify for the Guest Favorite badge. However, accuracy needs to be near flawless for your listing to qualify.
How does AutoRank help you increase your Accuracy score?
AutoRank’s upcoming Review Fusion feature boosts your accuracy score by proactively managing guest expectations and showcasing your property’s strengths:
- Highlight what guests love: Review Fusion analyzes guest reviews to identify standout features of your property and local area. These highlights are automatically added to your listing, making your descriptions accurate, appealing, and aligned with what guests actually value.
- Manage guest expectations: It scans your latest 20 reviews for recurring concerns, alerting you to address issues or add disclaimers. This transparency sets clear expectations, reduces negative reviews, and improves your accuracy score.
AutoRank ensures your listings are accurate, trustworthy, and optimized to attract more bookings! Learn more about this feature here.
Final thoughts: Guest Favorite vs Superhost, which badge Matters Most?
Both Airbnb’s Superhost and Guest Favorite badges signal trust and quality, but they serve different purposes. Superhost reflects a host’s consistency and reliability, while Guest Favorite is a direct testament to exceptional guest experiences.
Our analysis of hundreds of U.S. listings revealed surprising insights:
- Guest favorite listings have nearly 2X the predictive power for high search rankings compared to Superhost status.
- Guest Favorite listings consistently push predictions toward higher rankings, while non-badged listings drag them down.
- Superhost status offers a mild positive effect but doesn’t separate winners from losers as clearly.
In other words, if you’re choosing where to focus your energy, Guest Favorite has a bigger impact on visibility.
The best strategy is to optimize your listing, provide an outstanding guest experience, and leverage smart tools like AutoRank to enhance your visibility and rankings. Whether you hold one badge or both, the key is staying ahead of Airbnb’s evolving algorithms and guest expectations.
Want to stand out? Try AutoRank now.