Hostaway vs. Lodgify: A Superhost’s Honest Comparison
As Airbnb Superhosts and co-hosts, we (Jacob and Elissa) know that choosing the right property management software can make or break your short-term rental business. Whether you’re managing a single vacation rental or a growing portfolio of properties, the right tool can streamline operations, automate tasks, and ultimately increase revenue. In this in-depth comparison, we’re diving into two of the most popular vacation rental management platforms: Hostaway and Lodgify.
Both platforms offer robust features, but they cater to different types of hosts and management styles. We’ll break down their key features, differences, and our personal experience using them to help you decide which one suits your needs best.
Overview of Hostaway and Lodgify
What is Hostaway?
Hostaway is an all-in-one vacation rental software designed for property managers handling multiple listings across different platforms. It integrates with major booking channels like Airbnb, Vrbo, Booking.com, and Expedia while offering powerful automation, reporting, and marketing tools.
Best for: Large-scale property managers, co-hosts managing multiple properties, and those needing deep integrations.
What is Lodgify?
Lodgify is a vacation rental software focused on helping hosts build direct booking websites while also offering a solid channel manager, automation tools, and property management features.
Best for: Independent hosts who want to focus on direct bookings and brand-building.
Key Features Breakdown
Channel Management & Integrations
Both Hostaway and Lodgify allow seamless connection to major booking platforms, but Hostaway’s integrations are more extensive. Hostaway provides a two-way API sync with Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com, ensuring real-time updates on availability and pricing.
Lodgify, while offering channel management, primarily shines with its direct booking website capabilities. However, it uses iCal synchronization for some platforms, which isn’t as robust as Hostaway’s API connections.
Winner: Hostaway (for professional hosts managing multiple channels)
Direct Booking Website
Lodgify is known for its website builder, which allows hosts to create professional, customizable sites with built-in payment processing. If you want to reduce dependence on OTAs (Online Travel Agencies) and get direct bookings, Lodgify is the clear winner here.
Hostaway lacks an integrated website builder, so if a direct booking site is your priority, you’d need a third-party solution.
Winner: Lodgify (for direct bookings and branding)
Automation & Workflow Management
Automating tasks like messaging, guest reviews, and check-in instructions can save hours of work.
Hostaway: Advanced automation tools, including triggered messages, task assignments for cleaning teams, and detailed reporting.
Lodgify: Basic automation for messaging and guest interactions but not as comprehensive as Hostaway.
If you’re scaling a rental business, Hostaway’s automation capabilities will keep operations running smoothly.
Winner: Hostaway (for large-scale automation)
Pricing & Cost Effectiveness
Pricing structures differ between the two platforms:
Hostaway operates on a custom pricing model, typically charging a setup fee plus a monthly subscription based on the number of properties.
Lodgify offers transparent subscription plans starting at around $17/month per property, with discounts for annual payments.
If you have just one or two properties, Lodgify is more cost-effective. However, for larger portfolios, Hostaway’s tailored pricing may be worth the investment.
Winner: Lodgify (for small-scale hosts), Hostaway (for large portfolios)
Reporting & Analytics
For data-driven hosts, Hostaway has superior reporting tools, offering advanced analytics on occupancy rates, revenue trends, and marketing performance.
Lodgify has basic reporting features but lacks the in-depth analytics Hostaway provides.
Winner: Hostaway (for data-driven decision-making)
Customer Support & Ease of Use
Hostaway: 24/7 support, dedicated account managers, and extensive onboarding resources.
Lodgify: 24/7 support but less personalized assistance.
Lodgify is easier to set up, but Hostaway offers better long-term support for scaling businesses.
Winner: Tie (Lodgify for ease of use, Hostaway for ongoing support)
Which One is Right for You?
Choose Hostaway if:
✅ You manage multiple properties and need robust automation ✅ You require direct API integrations with major booking platforms ✅ You rely on advanced reporting and analytics ✅ You want team collaboration features for cleaners and co-hosts
Choose Lodgify if:
✅ You want to build a direct booking website with ease ✅ You have a small number of properties and want an affordable solution ✅ You don’t need advanced automation or complex integrations ✅ You prefer a simple, user-friendly interface
Our Verdict
For our business, Hostaway wins because we manage multiple listings across Airbnb, Vrbo, and other platforms. Its automation, reporting, and integrations help us scale efficiently.
However, if we were just starting out and only looking to do a few listings total or focusing on direct bookings, Lodgify might be our go-to.
No matter which platform you choose, both can help streamline operations and maximize bookings. Your choice depends on your hosting style, business goals, and budget.
