Airbnb is responding to some concerns that their listings might be having a negative impact on the housing crunch across the province.

Earlier this week a series of Tweets gained some traction on social media, highlighting hundreds of Airbnb listings across various communities such as St. John’s, Corner Brook, Twillingate, and Bonavista.

I realize that aibnb isn't responsible for the housing crisis. But like, y'know, it's not exactly helping, is it? pic.twitter.com/FIyMqzUozl

— Dave Sullivan (@DaveJSullivan) January 30, 2023

In a statement, the company says the “vast majority” of hosts in the province share just one home, and entire home listings in Newfoundland represent about 1 per cent of the total housing stock.

As well, the company says that most hosts only share their space occasionally, less than 50 nights per year.

The company also clarifies that hosts can belong to multiple Airbnb categories, and just because a listing is shown doesn’t mean that it is available for reservations.

The company is touting the economic benefits of the listings, noting that its annual survey of hosts and guests shows that people are spending about $200 a day during their stay, with 50 per cent of that going directly into the community where they are staying.

As well, in 2021 they say the average host earned about $6,000 over the course of the year.