Comparative analysis of short-term rental homes and traditional accommodation in Andalusian tourist cities: intensity, density, and potential expansion areas

Accommodation is one of the main sectors affected by the emergence of platform economies. This issue has been addressed by many researchers, but they have mainly focussed on Airbnb and large cities. Thus, there is a need for research on medium-sized cities and how they have been affected by the growth of short-term rental (STR) homes. Using official data, we analysed the spatial distribution of holiday rental homes in four Andalusian cities: Cordova, Granada, Malaga, and Seville. Using tourist density and intensity indicators, we created maps showing the concentration of STRs in historic centres, which matches the spatial distribution pattern of traditional tourist accommodation (TA). The analysis also identified areas in each city into which STRs may expand in the future. The results of this study may help policymakers and institutions responsible for territorial and tourism planning to better understand how the emergence of platform economies is impacting tourist destinations. They should also assist policymakers in making informed decisions on regulating this phenomenon.