When booking a stay, most people compare only the nightly rate. At first glance, Airbnb often looks cheaper than a furnished apartment or an extended-stay hotel. The truth is different.
Guests usually face hidden Airbnb fees such as cleaning charges, service fees, deposits, and utility surprises.
This guide explains the hidden costs of Airbnb vs furnished apartments, with a breakdown of the charges travelers don’t see until checkout.
Comparison: Airbnb vs Furnished Apartments vs Extended-Stay Hotels
When comparing Airbnb, furnished apartments, and extended-stay hotels, the nightly rate is just the beginning. Each option comes with its own set of hidden costs, service fees, and policies that can significantly impact your overall stay. The table below highlights the key differences so you can make an informed decision.
| Cost Factor | Airbnb | Furnished Apartment (Hyatus) | Extended-Stay Hotel |
| Nightly Rate | Often low at first | Transparent, flat rate | Higher nightly rate |
| Cleaning Fees | $50–$300 per booking | Included in rate | Daily housekeeping (included) |
| Service Fees | 10–15% platform fee | None | None |
| Utilities & WiFi | Sometimes extra or unreliable | Always included | Basic included |
| Security Deposit | Often required | None or refundable quickly | Usually none |
| Taxes | Added at checkout | Included upfront | Added at checkout |
| Cancellation | Strict policies | Flexible and guest-friendly | Moderate, depends on brand |
As the table shows, furnished apartments like Hyatus often provide the best balance of transparency, value, and convenience. Whether you’re planning a short visit or an extended stay, knowing these differences upfront can help you avoid unexpected costs and choose the option that truly fits your needs.
Hidden Costs That Guests Don’t Expect
Utility Surprises and Internet Issues
One common frustration for Airbnb guests is paying extra for utilities. Some hosts set limits on electricity or charge for internet. Slow WiFi can also disrupt remote workers and families streaming online.
Furnished apartments provide all-inclusive pricing, with high-speed WiFi and utilities included in one rate. This makes budgeting much easier.
Cleaning Fees and Airbnb Service Charges
Cleaning fees are one of the biggest unexpected costs of an Airbnb stay. Even a short booking may add $100 or more. On top of that, Airbnb charges a 10–15 percent service fee.
In contrast, furnished apartments already include cleaning costs. Extended-stay hotels include housekeeping as part of the nightly price. This means guests avoid the shock of hidden fees at checkout.
Cancellation and Refund Rules
Cancellation policies often confuse Airbnb users. Some hosts offer no refund if a trip is canceled close to the check-in date. Extended-stay hotels are only a little better, with strict brand-set rules.
Furnished apartments usually offer more flexibility. Travelers who book directly through providers like Hyatus enjoy transparent and guest-friendly cancellation terms.
A Guest Story About Unexpected Airbnb Costs
“I booked an Airbnb for $120 per night. After 10 nights, the bill was almost $1,800. Cleaning, service fees, and taxes pushed the price up. I later discovered that a furnished apartment with WiFi and utilities included would have cost less.”
Why Furnished Apartments Are the Better Choice
Furnished apartments often provide more value than both Airbnb and extended-stay hotels.
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees
- Utilities, WiFi, and amenities already included
- Flexible cancellation options
- Spacious layouts and home-like comfort
With transparent pricing, built-in utilities, and home-like comfort, furnished apartments consistently deliver more value for every stay.
Hyatus Promise: No Hidden Costs
At Hyatus, what you see is what you pay. Rates include utilities, WiFi, and amenities upfront. Guests never face surprise fees at checkout.
For travelers who want clarity and convenience, Hyatus remain the smarter choice over Airbnb or extended-stay hotels.
👉 Book a furnished apartment with Hyatus and enjoy peace of mind knowing your rate is all-inclusive.
Conclusion
The hidden costs of Airbnb vs furnished apartments show why furnished apartments are the smarter choice. Airbnb’s cleaning fees, service charges, and utility surprises can raise the total cost far beyond the nightly rate. Extended-stay hotels are more consistent, but they also include taxes and fees at checkout.
Furnished apartments deliver the best balance of comfort, transparency, and affordability. With Hyatus, every rate includes utilities, WiFi, and amenities. Guests can relax knowing there will be no surprises when it is time to pay.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why does Airbnb charge extra fees?
Because cleaning costs are set by hosts and Airbnb adds a service fee of 10–15 percent.
2. Are furnished apartments cheaper than Airbnb?
Yes. Once cleaning fees, utilities, and service charges are added, Airbnb often costs more per night.
3. Do furnished apartments include utilities?
Most furnished apartments, including Hyatus, include electricity, water, and high-speed WiFi.
4. Which is better for long stays: Airbnb or furnished apartments?
Furnished apartments are better for long stays because they provide consistent pricing with no extra bills.
5. Do extended-stay hotels also have hidden fees?
Yes. Hotels may add taxes, parking fees, or charges for premium internet.
6. Can Airbnb guests get a refund if they cancel?
Refunds depend on each host’s policy. Many have strict terms that don’t allow last-minute changes.
