The State of Hostels Report 2025

Overview

In this report, we take the pulse of the global hostel industry. How are properties performing compared to previous years? What are the latest travel trends? And in a softening market, how can hostelers drive growth?

What You'll learn

• Hiring Reinvented: The hospitality labor market has transformed, with mobile-first, fast-response hiring now expected by job seekers.
• Experience is Everything: Guest expectations are higher than ever, with a premium placed on personalized, tech-enabled, and seamless service.
• Innovation at Scale: Hotel companies are investing in scalable technologies — including AI and automation — to optimize operations and drive efficiencies.
• Sustainability Takes Center Stage: Travelers increasingly demand environmentally responsible practices, especially in luxury and business segments.
• Safety is the New Loyalty: Cybersecurity and physical safety have become critical drivers of guest trust and brand loyalty.
• Parking is an Untapped Asset: Modern, tech-enabled parking solutions are emerging as high-margin revenue streams and service differentiators.