Is Vrbo Worth It? 2026 Driver Review & Pay Breakdown
By GrindBoss Team • Last updated: January 18, 2026
Vrbo Review Quick Verdict
The Bottom Line: Vrbo is a platform where you can earn money by renting out your vacation property. It is not a typical gig app for tasks or deliveries, but it offers a way to make income from a spare home or property.
Why We Love It
- Earn income from your property
- You set your own prices
- Reach a global audience
- Focus on whole-home rentals
The Catch
- ✕Requires property ownership
- ✕Income can be inconsistent
- ✕Maintenance and cleaning costs
- ✕Platform charges commission fees
We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
What is Vrbo & How Does It Work?
Vrbo is an online marketplace where property owners can list their vacation homes, cabins, or condos for rent. Travelers book these properties for their stays, and owners earn rental income.
Unlike traditional gig apps that offer tasks or delivery jobs, Vrbo lets you use your property to earn money. It focuses on renting out entire homes, not just rooms.
At A Glance
- TypeProperty Rental Gig
- PlatformiOS, Android, Web
- CostFree to list
- Est. YearN/A
How It Works
Create Your Listing
Sign up and create a detailed profile for your property. Add photos, descriptions, and set your availability.
Get Bookings
Travelers find your listing and book your property for their vacations. You manage the reservations.
Earn Rental Income
After guests check in, Vrbo processes the payment to you. You earn money from each successful rental.
Is Vrbo Legit? (Company Background)
When considering any platform for earning money, it is important to check its trustworthiness. Here is what we found about Vrbo.
- Established Company: Vrbo has been around for many years and is part of Expedia Group, a major travel company. This shows it is a well-known and established business.
- User Ratings: The Vrbo app has high ratings from users, with 4.7 on iOS and 4.8 on Android. However, its Trustpilot score is low at 1.2, which suggests some users have had negative experiences.
- Secure Payments: Vrbo uses secure payment methods like direct deposit and PayPal to ensure owners receive their earnings. Your financial information is handled with care.
- Global Presence: Vrbo operates in many countries, including the USA and globally. This wide reach means many travelers can find and book your property.
Verdict: Legit
Vrbo is a legitimate platform for property owners to earn income through vacation rentals. It is backed by a large company, but like any service, it has areas where user experiences can vary.
How Much Do Vrbo Drivers Actually Make?
The amount of money you can make with Vrbo depends on many factors. It is not a fixed hourly rate like some gig apps.
- Income Potential: On average, property owners can earn around $33,000 per year. This figure can change a lot based on your property and location.
- Factors Affecting Income: Your earnings depend on your property's location, size, amenities, and how often it is booked. Seasonality also plays a big role.
- Commission Fees: Vrbo charges a commission on each booking. This means you will not keep 100% of the rental price, but it helps cover the platform's services.
- Setting Your Own Rates: You have control over your property's nightly rates, cleaning fees, and other charges. This allows you to adjust prices based on demand and your costs.
Bottom Line: Earning with Vrbo can be substantial, especially if you have a desirable property. However, it requires active management and understanding market demand.
How & When Does Vrbo Pay?
Getting paid for your rentals through Vrbo is a straightforward process once a booking is complete. Here is how it works.
- Payment Method: Vrbo primarily pays owners through direct deposit to their bank account. PayPal is also an option in some regions.
- Minimum Cashout: There is no minimum cashout amount. You receive payments for each booking you complete, regardless of the total.
- Cashout Speed: Payments are typically processed after the guest checks into your property. The funds then take a few business days to appear in your account.
- Approval Process: Your payment is released once the guest's stay officially begins. This ensures both parties are clear on the start of the rental period.
- Tax Considerations: As a property owner earning rental income, you are responsible for understanding and paying any applicable taxes. Vrbo provides earning summaries to help with this.
Bottom Line: Vrbo's payment system is reliable, sending earnings directly to your bank account after guest check-in. Just remember to account for taxes.
Pros and Cons of Driving for Vrbo
The Good
- Passive Income Potential. You can earn money from your property without needing to work a traditional job or hourly tasks.
- Full Control Over Pricing. You decide how much to charge for your property, allowing you to optimize for profit or occupancy.
- Access to Large Audience. Vrbo connects you with millions of travelers looking for vacation rentals worldwide.
- Focus on Whole Homes. The platform specializes in entire properties, attracting families and groups looking for more space and privacy.
- Flexible Schedule. You manage your property's availability, giving you flexibility over when it is rented out.
The Bad
- Requires Property Ownership. You must own a vacation property to earn income with Vrbo, which is a significant barrier to entry.
- Ongoing Maintenance and Cleaning. You are responsible for keeping your property in top condition, which involves time and money.
- Income Fluctuations. Bookings and earnings can vary greatly by season and economic conditions, making income less predictable.
- Platform Fees. Vrbo takes a percentage of your booking fees, reducing your overall earnings.
Vrbo Driver FAQ
Is Vrbo legit or a scam?
Vrbo is a legitimate and well-known platform for vacation rentals, part of the Expedia Group. It has been operating for many years, connecting property owners with travelers.
How much can you make with Vrbo?
Property owners can earn an average of $33,000 per year, but this varies. Your actual income depends on your property, location, pricing, and how often it is booked.
How does pricing work on Vrbo?
You set your own nightly rates, cleaning fees, and other charges. You can adjust these prices based on local demand, seasonality, and your property's features.
Can you cash out instantly on Vrbo?
No, payments are processed after the guest checks into your property. It then takes a few business days for the funds to arrive in your bank account.
What are the busiest times for Vrbo rentals?
Busiest times often depend on your property's location and local attractions. Peak travel seasons, holidays, and school breaks usually see the most bookings.
What kind of properties can I list on Vrbo?
Vrbo focuses on whole-home vacation rentals. You can list houses, condos, cabins, villas, or other types of properties where guests have exclusive use of the entire space.
How does Vrbo protect my property?
Vrbo offers features like property damage protection and secure payment processing. They also provide tools to screen guests and manage bookings, though ultimate responsibility lies with the owner.
