The Most Expensive Airbnb in the U.S. Costs $22,000 Per Night

Peek inside the Colorado ski cabin.

Forest Retreat | Airbnb
Forest Retreat | Airbnb

Colorado, with its mountains and cityscapes, has lodging options that run the gamut from urban apartment dwellings to rustic, off-the-grid A-frames. It’s a state known for its adventure, diverse landscape—and now, the country’s most expensive Airbnb.

Wealth of Geeks recently released a study to determine America’s top luxury Airbnb spots, analyzing data on “luxe” listings to curate their official list. The term “luxe” comes from Airbnb itself, and the listings are based on what it costs per week for a stay between May 1 and August 1, 2024 (peak summer travel).

Forest Retreat | Airbnb

Coming in at number one is the $22,255 per-night Colorado Airbnb which is, you guessed it, a ski chalet just a stone’s throw from Vail Mountain. “Forest Retreat” comprises six bedrooms, with the primary also including an ensuite bathroom, walk-in closet, lounge area, fireplace, and balcony. Beyond sleeping quarters, this rental has 7.5 bathrooms, a private wellness center containing a sauna, gym, Sonos sound system, wet bar, and a massage room welcoming you straight off the Born Free trail, plus a fire pit and hot tub for thawing out after a day of powder. All your typical home-away-from-home amenities (like a washer and dryer, iron, and heating and AC) are included, plus housekeeping for the massive space. And don’t worry—the Wi-Fi is free.

Other states that made the list include California, New Mexico, and Nevada at spots No. 2, No. 3, and No. 4 with prices comparable to that of Forest Retreat, and destination regulars like Hawaii and Montana aren’t far behind. Unsurprisingly, California takes the cake when it comes to the sheer number of luxe Airbnbs available at a whopping 202 properties compared to Colorado’s 52.

Forest Retreat | Airbnb

If $22,000 is a bit out of budget for your next ski trip, fear not; there are plenty of worthwhile stays in Vail that won’t break the bank. At The Hythe or Grand Hyatt Vail or even a few doors down at The Osprey in Beaver Creek, you can find luxury, comfort, and mountain access for a much less jaw-dropping price. Don’t forget to research all there is to see and do in Denver for when you fly in, and take our advice on where to stay for future trips.

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Erica Buehler is aDenver-based freelance writer and editor. Follow her @e_buehler on Instagram and @e_buehler_on Twitter for more updates on Denver food and other Mile High shenanigans.