PriceLabs vs Wheelhouse: Which Dynamic Pricing Tool Is Better for Airbnb in 2026?

Dynamic pricing is one of the highest-ROI investments any Airbnb host can make. Properties using algorithmic pricing tools consistently outperform static-rate listings by 15–30% annually. PriceLabs and Wheelhouse are the two most popular tools in the category — and the choice between them comes down to how much customization you want vs. how hands-off you prefer your pricing to be. Note: if you use Awning's full-service management, dynamic pricing is built in — no additional tool needed.

PriceLabs: Maximum Control for Serious Hosts

PriceLabs is the most widely used third-party dynamic pricing tool in the STR industry. Their approach is data-heavy and highly customizable — they pull demand signals from your local market and let you set rules, floors, ceilings, and adjustment strategies with granular control.

PriceLabs Strengths:

•        Deepest customization options of any pricing tool — advanced hosts can fine-tune everything

•        Portfolio Analytics dashboard gives market-level insight alongside property-level pricing

•        Wide integration with property management systems (Guesty, Hostaway, Lodgify, and more)

•        Neighborhood data and comp set analysis built into the dashboard

•        Pricing: starts at ~$19.99/month per property — very competitive

PriceLabs Limitations:

•        Customization is a double-edged sword — beginners can misconfigure and hurt performance

•        Interface has a learning curve; not the most intuitive tool for new hosts

•        Data quality varies by market — rural or newer markets have less comparable data

Wheelhouse: Simplicity With Strong Algorithmic Defaults

Wheelhouse is designed to be more accessible than PriceLabs — their approach leans on smarter algorithmic defaults with less required configuration. They're known for clean design, good market intelligence, and a pricing philosophy that aims to maximize revenue without requiring constant host intervention.

Wheelhouse Strengths:

•        More intuitive interface — easier for hosts who don't want to spend hours configuring pricing

•        Strong market data and competitor analysis built into the dashboard

•        'Flex' pricing feature that dynamically adjusts to booking pace

•        Good integration coverage with major PMS platforms

•        Pricing: percentage-based model — typically 1% of booking revenue

Wheelhouse Limitations:

•        Less customization depth than PriceLabs — advanced hosts may feel constrained

•        Percentage-based pricing means higher cost as your ADR increases

•        Some users report less granular market data than PriceLabs in specific markets

Head-to-Head Comparison

PriceLabs is the better tool if you want maximum control and are willing to invest time in configuration. Wheelhouse is the better choice if you want strong algorithmic defaults without the learning curve.

The Self-Management Math

Before subscribing to any pricing tool, run the full cost-benefit analysis. PriceLabs at $20/month plus Hostaway at $35/month plus your time managing both adds up. Use Awning's Airbnb income estimator to compare projected net income under self-management (with tools) vs. full-service management where pricing is built in.

Benchmark your pricing against real Airbnb market data for your area to understand whether your current rates are competitive regardless of which tool you use.

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📎  Related Resources

→ Airbnb Income Estimator

→ Airbnb Market Data by City

→ AirDNA Review

→ Rabbu / Data Rabbu Review

→ Awning Airbnb Marketing Service

→ Awning Full-Service Management

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