Crisis in the French Alps: The Impact of Short-Term Rentals on Local Communities

In the French Alps, a significant transformation is underway in the housing market, particularly in ski resort towns. Known locally as “lits froids” or cold beds, a growing number of apartments remain vacant for most of the year, only occupied during peak ski season and select vacation weeks. According to Éric Adamkiewicz, a lecturer in regional development at the University of Toulouse, these vacant properties now constitute half of all available accommodations in the region. During the holiday season, occupancy rates can spike to 90%, but the rest of the year sees these properties largely unoccupied.

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Residents like Jessica Brazeau, who lives in Areches, have experienced the repercussions of this trend firsthand. She notes that during the off-seasons, many homes remain shuttered, forcing locals to navigate a fragmented housing market where they must frequently relocate rather than settle into a stable living situation.

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The allure of short-term rentals has surged in the French Alps, driven largely by platforms such as Airbnb, Abritel, and Booking.com. In the Savoie and Haute-Savoie regions, the number of Airbnb listings has doubled in just six years, increasing from 38,000 in 2019 to 72,000 in 2025. This trend has made France Airbnb's second-largest market, trailing only the United States. The shift from long-term rentals to short-term tourist accommodations is reshaping the cultural and social fabric of these mountain communities, where skiing has historically been a central aspect of local identity.

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The rapid expansion of short-term rentals has sparked concerns among residents and local officials about the sustainability of these communities. Critics argue that the influx of tourists and the prioritization of vacation rentals over permanent housing threaten the very essence of Alpine culture. The situation has reached what many describe as a crisis point, with calls for regulatory measures to protect local residents and preserve the unique character of these towns.

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Local authorities are beginning to address these issues, with some municipalities exploring regulations to limit the number of short-term rentals. These measures aim to strike a balance between supporting tourism and ensuring that local residents have access to affordable housing. However, the effectiveness of these initiatives remains to be seen, as the demand for short-term rentals continues to grow.

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While many sources agree on the rise of short-term rentals and their impact on local housing, there is a lack of consensus on the effectiveness of current regulations and the extent of the crisis. Some residents express optimism about potential solutions, while others remain skeptical about the willingness of local governments to enforce meaningful change.

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• “In the spring, autumn and most of the summer, half of the houses are empty, shutters closed up,” — Jessica Brazeau, Resident of Areches

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• “We are having trouble retrieving the article content.” — New York Times, Article Access Issue

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The ongoing situation in the French Alps highlights the complex interplay between tourism, housing, and community identity, raising critical questions about the future of these iconic mountain towns.

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