Airbnb hosts in Kansas brought in $2.1 million in 2016. In Topeka, hosts earned $41,000 in income from participating in the site, which allows travelers to lodge in private homes.

One of those hosts is Deborah Vest, who lives in southwest Topeka.

She began renting out her basement studio a year ago after a friend recommended signing up with Airbnb.

The space accommodates up to two people and includes a living area, bathroom and bedroom.

"I’ve been real happy with" hosting, she said. "I meet different people from all over the country, so that makes it interesting."

One man who booked Vest’s space was traveling across the country camping but wanted to stay in a house for a night. Another person was in Topeka to find a job and stayed with her while finding a permanent home.

One guest commented that the stay was like a home away from home, Vest said.

Working with Airbnb has been an easy process, Vest said. She likes that she can set the dates she is available and decline a request if she doesn’t feel comfortable with a potential guest. Another benefit is that the money she earns is directly deposited into her bank account. Vest works full-time and considers the income from Airbnb her "play money." In October, her earnings paid for a trip to Eureka Springs, Ark. with a group of girlfriends.

"It’s a great source of extra income," she said.

Vest hasn’t stayed as a guest at an Airbnb, but said she plans to in the new year.

According to the company, Kansans hosted about 20,000 guests this year, or 175 percent year-over-year growth. The state’s number of hosts doubled to 600 people this year. The company found that half of Kansas hosts rent out an extra room in their homes. Others may rent out their entire home or provide a shared room.

A recent search showed 19 listings in the Topeka area. A search in August 2015 showed 14 listings.

Worldwide, Airbnb has more than 2 million listings. It’s present in more than 34,000 cities and 191 countries, according to its website. The fastest-growing demographic nationally among Airbnb hosts are senior women.

Host incomes

Lawrence: $440,000

Overland Park: $307,000

Wichita: $281,000

Olathe: $81,000

Topeka: $41,000

Salina: $26,000

Hays: $18,500

SOURCE: AIRBNB