At least based on the prices I've seen when considering my options, the big potential for savings with airbnb is if you choose to take advantage of the kitchen,

At least based on the prices I've seen when considering my options, the big potential for savings with airbnb is if you choose to take advantage of the kitchen, so that you're not paying to eat out for every meal. But, if affordability really is your top goal, you'll do even better if you go with a hotel that offers kitchenette suites. In my experience, they typically offer a lower nightly fee than having an airbnb to yourself (especially if you are staying at least a week and don't require someone else to come make your bed for you ever day), and still let you save on meal costs. (Airbnbing a room out of someone's house is even less expensive, but I don't think that style of airbnb rental is really the subject of much controversy.)