Airbnb and Its Enemies: Who's Afraid of a $10-a-Night Sofa?

The popular short-term rental site angers everyone but its participants.

Lauren and Rob, who moved to New York City to make it in showbiz, rent a one-bedroom apartment on Manhattan's Upper West Side that costs $2,250 per month. Lacking a regular paycheck, the two performers make ends meet by hawking short-term stays on their living-room couch for $65 a night. Travelers find them through Airbnb, a popular online service that connects residents who want to pick up some extra cash from out-of-towners who are looking for a cheaper alternative to a traditional hotel.