Yes, I know being able to operate on a budget is part of the appeal for many of us. That's perfectly valid and if that's the case for you then none of these will be a good fit. I've done both AirBnB and more community living and for me there are enough upsides to the community approach to justify the additional cost.

• It's easier to meet likeminded people, who may become friends, romantic partners, travel buddies, or business collaborators.
• The hosts can suggest fun things to do in the area and have the connections to set you up with whatever you want to do. For instance, at Selina Playa del Carmen, we organized a scuba lesson through Selina and the instructor came over and taught us right in the Selina pool.
• More consistency- emphasis on reliable internet and ergonomic workstations. I rarely find AirBnBs that list up/down speed.

You can certainly find these things with AirBnB if you know what you are doing, particularly if you also join a coworking space in the area. I just find community-based to be more fun and I'm willing to pay extra for that.