Atlanta vs Austin
Georgia Legal with Permit | Texas Legal but Limited
Disclaimer: General information only — not legal advice. Verify with your local government.
| Requirement | Atlanta, Georgia | Austin, Texas |
|---|---|---|
| Legality Status | Legal with Permit | Legal but Limited |
| Permit Fee | $150/year | $450/year (Type 2); $50/year (Type 1 homestead) |
| Tax Rate | 8% Hotel/Motel Tax + sales tax | 15% Hotel Occupancy Tax (9% city + 6% state) |
| Annual Day Limit | No limit | No limit |
| Renewal Interval | Annual | Annual |
| Platform Remits Taxes | Yes | No — host must remit |
| Max Fine Example | $1,000/day for operating without permit | $500–$2,000/violation; license revocation possible |
| Verdict | Atlanta has more favorable STR regulations overall. | |
Atlanta, Georgia
Status Legal with Permit
Permit Fee $150/year
Tax Rate 8% Hotel/Motel Tax + sales tax
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $1,000/day for operating without permit
Austin, Texas
Status Legal but Limited
Permit Fee $450/year (Type 2); $50/year (Type 1 homestead)
Tax Rate 15% Hotel Occupancy Tax (9% city + 6% state)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax No
Max Fine $500–$2,000/violation; license revocation possible
Atlanta has more favorable STR regulations overall.
Atlanta Overview
Owner-occupied and investor-owned units both allowed with a Short-Term Rental License. Must pass fire inspection and provide 24/7 local contact.
Full Atlanta guide →Austin Overview
Type 1 (owner-occupied) is allowed citywide. Type 2 (non-owner-occupied) licenses are no longer issued in residential areas — existing Type 2 licenses expire April 2027.
Full Austin guide →Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easier to Airbnb in Atlanta or Austin?
Atlanta is classified as "Legal with Permit" while Austin is "Legal but Limited." Atlanta's permit fee is $150/year compared to $450/year (Type 2); $50/year (Type 1 homestead) in Austin.
Which city has higher STR taxes — Atlanta or Austin?
Atlanta charges 8% Hotel/Motel Tax + sales tax, while Austin charges 15% Hotel Occupancy Tax (9% city + 6% state). Compare the full breakdown in the table above.
Which city has stricter fines for illegal short-term rentals?
Atlanta: $1,000/day for operating without permit. Austin: $500–$2,000/violation; license revocation possible.