Atlanta vs Columbus
Georgia Legal with Permit | Ohio Legal with Permit
Disclaimer: General information only — not legal advice. Verify with your local government.
| Requirement | Atlanta, Georgia | Columbus, Ohio |
|---|---|---|
| Legality Status | Legal with Permit | Legal with Permit |
| Permit Fee | $150/year | $75/year (primary residence); $150/year (non-primary) |
| Tax Rate | 8% Hotel/Motel Tax + sales tax | 5.1% Columbus lodging excise tax + 7.5% Ohio sales tax |
| Annual Day Limit | No limit | No limit |
| Renewal Interval | Annual | Annual |
| Platform Remits Taxes | Yes | Yes |
| Max Fine Example | $1,000/day for operating without permit | Up to $250 fine and/or 30 days imprisonment per violation |
| Verdict | Both cities have comparable STR regulatory environments. | |
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
Columbus, Ohio
Status Legal with Permit
Permit Fee $75/year (primary residence); $150/year (non-primary)
Tax Rate 5.1% Columbus lodging excise tax + 7.5% Ohio sales tax
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine Up to $250 fine and/or 30 days imprisonment per violation
Both cities have comparable STR regulatory environments.
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 →Columbus Overview
Governed by Columbus Code Chapter 598; BCI background check required. Properties must be in eligible zoning district.
Full Columbus guide →Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easier to Airbnb in Atlanta or Columbus?
Atlanta is classified as "Legal with Permit" while Columbus is "Legal with Permit." Atlanta's permit fee is $150/year compared to $75/year (primary residence); $150/year (non-primary) in Columbus.
Which city has higher STR taxes — Atlanta or Columbus?
Atlanta charges 8% Hotel/Motel Tax + sales tax, while Columbus charges 5.1% Columbus lodging excise tax + 7.5% Ohio sales tax. 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. Columbus: Up to $250 fine and/or 30 days imprisonment per violation.