Boston vs Denver
Massachusetts Legal but Limited | Colorado Legal with Permit
Disclaimer: General information only — not legal advice. Verify with your local government.
| Requirement | Boston, Massachusetts | Denver, Colorado |
|---|---|---|
| Legality Status | Legal but Limited | Legal with Permit |
| Permit Fee | $25 registration fee | $100 license fee |
| Tax Rate | 6.5% state excise + 6% city convention center tax | 10.75% Lodger's Tax (combined city/county/state) |
| Annual Day Limit | No limit | No limit |
| Renewal Interval | Annual | Every 2 years |
| Platform Remits Taxes | Yes | Yes |
| Max Fine Example | $300/day for unregistered listing | $999/day for unlicensed operation |
| Verdict | Denver has more favorable STR regulations overall. | |
Boston, Massachusetts
Status Legal but Limited
Permit Fee $25 registration fee
Tax Rate 6.5% state excise + 6% city convention center tax
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $300/day for unregistered listing
Denver, Colorado
Status Legal with Permit
Permit Fee $100 license fee
Tax Rate 10.75% Lodger's Tax (combined city/county/state)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Every 2 years
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $999/day for unlicensed operation
Denver has more favorable STR regulations overall.
Boston Overview
Only primary-residence units may be listed as STRs. Investor-owned (non-owner-occupied) short-term rentals are prohibited. Must register with the city and carry $1M liability insurance.
Full Boston guide →Denver Overview
Only primary residences may be used as STRs. Hosts must obtain a Short-Term Rental license. No cap on rental days. Accessory dwelling units on the same lot are also eligible.
Full Denver guide →Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easier to Airbnb in Boston or Denver?
Boston is classified as "Legal but Limited" while Denver is "Legal with Permit." Boston's permit fee is $25 registration fee compared to $100 license fee in Denver.
Which city has higher STR taxes — Boston or Denver?
Boston charges 6.5% state excise + 6% city convention center tax, while Denver charges 10.75% Lodger's Tax (combined city/county/state). Compare the full breakdown in the table above.
Which city has stricter fines for illegal short-term rentals?
Boston: $300/day for unregistered listing. Denver: $999/day for unlicensed operation.