Boston vs Detroit
Massachusetts Legal but Limited | Michigan Legal but Limited
Disclaimer: General information only — not legal advice. Verify with your local government.
| Requirement | Boston, Massachusetts | Detroit, Michigan |
|---|---|---|
| Legality Status | Legal but Limited | Legal but Limited |
| Permit Fee | $25 registration fee | $500 annual license fee |
| Tax Rate | 6.5% state excise + 6% city convention center tax | 6% Michigan use tax + 6% Detroit Accommodations Tax (12% combined) |
| Annual Day Limit | No limit | 90 days/year |
| Renewal Interval | Annual | Annual |
| Platform Remits Taxes | Yes | Yes |
| Max Fine Example | $300/day for unregistered listing | Up to $1,000–$1,200 per violation for unlicensed operation |
| Verdict | Both cities have comparable STR regulatory environments. | |
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
Detroit, Michigan
Status Legal but Limited
Permit Fee $500 annual license fee
Tax Rate 6% Michigan use tax + 6% Detroit Accommodations Tax (12% combined)
Day Limit 90 days/year
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine Up to $1,000–$1,200 per violation for unlicensed operation
Both cities have comparable STR regulatory environments.
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 →Detroit Overview
90-day annual rental cap; max 10 guests at any time; principal residence requirement. Liability insurance required and properties must pass safety inspection.
Full Detroit guide →Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easier to Airbnb in Boston or Detroit?
Boston is classified as "Legal but Limited" while Detroit is "Legal but Limited." Boston's permit fee is $25 registration fee compared to $500 annual license fee in Detroit.
Which city has higher STR taxes — Boston or Detroit?
Boston charges 6.5% state excise + 6% city convention center tax, while Detroit charges 6% Michigan use tax + 6% Detroit Accommodations Tax (12% combined). Compare the full breakdown in the table above.
Which city has stricter fines for illegal short-term rentals?
Boston: $300/day for unregistered listing. Detroit: Up to $1,000–$1,200 per violation for unlicensed operation.