Fort Lauderdale vs Jersey City

Florida Legal with Permit | New Jersey Restricted

Disclaimer: General information only — not legal advice. Verify with your local government.

Fort Lauderdale, Florida
Status Legal with Permit
Permit Fee $350 initial registration; $80–$160/year renewal
Tax Rate ~13% combined (6% county tourist dev. + 6% state sales + 1% surtax)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $250/uncontested violation; up to $15,000/day during suspension
Jersey City, New Jersey
Status Restricted
Permit Fee $250 initial application + $200 annual renewal
Tax Rate 6% municipal occupancy tax + 6.625% state sales + 5% state occupancy fee
Day Limit 60 days/year
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $1,500–$2,000 first offense; up to $5,000+ for repeat violations

Fort Lauderdale has more favorable STR regulations overall.

Fort Lauderdale Overview

Annual registration and Certificate of Compliance required. Occupancy capped at 2 persons per bedroom. Florida DBPR state license also required.

Full Fort Lauderdale guide →

Jersey City Overview

Adopted after 2019 voter referendum. Owner-occupied only — tenants and rent-controlled units prohibited. Unhosted stays capped at 60 nights/year. Only buildings with fewer than 4 units eligible.

Full Jersey City guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it easier to Airbnb in Fort Lauderdale or Jersey City?
Fort Lauderdale is classified as "Legal with Permit" while Jersey City is "Restricted." Fort Lauderdale's permit fee is $350 initial registration; $80–$160/year renewal compared to $250 initial application + $200 annual renewal in Jersey City.
Which city has higher STR taxes — Fort Lauderdale or Jersey City?
Fort Lauderdale charges ~13% combined (6% county tourist dev. + 6% state sales + 1% surtax), while Jersey City charges 6% municipal occupancy tax + 6.625% state sales + 5% state occupancy fee. Compare the full breakdown in the table above.
Which city has stricter fines for illegal short-term rentals?
Fort Lauderdale: $250/uncontested violation; up to $15,000/day during suspension. Jersey City: $1,500–$2,000 first offense; up to $5,000+ for repeat violations.