Honolulu vs Las Vegas

Hawaii Restricted | Nevada Legal but Limited

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

Honolulu, Hawaii
Status Restricted
Permit Fee $1,000 initial registration; $500 annual renewal
Tax Rate ~18.5% combined (11% state TAT + 3% county TAT surcharge + 4.5% GET)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax No
Max Fine $10,000/day for recurring violations; $5,000 initial fine
Las Vegas, Nevada
Status Legal but Limited
Permit Fee $500/year (business license + Conditional Use Verification)
Tax Rate 13% Transient Occupancy Tax (Clark County)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $1,000–$10,000 for unlicensed operation

Las Vegas has more favorable STR regulations overall.

Honolulu Overview

STRs limited to resort-zoned and eligible apartment-zoned areas. Hosts must register as B&B (owner-occupied, max 2 guest rooms) or TVU (whole-home in eligible zones). Registrations are non-transferable.

Full Honolulu guide →

Las Vegas Overview

Only owner-occupied (hosted) rentals are permitted; the owner must reside on-site during each rental day. Properties must be at least 660 feet from another STR and 2,500 feet from a resort hotel. Limited to 3 bedrooms max. Requires $500,000 liability insurance.

Full Las Vegas guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it easier to Airbnb in Honolulu or Las Vegas?
Honolulu is classified as "Restricted" while Las Vegas is "Legal but Limited." Honolulu's permit fee is $1,000 initial registration; $500 annual renewal compared to $500/year (business license + Conditional Use Verification) in Las Vegas.
Which city has higher STR taxes — Honolulu or Las Vegas?
Honolulu charges ~18.5% combined (11% state TAT + 3% county TAT surcharge + 4.5% GET), while Las Vegas charges 13% Transient Occupancy Tax (Clark County). Compare the full breakdown in the table above.
Which city has stricter fines for illegal short-term rentals?
Honolulu: $10,000/day for recurring violations; $5,000 initial fine. Las Vegas: $1,000–$10,000 for unlicensed operation.