Houston vs New York City
Texas Legal with Permit | New York Effectively Banned
Disclaimer: General information only — not legal advice. Verify with your local government.
| Requirement | Houston, Texas | New York City, New York |
|---|---|---|
| Legality Status | Legal with Permit | Effectively Banned |
| Permit Fee | $90 registration fee | $145 registration fee (OSE) |
| Tax Rate | 13% Hotel Occupancy Tax (7% city + 6% state) | 5.875% hotel room occupancy tax + state/city sales tax |
| Annual Day Limit | No limit | No limit |
| Renewal Interval | Annual | Every 2 years |
| Platform Remits Taxes | Yes | Yes |
| Max Fine Example | $500/day for non-compliance | $5,000 first offense; up to $7,500 for subsequent violations |
| Verdict | Houston has more favorable STR regulations overall. | |
Houston, Texas
Status Legal with Permit
Permit Fee $90 registration fee
Tax Rate 13% Hotel Occupancy Tax (7% city + 6% state)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $500/day for non-compliance
New York City, New York
Status Effectively Banned
Permit Fee $145 registration fee (OSE)
Tax Rate 5.875% hotel room occupancy tax + state/city sales tax
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Every 2 years
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $5,000 first offense; up to $7,500 for subsequent violations
Houston has more favorable STR regulations overall.
Houston Overview
Houston has no zoning code, so STRs are broadly permitted. Hosts must register, collect HOT, and meet fire-safety and parking standards. Deed-restricted communities may impose additional restrictions.
Full Houston guide →New York City Overview
Local Law 18 (2023) requires hosts to register with OSE, be present during stays, and limits guests to 2. Entire-apartment rentals under 30 days are effectively banned. Only hosted stays with the owner present are permitted.
Full New York City guide →Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easier to Airbnb in Houston or New York City?
Houston is classified as "Legal with Permit" while New York City is "Effectively Banned." Houston's permit fee is $90 registration fee compared to $145 registration fee (OSE) in New York City.
Which city has higher STR taxes — Houston or New York City?
Houston charges 13% Hotel Occupancy Tax (7% city + 6% state), while New York City charges 5.875% hotel room occupancy tax + state/city sales tax. Compare the full breakdown in the table above.
Which city has stricter fines for illegal short-term rentals?
Houston: $500/day for non-compliance. New York City: $5,000 first offense; up to $7,500 for subsequent violations.