Houston vs Pittsburgh
Texas Legal with Permit | Pennsylvania Legal with Permit
Disclaimer: General information only — not legal advice. Verify with your local government.
| Requirement | Houston, Texas | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania |
|---|---|---|
| Legality Status | Legal with Permit | Legal with Permit |
| Permit Fee | $90 registration fee | $35.50/unit ($16 registration + $5.50 inspection + $14 dwelling unit inspection) |
| Tax Rate | 13% Hotel Occupancy Tax (7% city + 6% state) | 13% combined (7% Allegheny County hotel tax + 6% state hotel occupancy tax) |
| Annual Day Limit | No limit | No limit |
| Renewal Interval | Annual | Annual |
| Platform Remits Taxes | Yes | Yes |
| Max Fine Example | $500/day for non-compliance | $500/unit/month for operating without permit |
| Verdict | Both cities have comparable STR regulatory environments. | |
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
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Status Legal with Permit
Permit Fee $35.50/unit ($16 registration + $5.50 inspection + $14 dwelling unit inspection)
Tax Rate 13% combined (7% Allegheny County hotel tax + 6% state hotel occupancy tax)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $500/unit/month for operating without permit
Both cities have comparable STR regulatory environments.
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 →Pittsburgh Overview
Rental Permit Program launched December 2024. No day caps or per-owner unit limits. All rental properties must register and pass inspection.
Full Pittsburgh guide →Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easier to Airbnb in Houston or Pittsburgh?
Houston is classified as "Legal with Permit" while Pittsburgh is "Legal with Permit." Houston's permit fee is $90 registration fee compared to $35.50/unit ($16 registration + $5.50 inspection + $14 dwelling unit inspection) in Pittsburgh.
Which city has higher STR taxes — Houston or Pittsburgh?
Houston charges 13% Hotel Occupancy Tax (7% city + 6% state), while Pittsburgh charges 13% combined (7% Allegheny County hotel tax + 6% state hotel occupancy 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. Pittsburgh: $500/unit/month for operating without permit.