Miami vs Phoenix

Florida Restricted | Arizona Legal with Permit

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

Miami, Florida
Status Restricted
Permit Fee $150 city certificate + state DBPR license fee
Tax Rate 13% (6% state + 5% county tourist dev. + 2% city resort tax)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual (city); Biennial (state)
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $20,000 lien per violation by code enforcement
Phoenix, Arizona
Status Legal with Permit
Permit Fee $250/year (non-refundable)
Tax Rate ~12.57% combined transient lodging tax (state + county + city)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $500 first violation; $1,000 second; $3,500 third; 12-month suspension after 3 violations

Phoenix has more favorable STR regulations overall.

Miami Overview

STRs restricted to commercially zoned or mixed-use areas. Single-family residential neighborhoods generally prohibit STRs. State preemption law limits some local regulations. Both city Certificate of Use and state DBPR license required.

Full Miami guide →

Phoenix Overview

Arizona SB 1168 (2022) grants cities enhanced enforcement while SB 1350 (2016) preempts outright bans. Phoenix requires STR permit, $500K liability insurance, neighbor notification, and prohibits STR use of accessory dwelling units.

Full Phoenix guide →

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it easier to Airbnb in Miami or Phoenix?
Miami is classified as "Restricted" while Phoenix is "Legal with Permit." Miami's permit fee is $150 city certificate + state DBPR license fee compared to $250/year (non-refundable) in Phoenix.
Which city has higher STR taxes — Miami or Phoenix?
Miami charges 13% (6% state + 5% county tourist dev. + 2% city resort tax), while Phoenix charges ~12.57% combined transient lodging tax (state + county + city). Compare the full breakdown in the table above.
Which city has stricter fines for illegal short-term rentals?
Miami: $20,000 lien per violation by code enforcement. Phoenix: $500 first violation; $1,000 second; $3,500 third; 12-month suspension after 3 violations.