New York City vs Phoenix
New York Effectively Banned | Arizona Legal with Permit
Disclaimer: General information only — not legal advice. Verify with your local government.
| Requirement | New York City, New York | Phoenix, Arizona |
|---|---|---|
| Legality Status | Effectively Banned | Legal with Permit |
| Permit Fee | $145 registration fee (OSE) | $250/year (non-refundable) |
| Tax Rate | 5.875% hotel room occupancy tax + state/city sales tax | ~12.57% combined transient lodging tax (state + county + city) |
| Annual Day Limit | No limit | No limit |
| Renewal Interval | Every 2 years | Annual |
| Platform Remits Taxes | Yes | Yes |
| Max Fine Example | $5,000 first offense; up to $7,500 for subsequent violations | $500 first violation; $1,000 second; $3,500 third; 12-month suspension after 3 violations |
| Verdict | Phoenix has more favorable STR regulations overall. | |
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
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.
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 →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 New York City or Phoenix?
New York City is classified as "Effectively Banned" while Phoenix is "Legal with Permit." New York City's permit fee is $145 registration fee (OSE) compared to $250/year (non-refundable) in Phoenix.
Which city has higher STR taxes — New York City or Phoenix?
New York City charges 5.875% hotel room occupancy tax + state/city sales 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?
New York City: $5,000 first offense; up to $7,500 for subsequent violations. Phoenix: $500 first violation; $1,000 second; $3,500 third; 12-month suspension after 3 violations.