New York City vs Seattle
New York Effectively Banned | Washington Legal with Permit
Disclaimer: General information only — not legal advice. Verify with your local government.
| Requirement | New York City, New York | Seattle, Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Legality Status | Effectively Banned | Legal with Permit |
| Permit Fee | $145 registration fee (OSE) | $75/year short-term rental operator license |
| Tax Rate | 5.875% hotel room occupancy tax + state/city sales tax | 15.6% combined 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/day for operating without a license |
| Verdict | Seattle 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
Seattle, Washington
Status Legal with Permit
Permit Fee $75/year short-term rental operator license
Tax Rate 15.6% combined lodging tax (state + county + city)
Day Limit No limit
Renewal Annual
Platform Tax Yes
Max Fine $500/day for operating without a license
Seattle 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 →Seattle Overview
Both owner-occupied and non-owner-occupied units may be licensed. Operators may list up to 2 units. A platform license is also required for listing sites. Must collect and remit all applicable lodging taxes.
Full Seattle guide →Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easier to Airbnb in New York City or Seattle?
New York City is classified as "Effectively Banned" while Seattle is "Legal with Permit." New York City's permit fee is $145 registration fee (OSE) compared to $75/year short-term rental operator license in Seattle.
Which city has higher STR taxes — New York City or Seattle?
New York City charges 5.875% hotel room occupancy tax + state/city sales tax, while Seattle charges 15.6% combined 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. Seattle: $500/day for operating without a license.