Phoenix vs Seattle
Arizona Legal with Permit | Washington Legal with Permit
Disclaimer: General information only — not legal advice. Verify with your local government.
| Requirement | Phoenix, Arizona | Seattle, Washington |
|---|---|---|
| Legality Status | Legal with Permit | Legal with Permit |
| Permit Fee | $250/year (non-refundable) | $75/year short-term rental operator license |
| Tax Rate | ~12.57% combined transient lodging tax (state + county + city) | 15.6% combined lodging tax (state + county + city) |
| Annual Day Limit | No limit | No limit |
| Renewal Interval | Annual | Annual |
| Platform Remits Taxes | Yes | Yes |
| Max Fine Example | $500 first violation; $1,000 second; $3,500 third; 12-month suspension after 3 violations | $500/day for operating without a license |
| Verdict | Both cities have comparable STR regulatory environments. | |
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
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
Both cities have comparable STR regulatory environments.
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 →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 Phoenix or Seattle?
Phoenix is classified as "Legal with Permit" while Seattle is "Legal with Permit." Phoenix's permit fee is $250/year (non-refundable) compared to $75/year short-term rental operator license in Seattle.
Which city has higher STR taxes — Phoenix or Seattle?
Phoenix charges ~12.57% combined transient lodging tax (state + county + city), 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?
Phoenix: $500 first violation; $1,000 second; $3,500 third; 12-month suspension after 3 violations. Seattle: $500/day for operating without a license.