Massachusetts (MA) Short-Term Rental Regulations
Compare STR rules across 1 Massachusetts city. License fees, tax rates, and operating rules. Verified May 2026.
At a Glance
Regulatory Climate and Primary Residence fields derived from city-level archetype data. Preemption status verified against state statutes (verified against state legislative records).
📊 By the Numbers
- 1 city covered in Massachusetts
- License fee range: $25–$25
- Combined lodging tax: Boston: 6.5% state + 6% convention center = 12.5%
Source: City-level data from official municipal sources, cross-verified May 2026.
Regulatory Overview
Massachusetts has no state-level STR preemption statewide, though a bill is under watch. Boston requires registration at $25-200/year depending on unit type, with no primary residence requirement. Taxes include 6.5% state room occupancy excise plus 6% Boston Convention Center financing surcharge. Year-round demand from 50+ colleges and strong business/medical tourism makes Boston a low-barrier, high-demand STR market. One of the more accessible Northeast markets.
City Comparison — 1 City
All Massachusetts cities covered by RentPermitted, ranked and compared:
| City | Status | License Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Boston | Registration Required | $25–$200/year depending on unit type |
Frequently Asked Questions
How many cities in Massachusetts does RentPermitted cover?
We cover 1 city in Massachusetts: Boston.
Does Massachusetts have state-wide STR laws?
Massachusetts regulates short-term rentals primarily at the city level. There is no comprehensive state-wide STR law. Check each individual city page for specific license requirements, fees, and operating rules.
Which Massachusetts city is best for STR investment?
Boston is the only city we currently cover in Massachusetts. Boston is a low-barrier STR market with year-round demand from 50+ colleges and strong business/medical tourism. The $25/year registration is the cheapest in the country. Investor unit limits exist bu
Similar States
States with a comparable mixed regulatory profile:
Disclaimer: Data sourced from official Massachusetts city websites and state statutes. Regulations change. Verify with local authorities before making investment decisions. Last comprehensive review: May 2026.
RentPermitted is not a government agency. We compile public information for educational purposes.