10 Cities Where Short-Term Rentals Are Being Banned and 10 Where Airbnb Is Booming

As tourism rebounds in 2025, cities around the world are taking very different approaches to short-term rentals. Some are cracking down on platforms like Airbnb due to rising housing costs and local pushback, while others are actively embracing them to stimulate tourism and revenue. Here are 10 cities where short-term rentals are being banned or restricted—and 10 where they’re booming like never before.

1. New York City, USA – Banning

New York has become one of the strictest U.S. cities when it comes to short-term rentals. In 2023, Local Law 18 went into effect, requiring hosts to register and meet strict criteria—effectively banning most unlicensed listings under 30 days. As of 2025, enforcement has only ramped up, and thousands of Airbnb listings have vanished. The city cites housing shortages and tenant protections as top priorities. For travelers, that means fewer rental options and higher hotel demand.

2. Amsterdam, Netherlands – Banning

Amsterdam has long struggled with over-tourism, and short-term rentals are now heavily restricted. Hosts must register and are limited to renting out their homes for just 30 nights a year. Entire home rentals in popular neighborhoods are banned outright in many cases. The city’s goal is to preserve livability for residents and reduce tourist saturation. While beautiful to visit, finding an Airbnb here is no longer easy—or legal in many zones.

3. Florence, Italy – Banning

In 2024, Florence implemented a ban on new short-term rental licenses in its historic center. The aim is to combat housing scarcity and rising costs for locals while preserving the city’s residential feel. Existing hosts must meet stricter registration and taxation rules. Travelers now face fewer options in the heart of the Renaissance city. Hotels and licensed guesthouses are filling the gap, but independent rentals are drying up.

4. Barcelona, Spain – Banning

Barcelona has continued tightening its grip on Airbnb-style rentals. Short-term licenses are capped, and enforcement against unlicensed hosts has intensified. Many tourist-heavy districts have seen Airbnb listings nearly disappear due to local laws aimed at protecting neighborhood integrity. In 2025, the city is investing in new housing regulations that further limit the growth of vacation rentals. Travelers may find themselves pushed toward traditional hotels.

5. San Francisco, USA – Banning

San Francisco has some of the most complex short-term rental laws in the U.S., limiting rentals to 90 days per year for unhosted listings. Hosts must also live in the property and be registered with the city. While Airbnb originated here, the city’s housing affordability crisis has fueled pushback against its spread. Enforcement has grown stricter, and many listings have disappeared from central neighborhoods. It’s still possible to find rentals—but far fewer than in the past.

6. Berlin, Germany – Banning

Berlin reintroduced stricter vacation rental laws in 2023, and those rules remain in place in 2025. Hosts must obtain a permit to rent out entire apartments, and the application process is stringent. Most permits are denied unless the host can prove it’s a primary residence. Fines for violations are steep, and many Airbnb listings have been deactivated. The city remains tourist-friendly—but less so for DIY short-term stays.

7. Paris, France – Banning

Paris has capped Airbnb rentals at 120 days per year for primary residences and continues cracking down on unauthorized listings. Many arrondissements now require special registration numbers, and inspectors actively monitor compliance. In central Paris, entire-home listings have become harder to find. Authorities are trying to balance tourism with a dire local housing crisis. For travelers, it means planning well ahead—or opting for hotels instead.

8. Quebec City, Canada – Banning

Following the deadly fire in an illegal rental in 2023, Quebec significantly tightened rules around short-term rentals. Hosts must be registered, meet fire code standards, and display permit numbers in listings. Crackdowns on illegal rentals have removed hundreds of options in Old Quebec and other tourist zones. The provincial government is actively enforcing new rules with large fines. Airbnb still operates—but only under strict, transparent conditions.

9. Honolulu, Hawaii, USA – Banning

Honolulu passed legislation requiring a minimum 90-day stay in most areas of Oʻahu, effectively banning short-term rentals in many neighborhoods. Enforcement has escalated since 2023, with increased fines and legal action against violators. The intent is to preserve housing for residents amid rising property costs. Waikiki remains an exception—but much of the island is now off-limits to short-term rentals. Booking an Airbnb in 2025 here is more complicated than ever.

10. Tokyo, Japan – Banning

Japan’s “Minpaku” law restricts Airbnb rentals to 180 days per year and requires detailed compliance with safety and zoning regulations. In Tokyo, many local governments have reduced that even further, limiting rentals to weekends or school holidays. Listings must be registered and often meet hotel-level standards. While still possible to book, the number of available Airbnb units has dropped sharply. Travelers often turn to business hotels or capsule options instead.

11. Mexico City, Mexico – Booming

Mexico City has seen a boom in Airbnb rentals, especially among digital nomads and long-stay tourists. While some local opposition exists, regulations remain light, and listings are abundant. Neighborhoods like Roma Norte and Condesa have become Airbnb hubs. The city benefits from affordable prices, great weather, and strong Wi-Fi—making it a hotspot in 2025. Travelers can find a wide range of rentals at competitive prices.

12. Tbilisi, Georgia – Booming

Tbilisi is quickly emerging as one of the most Airbnb-friendly cities in Europe. With no significant restrictions and low living costs, the city has become a haven for remote workers and budget travelers. The Georgian government encourages tourism and offers visa-free stays for many nationalities. Airbnb listings are increasing year over year. It’s a hidden gem for those wanting flexibility and affordability.

13. Istanbul, Türkiye – Booming

Despite being a major tourist destination, Istanbul maintains relaxed short-term rental policies. Listings are plentiful and range from modern apartments to traditional Ottoman homes. The Turkish lira’s weakness has made stays even more affordable for international visitors. In 2025, the government continues to support tourism growth, including alternative lodging options. Istanbul remains one of the most accessible cities for Airbnb users.

14. Medellín, Colombia – Booming

Medellín has embraced the rise of digital nomads and Airbnb guests. Local authorities see short-term rentals as a boost to tourism and urban development. Regulations are minimal, and the city has become known for its mix of affordability, tech infrastructure, and warm climate. Entire apartments in central neighborhoods are readily available. It’s a booming rental market in 2025.

15. Lisbon, Portugal – Booming

While other European capitals are restricting short-term rentals, Lisbon is still encouraging them in certain zones. The government has worked with platforms to introduce moderate regulations without dampening growth. Tax revenue from Airbnb helps fund tourism initiatives. Neighborhoods like Alfama and Bairro Alto remain popular with renters. Lisbon remains open—and popular—for short-term stays.

16. Buenos Aires, Argentina – Booming

Due to economic instability, Airbnb has become a major source of income for property owners in Buenos Aires. Regulations are minimal, and listings have surged since 2022. Currency fluctuations make the city incredibly affordable for foreign visitors. Hosts welcome international guests with flexible pricing and diverse housing types. It’s a great time to explore this cultural capital on a rental budget.

17. Athens, Greece – Booming

Greece continues to support tourism across all lodging types, including short-term rentals. Athens in particular has a booming Airbnb market, with plenty of affordable options close to the Acropolis and Plaka district. Regulations are moderate, and enforcement is light. Visitors enjoy cultural access and affordable housing all in one. The city remains Airbnb-friendly in 2025.

18. Bangkok, Thailand – Booming

Bangkok remains one of the most accessible global cities for Airbnb users. Short-term rental laws are loosely enforced, and listings are plentiful. The city’s massive tourism industry relies on a mix of hotels and private rentals. With thousands of apartments available, travelers find flexibility and affordability. Bangkok’s Airbnb scene continues to thrive in 2025.

19. Kraków, Poland – Booming

Kraków has embraced tourism and Airbnb rentals, with minimal restrictions compared to nearby cities like Prague. Historic apartments and modern studios fill the platform, offering great value. The Polish government has kept regulation light to support post-pandemic recovery. Prices remain low, and competition is strong. Kraków remains an excellent base for travelers wanting flexibility.

20. Cape Town, South Africa – Booming

Cape Town’s mix of mountains, beaches, and culture has made it an Airbnb hotspot. The local government welcomes tourism and relies on platforms like Airbnb to accommodate seasonal demand. Hosts are abundant, and the market remains mostly unregulated in 2025. With a favorable exchange rate and stunning scenery, short-term rentals continue to flourish. It’s one of Africa’s top cities for vacation rentals.

This article was written by a human and edited with AI Assistance