Short Term Rental Regulations in the City of Long Beach

What Exactly Is Considered a Short-Term Rental in Long Beach

The city of Long Beach defines a short-term rental as a guest stay of 30 nights or less at a residential property, or part of a property, which requires the host to register the rental with the city. The city of Long Beach allows for the operation of two forms of short-term rentals. Individuals may obtain one (1) registration each of the following. Primary Residence STR and Non-Primary Residence STR. The city further defines two types of rental activity, Hosted and Un-hosted

Quick Summary of Long Beach Airbnb Rules and Taxation

• • Short-term Vacation rental: 30 consecutive days or less.
  • Hosts are not required to exclusively rent out their primary residence. All properties must require individual applications.
    • Primary Residence: STR use must reside on the same parcel of land as the applicant’s primary residence. “Primary Residence” is defined as a person’s permanent residence or usual place of return for a minimum of two hundred seventy-five (275) days during the calendar year.  The following types of rental activity are allowed for a Primary Residence STR:
      • Un-hosted – Max of 90 days per registration period
      • Hosted – Unlimited number of days per registration period
    • Non-Primary Residence STR: A Non-Primary Residence STR registration can be applied for by anyone who owns residential property in Long Beach that is not their “Primary Residence”. The following types of rental activity are allowed for a Non-Primary Residence STR:
      • Un-hosted – Unlimited number of days per registration period
      • Hosted – Unlimited number of days per registration period
  • Licence required: Apply online or in person, License number must appear on all ads (Airbnb, Booking.com, Vrbo).
  • While the city charges no fee for the registration, the fee to review the registration application is $400.00. This 
  • Huntington does apply two separate municipal rental taxes as well as the state income tax.

• Retail Sales Tax: There is a combined sales tax rate of 10.5% in the city of Long Beach. The sales tax will need to be remitted along with the transient occupancy tax either through the booking service.

• Transient Occupancy Tax: Long Beach applies a 13% Transient Occupancy Tax on all properties rented to transient customers. A transient is defined as any person who exercises occupancy or is entitled to occupancy for 30 days or less.

How to Apply for a Long Beach Short Term Rental Licence 

Step-by-Step application instructions and descriptions (Apply Online Here):

To operate a Short-term rental in Long Beach hosts will need to be approved for a Short-Term Rental License. There are criteria that must be met and approved so that the property can be legally permitted to be rented on all booking sites. 

1. Qualified Dwelling Unit
2. Number of Units Allowed
3. Property Owner Consent
4. No Pending Citations or Citation Payments Owed
5. Complete necessary property inspection
6. Complete online registration
7. Post Home-Sharing Registration Number on all listings

 If there are any material changes to the information submitted on a short-term rental permit application, the owner shall submit an amended application on a form to be provided by the City and signed by the owner under penalty of perjury within 30 days

Hosts will have to remit the aforementioned taxes at the required dates and times. 

Long Beach Rental Enforcement & Penalties

The city of Long Beach will enforce regulatory compliance through one of if not all avenues described here:

• Fines under both state and municipal guidelines.
• Unpaid penalties can be added to your property tax bill.
• Suspension or revocation of license 
• Inspections may occur without prior notice

Long Beach Short-term Rental Market Potential

• Average Nightly Rate: $315–$450
• Premium Properties: $850+ during peak summer months
• Occupancy: ~85% average, up to 95% in peak seasons
• Average Monthly Revenue: $4750-$6500 for typical listings, $10000+ for premium properties

Why Long Beach is a Top Airbnb Destination

Long Beach is one of California’s most dynamic coastal cities, drawing millions of visitors each year with its blend of oceanfront beauty, cultural attractions, and urban energy. Stretching along over five miles of sandy beaches, the city offers iconic spots like Alamitos Beach, Junipero Beach and Belmont Square District. Visitors are drawn to the world-class amenities and attractions of the city, from the iconic Queen Mary, the Aquarium of the Pacific and the Long Beach Grand Prix. Year round festivals that celebrate the arts, music and international culture – vibrant downtown that is packed with waterfront dining, shops and nightlife. While the arts scene and proximity to Los Angeles add to its appeal. With a strong flow of both domestic and international visitors, Long Beach offers hosts a thriving rental market, welcoming families on coastal getaways, cruise passengers, business travelers and event goers alike. The year-round sunshine, diverse communities and laid-back Southern California lifestyle make it one of the top destinations on the West Coast

Demand for Mid-Term Rentals (30+ Days)

Mid-term rentals are becoming increasingly popular in Long Beach – thanks to the city’s location, competitive housing market and demand from extended stay travelers. Average monthly rents for furnished multi-bedroom homes range in the $2800-$3500, with strong interest from remote workers, medical professionals on contracts, university students and faculty from institutions like California State University – Long Beach, as well as seasonal travelers escaping the colder climates. Long Beach’s combination of coastal living, urban amenities, and access to nearby economic hubs in Los Angeles and Orange County make the city an especially attractive option for longer term stays. For property owners, this increasing demand provides a steady and lucrative opportunity to provide flexible, furnished accommodations that meet the needs of the modern guests.

Why Choose Guestable for Your Long Beach Airbnb

• Best Revenue Optimization Strategies: Data-driven pricing to maximize earnings.
• Tailored Management Solutions: Customized plans to fit your goals.
• Client-Focused Communication: 24/7 availability, transparent updates.
• Dynamic Rental Approach: Expertise in both short- and mid-term markets, adjusting to seasonal trends.
• Guest Experience & Ground Support: Local presence across Los Angeles County and across the state of California. Offering high end hands-on guest service.

Long Beach Airbnb FAQ

Do I need a licence to operate an Airbnb in Long Beach?

Yes, all rental units with the express purpose of housing guests/visitors for less than 30 days at a time will need to be approved for either home-sharing license.

How long does the licence process take?

The application takes minutes, but full approval depends on inspections and document submission. The municipal code officer will contact the applicant within 3 business days of the inspection being completed.

Do I need to collect any tax from guests?

Yes, the City of Huntington Beach requires that all owners must collect and remit the transient occupancy tax, tourism business improvement district tax and the combined sales tax

Final Word for Potential Hosts

Long Beach stands out as a premier Airbnb destination. The blend of beautiful beaches, a bustling waterfront and world class attractions like the Queen Mary, Aquarium of the Pacific, Belmont Shore District, and the annual Grand Prix. The city attracts a steady flow of tourists, cruise passengers, business travelers and event goers, ensuring a strong demand for both short- and mid-term rentals. With high end furnished rentals maintaining consistent occupancy with rising interests from remote workers, medical professionals, university affiliates and seasonal visitors. Long Beach’s coastal charm, cultural energy, and SoCal energy allows for hosts to capture reliable income in a diverse and thriving rental market.