Airbnb vs. Vermietung
How to Use This Airbnb vs Long-Term Rental Calculator
This calculator compares the gross and net economics of running a property as a short-term rental (Airbnb) versus a traditional long-term lease, including the higher management effort and vacancy risk on the short-term side.
How It’s Calculated
STR Net = (Nightly Rate × Occupancy × 365) − (Cleaning + Platform Fees + Management + Utilities + Higher Maintenance) LTR Net = (Monthly Rent × 12) − (Property Management + Maintenance + Vacancy Allowance)
Short-term rentals usually win on gross revenue but carry far higher operating costs, which is what the comparison surfaces.
Example
A property renting long-term for $2,200 per month nets about $24,000 per year after minimal expenses, while the same property as an Airbnb at $150 per night with 65% occupancy generates roughly $35,600 gross — but after cleaning, platform fees, and utilities, net income often lands closer to $22,000 to $26,000.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Airbnb always more profitable than long-term renting?
Not necessarily — gross revenue is usually higher, but operating costs like cleaning, utilities, platform fees, furnishing, and higher turnover eat into the margin significantly more than a long-term lease.
Does short-term rental income face different tax treatment?
In many jurisdictions yes — short-term rental income can be subject to additional occupancy or hotel taxes and different deduction rules than standard long-term rental income. Local regulations vary significantly.
Are there legal restrictions on Airbnb rentals?
Many cities and buildings have specific short-term rental regulations, licensing requirements, or outright bans, which should always be confirmed locally before basing a financial plan on short-term rental income.