What should investors know about short-term rentals (Airbnb) in Tampa?

By Emeri & Joe Lewkowicz, The Lewkowicz Group

If you’re considering investing in a short-term rental in Tampa, you’re not alone. We talk to investors every week who see the city’s growth, tourism, and year-round lifestyle appeal and wonder, “Is Airbnb still worth it here?” The short answer: yes—but only if you understand the local landscape.

With over 40+ years of combined real estate experience helping buyers, sellers, and investors throughout Tampa Bay, we’ve seen short-term rentals evolve from a niche strategy into a highly competitive, regulation-driven market. Here’s what we believe every investor should know before buying.

1. Tampa Is Not One Market—It’s Many Micro-Markets

One of the biggest mistakes we see investors make is assuming that all of Tampa works the same way for short-term rentals. It doesn’t.

Different neighborhoods—and even different streets—can have very different rules, demand levels, and profit potential. Areas near downtown Tampa, Channelside, Ybor City, Westshore, and parts of South Tampa tend to perform differently than suburban neighborhoods or deed-restricted communities.

Our job is to help you identify where short-term rentals actually make sense, not just where properties look attractive on paper.

2. Regulations Matter More Than the Property Itself

Before you even think about furnishings or nightly rates, you need to understand local and county regulations.

Short-term rental rules can vary based on:

1. City vs. county jurisdiction

2. Zoning classifications

3. Whether the property is single-family, condo, or townhome

4. HOA or condo association restrictions
   
   

Some communities prohibit rentals under a certain number of days altogether, regardless of city rules. Others allow them but impose registration, safety requirements, or occupancy limits.

We always tell our investors: buying the wrong property in the wrong zone can completely derail your investment strategy. This is where local expertise truly matters.

3. Cash Flow Looks Different Than Traditional Rentals

Short-term rentals often generate higher gross income—but they also come with higher expenses.

Investors should budget for:

1. Furnishing and setup costs

2. Professional cleaning between stays

3. Property management or co-hosting fees

4. Utilities, internet, and streaming services

5. Ongoing maintenance from higher guest turnover
   
   

When we run numbers with clients, we focus on net returns, not just projected nightly rates. A well-performing Airbnb in Tampa is one that’s optimized for both occupancy and expense control.

4. Seasonality Is Real—But Tampa Has an Advantage

Unlike many vacation markets, Tampa benefits from relatively steady demand year-round. That said, seasonality still plays a role.

Peak demand often aligns with:

1. Winter months and snowbird season

2. Spring training, festivals, and major events

3. Summer family travel
   
   

Slower periods can happen—but strategic pricing, smart marketing, and choosing the right location can smooth out those dips. Tampa’s growing population and event calendar give it a strong edge compared to more seasonal destinations.

5. Taxes, Insurance, and Compliance Can’t Be Ignored

Short-term rental income comes with additional responsibilities, including:

1. Local and state lodging taxes

2. Proper insurance coverage (standard homeowner policies often aren’t enough)

3. Business licenses or registrations, depending on location
   
   

We always advise investors to work with professionals who understand short-term rental compliance—and we help connect our clients with trusted local resources.

6. Exit Strategy Still Matters

Even if short-term rentals are your primary goal, we always look at the long-term resale value of a property.

Ask yourself:

1. Would this property still make sense as a long-term rental?

2. Is it in a desirable neighborhood for future buyers?

3. Does it appeal beyond just investors?
   
   

The strongest investments are flexible. Markets change—and having options protects your upside.

Final Thoughts from Emeri & Joe

Short-term rentals in Tampa can be an incredible investment—but they are not passive, not universal, and not one-size-fits-all.

The investors who succeed here are the ones who:

1. Choose the right neighborhood

2. Understand regulations before buying

3. Run realistic numbers

4. Work with local experts who live and breathe this market
   
   

At The Lewkowicz Group, we don’t just help you buy a property—we help you buy the right property for your goals. If you’re thinking about investing in a Tampa Airbnb or short-term rental, we’re always happy to talk strategy before you make a move.