In Tompkins County, New York, short-term rentals (often referred to as STRs) are legal but come with specific regulations. The City of Ithaca enforces a local ordinance requiring that hosts must reside on the property being rented for at least 184 days each year, thereby limiting the number of unhosted rental days. STRs primarily thrive in urban settings like Ithaca, offering various accommodations from apartments to single-family homes, as well as cabins in rural regions that appeal to visitors seeking outdoor experiences. The market heavily caters to leisure travelers, with a notable percentage (approximately 75%) of visitors coming for tourism, while only 15% travel for business purposes. The Tompkins County Tourism Program supports local tourism initiatives, enhancing the area’s appeal. The Tompkins County government oversees regulations, including a 5% hotel room occupancy tax applicable to all short-term rentals in the area. For detailed regulations, you can visit the City of Ithaca Short-Term Rental Resources and the Tompkins County Official Website.