Taxes & Fees: Auburn vs Kent
How do taxes & fees rules compare between Auburn, WA and Kent, WA?
Auburn and Kent have similar restriction levels.
Auburn, WA
King County
Auburn STRs pay Washington state sales tax, state and local lodging taxes, and a city business license fee. Airbnb and Vrbo typically remit state taxes automatically on behalf of operators.
View full Auburn rules →Kent, WA
King County
Kent short-term rental operators must collect Washington state sales tax, King County lodging tax, and city lodging tax totaling roughly 12 to 13 percent. Remittance is made through the Washington Department of Revenue.
View full Kent rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Auburn | Kent |
|---|---|---|
| State sales tax | Applies to stays under 30 days | - |
| Lodging tax | State plus local | - |
| City business license | Annual fee required | - |
| Platform tax collection | Airbnb/Vrbo remit state taxes | - |
| Direct rentals | Must register with DOR | - |
| Combined Tax Rate | - | Approx 12 to 13 percent |
| State Sales Tax | - | 6.5 percent plus local |
| Lodging Tax | - | King County and Kent |
| Rental Threshold | - | Under 30 days |
| Remittance | - | Washington DOR |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Auburn FAQ
Do I owe taxes if Airbnb collects them?
Airbnb remits state sales and lodging taxes. You still owe city business license fees and may owe B&O tax depending on your gross receipts.
What if I rent directly without a platform?
You must register with Washington DOR, collect sales and lodging taxes yourself, and file returns on the required schedule.
Kent FAQ
What taxes apply to my Kent Airbnb?
State sales tax, King County lodging tax, and Kent lodging tax apply to rentals under 30 days, typically totaling 12 to 13 percent.
Does Airbnb collect taxes for me?
Airbnb collects some Washington taxes automatically, but operators should verify which taxes remain their responsibility to remit.
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