Gaithersburg vs Rockville
How do taxes & fees rules compare between Gaithersburg, MD and Rockville, MD?
Rockville has fewer restrictions than Gaithersburg.
Gaithersburg, MD
Montgomery County
Gaithersburg STR hosts must collect and remit the Maryland 6% state sales tax and Montgomery County 7% hotel-motel tax for a combined 13% transient occupancy tax. Airbnb and VRBO collect some taxes automatically, but hosts remain responsible for ensuring full compliance.
View full Gaithersburg rules →Rockville, MD
Montgomery County
MoCo charges $500 annual STR license fee, $150 for B&Bs. Maryland 6 percent hotel tax and MoCo transient tax apply. Airbnb collects state taxes automatically.
View full Rockville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Gaithersburg | Rockville |
|---|---|---|
| State Tax | 6% MD sales tax | 6% sales and use tax |
| County Tax | 7% MoCo hotel-motel tax | Transient lodging tax |
| Combined Rate | 13% total | - |
| Platform Collection | Airbnb/VRBO collect most | - |
| Registration | MD Comptroller + MoCo Finance | - |
| STR License Fee | - | $500 per year |
| B&B License Fee | - | $150 per year |
| Unlicensed Penalty | - | Up to $1,000 |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Gaithersburg FAQ
What taxes do Gaithersburg Airbnb hosts owe?
Hosts owe a combined 13% in transient occupancy taxes — 6% Maryland state sales tax plus 7% Montgomery County hotel-motel tax. Airbnb typically collects and remits these for platform bookings.
Do I need to register for tax accounts as an STR host?
Yes. Register with the Maryland Comptroller for a sales and use tax account and with Montgomery County Finance Department for the transient accommodations tax, even if your platform collects taxes.
Rockville FAQ
How much does a short-term rental license cost in Rockville?
The Montgomery County annual license fee is $500 for a short-term residential rental. A bed-and-breakfast license costs $150 per year. Fees are due upon application and each annual renewal.
Does Airbnb collect taxes for Rockville rentals?
Airbnb collects and remits the Maryland 6 percent state sales and use tax automatically. Hosts may need to separately handle Montgomery County transient lodging tax depending on platform capabilities.
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