Taxes & Fees: Surprise vs Tempe
How do taxes & fees rules compare between Surprise, AZ and Tempe, AZ?
Surprise has fewer restrictions than Tempe.
Surprise, AZ
Maricopa County
Short-term rental operators in Surprise must collect and remit Arizona Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) on rental income. The combined state, county, and city tax rate applies. Platforms like Airbnb may collect state taxes automatically, but operators must independently hold a TPT license.
View full Surprise rules →Tempe, AZ
Maricopa County
Tempe STR operators must collect and remit Arizona Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) and local taxes on rental income. The combined tax rate includes state, county, and city components. Operators must hold a valid TPT license from the Arizona Department of Revenue.
View full Tempe rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Surprise | Tempe |
|---|---|---|
| Tax Rate | ~12-13% combined (state+county+city) | - |
| TPT License | Required from Arizona DOR | - |
| Platform Collection | Partial — verify city portion | - |
| Arizona DOR | (602) 255-3381 | - |
| Tax Type | - | Arizona Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) |
| Components | - | State + county + city taxes |
| License Required | - | AZ DOR TPT license |
| Filing | - | Monthly or quarterly |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Surprise FAQ
What taxes do I owe on my Surprise vacation rental?
You owe Arizona Transaction Privilege Tax (TPT) at a combined rate of approximately 12-13%, covering state, county, and city portions.
Does Airbnb handle my taxes?
Airbnb collects some Arizona taxes automatically, but you should verify the city portion is covered. You still need an independent TPT license from Arizona DOR.
How do I get a TPT license?
Apply through the Arizona Department of Revenue at azdor.gov or call (602) 255-3381. The license is required before you begin renting.
Tempe FAQ
What taxes do I owe on my Tempe STR?
You must collect Arizona TPT covering state, county, and city components. A TPT license from the Arizona Department of Revenue is required.
Does Airbnb collect taxes for me in Tempe?
Airbnb collects state and county taxes automatically in Arizona, but you should verify city-level tax remittance and maintain your own TPT license.
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