Massachusetts imposes a 5.7% state room occupancy excise on all STRs (MGL c. 64G). Norfolk County municipalities may add a local option excise up to 6%. Many platforms (Airbnb, Vrbo) collect and remit these taxes automatically.
Under MGL c. 64G, all short-term rentals (stays of 31 nights or less) are subject to Massachusetts room occupancy excise. The state rate is 5.7%. Norfolk County municipalities may adopt a local option excise of up to 6% (most have adopted at least a portion). Additionally, municipalities with 6+ unit operators may impose a 3% community impact fee. Platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo that are registered as 'operators' collect and remit these taxes directly to the DOR on behalf of hosts. Hosts renting off-platform must register with DOR and remit taxes themselves through MassTaxConnect. Total effective tax rate in most Norfolk County towns: approximately 11.7–14.7%.
Failure to collect/remit: back taxes plus interest and penalties per MGL c. 62C. DOR may assess up to 3 years of back liability.
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