Evanston imposes a Hotel/Motel Tax on short-term rentals at a combined rate of approximately 7% of gross rental receipts, collected by the host and remitted quarterly. This is in addition to the STR license fee. Illinois also collects state hotel occupancy taxes.
Under Evanston City Code Title 3, short-term rental operators must collect and remit the city's Hotel/Motel Tax (also called the Accommodations Tax) on all rentals of fewer than 30 consecutive days. The city rate is approximately 7% of gross rental receipts. Some platforms like Airbnb collect and remit certain state and local taxes automatically, but hosts are responsible for confirming that all required taxes are covered. The annual STR license fee is approximately $250. Illinois imposes an additional state Hotel Operators' Occupation Tax. Hosts must maintain records of all stays and rental income for at least 3 years. The City's Finance Division administers tax collection. Contact the Finance Division at (847) 448-8082 for tax questions.
Failure to collect or remit the Hotel/Motel Tax results in penalties of up to 25% of the unpaid amount plus interest. The city may audit STR operators. Delinquent hosts may have their STR license suspended until taxes and penalties are paid in full.
Evanston, IL
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