Short-Term Rental Tax in Louisiana (LA)
The state-level tax rate on short-term rentals in Louisiana is 8.4% , consisting of 4.5% sales tax and 4.0% lodging tax. Louisiana applies general sales and lodging taxes to STRs without STR-specific legislation. Major platforms like Airbnb collect state taxes automatically. With local taxes, the total rate in New Orleans reaches 16.4%. STR operators must register with the state. Louisiana charges a 4.45% state sales tax and a 4% state hotel occupancy tax on short-term lodging. Parishes (counties) add significant additional taxes, especially in New Orleans.
Annual Tax Estimate for Louisiana
The table below shows estimated annual tax obligations at different nightly rates, assuming 65% occupancy (237 nights/year). Estimates are shown for both the state-level rate and the highest local rate (New Orleans).
| Nightly Rate | Gross Revenue | State Tax (8.4%) | New Orleans Tax (16.4%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| $100.00/night | $23,700 | $2,003 | $3,899 |
| $150.00/night | $35,550 | $3,004 | $5,848 |
| $200.00/night | $47,400 | $4,005 | $7,797 |
| $300.00/night | $71,100 | $6,008 | $11,696 |
| $500.00/night | $118,500 | $10,013 | $19,493 |
Estimates assume 65% occupancy. Actual tax may differ based on local exemptions, booking fees, and platform collection.
STR Tax Rates by City in Louisiana
Local taxes significantly impact the total STR tax burden in Louisiana. The table below shows combined state + local rates for 3 cities, sorted by total rate. The highest combined rate is 16.4% in New Orleans.
| City | Local Tax | Total Rate | Tax on $200/night | Tier | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Orleans | 8.0% | 16.4% | $32.90 | Very High | Orleans Parish 4% + New Orleans 3.5% hotel tax + 0.5% TID. STR permits required with strict zoning. |
| Baton Rouge | 5.0% | 13.4% | $26.90 | High | East Baton Rouge Parish 3% + city 2% occupancy tax. |
| Lafayette | 4.0% | 12.4% | $24.90 | High | Lafayette Parish 3% + city 1% occupancy tax. |
How Louisiana Compares to Other States
Below is a comparison of Louisiana with five states that have similar state-level STR tax rates. This comparison helps illustrate where Louisiana stands relative to other states in terms of tax burden, platform collection, and registration requirements.
| State | State Rate | Sales Tax | Lodging Tax | Platform Collects | Registration |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Louisiana (LA) | 8.4% | 4.5% | 4.0% | Yes | Required |
| Arkansas (AR) | 8.5% | 6.5% | 2.0% | Yes | Required |
| New Hampshire (NH) | 8.5% | 0.0% | 8.5% | Yes | Required |
| Delaware (DE) | 8.0% | 0.0% | 8.0% | Yes | Required |
| South Carolina (SC) | 8.0% | 6.0% | 2.0% | Yes | Required |
| Alabama (AL) | 9.0% | 4.0% | 5.0% | Yes | Required |
Frequently Asked Questions About Louisiana STR Taxes
What is the short-term rental tax rate in Louisiana in 2026?
The state-level tax rate on short-term rentals in Louisiana is 8.4%, consisting of 4.5% sales tax and 4.0% lodging tax. Local taxes can bring the total to 16.4% in cities like New Orleans. At $200/night with 65% occupancy, the state-level tax alone is approximately $4,005 per year.
Does Airbnb collect STR taxes in Louisiana?
Yes. Airbnb, Vrbo collect state taxes. However, local and county taxes may not be covered by platform collection. Always verify with your local tax authority what taxes your platform collects on your behalf.
Do I need to register my short-term rental in Louisiana?
Yes. Louisiana requires STR operators to register with the state. This typically includes obtaining a sales tax permit and/or lodging tax registration. Many cities and counties in Louisiana also require local STR permits or business licenses. Check with both state and local authorities for specific requirements.
What is the total STR tax rate in New Orleans, Louisiana?
The total combined tax rate in New Orleans is 16.4%, which includes the 8.4% state rate plus 8.0% in local taxes. Orleans Parish 4% + New Orleans 3.5% hotel tax + 0.5% TID. STR permits required with strict zoning. At $200/night with 65% occupancy, this amounts to approximately $7,797 per year in taxes.
How much will I owe in STR taxes in Louisiana?
Your annual STR tax depends on your nightly rate, occupancy, and location. At the state level (8.4%), a property earning $200/night with 65% occupancy would owe approximately $4,005/year in state taxes alone. In New Orleans, the total tax at the same rate would be approximately $7,797/year. Use our STR tax calculator for a customized estimate.
Calculate Your Louisiana STR Tax
Use our STR tax calculator to get a personalized estimate of your annual tax obligation in Louisiana. Enter your nightly rate and occupancy to see your projected state and local taxes, or browse all 50 states to compare STR tax rates across the country.