Everything You Need to Know About Owning a Short Term Rental in Highland, California

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Monterey County, California for 2026

General Requirements

• Registration and Licensing: All short-term rental (STR) operators in unincorporated Monterey County must register with the county for a vacation rental license, effective October 14, 2024, with a fee of $965. They must also obtain a county business license.

Operational Requirements

• Neighbor Notification: STR operators must send an informational letter to their neighbors within a 300-foot radius, detailing the type of STR, contact information for complaints, and the license number.
• Property Manager: Designate a property manager available 24 hours a day who must respond to complaints and arrive at the site within 30 minutes.
• Quiet Hours: Observe local quiet hours; outdoor amplified sound is prohibited at STRs.
• License Display: List the vacation rental license number on all listings, advertisements, and contracts.

Safety and Health Standards

• Fire Safety: Follow fire safety rules; outdoor fire pits and fireplaces are banned at all vacation rental properties.
• Garbage, Health, and Occupancy: Comply with regulations on garbage, health standards, occupancy limits, and parking.

Specific Restrictions

• Banned Areas: Commercial vacation rentals are banned in Big Sur, Carmel Highlands, and the residential areas of Carmel Valley and Moss Landing.
• Caps on STRs: Commercial STRs in inland planning areas are capped at 4% of the housing stock, and a 4% cap for coastal zones requires approval from the California Coastal Commission.

Tax Compliance

• Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT): STR hosts must obtain a TOT certificate, collect TOT from guests on all stays, and file returns. Neither Airbnb nor Vrbo collects TOT for hosts in Monterey County.

Compliance and Penalties

• Compliance Deadline: Current STR operators must comply with the new rules by April 14, 2025. Properties with existing permits must comply by the time their permit expires or within seven years, whichever comes first.
• Penalties: Violations can result in fines of up to $5,000 per day and/or revocation of the operator’s permit.

Marketplace Regulations

• Listing Compliance: All STR listings on platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo must include a valid license number. Marketplaces have 10 days to remove noncompliant listings once notified by the county, with fines of up to $1,000 per offense for non-compliance.

Regulatory information last reviewed for accuracy in 2026. Local STR ordinances change frequently — verify current rules with the city or county before listing.

Top Neighborhoods for Airbnb Revenue in Highland, California

1. East Highlands Ranch

• Average Rental Prices: $1,800 - $2,200 for a one-bedroom apartment.
• Rental Yields: 4-5%.
• Appeal: East Highlands Ranch is appealing due to its well-planned community, mix of single-family homes and townhouses, and excellent community amenities. It attracts young professionals and families who value its well-maintained environment and convenient location.

2. Highland Grove

• Average Rental Prices: $2,000 - $2,500 for a one-bedroom apartment.
• Rental Yields: 3.5-4.5%.
• Appeal: Highland Grove is popular for its family-friendly atmosphere, excellent schools, and parks. It maintains a quieter, community-oriented environment that is highly sought after by families and retirees.

3. San Manuel Village

• Average Rental Prices: $2,200 - $2,800 for a one-bedroom apartment.
• Rental Yields: 3.5-4.5%.
• Appeal: San Manuel Village is attractive due to its convenience, new developments, and proximity to the San Manuel Casino. It draws high-income individuals, including casino employees, young professionals, and families who value the area's growth potential and amenities.

These neighborhoods are highly desirable for Airbnb guests due to their unique blend of suburban tranquility, community amenities, and convenient locations, making them ideal for both short-term and long-term stays.

Furnishing and Design Tips for an Inviting Airbnb in Highland, California

Define Your Aesthetic and Audience

• Define your property's aesthetic based on Highland's unique style and your target audience. Consider the local culture, climate, and natural surroundings to create a cohesive and inviting space.

Measure and Plan the Layout

• Measure your rooms to determine the best layout. Ensure there is plenty of space to move around and that natural light sources are not blocked.

Choose Timeless and Durable Furniture

• Opt for timeless, sturdy pieces that will last. Avoid furniture with flimsy legs, especially those made of plastic. For beds, consider storage beds for extra space and memory foam mattresses for durability.

Enhance with Smart Storage

• Use beds with drawers, wall hooks, pegboards in the kitchen, and stackable containers to boost your space with smart storage. Provide a designated spot for guests' personal items, like a luggage rack, to keep things tidy.

Equip the Kitchen

• Ensure the kitchen is well-equipped with essentials like a coffee maker, microwave, toaster, kettle, and basic cookware. Additional items such as a blender and sharp knives can enhance the guest experience.

Create a Comfortable Living Area

• Choose a sofa that is easy to clean and consider a sofa bed to increase the number of guests you can accommodate. Opt for comfy, lightweight chairs that are sturdy and easy to move around. Darker chairs can hide stains better.

Designate a Workspace

• For guests who need to work, provide a sturdy desk and a comfortable chair. Ensure good lighting and easy access to power outlets. High-speed internet is crucial, and consider a Wi-Fi booster if the space is large.

Add Reflective Touches

• Use mirrors to make the space feel bigger and brighter. A full-length mirror is a must for guests getting ready, and ensure there is a power socket nearby for hair dryers and straighteners.

Incorporate Local Elements

• Decorate the guestrooms to reflect the surrounding scenery of Highland, California. This could include elements like desert-themed decorations or furnishings that resonate with the local culture.

Ensure Accessibility and Safety

• Consider making your Airbnb accessible to guests with disabilities by including features like ramps, wide doorways, and grab bars in bathrooms. Install smoke detectors, carbon monoxide detectors, and provide a first aid kit.

Maintain a Clean and Hotel-Like Feel

• Use white linens and towels for a hotel-like feel, and ensure they can be bleached for hygiene. Provide enough storage for guests' toiletries and personal items, and include basic toiletries and a hairdryer.

Budget and Cost-Effective Tips

• Set a budget and stick to it. Look for cost-effective tips such as buying furniture that serves multiple purposes (e.g., sofa beds, folding tables) and shopping during sales or using second-hand options.

Discovering Highland, California: Local Attractions and Insider Tips for Airbnb Hosts

Local Attractions

Natural and Outdoor Activities

• Trails System and Santa Ana River Trail: Explore the extensive trails linking to the Santa Ana River Trail, which will eventually connect the San Bernardino Mountains to the Orange County coast.
• San Bernardino and San Gabriel Mountains: Enjoy skiing and other mountain recreational opportunities just a short drive away.

Educational and Cultural Sites

• Highland Sam J. Racadio Library and Environmental Learning Center: A gold-rated LEED building with a rooftop garden, free computer access, and a variety of animals, amphibians, and reptiles.
• Loma Linda University Medical Center: While primarily a medical institution, it also offers educational tours and insights into medical advancements.

Community Events and Activities

• Classic Car Shows and Events: Attend events like the "Classics in the Park" or the "Classic Car Show Benefiting Studio D, Arts School for All Abilities".
• Horse Ranch Tour Experience: Take a guided tour of a local horse ranch for a unique and educational experience.

Nearby Attractions

• Glen Helen Raceway: For motorsport enthusiasts, this raceway is a must-visit, located just a short drive from Highland.
• Auto Club Speedway: Another motorsport venue offering exciting racing events.
• National Orange Show Events Center: Host to various events, including the National Orange Show, which celebrates the citrus industry that once thrived in Highland.

Insider Tips for Guests

Getting Around

• Public Transportation: Inform guests about the availability of public transportation options and how to access them.
• Driving: Provide tips on parking and driving in the area, especially during peak event times.

Local Favorites

• Dining: Recommend local restaurants and cafes that serve a variety of cuisines.
• Shopping: Suggest local shopping areas, such as downtown Highland, for unique shopping experiences.

Safety and Services

• Public Safety: Let guests know that the San Bernardino County Sheriff's Department provides police services and that Cal Fire operates the fire services in the area.
• Healthcare: Inform guests about the nearby prestigious medical institutions, including Loma Linda University Medical Center and Arrowhead Regional Medical Center.

Community Events

• Check Local Calendars: Encourage guests to check the city’s event calendar for upcoming events, such as the "City of Highland's 37th Birthday" celebration or blood drives.
• Seasonal Activities: Provide information on seasonal activities, such as Halloween events or Thanksgiving celebrations.

Outdoor Activities

• Trail Maps: Offer trail maps or guides for guests interested in hiking or biking.
• Weather Tips: Advise guests on the local climate and how to prepare for outdoor activities, especially during the hot summer months or cooler winter months.

By providing these local attractions and insider tips, Airbnb hosts can ensure their guests have a well-rounded and enjoyable experience in Highland, California.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short-Term Rental Business in San Bernardino County, California

To operate a successful short-term rental business in San Bernardino County, California, several practical tips can enhance the guest experience and ensure compliance with local regulations.

Noise Regulations and Quiet Hours

Inform your guests about quiet hours and noise regulations to maintain a peaceful environment for both the guests and neighboring residents. Include clear guidelines on acceptable noise levels in your digital and physical house manual.

Comprehensive House Manual

Create a detailed digital and physical house manual that includes essential instructions, Wi-Fi passwords, and other important information. This manual should cover everything from appliance usage to emergency contact numbers, ensuring guests have all the information they need at their fingertips.

Simplified Check-in Process

Utilize smart locks to streamline the check-in process, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges. Provide guests with a unique access code and detailed instructions on how to enter the property. This not only enhances convenience but also reduces the likelihood of key-related issues.

Clear Parking Instructions

Include parking instructions with photos in your house manual to help guests understand where and how to park their vehicles. This is particularly important in areas with limited parking or specific parking regulations, helping to avoid potential fines or complaints.

By implementing these strategies, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for your guests while adhering to the strict regulations set by San Bernardino County, such as obtaining the necessary permits, complying with fire and safety codes, and providing a 24-hour contact for complaint resolution.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Highland, California (2026)

Short-term rental management fees in Highland, California in 2026 typically range from 15% to 30% of gross rental revenue, depending on the scope of services provided. Full-service management — covering guest communication, channel distribution across Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com, dynamic pricing, cleaning coordination, and 24/7 guest support — generally falls in the 22% to 30% range. Co-hosting or partial-service arrangements that leave more responsibility with the owner usually run 15% to 20%.

Industry-wide management fees have crept upward by roughly 1–2 percentage points since 2024 as operating costs, insurance premiums, and labor expenses have risen across the vacation rental sector. Highland-area managers may also charge separately for cleaning turnovers, maintenance dispatch, linen programs, and listing optimization. Some full-service operators in California now offer guaranteed-rent or revenue-share hybrid models, which can be worth comparing against a flat percentage structure for higher-revenue properties.

Market estimates as of 2026. Conditions vary; consult local operators for current data.

Short-Term Rental Market in Highland, California (2026)

Granular market data for Highland, California remains limited as of 2026, as smaller and emerging short-term rental markets are not consistently captured by major data providers like AirDNA. However, broader California trends suggest continued demand for vacation rentals, particularly in markets offering unique experiences, scenic appeal, or proximity to established tourist destinations.

Through 2025–2026, the California short-term rental market has seen modest ADR growth of 3–5% industry-wide, partially offset by occupancy compression as supply has continued to expand. Operators in markets like Highland should evaluate hyperlocal factors — seasonality, regulatory environment, and competing accommodation supply — before making investment decisions.

Market estimates as of 2026. Conditions vary; consult local operators for current data.