Everything You Need to Know About Owning a Short Term Rental in Seaside, Oregon

Short-Term Rental Regulations in Seaside, Oregon for 2026

General Requirements

• Business License Permit: All owners of Short Term Rentals (STRs) must obtain a STR business license permit to use their homes as short-term rentals (rentals less than 30 days).

Eligibility and Location

• Property Eligibility: Not all homes in Seaside qualify to be used as STRs. Eligibility is determined by Ordinance 2024-04 and the Seaside City Council policies.
• Approved Locations: STR licenses are permitted only in specific locations, such as properties abutting Sunset Blvd., Ocean Vista Dr., and S. Edgewood St..

Primary Use and Ownership

• Primary Use: The primary use of the property must be the applicant's personal residence, second home, or other primary residential uses. Only one STR business license permit is allowed per owner or ownership.

Inspections and Compliance

• Building Code Compliance: STRs must be in substantial compliance with building codes. Annual compliance inspections are required for all new STR business licenses.
• Annual Inspections: All STRs are subject to annual inspections by the City’s Code Compliance Official, subject to applicable fees.

Parking Requirements

• Off-Street Parking: STRs must meet the minimum off-street parking requirements set by the Seaside Zoning Ordinance. A minimum of two off-street parking spaces is required, plus one additional space for each bedroom over two bedrooms.

Occupancy

• Occupancy Limits: The occupancy for a STR is calculated by multiplying the number of bedrooms by 3. Additional criteria may further restrict the occupancy.

Local Contact

• Local Contact Requirement: A Local Contact who permanently resides in Clatsop County must be named for each Vacation Rental Dwelling. The Local Contact must respond to complaints or issues within 2 hours.

Required Postings

• Mandatory Postings: STRs must post the following in a conspicuous place: Vacation Rental Good Neighbor Guidelines, Tsunami Evacuation Map, Parking Map, and additional postings for amenities like Fire Pits and Hot Tubs if applicable.

Waiting Periods

• Waiting Period: Short-term rental license applications for Vacation Rental Dwellings are subject to a 90-day waiting period after approval and prior to issuance of the license, unless the property was previously licensed within the 30-day period prior to the application. New constructions may not apply until two years after the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy.

Transient Lodgings Tax

• Transient Lodgings Tax: All short-term rentals must collect and remit transient lodgings taxes pursuant to Chapter 32 of the Seaside Code of Ordinances.

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 Seaside, Oregon

Overview of Seaside's Airbnb Market

Seaside, Oregon, is a highly attractive destination for Airbnb investors and guests alike, thanks to its charming coastal setting, family-friendly attractions, and high occupancy rates.

High-Revenue Neighborhoods in Seaside

1. Downtown Seaside

• Appeal: Downtown Seaside is central to many attractions, including the historic Seaside Aquarium, the oceanfront promenade, and numerous local eateries and shops. Guests can easily walk to the beach, enjoy clam digging, and take in stunning sunsets.
• Airbnb Performance:
• Average Daily Rate: $245
• Annual Revenue: $40,194
• Occupancy Rate: 53%

2. Gearhart

• Appeal: Located just north of Seaside, Gearhart offers a more secluded beach experience while still being close to Seaside's amenities. It is known for its natural beauty and quieter atmosphere.
• Airbnb Performance:
• Properties in Gearhart often feature in listings with high cash on cash returns, such as the property at 88777 Mallard Ct with a 3.88% cash on cash return.
• Average Daily Rate and Occupancy Rate are similar to Seaside due to its proximity and shared tourist attractions.

3. East Side of Seaside

• Appeal: The east side of Seaside offers a mix of residential and vacation rental properties, often with easier access to local parks and trails. It maintains a short distance to the beach and downtown area.
• Airbnb Performance:
• Properties like the one at 1679 Huckleberry Dr show a cash on cash return of 4.16%, indicating strong investment potential.
• Average Daily Rate and Annual Revenue are consistent with the overall Seaside market.

4. The Heights

• Appeal: This area is known for its newer constructions and elevated homes offering distant ocean views. It provides a modern and comfortable stay for guests.
• Airbnb Performance:
• Properties like the one at 1790 Thompson Falls Dr, with a cash on cash return of 3.67%, highlight the area's investment appeal.
• High average daily rates and occupancy rates contribute to significant annual revenue.

Why These Neighborhoods Are Appealing

• Proximity to Beach and Attractions: All these neighborhoods offer easy access to Seaside's beaches, the promenade, and local attractions, making them highly appealing to tourists.
• Variety of Accommodations: From downtown cottages to more secluded homes in Gearhart and modern constructions in The Heights, there is a wide range of accommodation options to suit different guest preferences.
• High Occupancy Rates: Seaside's overall occupancy rate of 53% to 58% ensures that properties are frequently booked, generating consistent revenue for hosts.
• Strong Investment Returns: The cash on cash returns for properties in these neighborhoods are competitive, making them attractive for investors looking to maximize their Airbnb income.

Furnishing and Design Tips for an Inviting Airbnb in Seaside, Oregon

Understanding Your Audience and Location

• Know Your Guests: Consider the types of guests your Seaside, Oregon Airbnb will attract, such as families, couples, and beachgoers. Tailor your furnishings to meet their needs.
• Reflect the Location: Incorporate a coastal or beach theme to align with the local atmosphere. Use elements like nautical colors, beach-inspired decor, and natural materials.

Budgeting and Planning

• Set a Budget: Create a budget and separate must-have items from nice-to-have items to avoid unnecessary expenses.
• Use a Checklist: Work with a detailed checklist to ensure you don’t miss essential items for each room.

Choosing the Right Furniture

• Sturdy and High-Quality Items: Invest in solid, high-quality furniture that can withstand heavy use. Opt for solid wood over particle board and ensure easy-to-open drawers.
• Easy to Clean: Select furniture that is easy to clean, such as leather or wipeable surfaces. Use fabric protectants like ScotchGuard for upholstered items.
• Functional and Useful: Ensure each piece of furniture serves a purpose and is useful to your guests. Avoid unnecessary decor that could be a hazard or clutter.

Room-Specific Essentials

Living Area

• Comfortable Seating: Provide a sofa, armchairs, and possibly a pull-out couch. Choose real leather if it fits your budget and style.
• TV and Entertainment: Install a smart TV with access to streaming services and place it on a stand. Avoid wall-mounting the TV for safety and ease of use.
• Lighting and Decor: Use lamps and ceiling fans to create a cozy atmosphere. Include area rugs and indoor plants to enhance the space.

Dining Room

• Functional Table and Chairs: Ensure the dining table is the right size for the room and has enough chairs for your maximum guest count. Opt for tables with under-table storage and avoid sharp edges.
• Adequate Lighting: Provide over-table lighting and consider adding artwork to enhance the ambiance.

Bedroom

• High-Quality Mattresses: Invest in comfortable, high-quality mattresses and provide various pillow types and extra blankets. Include a bedside table with a lamp and a dresser or wardrobe for storage.
• Storage Solutions: Use beds with under-bed storage or opt for storage beds. Add hooks and cabinets to maximize storage space.

Kitchen

• Essential Appliances: Ensure the kitchen has a microwave, refrigerator, stovetop, and oven or toaster oven. Provide sufficient cooking utensils, pots, pans, and dinnerware.
• Small Appliances: Include a coffee maker, kettle, toaster, and other useful small appliances. Stock basic cleaning supplies and pantry staples.

Bathroom

• Storage and Essentials: Provide enough storage space for toiletries, a shower curtain or screen, toilet roll holder, towel racks, and a good-sized mirror.

Outdoor Space

• Coastal Theme: If your Airbnb has an outdoor space, furnish it with coastal-themed furniture that is durable and easy to clean. Add outdoor lighting to enhance the ambiance.

Safety and Maintenance

• Secure Large Items: Mount TVs and large mirrors to the wall for safety. Avoid heavy or large lamps that can be easily knocked over.
• Easy Maintenance: Ensure all furniture and decor are easy to clean and maintain. This includes using washable covers and avoiding glass lamps.

Additional Tips

• Measure Your Space: Always measure your space before purchasing furniture to ensure it fits comfortably and does not overcrowd the rooms.
• Local Inspiration: Draw inspiration from local styles and trends in Seaside, Oregon, to create a unique and inviting space that reflects the city’s charm.

Discovering Seaside, Oregon: Local Attractions and Insider Tips

Must-Visit Attractions

Seaside Promenade

• This 1.5-mile boardwalk, known as "The Prom," offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, sandy dunes, and historic buildings. It's perfect for walking, jogging, or cycling.
• Highlights include the "End of the Trail" statue commemorating Lewis and Clark, Mo’s Seaside for excellent seafood, and the Seaside Aquarium.

Historic Turnaround

• A landmark marking the end of the Lewis and Clark expedition, featuring a statue of Lewis and Clark overlooking the ocean. It's a great spot for photos.

Seaside Aquarium

• One of the oldest aquariums on the West Coast, established in 1937. It features touch tanks, discovery centers, and seals. A great indoor activity for all ages.

Seaside Beach

• Enjoy a lazy afternoon at the beach, stroll along the seaside, or visit the shops and restaurants in the area.

Lewis and Clark Salt Works

• Learn about the history of Seaside and the Lewis and Clark expedition at this historic site.

Funland Entertainment Center

• A family-friendly arcade with bumper cars, skee ball, air hockey, pinball, and more. There's also an onsite pizza place.

Other Notable Attractions

Seaside Carousel Mall

• Features a classic carousel, shops, restaurants, and a variety of games and activities for families.

Captain Kid Amusement Park

• Offers go-kart racing, mini-golf, and other family-friendly activities.

Ecola State Park

• Just outside Seaside, this park offers excellent hiking trails with breathtaking ocean views, rock formations, and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Seaside Historical Society Museum

• A multi-room exhibition that tells the story of Seaside from its Native American residents to its development as a resort city. Includes the Butterfield Cottage for a glimpse into early 20th-century life.

Insider Tips

Year-Round Activities

• Seaside is enjoyable year-round. During winter, visit the aquarium, historical museum, or enjoy indoor activities like laser tag and arcade games.

Outdoor Adventures

• Rent bikes, cruisers, or paddleboats to explore Seaside and the Necanicum River. Wheel Fun Rentals has several locations in town.

Local Events

• Plan your visit around local events such as the Seaside Jazz & Blues Festival in March, the 4th of July Parade and Fireworks, and the Seaside SandFest in September.

Dining and Shopping

• Mo’s Seaside is a must-visit for seafood lovers. The Seaside Antique Mall and Carousel Mall offer a variety of shopping and dining options.

Rainy Day Activities

• Visit the Seaside Historical Society Museum, Seaside Aquarium, or enjoy the indoor attractions at Funland and Seaside Carousel Mall on rainy days.

By sharing these attractions and tips, you can help your Airbnb guests make the most of their visit to Seaside, Oregon.

Practical Tips to Run a Successful Short Term Rental Business in Seaside, Oregon

To ensure the success and smooth operation of a short-term rental business in Seaside, Oregon, several practical tips can be implemented.

Noise Regulations and Guest Communication

Informing guests about noise regulations and quiet hours is crucial. Include clear guidelines in the Vacation Rental Good Neighbor Guidelines, which are required by the City of Seaside, to ensure guests are aware of and respect local noise restrictions.

Comprehensive House Manual

Create both digital and physical house manuals that include detailed instructions, Wi-Fi passwords, and other essential information. This helps guests navigate the property easily and reduces the need for frequent inquiries, enhancing their overall experience.

Simplified Check-in Process

Utilize smart locks to streamline the check-in process, eliminating the need for physical key exchanges. Provide guests with clear instructions on how to access the property, along with photos of the smart lock and any other relevant entry points. Additionally, include parking instructions with photos to help guests find and use the designated parking spaces efficiently.

By implementing these strategies, you can enhance guest satisfaction, reduce potential issues, and ensure your short-term rental business in Seaside, Oregon, operates smoothly and profitably.

Short-Term Rental Management Fees in Seaside, Oregon (2026)

Short-term rental management fees in Seaside, Oregon 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. Seaside-area managers may also charge separately for cleaning turnovers, maintenance dispatch, linen programs, and listing optimization. Some full-service operators in Oregon 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 Seaside, Oregon (2026)

Vacation rental performance in Seaside, Oregon has held up through 2025–2026 despite broader supply growth. The average daily rate is approximately $325, and estimated monthly revenue tracks around $38,554. These figures reflect 2024 baseline data adjusted for 2025–2026 ADR growth of 3–5% and the modest occupancy compression seen across the U.S. short-term rental sector as new supply has entered the market.

For investors and operators evaluating Seaside, the broader Oregon dynamic remains favorable: rate strength continues to offset volume softness, keeping RevPAR (revenue per available rental) relatively stable year-over-year. Hyperlocal factors — neighborhood-level demand, seasonality, and the regulatory environment — should be confirmed before making investment or pricing decisions.

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