Addendum: The Economic Impact of Short-Term Rentals (STRs) Across Pennsylvania
This analysis, conducted by the Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association (PRLA), draws on comprehensive AirDNA data from 2008–2023 to highlight the role of short-term rentals (STRs) in Pennsylvania's tourism industry.
Key Findings
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Statewide Overview:
- As of 2023, Pennsylvania boasts 53,810 active STR listings across all 67 counties.
- STR revenues reached an impressive $856 million in 2023, with the average STR earning $16,215 annually.
- The statewide average daily rate (ADR) for STRs was $175, with an average occupancy rate of 35% (22.4 bookings per listing).
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Growth Trends:
- STRs began to proliferate significantly in 2013, with 851 new registered STRs added that year. Steady growth has been observed every year since.
- By 2016, every Pennsylvania county hosted at least one active STR.
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Regional Highlights:
- Some of the most significant growth areas include the Poconos, Laurel Highlands, and the region near Penn State University in Centre County.
- Philadelphia County leads with 14,007 active listings as of 2023, followed by Monroe County (6,885 listings) and Allegheny County (5,189 listings).
- In 2018, the top-performing STR in the state generated over $1 million in revenue.
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Pandemic Impact:
- Unlike national trends, Pennsylvania saw a temporary decline in STR listings during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Property Types:
- The STR market consists of 44% houses, 44% apartments, and 6% cabins and townhomes.
Municipal Data
Active short-term rental counts in notable municipalities include:
- Allentown – 222
- Erie – 338
- Gettysburg – 106
- Harrisburg – 501
- Jim Thorpe – 139
- Lancaster – 389
- State College – 398
Historical Perspective
- Pennsylvania’s first STR was established on July 1, 2008, as a luxury apartment in Kane (McKean County), followed closely by a second listing in Beaver County.
- The most successful STRs have been concentrated in the Poconos, Laurel Highlands, and Penn State regions.
For a detailed breakdown of active STRs by county, refer to Page 16 of the full report: https://www.rural.pa.gov/download.cfm?file=Resources/reports/assets/269/Inventory%20and%20Analysis%20of%20Short-Term%20Rentals%20in%20Pennsylvania%20Report.pdf
For more information, please contact:
Zak Pyzik
Senior Director of Public Affairs
Pennsylvania Restaurant & Lodging Association
100 State Street, Harrisburg, PA 17101
570-579-3644 | ✉️ zpyzik@prla.org
www.prla.org
