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

• 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).

• 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.

• 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.

• Pandemic Impact:

  • Unlike national trends, Pennsylvania saw a temporary decline in STR listings during the COVID-19 pandemic.

• 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