Short-Term or Long-Term Rentals in Florida? Pros and Cons in 2025

Comparison of short-term and long-term living arrangements: Travelers with suitcases stand on the left under a clock, symbolizing short stays, while a family carrying boxes on the right represents long-term residency under a calendar.

A Key Decision for Florida Property Owners

Florida’s rental market in 2025 is stronger than ever. With constant migration, booming tourism, and steady demand for housing, property owners face one of the most important decisions: should you rent your property on a short-term or long-term basis?

Both options offer unique advantages and come with challenges. The right choice depends on your location, financial goals, and how much time you want to dedicate to managing your property. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each.

What Do Short-Term and Long-Term Rentals Mean?

• Short-term rentals (STR): Properties rented for days, weeks, or a few months. These are popular with vacationers, business travelers, or seasonal residents, often listed on platforms like Airbnb or VRBO.

• Long-term rentals (LTR): Properties leased for six months, a year, or longer, providing stable housing to permanent residents.

There’s also a growing middle ground: mid-term rentals, which typically run from one to six months and can combine some of the benefits of both approaches.

Advantages of Short-Term Rentals

Higher earning potential

In Florida’s tourist hotspots like Miami, Orlando, or coastal towns, nightly rates for vacation rentals can far exceed what you’d make with a traditional monthly lease. When occupancy is high, owners can multiply their income compared to long-term rental rates.

Flexibility of use

With short-term rentals, you can block out dates to use the property yourself. This is especially appealing for second homes or vacation condos where owners want personal access.

Seasonal tourism demand

Florida’s rental market is fueled by tourism. “Snowbirds” flock to the state in winter, while families and international visitors arrive during school breaks and holidays. Owners who manage occupancy well can benefit from high demand during peak seasons.

Frequent property check-ins

Because guests stay for shorter periods, you’ll have more opportunities to inspect the property, perform maintenance, and keep everything updated.

Disadvantages of Short-Term Rentals

Unpredictable income

High earnings depend on high occupancy. During low season, properties may sit empty for weeks, reducing annual returns.

Higher operating costs

Owners cover cleaning services after each stay, utilities, furnishings, regular replacements, and listing fees. These recurring expenses can quickly add up.

Intensive management

Managing bookings, coordinating check-ins, and providing guest support requires constant attention. Many landlords hire professional managers, but that reduces profit margins.

Legal restrictions

Cities and counties across Florida have been tightening regulations on vacation rentals. Some neighborhoods and HOAs also impose strict rules or limit the number of days a property can be rented.

Wear and tear

Frequent turnover means more use of furniture, appliances, and property features, leading to faster depreciation.

Advantages of Long-Term Rentals

Stable and predictable income

Monthly leases provide consistent cash flow. Knowing your rental income in advance makes budgeting and financial planning much easier.

Lower operating costs

In most cases, tenants cover utilities and take care of day-to-day upkeep, reducing your expenses. Fewer turnovers also mean less money spent on cleaning, advertising, and furnishing.

Less hands-on management

Compared to daily guest communication, long-term rentals require less involvement. Owners can often manage with occasional check-ins and routine maintenance.

Reduced seasonal risk

Unlike vacation rentals, long-term leases are not affected by tourist seasons. Even in off-peak months, you’ll still collect rent.

Clearer legal framework

Long-term leases fall under Florida’s residential rental laws, which are often simpler and less restrictive than the evolving short-term rental regulations.

Disadvantages of Long-Term Rentals

Lower income potential

In high-demand tourist areas, the income from a long-term rental will likely be lower than what could be earned through short-term stays during peak season.

Limited flexibility

Once a lease is signed, you can’t use the property for personal stays until the contract ends.

Risk of problem tenants

Long-term tenants may delay payments, cause damage, or require costly eviction processes. Careful screening is essential.

Missed opportunities in peak seasons

If your property is in a vacation destination, you may lose the chance to maximize income during holidays and peak travel months.

Which Option Is Best in 2025?

The answer depends on several factors:

• Location: A condo near the beach or theme parks may generate higher profits as a short-term rental, while a suburban family home might perform better with a stable long-term tenant.

• Owner profile: If you want consistent, passive income and minimal involvement, long-term rentals are more suitable. If you’re comfortable with active management and variable earnings, short-term rentals can be rewarding.

• Local regulations: Some Florida cities and communities limit or prohibit vacation rentals. Always check local laws and HOA rules.

• Seasonal demand: Florida thrives on tourism, but not all areas experience the same demand. Evaluate your property’s surroundings carefully.

• Risk tolerance: Short-term rentals offer higher rewards but greater volatility. Long-term rentals are lower-risk but generally yield less.

  
  

Conclusion: A Balanced Approach

There is no one-size-fits-all answer. In 2025, both short-term and long-term rentals in Florida remain profitable opportunities, depending on your goals and your property.

• Short-term rentals maximize income in tourist-heavy areas but require effort, management, and flexibility.

• Long-term rentals provide steady income, lower costs, and reduced stress, though they may generate less overall profit.

Some investors even explore hybrid strategies: using their properties for short-term rentals during high-demand seasons and switching to long-term leases during slower months.

Others experiment with mid-term rentals for traveling professionals, medical staff, or students.

Whichever route you choose, success depends on preparation, legal compliance, and professional management. At Heart Properties, we guide Florida landlords through every step—whether you’re aiming for stable income with long-term tenants or maximizing potential with short-term stays.