Airbnb rules in London 2026: licensing, night caps, registration

Quick answer

London allows short-term lets for up to 90 nights per calendar year per property without planning permission. Going above the cap requires planning permission, which is rarely granted in Greater London.

Worst-case scenario

If London introduces a stricter cap (40 nights), revenue could drop ~55%. Budget for long-term rental as a fallback.

How London's rules shape the market

There are currently 48,261 active short-term-rental listings operating in London (of 96,871 total). Median occupancy across those is 28%. The median nightly rate is $163.83. With the 90-night cap, that limits unlicensed annual revenue.

FAQ

Do I need a license to run an Airbnb in London?

London does not currently require a license to operate a short-term rental, though local regulations may still apply.

How many nights can I rent my Airbnb in London?

London caps short-term rentals at 90 nights per year for entire homes.

What is the average Airbnb occupancy in London?

Active Airbnb listings in London run at ~28% occupancy (up 12.7 points year over year). Source: Inside Airbnb.

What is the median daily rate for an Airbnb in London?

The median Airbnb daily rate (ADR) in London is approximately $163.83, up 2.4% year over year. Based on listings with at least one review in the last 12 months.

How many active Airbnb listings are in London?

There are approximately 48,261 active short-term rental listings in London (listings with at least one booking in the last 12 months).

Is Airbnb income growing or shrinking in London?

Compared to a year ago, London short-term rental performance has shifted: occupancy +12.7 pts, daily rate +2.4%. Underlying data comes from the latest Inside Airbnb snapshot vs the closest archive ~12 months prior.

Beyond the rules

See London's income, occupancy, and neighborhood data

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Source: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/short-term-lets-registration-scheme-to-protect-communities-and-keep-tourism-strong · Last verified July 2026