Airbnb Management
Full-service Airbnb management for your short-term rental. Nationwide.
Cambridge, Massachusetts
In Cambridge, Massachusetts, guests can find a diverse range of Airbnb accommodations to suit various preferences and budgets. Options include charming historic homes and brownstones that reflect the city's rich architectural heritage, often located in picturesque neighborhoods like Harvard Square and Porter Square. For those seeking a more modern experience, there are sleek apartments and condos, many of which offer contemporary amenities and are situated near bustling areas with easy access to public transportation. Additionally, visitors can opt for cozy private rooms within shared homes, providing a more intimate and budget-friendly stay. Whether travelers are looking for a quaint, traditional setting or a stylish, urban retreat, Cambridge offers a variety of Airbnb options to enhance their visit.
In Cambridge, Massachusetts, short-term rentals, including those listed on platforms like Airbnb, are subject to specific regulations. Hosts must register their properties with the city and obtain a Short-Term Rental Certificate. The property must be the host's primary residence, and the rental period is limited to a maximum of 90 days per year if the host is not present. Additionally, hosts are required to comply with safety and health standards, including having working smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Regarding taxes, short-term rentals in Cambridge are subject to the Massachusetts state room occupancy excise tax, which is 5.7%, along with a local option tax of up to 6%, and a 2.75% convention center financing fee, bringing the total potential tax rate to 14.45%. Hosts are responsible for collecting and remitting these taxes to the appropriate authorities.
Managing an Airbnb in Cambridge, Massachusetts, involves several key tasks to ensure a successful operation. Hosts need to maintain a clean and welcoming environment, which includes regular cleaning and restocking of essentials. Given the city's rich academic and cultural attractions, providing guests with local guides and personalized recommendations can enhance their experience. Effective communication is crucial, requiring prompt responses to inquiries and reviews to maintain high ratings. Additionally, compliance with local regulations, such as obtaining necessary permits and adhering to zoning laws, is essential. Pricing strategies should be adjusted seasonally to reflect demand fluctuations, particularly during university events and tourist seasons. Lastly, leveraging technology for booking management and guest communication can streamline operations and improve efficiency.
Cambridge, Massachusetts, offers several vibrant neighborhoods ideal for an Airbnb stay, each with its unique charm. Harvard Square is a popular choice, bustling with energy and rich in history, offering easy access to Harvard University, eclectic shops, and diverse dining options. Central Square is another excellent area, known for its lively arts scene, music venues, and multicultural eateries. For a quieter experience, consider staying in the residential neighborhood of Porter Square, which provides a more laid-back atmosphere while still being conveniently connected to public transportation. Kendall Square, often dubbed the "most innovative square mile on the planet," is perfect for those interested in the tech scene, with its proximity to MIT and a plethora of modern restaurants and bars. Each of these areas provides a unique slice of Cambridge life, making them ideal for visitors looking to explore the city's rich cultural and intellectual landscape.
Cambridge, Massachusetts, presents a promising Airbnb investment opportunity due to its vibrant academic and cultural scene, driven by the presence of prestigious institutions like Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). The city's diverse population, coupled with a steady influx of students, academics, and tourists, ensures a consistent demand for short-term rentals. Neighborhoods such as Harvard Square, Central Square, and Kendall Square are particularly attractive due to their proximity to major attractions, public transportation, and a variety of dining and entertainment options. Additionally, Cambridge's rich history, coupled with its modern innovation hubs, makes it a year-round destination, enhancing the potential for high occupancy rates and competitive pricing in the Airbnb market.
As of the latest data, the average Airbnb revenue in Cambridge, Massachusetts, reflects a dynamic short-term rental market influenced by its proximity to prestigious universities like Harvard and MIT, as well as its vibrant cultural scene. Hosts in Cambridge typically see varying revenue depending on factors such as location, property type, and seasonality. Properties closer to university campuses or popular attractions tend to command higher nightly rates and occupancy levels. On average, hosts can expect to earn a moderate to high monthly income, with peak periods aligning with academic events, conferences, and the tourist season. However, it's important to note that local regulations and market competition can significantly impact overall revenue potential.
Cambridge, Massachusetts, experiences a dynamic Airbnb occupancy rate influenced by its academic calendar and tourism trends. The city, home to prestigious institutions like Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, sees a significant influx of visitors during the academic year, particularly in September and May, coinciding with the start of the school year and graduation ceremonies. This results in higher occupancy rates during these months. Additionally, the summer months of June through August attract tourists exploring the Greater Boston area, further boosting occupancy. Conversely, the winter months, particularly January and February, tend to see a dip in occupancy rates due to colder weather and fewer academic events, leading to a more pronounced seasonality in Airbnb bookings.
Why Choose Checkmate Rentals?
Other Property Managers | ||
---|---|---|
Cost | Starting at 15% fee | 25-40% fee |
Guest Communications | Guest response within 10 minutes, 24 hours a day | Sporadic guest communications |
Host Communications | Designated host call in phone line | Bot response assistants |
Insurance | Full damage protection for every reservation | Unreliable insurance coverage |
Contract | No annual agreements | Contract lock-ins |
What you get with Checkmate Rentals
Attract Guests

Listing on all top booking sites
Targeted digital marketing
High-definition photography
Custom copywriting
Manage Details

Dynamic rate-setting technology
Dedicated reservation agents
24/7 guest service
Consistent, professional cleaning
Stocking guest amenities
Payment processing
Take Care of You

Unlimited owner holds
No fixed contracts
Local staff in every market
Inspections and regular maintenance
Guest screening
Optional short-term rental insurance
Get in touch with us.
Checkmate Rentals is a full-service property manager. That means the Airbnb listing, the home, the guest and the work is our responsibility.
Local Team Support
Know that you have a friendly, accessible team right up the road to handle any property needs.
Guest Screenings
Book only the most qualified guests 25 and over who’ll enjoy your home the right way.
Unlimited Owner Use
Block off your vacation days with ease, and enjoy your home as often as you want.
Reliable Property Maintenance
Keep your home running smoothly around the clock with a fast, reliable maintenance team.
Transparent Finances
Transparent Finances Booking payouts get paid directly to you for full financial transparency. We never handle your money.
Fast 24/7 Guest Communication
Make every guest feel cared for with industry best response times of 1-15 minutes day and night.
Marketing
Target, attract & book qualified guests with photography, email marketing, and optimized listings.
Revenue Management
Get the competitive edge with dynamic pricing and rates optimized daily by your pricing manager.
Direct Bookings
Earn more year after year as guests book their stay directly on our website.
Housekeeping
Make the perfect first impression with wall-to-wall cleanings before guests arrive.
Inspections
Know your property is guest-ready is top-to-bottom inspections after every booking.
Guest Damage Coverage
Save more when you let us cover accidental guest damage coverage up to $3k.
Smart Home Management
We manage your digital locks & noise monitoring tech in your home.
Fast Listings
Get your home fully listed and ready for guests in as little as 3 days.
Automated Touchpoints
Give guests a seamless experience with automated touchpoints from booking to checkout.
Owner Portal
Stay in the loop on your property with our easy-to-use owner portal that lets you check everything you need.
