Short Term Rentals in Arlington, VA – Complete 2025 Guide

Find safe and legal short term rentals in Arlington, VA. Costs, rules, neighborhoods, and best platforms explained in one simple guide.

Sep 3, 2025 - 12:02 Updated: Sep 3, 2025 - 12:04

0 21

Short Term Rentals in Arlington, VA – Complete 2025 Guide

Image Source: freepik.com

Arlington, Virginia, has become one of the most popular areas for short term rentals, thanks to its location right next to Washington, D.C., the presence of major hospitals, and the growth of Amazon’s HQ2. For professionals on temporary assignments, students on medical rotations, or families in transition, the area offers a wide variety of rental choices. The challenge isn’t finding availability — it’s deciding between the many options. From Airbnbs in high-rise condos to furnished corporate apartments, extended-stay hotels, and even Craigslist sublets, the choices can be overwhelming.

This guide explains everything you need to know about short term rentals in Arlington, including local regulations, typical costs, neighborhood options, and strategies to find the best deals.

What Counts as a Short Term Rental in Arlington?

Arlington defines a short term rental as any stay of fewer than 30 consecutive days. These rentals are governed by the county’s Accessory Homestay Program, which sets clear rules for both hosts and guests.

To be considered legal, a short term rental must meet several conditions:

The property must be the host’s primary residence for at least 185 days each year.
The host must hold both an Accessory Homestay Permit and a business license.
The unit must comply with safety requirements, including working smoke detectors, carbon monoxide alarms, and a fire extinguisher.
Guest occupancy is capped at six people total or two per bedroom, whichever is greater.
Hosts must collect and pay the 8.25% Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT) on stays of less than 90 days.

Unlike some jurisdictions that ban rentals under 30 days, Arlington allows them if the rules are followed. However, many HOAs and condo boards impose stricter limits and may prohibit leases under six months, so it is always worth checking building policies before booking.

How Much Do Short Term Rentals Cost?

The cost of short term rentals in Arlington depends on location, amenities, and the time of year. On average:

A 1-bedroom Airbnb or Vrbo costs between $2,800 and $4,000 per month.
Furnished apartments found on Zillow or Apartments.com usually range from $2,500 to $3,500 per month.
Corporate housing through companies like Blueground or Zeus often runs from $3,000 to $5,500 per month.

Prices rise in spring and fall due to high demand from interns, relocators, and government employees. Winter, especially from December to February, is the most affordable season and offers renters more negotiating power.

In addition to monthly rent, you should budget for extra costs. Cleaning fees on Airbnb often run between $150 and $300. Application or administrative fees are common on furnished apartment sites and can add $25 to $150. Pet deposits and monthly pet rent are also typical, often in the $200 to $500 range. Utilities may or may not be included in the quoted rate, so confirming this in advance is important. And remember, the Transient Occupancy Tax applies to all rentals shorter than 90 days, unless collected automatically by the platform.

Where to Find Short Term Rentals

Arlington offers a wide variety of platforms and providers, and the right one depends on your needs. Corporate housing providers such as Blueground are especially popular with professionals relocating for work. Their properties are fully furnished, well-managed, and designed for mid-term stays of 30 days or longer, and you can find options through Blueground Furnished Arlington Listings.

Airbnb and Vrbo remain strong choices for flexibility and variety, though quality varies from host to host. Zillow and Apartments.com are reliable if you prefer an apartment-style living experience, with listings often managed by property companies. Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace can sometimes yield bargains but also carry higher risks of scams, so they are best approached cautiously. Finally, extended-stay hotels like Residence Inn, Hyatt House, and AKA are ideal for renters who value daily housekeeping and front desk service, even if the kitchen facilities are more limited.

The Best Neighborhoods for Short Term Rentals in Arlington

Although Arlington is geographically small, its neighborhoods each have a distinct character. Rosslyn and Courthouse are perfect for commuters since they are just one stop from Georgetown and offer high-rise apartments with skyline views. These areas are polished but often come at a premium.

Ballston and Virginia Square strike a balance between convenience and community, with modern apartment complexes, restaurants, and co-working spaces. They appeal to renters who want a city feel without being directly across from D.C. Pentagon City and Crystal City are efficient, metro-connected neighborhoods close to Reagan National Airport and Amazon’s HQ2. With a mix of older and newer buildings, they are particularly popular with business travelers. Clarendon, on the other hand, is Arlington’s lively, walkable hub with restaurants, bars, and a younger rental scene. It’s the right choice for those who want energy and nightlife nearby.

What to Look for in a Short Term Rental

When choosing a short term rental, it’s important to think beyond what looks appealing in photos. Strong Wi-Fi is essential for remote workers, and a comfortable bed and durable furniture are critical for longer stays. Parking can be a major concern in neighborhoods like Rosslyn and Clarendon, where street permits are competitive.

Lease terms deserve just as much attention. Some landlords require exact 30-, 60-, or 90-day commitments, while others allow extensions on a weekly basis. Corporate housing is usually the most flexible, while Airbnb often requires you to book a new reservation if you want to extend.

Reading the fine print is essential. Always confirm what’s included in the rental — utilities, internet, parking, and cleaning services. Extra charges such as cleaning fees, pet deposits, and security deposits can quickly add up and affect your budget.

How to Find the Best Deals

While Arlington is not known for cheap rent, there are ways to secure better terms on short term rentals. Aggregators such as PadMapper and Nestpick can help save time by collecting listings from multiple platforms. Booking during the winter months gives you more leverage, as landlords are eager to fill empty units.

Reaching out directly to property managers rather than relying on booking platforms can also save money. In many cases, managers oversee multiple units and may have availability not listed online. They are often more open to negotiation, especially for longer commitments. Landlords with multiple properties tend to be the most flexible with pricing, extensions, and custom arrangements.

Final Thoughts

The best short term rental in Arlington is one that fits your lifestyle, not just your budget. If you need flexibility for a stay under 30 days, Airbnb or Vrbo can work well, but always confirm the host is licensed under Arlington’s homestay rules. For longer assignments or relocations, corporate housing provides consistency, professional management, and reliable amenities.

Before signing, consider how important location, transit access, and amenities like parking or in-unit laundry are to your daily routine. With the right preparation and timing, your short-term rental in Arlington can feel less like a temporary arrangement and more like home.