Finding and Using Short-Term Rental Data for Community Planning

Authors

• Elizabeth Sodja, Utah State UniversityFollow
• Jordan Smith, Utah State UniversityFollow

Document Type

Factsheet

Publisher

Utah State University Extension

Publication Date

11-9-2026

First Page

1

Last Page

6

Abstract

When towns or cities address topics like short-term rentals (STRs), which often elicit differing perspectives and strong emotions, accurate, reliable data can be key to constructive—rather than combative—conversations. This fact sheet outlines the types of data that could be useful for understanding STRs, how to access it, and how communities can use it to make informed decisions while responding to STRs. The information presented here can bolster the knowledge of communities with in-house planning teams and inform those without planning staff, including those relying on consultants, in understanding what to ask for when working with outside professionals on STR issues.

Recommended Citation

Sodja, E., & Smith, J. (2026). Finding and using short-term rental data for community planning [Fact sheet]. Utah State University Extension.