Marseille Homeowners Forced to Quit Airbnb Due to Strict New Laws

Marseille Tightens Control on Airbnb: Owners in Dilemma

In Marseille, tension is rising among owners of tourist rentals. Between new restrictions and financial sanctions, many find themselves forced to abandon Airbnb or seek solutions to maintain the profitability of their property. But what is really happening? Is it time to say goodbye to seasonal rentals in Marseille? 🤔

Airbnb in the Crosshairs: What the New Regulations Say

For several months, the City Hall of Marseille has intensified its fight against short-term rentals. The goal? To restore purchasing power to residents and stop the surge in rent prices. The result:

✅ Reduction of the legal rental duration for a primary residence: from 120 days to 90 days per year.
✅ Mandatory registration of rentals with the city hall.
✅ Increased penalties: up to €15,000 fine for offenders.
✅ Prohibition on converting a property into a tourist rental without specific authorization.

These restrictions are halting the explosive growth of Airbnb in Marseille. In 2023, the platform reportedly welcomed more than 860,000 tourists to the city. A success that has prompted the municipality to tighten control.

Owners Between Abandonment and Resistance

Facing these new constraints, reactions are mixed. Some decide to return to long-term rentals, while others seek alternatives to bypass the rules.

🎤 Léa, owner of a studio in the Panier district, says:
“I was making a very good living with Airbnb, but with these restrictions, I preferred to rent my apartment year-round. Less stress, and more stable!”

🔎 Marc, on the other hand, is not about to give up:
“I’m exploring medium-term rentals for expatriates or workers on assignments. Less risky than Airbnb, but just as profitable!”

Who Are the Big Losers?

• Small owners who relied on Airbnb to make ends meet.
• Investors who purchased a property specifically for short-term rentals.
• Tourists, who may see the availability of accommodations decline and prices rise.

Legal Alternatives to Continue Renting Your Property

Fortunately, not all is lost. For owners, there are smart strategies to continue making a property profitable without breaking the law.

✅ 1. Rent on a medium-term basis (1 to 10 months)

👉 Ideal target: students, expatriates, workers on assignment.
👉 Less administrative burden.

✅ 2. Convert your property into a furnished shared accommodation

👉 High demand from young professionals and students.
👉 Allows optimizing rental income.

✅ 3. Opt for the mobility lease

👉 Contract of 1 to 10 months reserved for people on the move.
👉 A hybrid solution between classic rental and Airbnb.

✅ 4. Go through a specialized concierge service

👉 Some agencies know how to optimize legal rules to maximize profitability.

Marseille, Towards a Balance Between Tourism and Housing?

With these new laws, Marseille is trying to find a balance between welcome tourists and the quality of life for residents. But the question remains: does this strategy risk undermining the city’s tourist appeal?

In the meantime, owners must adapt under the threat of severe penalties.

📢 And what about you, what do you think?

Are you an owner or tenant affected by these measures? Tell us in the comments how you see the future of Airbnb rentals in Marseille! 👇