Illinois pool host guide

Renting your pool in Illinois offers a way to earn extra income during the state's hot and humid summers. While the season is shorter than in southern states, demand is concentrated and strong from late May through early September. This guide covers the key details for homeowners in Illinois considering listing their pool.

The Illinois market overview

The primary market for pool rentals is concentrated in the Chicago metropolitan area, including the dense suburbs where many residents lack private pools. Demand is high during the summer months when temperatures and humidity climb. Other metro areas like Springfield and Peoria also show potential, especially for family gatherings and small events. Because the swimming season is limited to roughly three or four months, hosts who open their pools for booking see condensed and active interest.

Income expectations

Your hourly rate will depend on your pool's size, location, and the amenities you offer. Top-tier listings with hot tubs, premium furniture, and grills command higher prices. Here are some typical ranges.

With consistent bookings on weekends and popular weekdays, you can earn between $3,000 and $10,000 per month during the peak season from June to August.

Illinois regulations to check

Before you start hosting, you need to understand the local and state rules that may apply.

• Pool Safety and Fencing: Illinois requires residential swimming pools to be enclosed by a barrier, typically a fence at least four feet high with a self-closing, self-latching gate. Check your specific city and county building codes as they may have additional requirements.
• Taxes: Your earnings are taxable income. You should also investigate if your city or county requires you to collect and remit taxes, as hourly rentals could be classified as an amusement or a service subject to local tax.
• Premises Liability: As a property owner, you have a duty to ensure your pool area is safe for guests. This includes maintaining equipment, having clear depth markings, and providing safety equipment like a life ring.
• Alcohol Rules: You cannot sell alcohol to guests without a license. If you allow guests to bring their own, you still carry risk, so your guest rules should clearly state policies around responsible consumption.
• Noise Ordinances: Review your local municipal code for rules on noise. Be sure your guest rules specify quiet hours to avoid any disturbances in your neighborhood.

HOA and neighborhood considerations

If you live in a community with a Homeowners Association, you must review your governing documents. Look for any Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) that prohibit or restrict commercial or business activities on your property. Some HOAs may view hourly rentals as a business operation. It is also a good practice to speak with your immediate neighbors about your plans. Explaining that you will be using a platform that vets guests and enforces rules on noise, parking, and guest counts can help address their concerns upfront.

Insurance and liability

Your peace of mind is important. That is why every booking on Pool Rental Near Me includes a $2M general liability insurance policy to protect you from accidents. However, this should not be your only line of defense. We strongly recommend you contact your homeowner's insurance agent. You need to verify that your policy does not contain a "business use" or "commercial activity" exclusion that could void your coverage if an incident occurs.

Tips for Illinois hosts

• Maximize the season: Open your calendar from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Consider investing in a pool heater to attract bookings in the cooler days of May and September.
• Use dynamic pricing: Set higher prices for weekend afternoons and holidays. Offer lower rates for weekdays or morning slots to attract more bookings.
• Offer the right amenities: Illinois guests love a good cookout. A clean grill, comfortable shaded seating, and a cooler for drinks are highly valued.
• Set clear parking rules: In many suburban neighborhoods, street parking is limited. Provide clear instructions for your guests on where they can and cannot park.
• Enjoy a low host fee: We make earning simple with a flat 10% host fee, which is lower than the 15% plus fee charged by competitors like Swimply.

Get started

Ready to turn your backyard pool into an income source this summer? List your Illinois pool on Pool Rental Near Me and start connecting with guests today.

Sources cited

1. FY 2025-28, Hotel Operators' Occupation Tax Updates for ...
2. Short Term Rental Tax | City of Bloomington, Illinois
3. Short-Term Rental Property
4. Short-Term Rentals Prohibited in Unincorporated Lake ...
5. 6. short term rentals "guest homes"
6. No short-term rental shall be permitted in the city ...
7. Short Term Rental (STR) Business License Information