The city of Steamboat Springs has released its preliminary sales, use, accommodations and short-term rental tax report for July 2026, reporting a dip of 5.6% compared to the same month last year, or a decrease of just over $204,000, states a Tuesday news release. 

Year-to-date collections are down nearly $987,000, a 3.75% drop from last year at this time. Because sales-tax revenue for 2026 was budgeted to be 1% under 2025 levels, July preliminary collections reports are falling short of the budget by 2.75%. 

Compared to July 2025, liquor and marijuana sales were down 14.2%; lodging was down by nearly 13%; sporting goods were down 11%; grocery stores were down 6.9%; and restaurants decreased by almost 6%. 

Accommodations-tax revenues, which help fund parks, open space, environmental initiatives and community amenities, decreased by around 16.2%, or approximately $22,148. 

Short-term rental tax is dedicated to retaining and expanding affordable housing incentives for projects such as Slate Creek/Brown Ranch. Preliminary STR tax collections in July 2026 were down 27% compared to July 2025, a decrease of around $226,751. 

Building-use tax is used to fund projects within Steamboat Springs. In July 2026, preliminary tax collections decreased by 75%, or $680,797. Use tax can fluctuate based on when building permits are issued, when reconciliations are completed and the size and number of developments in the city.

To view the full report, visit TinyUrl.com/3mzu7ra5.