Short-term rental bookings for the 2026 FIFA World Cup present varied impacts, with host cities experiencing different demand levels. AirDNA, a platform analyzing short-term rental markets, reveals that cities like Dallas have seen a demand spike compared to previous baselines. Conversely, New York displays muted interest.
Which Cities See the Biggest Boost?
AirDNA monitors short-term rental bookings in host and feeder cities, providing demand snapshots leading to and during matchdays. Despite fixtures being days or weeks away, businesses report increased last-minute bookings during the competition.
Kansas City, set to host four group-stage games and two knockouts, witnessed demand surge by 49% compared to the previous year. Notably, the June 16 match between Argentina and Algeria resulted in an 83% lift.
In Texas, Dallas and Fort Worth saw a demand rise by 27% and 45%, respectively. Miami noted a 40% year-over-year jump. AirDNA highlights that existing tourism dynamics impact these surges, with some cities consistently seeing higher tourist interest year-round.
However, New York, a global tourist hub, noted a 5% drop in demand. Vijay Dandapani, president of the Hotel Association of New York City, noted that bookings were below expectations. New York hoteliers anticipate a loss of over $100 million in room revenue.
How High Is Demand for the World Cup?
“The FIFA World Cup will be the biggest hosting event in Airbnb’s history,”
Airbnb forecasts “hundreds of thousands more guests,” surpassing the 2024 Paris Olympics. A significant weekly surge in searches for tournament stays was noted, driven by last-minute bookings, indicating dynamic fan attendance patterns.
Despite some signs of muted demand, such as empty seats at specific games, high-profile matches attract crowds. Stephen Shapiro from South Carolina’s Department of Sport and Entertainment Management acknowledges mixed demand, with some viewing spots as disappointingly low.
Shapiro attributes spotty attendance to high ticket prices and the expanded 48-nation format. He stresses the need for FIFA and hosts to consider pricing’s impact on fan interest and growth. Although attendance remains strong compared to previous tournaments, resale prices suggest rising interest.
Overall, the 2026 World Cup appears successful, with a higher average of goals per game than past tournaments.
“The FIFA World Cup thus far has been phenomenal. It’s easy to see why prices are surging. Fans are enthusiastic, passionate, and full of life,” said Scott Friedman from Ticket Talk.