23.12.2025 00:55
With the group stage matchups of the 2026 FIFA World Cup largely becoming clear, accommodation activity in the host cities in the United States has gained momentum. Demand for short-term rentals has reached record levels, with bookings increasing by 215% on match nights. As hosts prepare to turn the World Cup summer into a significant revenue opportunity, experts point out that this model also directly contributes to the economies of the cities.
With the match schedules for the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup largely clarified, accommodation activity in the cities hosting the tournament in the USA has gained momentum. The early travel planning by football fans for the summer has driven interest in short-term rentals to record levels.
WORLD CUP PREPARATIONS IN ATLANTA
In Atlanta, one of the cities that will host 8 matches in the tournament, the demand for accommodation has significantly increased. Local resident Austin Causy compared the current interest to the 1996 Atlanta Olympics, describing the organization as "a major event" for the city. The suspension of the usual minimum 3-month rental requirement for the World Cup has also provided flexibility for hosts.
NEW INCOME OPPORTUNITY FOR HOSTS
Due to rising ticket prices, many people are turning to alternative income sources, while hosts prefer short-term rentals. According to Dünya, Causy is among those planning to rent out his home to cover the costs of a summer vacation with his family. This approach is noted to be a widespread trend rather than an individual one.
RESERVATIONS INCREASED BY 215%
According to data released by a short-term rental platform, short-term accommodation bookings on the nights of the World Cup group matches have increased by 215% compared to last year. The data indicates that the total income of hosts on the platform during the tournament could reach up to 210 million dollars.
MORE SUSTAINABLE FOR BOTH CITY ECONOMY AND LOCAL PEOPLE
Sports economist Victor Matheson recalls that there were no short-term rental platforms during the World Cup hosted by the USA in 1994, emphasizing that this system offers an efficient solution for large organizations. According to Matheson, utilizing existing housing instead of building new hotels for just a few weeks of intensity is more sustainable for both the city economy and local residents.