Airbnb drives surge in short‑term rentals, cuts US hotel occupancy during World Cup

During the group stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, more than 52,000 new short‑term rental listings were added in the United States host cities, a 12 % increase over the same period a year earlier, according to AirDNA data. Airbnb offered a $750 bonus to hosts whose properties near the stadiums received a first guest before the end of July, prompting thousands of homeowners to list their homes for the first time.

The expanded supply led to a measurable impact on hotels. In cities such as Kansas City, average short‑term rental rates rose 63 % while hotel occupancy fell 8.5 percentage points, even as hotel room rates rose about 20 % and RevPAR grew roughly 17 % during the tournament. New York‑area hotel revenue forecasts were cut from $300 million to $160 million. Analysts note that the World Cup boosted hotel prices more than occupancy, benefitting luxury properties that hosted high‑budget delegations.

Separate reports showed that the tournament did not deliver the anticipated boost in hospitality employment, with expected full‑time jobs largely unrealised and hiring flat in May‑June. Airbnb now aims to retain the thousands of new hosts after the event ends.