FIFA projected a significant economic boost from the tournament, with a socio-economic impact study estimating an addition of up to $40.9 billion to the US GDP. This forecast largely relies on the assumption that nearly 40% of attendees will be international visitors—an influx that remains elusive in early industry signals.
Bookings below expectations, prices declining
After the December draw and match schedule release, hotel prices saw a spike but have since stabilized. Industry analyses reveal that nightly rates in host markets surged to above $1,000—over three times the typical late-May rates—only to decrease by more than 40% in subsequent months.
Data from CoStar Group indicates that bookings in various US host cities have shown only slight increases compared to last year at this time. Most markets reflect standard summer demand rather than a significant event-driven uptick.
A survey conducted by the American Hotel and Lodging Association found many hoteliers experiencing reservations below initial expectations, even with millions of tickets already sold for the event.
International travel demand yet to rise
Initial US government data has not indicated a clear increase in inbound travel related to the tournament. Approximately 12,000 applicants have used the FIFA visa fast-track system launched this year, and around 5.1 million Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) applications have been submitted so far, which aligns with typical annual trends.
These figures suggest that international travel demand has not yet picked up noticeably before the event. Analysts point to factors like visa issues, high travel and ticket prices, and broader geopolitical concerns as potential challenges.
The World Travel and Tourism Council reported a 5.5% decline in US visitor numbers in 2025, even as global tourism hit record highs. Additionally, Tourism Economics has revised its 2026 US arrivals forecast down from 3.9% to 3.4% growth, estimating that World Cup-related travel could contribute around 742,000 visitors during the tournament.
Changes in supply affect pricing
Hotel pricing has also been influenced by FIFA’s bulk room booking policy. The organization secured large room blocks in host cities and later released a significant number back to the market, boosting available inventory.
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This shift has led to price corrections in various cities. In several locations, including Atlanta, Boston, Philadelphia, and Seattle, hotel rates for match periods have dropped significantly from earlier highs, some by nearly 50%, according to industry analyses.
Variable demand across host cities
Demand patterns differ among locations. Cities hosting more high-profile matches have seen relatively stronger booking effects, while traditionally favored tourist spots have experienced limited incremental benefits so far.
Ticketing data provided to host committees shows that international buyers account for about 26% to 35% of purchases in certain markets, with other estimates indicating that less than one-third of attendees in some cities may be coming from abroad, falling short of previous forecasts.
Airbnb insights reveal affordability and group travel trends
Airbnb data indicates that the highest number of searches for stays around match dates is coming from travelers in the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada.
Families and groups represent over half of bookings to date, with shorter stays—especially two-night trips—being the most common. Approximately 75% of family bookings are for two- or three-bedroom accommodations, highlighting the demand for shared spaces.
Affordability remains a crucial factor. Airbnb data reveals that a substantial proportion of listings in host cities are priced below $500 per night, with booking trends showing a clear preference for these budget-friendly options.
The platform also notes “gateway travel,” where visitors extend their trips beyond host cities. Non-US travelers make up about 70% of such travel and tend to have longer stays than domestic visitors.
According to a Deloitte study commissioned by Airbnb, guests could contribute an estimated $3.6 billion to the economies of host cities during the tournament.
Industry awaits a late surge in bookings
Despite the slow initial signs, the sector anticipates a rise in booking activity as the tournament draws nearer, especially during the knockout stages, which are generally less predictable for advance planning.
FIFA has sold approximately 5 million tickets thus far, with more availability expected to be released. While forecasts for a large influx of international visitors remain uncertain, industry stakeholders are hopeful for a late surge that could increase occupancy rates and travel demand as the event approaches.
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