Surge in Hotel Prices for FIFA World Cup Host Cities

All 16 cities hosting the FIFA World Cup are experiencing a rise in hotel prices. Rates have significantly increased compared to the same period last summer, as reported by FCM Consulting. Among these cities, 13 have seen a year-over-year increase of at least 80% each night. With less than a month until kickoff, the tournament is poised to be the largest World Cup ever. Years of preparation have culminated in the men’s soccer event that will unfold across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The competition promises to boost the U.S. economy. However, rising ticket and hotel prices might discourage fans from attending.

Why It Matters

Ticket demand has been relatively low. Newsweek found that resale prices for some matches dropped sharply, with one group-stage game falling below $100 per ticket and many games still having over 1,000 tickets available. Thousands of tickets remain unsold across the 16 host cities, especially in the U.S. although remaining inventory is mainly concentrated in less popular matches.

In an interview with the New York Post, U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the $1,000 price for the U.S. team’s opening game against Paraguay on June 12, stating, “I wouldn’t pay it either, to be honest with you.”

Cities With Biggest Hotel Price Increases

High ticket prices are reflected in hotel rates too. The average nightly rate across host markets is about $499. This marks an increase from the previous rate of $438 before the tournament schedule release, as per FCM Consulting. On match nights, the average rate is $524, compared to $398 on non-game nights. The U.S., hosting most matches, shows the widest disparity in hotel pricing. Boston tops American markets with an average nightly rate of $611, followed closely by New York/New Jersey at $593. Houston emerges as the most affordable U.S. host city at $205 per night.

Vancouver stands as the highest-priced host city overall, with average rates nearly reaching $890. The city’s limited supply of about 22,700 rooms contributes to this surge. Mexico’s host cities display steep percentage increases, though they started from much lower initial rates. In Guadalajara, for instance, rooms costing $90 per night last summer now list at $511, marking the largest overall price jump among host markets.

Low Hotel Bookings

Hotel bookings are below forecasts for the World Cup period, according to city hotel owners and hospitality industry representatives who spoke with Newsweek. The American Hotel and Lodging Association reported that 80% of bookings are tracking below initial expectations.

The U.S. State Department has attempted to ease travel restrictions for attendees. It waived a requirement for visa applicants from 50 countries to pay a $15,000 deposit, provided they have a valid ticket for the competition.

What Happens Next

The World Cup’s opening match between Mexico and South Africa will occur on June 11. The event is set to conclude on July 19.