The 2026 world Cup, with its promise of global excitement and economic boosts, is delivering a mixed bag of tourism results across its host cities. While some locations are experiencing a surge in visitors and bookings, others are grappling with disappointing shortfalls and empty hotel rooms.
FIFA had high hopes for the tournament, anticipating over 6 million fans and an economic impact of $80 billion. However, the reality on the ground is proving to be more nuanced, with varying degrees of success among the 16 host cities spread across three countries.
Kansas City: A Tourism Success Story
Kansas City, Missouri, is one of the standout success stories of the 2026 World Cup. Hotels in the city are reporting a 32% growth in bookings compared to the same time last year, according to data from Visit Kansas City. Short-term rentals have also seen a significant boost, with revenue projections doubling and a 44% increase in nights sold around game days.
The city’s affordability, central location, and the draw of popular teams like Argentina and the Netherlands have contributed to its success. On the day of the first match between Argentina and Algeria, metro hotels were either sold out or operating at 80% to 85% occupancy.
New York and Seattle: Disappointing Numbers
In contrast, cities like New York and Seattle are facing disappointing tourism numbers. The Hotel Association of New York City has halved its forecast for hotel revenue growth to $100 million, describing the tournament as “hugely disappointing and underwhelming.” FIFA had estimated that 1.2 million visitors would come to the New York City area, but the city’s hotel industry would be happy settling for 400,000 visitors.
Seattle is also experiencing a downturn, with bookings below those of last year across flights, short-term rentals, and hotels. FIFA has canceled up to 70% of room blocks for staff and delegates in several host cities, including Boston, Dallas, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, and Seattle.
Vancouver: A Mixed Picture
Vancouver, British Columbia, is presenting a mixed picture. While the city is known for its beauty and hospitality, hotel bookings for June were down up to 20% pre-tournament. However, the atmosphere in the city has been electric, with fans filling the streets and creating a festive environment.
Experts believe that the positive experiences of visitors could lead to long-term tourism benefits for the province. Jarrett Vaughan, an adjunct professor at UBC’s Sauder School of Business, suggests that the tourism spin-off could cover the costs of hosting the Fifa world Cup over the next five to ten years.
The next match at BC Place is New Zealand vs. Egypt on June 21, and the city is hoping for a boost in tourism as the tournament progresses.
