SEATTLE — As millions of fans prepare to travel for the FIFA World Cup™ this summer, Airbnb announced the launch of what it calls its largest new host incentive program to encourage residents in host cities to rent out their homes during the tournament.
According to estimates from Deloitte, residents in host cities like Seattle could earn an average of $3,000 by listing their space on Airbnb during the event.
The report also projects significant travel demand tied to the tournament, creating what the company describes as a major economic opportunity for local communities.
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World Cup-related travel interest is already rising sharply.
Image of Seattle FIFA World Cup 2026 Logo. Seattle FIFA World Cup 2026 organizing committee released its logo in January 2025.{ } (SFWC26)
Searches for stays in host cities are up 80% year-over-year as fans begin making plans to attend matches and related events, according to Airbnb.
In Seattle and nearby areas alone, more than 149,000 fans are expected to travel for the tournament, according to Deloitte.
Local hosts in the region are projected to earn an average of $3,800 by renting their homes on Airbnb during the event.
Airbnb said it is actively seeking new hosts to help meet the anticipated surge in demand for accommodations during the FIFA World Cup™, positioning home sharing as a way for residents to benefit financially while helping to accommodate visiting fans.
New entire home hosts in any of the 16 World Cup cities across the US, Canada, and Mexico who welcome their first guests between now and July 31, 2026, are eligible to earn a $750 USD bonus, Airbnb said.
Beyond individual host earnings, Airbnb said its activity is expected to have a broader economic impact.
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The company cited Deloitte estimates that direct spending through Airbnb bookings could generate approximately $260 million for the local economy through a multiplier effect.
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