US tourism expected to score big with Fifa World Cup in 2026
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is poised to deliver a major economic boost to the United States, with projections showing the tournament could generate $30.5 billion in revenue and create 185,000 jobs nationwide. As the US prepares to host matches in 11 of the 16 North American host cities, the global event is becoming a critical opportunity for the struggling tourism industry.
US Tourism Faces Sharp Decline Ahead of 2026
International tourism to the US has been weak throughout the year due to stricter visa policies, heightened border scrutiny, and global uncertainty. According to data from the National Travel and Tourism Office, foreign arrivals dropped by 4% through July.
Moreover, there might be a full year decline of an astounding 6.5% in 2025, according to estimates from travel data company Tourism Economics, as quoted by Reuters. This steep decline underscores the challenges facing the sector — and the importance of the upcoming World Cup.
World Cup Expected to Attract Over One Million Foreign Visitors
The 2026 World Cup — the first to feature 48 teams — is expected to bring more than one million international visitors to the United States. Forecasts from FIFA and OpenEconomics indicate that:
About 40% of 6.5 million fans will be foreign nationals
Visitors will stay an average of 12 days
Each is expected to buy two match tickets
Daily visitor spending will average $416
FIFA has suggested host cities prepare for a 50/50 split between domestic and international fans, a forecast also highlighted by tourism officials in Philadelphia and Kansas City, as reported by Forbes.
Projected Economic Impact: $30.5 Billion and 185,000 Jobs
The massive influx of fans is expected to generate $30.5 billion in economic output, benefiting sectors such as hotels, restaurants, transportation, retail, and entertainment. The event may also support up to 185,000 jobs, according to joint estimates.
Travel demand is already rising. Online travel agency eSky reports that searches for flights and lodging during World Cup dates are up nearly 70% compared to 2025. Accommodation costs may increase by 30% during the early stages of the tournament and up to 60% during the final matches.
Airbnb expects around 232,000 guests to book stays in host cities, with average nightly spending at $142.
Political Tensions Could Influence Fan Travel
Despite the strong economic outlook, political developments could affect international travel. US President Donald Trump recently warned that World Cup matches might be moved from Democrat-run states if security concerns arise, specifically mentioning Seattle. His comments sparked concerns over how political rhetoric may influence foreign visitors’ decisions.
Some analysts warn that this could deter certain fans. “If I’m from Europe and the next World Cup is in Europe, maybe I’ll sit this one out,” said Jan Freitag, national director at CoStar Group.
A Historic Tournament Across Three Countries
Set to run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, the upcoming FIFA World Cup will be the first hosted across three countries — the US , Canada, and Mexico — and the first to include 48 teams. With millions of visitors and record-breaking economic expectations, the event is poised to reshape tourism across North America.
Credit: AP
Source: Reuters, Forbes
