World Cup Hotel Demand Falls Short of Expectations Amid Global Concerns
The surge in global interest for the World Cup has not translated into strong hotel reservations across many host cities, raising questions about the tournament's economic impact. According to a recent American Hotel & Lodging Association survey covering 11 U.S. cities, bookings have lagged behind projections, though some locations show signs of recovery. In major hubs such as Kansas City, Boston, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Seattle, hotel operators report reservations falling short of seasonal expectations. Conversely, cities including New York, Los Angeles, Dallas, and Houston maintain steady demand aligned with typical spring and summer patterns, according to the association. Hotel industry leaders attribute weak bookings partly to lingering travel anxieties surrounding the World Cup, visa processing challenges for international fans, and elevated ticket prices—including steep airfare and transit costs. Michael Black, general manager of Manhattan’s Cloud One Hotel, notes that despite expectations for a booking boom, unpredictable global events have created varied outcomes city by city. The issue extends beyond the United States. Mexico, co-hosting with the U.S. and Canada, reports occupancy rates between 30% and 36% in hotels set to host the opening match on June 11, per the Mexico City Hotel Association. High ticket prices have also driven up accommodation costs. In areas near MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, standard room rates rose from around $200 per night to over $800 ahead of World Cup matches, peaking above $1,300 per night before the final. Experts like Ronan Evain of Football Supporters Europe predict prices will drop closer to event dates as last-minute deals emerge. AirDNA data suggests short-term rental platforms could absorb much of the demand, with Airbnb forecasting record bookings surpassing even the 2026 Olympics. Meanwhile, traditional hotels in urban centers around Kansas City, Seattle, San Francisco, Dallas/Fort Worth, and Miami-Fort Lauderdale are seeing increased short-term rental activity, signaling shifts in traveler preferences. While overall ticket sales stand at approximately 5 million out of 6 million expected, sports economist Andrew Zimbalist highlights that mega-events often divert regular business and leisure travelers due to congestion, security concerns, and inflated pricing. In Kansas City, where nearly 90% of surveyed hotel managers indicate bookings below forecasts, optimism persists among tourism officials. Derik Detter of Visit KC points to positive indicators, while Paul Hawes of British Columbia’s hotel association remains cautiously hopeful for increased activity near venues. Ultimately, the World Cup’s legacy on hospitality will depend on how effectively organizers address affordability, accessibility, and safety perceptions moving forward. ___ Marcelo is a general assignment reporter in the NYC bureau. Previously covering AP Fact Check and based in Boston, he focuses on race and immigration issues. Follow him on Twitter @philmarcelo. Contact: philip.marcelo@apnews.com | Twitter: @philmarcelo Email: [mailto:philip.marcelo@apnews.com](mailto:philip.marcelo@apnews.com) Pinterest: https://pinterest.com/philip.marcelo Twitter: https://twitter.com/philmarcelo Instagram: https://instagram.com/philip.marcelo Facebook: https://facebook.com/philip.marcelo LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/philipmarcelo Reddit: https://reddit.com/user/philipmarcelo --- The accompanying images depict key moments from past tournaments, including Iga Świątek’s match against Jessica Pegula at the Italian Open and Dutch coach Dick Advocaat’s appointment for the World Cup. --- AP News contributed to this story. Reporters: David Skretta (Kansas City), Carlos Rodríguez (Mexico City), Jim Morris (Vancouver). Sports AP: https://www.apnews.com/hub/sports Author: Philip Marcelo ---
