camel.live reports that following the confirmation of the 2026 World Cup schedule, hotel prices during the tournament have seen significant fluctuations in the three host countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Data shows that the average hotel rate across 16 host cities during the opening matches has surged by over 300%, with some cities experiencing even steeper increases. The study revealed this widespread trend by comparing prices of the same hotels on match days in mid-June with those in late May. Among the 96 surveyed hotels, the average nightly rate rose from $293 to $1,013, marking an average increase of 328% – far higher than the 141% hike during the 2024 Paris Olympic Games.
As the venue for the opening match, Mexico City recorded the most dramatic surge, with average hotel prices jumping by 961%. The Le Méridien Hotel near the Azteca Stadium saw its nightly rate skyrocket from $157 to $3,882, a staggering increase of 2,373%.
Beyond Mexico City, Monterrey and Guadalajara also registered substantial hikes of 466% and 405% respectively. Among U.S. cities, Houston topped the list with an average increase of 457%, as local Hilton Hotel prices rose from $133 to $1,246. The New York-New Jersey area, which will host the final, also saw significant increases – hotels near MetLife Stadium are quoting rates exceeding $3,500 per night during the final.
The survey also found that even non-marquee match venues have been affected. For example, the San Francisco Bay Area, hosting the Qatar vs. Switzerland match, saw prices at the nearby Fairfield Inn rise from $162 to $1,027. Cities including Boston, Kansas City, and Seattle all recorded increases exceeding 300%, with numerous hotels showing "sold out" status.
In contrast, Toronto in Canada had the lowest increase at 78%, though Vancouver still saw a 344% surge. Faced with the exorbitant pricing, FIFA and hotel groups such as Hilton and Marriott declined to comment when asked whether they would take measures to stabilize prices or explain the pricing mechanisms.
