Philadelphia World Cup 2026 Guide to Airbnb Hosting

Key Takeaways

• With six World Cup matches, including a July 4th knockout game, demand for places to stay in Philly will be sky-high.
• Airbnb projects that hosts are expected to make around $1,900 per stay, with $8M+ in total earnings projected across the tournament.
• Philly’s short-term rental rules favor primary residences, making it a great chance for local residents to try Airbnb hosting for the first time. 

If there’s ever been a year to try out Airbnb hosting in Philadelphia, this is it.

The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is coming to Philadelphia, and with six matches on the schedule, including a July 4th Round of 16 game during the country’s 250th birthday celebration, the city is gearing up for one of the biggest events in its history.

Hundreds of thousands of visitors are expected, and demand for places to stay will be sky-high, so much so that hotels likely won’t be able to keep up. Airbnb estimates 17,000 guests will stay in a short-term rental in the region during the tournament, with hosts earning an average of $1,900 per stay.

While Philadelphia’s short-term rental regulations lean more toward people listing their primary homes rather than investment properties, that makes this an especially great chance for locals to dabble in hosting, whether you’re renting your place out while you travel or just testing the waters for a few nights.

To help you get started, we’ve put together all the information you need to make game-changing money in this step-by-step Philadelphia World Cup hosting guide.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Snapshot: Philadelphia 

Stadium: Lincoln Financial Field
Location: South Philadelphia Sports Complex
Capacity: ~67,000

Philadelphia will host six matches during the 2026 FIFA World Cup™, including five group stage games and a pivotal Round of 16 match on July 4, aligning with the United States’ 250th birthday celebration. 

With global powerhouses like Brazil and France playing in the city, Philadelphia is set to become one of the tournament’s most exciting host cities, drawing a projected 500,000 visitors from around the world during the tournament.

Here is the confirmed match schedule:

• June 14: Côte d'Ivoire vs. Ecuador (Group E)
• June 19: Brazil vs. Haiti (Group C)
• June 22: France vs. IRQ/BOL/SUR* (Group I)
• June 25: Curaçao vs. Côte d'Ivoire (Group E)
• June 27: Croatia vs. Ghana (Group L)
• July 4: Round of 16 – Match 89

*The Final opponent for the France match will be determined in the March 2026 playoff round.

Occupancy has already begun rising sharply, according to AirDNA data. We saw a 33% spike in bookings following the match announcement, and 20% of listings are already reserved for game days. Group stage bookings top 20,000 nights as of February 2nd. This puts Philadelphia hosts in a prime position to earn, especially those who open their calendars early and prepare now.

With more than 7,400 active listings in the Philadelphia area and an average nightly rate of $143 that’s likely to rise in tandem with World Cup demand, local Airbnb hosts have a rare opportunity to turn their homes into high-performing accommodations during the event.

7 Steps to Get Ready for Airbnb Hosting During the Philadelphia World Cup 2026 

With the World Cup coming to Philadelphia, fans will be coming and going for weeks. Now is the time to make sure you're set up to stand out and earn as much as possible while the city’s in the spotlight.

1. Check your Local Regulations 

Philadelphia has firm short-term rental rules, and enforcement has been ramping up since new laws took effect in 2023. 

To operate a short-term rental (defined as stays of 30 nights or less), you need two key licenses:

• A Commercial Activity License (free)
• Either a Limited Lodging Operator License if it’s your primary residence (you live there at least half the year), or a Rental License for non-primary homes

Hosts with non-primary residences will also need proper zoning approval. That type of use isn’t permitted in most residential areas. That means many short-term rentals must be owner-occupied to qualify.

Other things to keep in mind:

• Airbnb typically collects and remits Philadelphia’s 8.5% hotel tax on your behalf, but it’s smart to confirm your settings.
• Condo buildings and HOAs may have extra restrictions, so check your building’s rules.
• Your license number must appear on your Airbnb or Vrbo listing, and unlicensed listings are at risk of being removed from the platform.

You can learn more and get all the required licenses on the City of Philadelphia website. 

Pro tip: Not sure what’s allowed in your specific zip code or neighborhood? Check our blog on finding local short-term rental ordinances to get started.

2. Create Your Listing 

Getting your home on Airbnb might sound intimidating, but the setup process is simpler than you think. Here’s how to make your Airbnb work harder for you during the World Cup in Philadelphia:

Decide if you’ll share your space or rent the whole home

For Philadelphia hosts, the World Cup presents two legal hosting options under primary residence rules: Rent a private room while you stay home, or rent your entire home while you’re away. 

Renting a private room works best if you’ll be in Philadelphia and prefer a lighter lift. Private rooms appeal to solo travelers and short-stay guests, especially those attending a single match. This option requires less prep, avoids moving out, and still benefits from tournament-driven demand, particularly if your home is near transit or downtown.

If you’re able to be away, renting your entire home can unlock much more income, especially with families looking for larger, affordable places. In fact, about 75% of family bookings on Airbnb are for two- and three-bedroom listings, which makes full homes in the Philadelphia area even more attractive.

Some hosts plan to do both by renting a room during early matches, then switching to the full home as demand intensifies. Deciding your approach early allows you to open calendars confidently and adjust pricing as the tournament unfolds.

Take great photos

Photos are the first thing guests see, and first impressions matter. Clean up your space, open the blinds, and take wide, well-lit shots of each room. If you're near Lincoln Financial Field, a SEPTA station, or popular neighborhoods like Fishtown, South Philly, or Center City, make sure to highlight that. The better your photos, the more confidently you can price your listing.

Write a clear, helpful title and description

Think like a guest. What would make your place appealing to someone flying in for the World Cup? Highlight things like stadium access, nearby food and pubs, game-watching setups (like a big TV), and space to relax between matches. If you’re renting your whole home, mention how many people it can comfortably sleep. We’ve got great articles on how to write a great Airbnb title and host description if you’re looking for inspiration.

Consider turning off Instant Book

Usually, we recommend Instant Book because it makes the booking process faster for guests and keeps your host response rate high, which Airbnb’s ranking algorithm prefers. Plus, Instant Book properties tend to have slightly higher occupancy and nightly rates than their counterparts.

However, the level of demand is through the roof for Philadelphia World Cup dates, so you don’t need to worry about losing business by adding a little bit of friction to the booking experience. It’s worth taking the time to screen guests before accepting a booking request during a high-energy event like this. Review guest profiles, ask a few questions, and feel more confident in offering an Airbnb primary residence or hosting larger groups.

Set the right price

Airbnb will prompt you to choose a nightly rate during the list process. Knowing what similar Airbnbs in your area (also known as your comp set) usually charge during June and July is helpful context, but it won’t help you determine appropriate pricing during the World Cup. That’s because events drive unusual demand levels that support a higher bar for nightly rates. 

Our World Cup dashboard shows you the available rate and booked rate for short-term rentals in your city for each match date, so you can understand what available inventory is charging and how much guests who have already booked have paid. We go deeper on pricing strategy in Step 6.

Add a cleaning fee that makes sense

You'll be prompted to add your cleaning fee when setting up your listing. In Philadelphia, the average cleaning fee is $121 per stay but creeps above $170 for 4-bedroom properties. 

During events like the World Cup, guests might be coming in groups and the atmosphere will be festive. You might expect a little extra cleanup around game days if guests are preparing food, watching from your home, or gathering with friends there after the match. Here’s how to add your cleaning fee on Airbnb.

Set up basic guest messages

Airbnb makes it easy to schedule quick replies. At a minimum, we recommend:

• A confirmation message after booking
• Check-in details a day or two before arrival
• A quick check-in message mid-stay (optional)
• Clear checkout instructions

These communication touches will make the whole experience smoother for you and your guests.

3. Prepare Your Home for Guests 

The idea of strangers staying in your home can feel a bit uncomfortable at first. That’s totally normal.
However, getting your place ready for World Cup guests doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. You’re not turning it into a hotel. You’re just making it a comfortable and welcoming space for someone to rest between matches, celebrations, and sightseeing.

Whether your guests are flying in from abroad or driving in from nearby states, they’ll appreciate a home that’s clean, functional, and thoughtfully set up. Here’s how to get your Philadelphia Airbnb ready for the World Cup:

Set clear house rules

There'll be a festive atmosphere across the city, especially around match days and the July 4th celebrations. Be upfront with expectations about noise, parties, smoking, and guest limits. If you live in a rowhome, condo, or apartment building, check for building or HOA guidelines and include those in your house manual or booking messages.

Secure your belongings

You don’t need to clear out everything, but do remove or lock away anything valuable, fragile, or deeply personal. A locked closet, cabinet, or spare room works well. Some hosts also use off-site storage or leave important items with a trusted friend or family member.

Create space for guests

Clear out a few drawers or closet space so guests can unpack. Stock up on fresh towels, linens, and toiletries. If you’re hosting groups, make sure you have enough dishes, seating, and basic cooking supplies. A folding table, extra chairs, or even picnicware can help.

Make check-in easy

Guests may arrive late or be unfamiliar with the area. A lockbox or smart lock is an easy way to streamline check-in. Leave a note with Wi-Fi details, house quirks, and local tips somewhere visible like on the fridge or in an entryway binder.

Prep for Philly summer heat

Philadelphia can get hot and humid in June and July, with temps often in the 90s°F (32°C+). Make sure your AC is working, and if you don’t have central air, provide fans or window units. Blackout curtains can help keep rooms cool during the day.

Help guests get to the stadium

All matches will be played at Lincoln Financial Field in South Philly, so make it easy for guests to plan their route. Include directions in your welcome book, pre-arrival message, or as a printed guide. Here’s the info to share:

• Stadium name: Lincoln Financial Field
• Address: 1 Lincoln Financial Field Way, Philadelphia, PA 19148
• Transit: SEPTA Broad Street Line to NRG Station (last stop), then a short walk
• Rideshare tip: Pickup zones are located along Pattison Ave. Expect delays on game days.
• Parking: On-site lots fill fast and can be expensive. Recommend guests pre-book or use transit when possible.

If your home is within walking distance or near a convenient SEPTA stop, be sure to mention it. Location is a major draw for World Cup travelers.

4. Look into Short-Term Rental Insurance

Even with the best guests, things can go wrong: A stained rug, a broken appliance, or a late-night mishap. Before you hand over the keys, it’s worth making sure you’re covered.

Airbnb’s AirCover provides up to $3 million in liability and damage protection, and it’s included automatically for every host. For many, that’s a solid starting point. However, it’s not a traditional insurance policy and it may not cover everything, like property damage or lost income from business interruption due to a covered risk.

If you're only planning to rent out your place for a few nights, buying a brand-new policy might feel like overkill. That’s where supplemental coverage comes in. Some companies (like Allstate’s HostAdvantage®) offer short-term add-ons that work with your existing home insurance and are designed specifically for part-time or event-based hosting.

Tip: Steadily Insurance provides fast, affordable landlord insurance for short-term rental hosts. It's fast and affordable.

5. Get to Know Your Guests and Create an Experience

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will bring fans from all over the world and they’re looking for more than just a place to sleep. They’re here for the atmosphere, the passion, and the memories. As a host, curating the guest experience can help you turn their stay into something unforgettable (and boost your reviews, too).

Start with a quick message after booking: Ask if they’re in town for the World Cup and which team they’re cheering for. Knowing their plans makes it easier to tailor your recommendations, whether that’s where to watch games, local fan celebrations, or great spots for a Philly cheesesteak.

Even guests who aren’t attending matches will likely be swept up in the energy. Some may not realize the scale of the event until they arrive and that’s where you come in.

Here are some easy ways to create a next-level guest experience:

• Share the match schedule and viewing tips. Print the Philadelphia match schedule and leave it where guests can easily see it: on the fridge or in your welcome book. Include notes on how to stream other games they might follow (FOX Sports, ESPN, Telemundo, etc.).
• Highlight the FIFA Fan Festival. Philadelphia will host a free FIFA Fan Festival at Lemon Hill in East Fairmount Park throughout the tournament, with giant screens showing matches, food vendors, live entertainment, and international fan activities for visitors without stadium tickets.
• Point guests toward public watch parties and bars. Not all fans will have tickets, but many will want to catch matches with the crowd. Philly has reputable soccer bars and spots that have hosted World Cup watch parties in the past, perfect for a lively group experience.
• Include a local welcome basket. Think uniquely Philly. Add a few soft pretzels from a beloved bakery like Center City Pretzel Co, a bag of La Colombe coffee, or a pack of Tastykakes (a nostalgic favorite among locals and visitors alike). You could also add some FIFA World Cup Philadelphia merch, like a scarf or a pin.
• Add a mini city guide. Guests may want to explore outside match days. Great suggestions include strolling historic Old City and Independence Hall, climbing the “Rocky Steps” at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, checking out the Barnes Foundation or Magic Gardens, or sampling cheesesteaks at Pat’s or Geno’s in South Philly.
• Offer multilingual or culturally aware touches. Fans will come from across the globe. Providing translated key instructions (Wi‑Fi info, check‑in/out steps, SEPTA transit tips) can ease confusion. Small gestures like offering internationally familiar snacks or a note explaining local tipping norms go a long way for comfort. Here’s a helpful guide on culturally inclusive Airbnb hosting for the World Cup.

Making guests feel welcome and cared for is what great hosting is all about. During something as electric as the World Cup, your local insights and thoughtful touches can make their stay unforgettable.

6. Build Your Support Team

Hosting during the World Cup will be exciting, but also very busy. Having trusted local support can make your experience smoother, especially if you’re juggling work, multiple bookings, or even travel of your own.

Professional cleaning services

If you’re renting out your own home, you might be tempted to clean it yourself. For some hosts, that works fine. During a high‑turnover stretch like the World Cup, though, hiring a pro can save time and reduce stress. 

Here are some Philadelphia-based cleaning teams that specialize in Airbnb and short-term rental turnovers:

• Zest Cleaning Services
• Limpia Cleaning Services
• Cleaning with a Meaning

These teams often offer same-day availability, laundry service, and restocking, which is essential during a fast-paced event like the World Cup.

Co-hosts or property managers

Co-hosts and property managers can help with guest communication, check-ins, stocking supplies, and even price optimization. That’s especially helpful if you’re hosting multiple guests or unavailable during the tournament.

Here are a few Philadelphia-based property management companies trusted by local hosts:

• StayRafa
• Deluxe Hospitality

(We got these from our very own list of the Best Airbnb Management Companies in the U.S. You can look up the best in other markets as well!) 

You can also search for individual co-hosts using Airbnb’s Co‑Host Network, if you prefer working one-on-one.

Many local co-hosts and cleaners book up quickly ahead of major events like the World Cup, so reach out early to lock in support.

Storage solutions and other support

If you're listing your primary residence, you may want to clear out valuables, personal items, or excess furniture to make guests feel at home and to give yourself peace of mind.

Short-term storage is a great way to simplify your space and minimize clutter during the tournament. 

Here are a few local storage providers to consider:

• SecureSpace Self Storage Philadelphia Grays Ferry
• Extra Space Storage
• Self Service Storage

If you’re listing your home for 2–4 weeks, ask about monthly or short-term promotions. Some facilities also offer pickup services, so you don’t have to do all the heavy lifting yourself.

Remember: Storage expenses for hosting purposes may be tax-deductible. Keep your receipts and talk to a tax advisor about claiming them as business-related deductions.

7. Make Game-Changing Money

Short‑term rental hosts in Philadelphia are already seeing early signs of World Cup demand. If you haven’t already, run your address through AirDNA’s World Cup Calculator to see what your specific property could earn. 

Here’s how to make the most of this once‑in‑a‑generation opportunity if you’re planning to host in Philly:

Open your calendar early

World Cup travelers, especially international guests, start booking months in advance. You increase the odds of locking in longer or premium stays around match dates by making your space available early.

Use the World Cup Dashboard to benchmark

Even after you’ve listed your space, pricing isn’t a set-it-and-forget-it move, especially during a dynamic event like the World Cup where the teams will be determined closer to the date for certain matches. AirDNA’s World Cup Dashboard shows real-time data on booking pace, nightly rates, and occupancy in Philadelphia and all the other World Cup host cities. Use it to stay in sync with rising demand, adjust your prices confidently, and make sure you’re not leaving money on the table as match days get closer.

Look to the past to set your baseline pricing 

While the FIFA World Cup is a once-in-a-generation event, Philadelphia has hosted major demand spikes before. Looking at how your neighborhood performed during past high-traffic moments like large concerts, playoff games, political conventions, or holiday weekends can give you a realistic starting point. 

Joining local short-term rental host Facebook groups, Reddit threads, and the Airbnb host forum is a great way to connect with hosting veterans who can give you insight into how other major events have shaped pricing in Philadelphia historically.

Set minimum stays

Your minimum stay settings are one of the best tools you’ve got for managing occupancy and maximizing income. As of February 2nd, the length of stay for World Cup reservations in Philadelphia are broken out as follows:

• 45% of reservations are for 1-2 night stays
• 35% are for 2-4 night stays
• 16% for 5-10 night stays
• 4% for stays of 11 nights or more

Instead of dealing with one-night gaps, consider setting 2–3 night minimums around clustered match dates. It’ll help cut down on turnover and attract groups or families staying for multiple games or events.

Pair Airbnb pricing tools with real data

Airbnb’s Smart Pricing can help you get started, but pairing it with insights from the World Cup dashboard and historical trends will help you optimize. Brush up on event-based booking patterns. 

Right now, Airbnb has found a significant percentage of available listings are priced under $500 per night across host cities. However, as demand changes, so should your pricing. 

Keep an eye on your pricing in late June, especially as the tournament advances. Philadelphia’s Round of 16 match falls on July 4, right in the middle of America’s 250th birthday celebration. That’s a rare double draw, and demand is expected to surge once fans know their team is coming to town.

Some hosts may even choose to hold back select nights, like July 4 or high-profile group stage dates like Brazil vs. Haiti (June 19) or France’s match on June 22, and list them later at a premium once team matchups and fan demand become clearer.

Remember: optimizing your pricing during the tournament itself can be just as important as setting it ahead of time. Stay flexible and ready to adjust as booking patterns shift.

Want the crash course on how to get started with a short-term rental? The Hosting Crash Course from MOVHA is a great resource. The data shared is specific to Kansas City but most of the information is helpful no matter what city you are in.

FAQs

When is the World Cup in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia will host six FIFA World Cup 2026™ matches between June 14 and July 4, 2026, including a Round of 16 match on July 4, which also marks the 250th anniversary of the United States. Expect major energy in the city throughout that period.

How many World Cup games will be in Philadelphia?

Philadelphia will host 6 total matches at Lincoln Financial Field during the tournament: 5 group stage games and 1 knockout round (Round of 16).

What World Cup games will be in Philadelphia?

Here’s the confirmed match schedule for Philadelphia:

• June 14 – Côte d'Ivoire vs. Ecuador (Group E)
• June 19 – Brazil vs. Haiti (Group C)
• June 22 – France vs. IRQ/BOL/SUR* (Group I)
• June 25 – Curaçao vs. Côte d'Ivoire (Group E)
• June 27 – Croatia vs. Ghana (Group L)
• July 4 – Round of 16 Match

*The final opponent for June 22 will be determined after playoff results in March 2026.

How do I turn my home into an Airbnb for the World Cup?

Now’s the time to act: Airbnb expects 17,000 guests to stay in Philly-area listings, and hosts are projected to earn around $1,900 per stay on average during the tournament. Here's what to do:

• Register your property with the City of Philadelphia. You'll need a Short-Term Rental License and a Commercial Activity License if it's not your primary residence.
• Create your Airbnb listing. Need help? Check out our guide to creating a listing on Airbnb.
• Get your space ready. Clean, stock essentials, and highlight perks like transit access or stadium proximity.
• Price smart. Use tools like Airbnb Smart Pricing in tandem with the AirDNA World Cup Dashboard to stay competitive as demand increases.

Open your calendar. World Cup guests book early, especially for matches like Brazil vs. Haiti or the July 4 knockout game.