The 2026 FIFA World Cup, which kicks off on June 11 across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, has generated strong interest among Latinos living in the United States, as several national teams from Latin America will participate in the tournament.
According to a survey conducted on behalf of Airbnb, 68% of Latinos said they are highly interested in the World Cup, while 41% have planned a trip that they otherwise would not have taken.
These trips are expected to have a strong family-oriented character, as more than half of travelers (56%) typically travel with their extended family, while 64% consider it essential for all members of their group to stay in the same accommodation.
Airbnb estimates that the tournament will boost both demand for short-term rental accommodations and the local economies of the cities hosting matches across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Among those planning to attend matches or related events, 35% expect to spend more money than they would on a typical trip, while 36% plan to extend the duration of their trips in order to combine their travel plans with the tournament.
Family Travel and Larger Groups
The survey highlights the importance of family in travel decisions among Latinos in the United States. Some 38% plan to travel in larger groups compared to previous trips, while nearly three in ten respondents (29%) aim to combine family and friends within the same travel group.
This trend is increasing demand for flexible accommodation options. About 61% believe that short-term rentals better meet their needs than a traditional hotel, while 49% prioritize having access to a kitchen, a feature that makes travel easier for families and larger groups.
Miami, Los Angeles, and New York Among the Top Destinations
Miami, Los Angeles, and New York Among the Top DestinationsAmong the cities expected to attract the greatest interest from Latino travelers, Miami ranks first with 36%, followed by Los Angeles at 34% and the greater New York/New Jersey area at 32%.
These destinations serve as gathering points for the Latin American community, where travel is connected not only to football but also to family, friends, and cultural identity.
Benefits for Local Businesses
The economic impact of travel is also expected to spread across local communities. Some 67% of respondents consider it very important to visit small restaurants and shops in the neighborhoods where they stay, while 48% seek out authentic shopping districts and residential areas.
At the same time, 52% say that recommendations from hosts have led them to discover small businesses they otherwise would not have known about. The main spending categories are expected to be dining (82%), transportation (67%), and accommodation (58%).
According to Jordi Torres, Managing Director for North America and Latin America at Airbnb, the 2026 FIFA World Cup represents “a historic moment for group travel and cultural connection,” with Latino travelers directly supporting local economies through spending at small businesses and in neighborhood communities across the host cities.
The World Cup will conclude on July 19, 2026.
