As Canada gears up to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, fans booking their trips early are finding hotel prices in Toronto and Vancouver far higher than usual.
The two cities will host 13 matches combined — Toronto staging six at Toronto Stadium (BMO Field) starting June 12, 2026, and Vancouver hosting seven at BC Place. While the events are expected to bring significant economic benefits, the rush for accommodations is already creating strain.
Vancouver hit hardest
Travel journalist Loren Christie told CTV’s Your Morning that Vancouver is experiencing the sharpest price hikes.
“The rates, if you go online right now, are very high, and some of the hotel rooms are already showing sold out,” Christie said.
FIFA has reserved large room blocks for teams, VIPs, and media, which may be released closer to the event, potentially easing availability. Meanwhile, the city is working with Airbnb, VRBO, and UBC dorms to expand options, while campgrounds and RV parks are also being promoted as creative alternatives.
Toronto’s rates rising too
Toronto has also raised its municipal accommodation tax from 6% to 8.5% (effective until July 31, 2026), to cover event-related costs. Hotel rates are higher than normal, averaging around $600 per night, though Christie noted they aren’t as extreme as Vancouver’s.
Despite the higher costs, Toronto expects an estimated $392 million economic boost from the tournament, alongside major fan festivals and public celebrations.
Christie compared the situation to Toronto’s Taylor Swift concerts, where high hotel prices were soon overshadowed by the city’s lively atmosphere. “It was all about the vibe in the city and the great things going on,” he said.
With demand expected to intensify, fans are being advised to book early or consider alternative lodging options.
