The World Cup Is Coming to Seattle & Here’s How to Turn It Into a Vacation

June 2, 2026

This summer, the FIFA Men's World Cup 2026 is coming to Seattle! The tournament is taking place in 16 cities across North America, with a total of 48 teams playing 104 matches. It’s exciting that our region will get to experience the festivities, and this presents some interesting opportunities for homeowners in the area.

The World Cup will also bring hundreds of thousands of people to the region. For soccer lovers, it's a once-in-a-lifetime event. For local homeowners, it might also be an advantageous financial opportunity. Keep reading for everything you need to know.

When are the FIFA Men's World Cup 2026 matches in Seattle?

Lumen Field in Seattle will host six FIFA World Cup matches total:

June 15: Belgium vs. Egypt
June 19: USA vs. Australia
June 24: Qatar vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina
June 26: Egypt vs. Iran
July 1: Group G Winner vs. Group A/E/H/I/J Third Place
July 6: TBD vs. TBD

Learn more about Seattle’s match schedule here.

How many people are coming to Seattle for FIFA matches?

According to King 5’s article “Seattle World Cup guide: Everything you need to know”, it is estimated that 750,000 people will come to Seattle to attend the matches.

How will the World Cup in Seattle affect traffic in the region?

Traffic is going to be significantly impacted not just in Seattle, but throughout the entire region. Plan accordingly—especially on match days—and give yourself extra time to get around! Cities and counties have done a ton of planning to ensure that traffic can run as smoothly as possible. Learn all about the various considerations and optimizations that have been made here.

What are FIFA Men's World Cup 2026 fan zones?

Nine communities throughout Washington have partnered with SeattleFWC26 to create fan zones, which allow people to join in on the excitement of the World Cup even if they can’t go to a game in person. Fan zones will be in Puyallup Tribe of Indians/Tacoma, Olympia/Lacey, Bremerton, Bellingham, Vancouver, Yakima, Spokane, and the Tri-Cities. Learn more about all of the fan zones here and how you can join in.

Where will visitors stay when they’re in town for the World Cup?

Hundreds of thousands of international fans will be traveling to the Seattle area this summer, and they need somewhere to stay. Hotels are booking up fast, and short-term home rentals offer an attractive option for visitors who want more space, more comfort, a more local experience, and access to other attractions throughout the region.

If you've ever considered renting out your home—even just for a few weeks—now might be the perfect time to give it a try!

How do I rent out my home?

If you're thinking about renting your home during World Cup season, here are a few tips to set yourself up for success:

Check local regulations. Make sure your city or HOA allows short-term rentals and that you have any required permits in place.
Price strategically. Major sporting events can drive significant rate premiums. Research comparable listings in your neighborhood and price accordingly.
Prep your home. Clear out personal valuables, leave a welcome guide, and consider a professional clean to prepare.

There are many more details that go into renting out your home, but this is a smart place to start. Platforms like VRBO and Airbnb can help streamline the whole experience.

What are some getaway ideas for where to stay while I rent out my home?

While your home is rented out, it’s the perfect opportunity to enjoy a summer adventure. Head to Suncadia, go camping on the Olympia Peninsula, or our favorite—head to Seabrook! This beloved beach town on the Pacific coast is a lovely escape with over 250 vacation rentals available year-round, with fully-equipped homes, concierge services, dog-friendly options, a year-round indoor and outdoor pool, gym, spa, and miles of trails and parks. It's a relaxing place to decompress while the World Cup chaos unfolds back in the South Puget Sound area.