TORONTO: As Toronto gears up to host matches for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Airbnb has announced a significant incentive to expand local accommodation options. The short-term rental platform is offering a $1,000 bonus to new hosts who list their entire homes for the first time during the tournament period. According to a study by Deloitte, Toronto residents stand to earn an average of $2,700 by renting out their properties during the event.
To qualify for the bonus, homeowners must sign up as new hosts and make their entire home available for booking between now and the end of July. Airbnb spokesperson Matt McNama highlighted that compliance with local laws is mandatory; the platform will not permit any listings that do not have a valid City of Toronto short-term rental registration. City officials have echoed this, warning of strict enforcement against unauthorized rentals.
The demand for short-term stays is expected to peak in areas like Liberty Village, which is located near BMO Field, the primary venue for the matches. While some residents welcome the chance for everyday citizens to benefit from the city’s economic boom, others have expressed concerns regarding security and the potential disruption of residential peace in major buildings.
Critics, including organizations like Fairbnb Canada, have raised alarms about the long-term impact on the housing market. They fear that such financial incentives could tempt landlords to prioritize short-term profits over long-term tenants, effectively turning residential homes into unlicensed hotels. The FIFA World Cup is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19 across Canada, the United States, and Mexico.
