Kansas City Tops List as Most Expensive Host City for 2026 World Cup Travelers

Planning to catch a World Cup match in 2026? You might want to budget extra if your destination is Kansas City. A new analysis by RIA Novosti found that among all host cities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Kansas City, Missouri, is the priciest for tourist accommodations.

The research looked at hotel and hostel rates for a two-night stay—checking in the day before a match and checking out the day after. For the game scheduled in Kansas City on June 17, the cheapest available lodging starts at $341. That covers a bunk in a hostel roughly an hour from the stadium.

On the other end of the spectrum, Mexico City stands out as the most budget-friendly host city. Travelers there can find a room for as little as $25 for the same two-night period. That’s a fraction of the cost of staying in Kansas City and a major draw for fans watching their wallets.

The findings underscore how much lodging costs can vary across the 16 North American host cities. While Kansas City’s prices reflect high demand and limited inventory, other locations offer far more affordable options. For soccer fans planning their 2026 itinerary, the choice may come down to comfort versus cost.