FIFA World Cup 2026 in Philadelphia — Everything You Need to Know
In the summer of 2026, Philadelphia will be one of just a handful of U.S. cities hosting the FIFA World Cup, and it’s going to be huge. We’re set to host six matches at Lincoln Financial Field—five group-stage games and one Round of 16 match on July 4th. For the month of June and early July, the city will be buzzing with soccer fans from all over the globe.
The Economic Impact
The World Cup alone is projected to bring in about $770 million to our region. That’s over 500,000 visitors, more than 6,600 jobs created, and an extra $50 million in state tax revenue. Those numbers don’t even include the ripple effects—new fans discovering Philadelphia, businesses seeing record sales, and investors paying closer attention to our market.
Getting Ready for the World
The city has committed $45 million toward preparations, plus more from the mayor’s office. The state is considering $65 million in additional funding, and the National Park Service is investing $85 million+ into upgrades at Independence Hall, Carpenters’ Hall, and other historic landmarks. Over at Fairmount Park, Lemon Hill is getting a $5.2 million makeover to serve as the official World Cup fan fest site.
When & How to Get Tickets
The first big date to know is September 10, 2025—that’s when FIFA opens ticket sales through its official site. The initial phase (September 10–19) is for Visa cardholders only via a lottery system, so you’ll need to register for a FIFA ID ahead of time. Winners in the lottery will get assigned purchase time slots in October.
After that, the general public sales phases will roll out in late 2025 and continue into 2026. Ticket prices will vary depending on the match and seat location, but current estimates for face value are roughly:
• Group stage: ~$80–$260
• Round of 16: ~$120–$320
Premium and VIP packages will cost significantly more, and FIFA will use dynamic pricing, meaning high-demand games could rise well above the base rates.
The Fan Experience
Even if you don’t score a stadium ticket, there will be plenty to do. The free fan fest at Lemon Hill will feature giant screens, food vendors, live music, and activities. Expect packed restaurants, lively streets, and plenty of pop-up events across the city.
What This Means for Real Estate
With half a million visitors in a few short weeks, demand for short-term rentals is expected to spike—especially in Center City, near the stadium, and in neighborhoods with easy transit access. And as with any major international event, many visitors will leave with a new appreciation for Philadelphia, sometimes leading to long-term investment and relocation.