Airbnb Offers $750 to New Hosts Ahead of World Cup

The incentive aims to boost listings in 16 World Cup host cities, including parts of Southeast Texas.

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Airbnb is offering a $750 incentive to new hosts who list their entire homes on the platform and host their first guests by July 31. The offer is open to people in the 16 World Cup host cities, including several zip codes in the Houston area. Airbnb says this is its biggest new-host incentive ever as it looks to increase listings ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup coming to North America.

Why it matters

With high demand expected for World Cup stays on Airbnb, the company is trying to expand its inventory of available listings in the host cities. This could provide an opportunity for Houston-area residents to earn extra income by sharing their homes with World Cup travelers.

The details

To be eligible for the $750 incentive, new Airbnb hosts must list their entire home and have their first guests check out by July 31. The offer is open to people in the 16 World Cup host cities, including several zip codes in the Houston area. Airbnb estimates that hosts in Houston could make around $3,000 on their listings during the World Cup this summer.

  • The $750 incentive offer is open now and the first guest check-out deadline is July 31, 2026.
  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place in North America this summer.

The players

Airbnb

An online marketplace for short-term vacation rentals and experiences.

Dave Stephenson

Airbnb's chief business officer.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Demand for World Cup stays on Airbnb is surging, giving residents of host cities the opportunity to boost their incomes by sharing their homes and the communities they love. There's truly never been a better time to become a host on Airbnb.”

— Dave Stephenson, Chief Business Officer, Airbnb (Houston Chronicle)

What’s next

Airbnb will hold two forums this week for potential new hosts to learn more about the $750 incentive and hosting during the World Cup.

The takeaway

Airbnb's $750 incentive for new hosts in World Cup host cities, including parts of the Houston area, presents an opportunity for local residents to earn extra income by sharing their homes with World Cup travelers. This highlights the potential economic benefits the World Cup can bring to host communities.