The world’s biggest sporting event is coming to Southern Ontario, and it’s bringing a significant payday for residents with a spare room. This week, Airbnb unveiled a specialized host earnings calculator for the FIFA World Cup 2026, revealing that homeowners in Oshawa, Mississauga, and Toronto could earn thousands of dollars by opening their doors to international soccer fans. With Toronto hosting six matches between June 12 and July 2, 2026, the demand for short-term accommodations is already skyrocketing, positioning the Durham Region as a vital overflow hub for the tournament.
The Oshawa Advantage: Transit and Value
While much of the media focus has been on downtown Toronto, Oshawa is emerging as an attractive destination for budget-conscious tourists who prefer staying near a GO Transit station. According to the Deloitte report commissioned by Airbnb, approximately 146,000 tourists will require accommodation in the GTA. For many, Oshawa offers the perfect balance of relative affordability and easy rail access to the matches at BMO Field (Toronto Stadium at Exhibition Place).
The earnings calculator provides a glimpse into the potential windfall for local hosts:
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Lakeview Neighbourhood: Renting an entire four-bedroom house could net an owner approximately $3,236 for the duration of the tournament, while a private room could bring in $587.
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Central Oshawa: A two-bedroom townhouse is estimated to rent for $1,608, providing a significant boost to household income for local residents.
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Glen Street Area: Even smaller units, such as a two-bedroom apartment, are projected to earn around $1,560.
Regional Economic Impact
The tournament is expected to generate $243 million in total economic output across the Greater Toronto Area. Platform hosts are projected to earn nearly $18 million collectively, with an average of $2,700 per host. To further incentivize participation, Airbnb is offering a $750 bonus to new hosts in the 16 tournament host cities who welcome their first guests by July 31, 2026.
This extra income comes at a critical time for many families. A survey by Focaldata revealed that nearly 90% of residents believe hosting income will have a positive financial impact, with many planning to use the funds to clear debt, cover rising living expenses, or invest in home improvements.
Surging Demand for 2026
The excitement is already reflected in booking data. Searches for stays in host cities have surged by 80%, and roughly one in six guests are booking on Airbnb for the first time specifically for this event. For Oshawa residents, this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity allows them to play a role in a global celebration while showcasing the hospitality of the Durham Region to the world. As the first-ever men’s FIFA World Cup match on Canadian soil approaches on June 12, the “Shwa” is ready to help put Canada on the map for international soccer fans.
