Fans who plan to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches at the New York New-Jersey Stadium in the U.S. face soaring costs in transport, lodging and dining, with many weighing whether the financial squeeze is worth the trip.
With capacity for more than 80,000 people, the stadium will host eight matches including the final on July 19. The tournament will open on June 11 with 104 matches across Canada, Mexico and the United States.
But spiraling costs are already overshadowing the buildup for fans.
Transport remains the sharpest concern. A round‑trip bus fare between Manhattan and the stadium was initially set at 150 U.S.dollars, later cut to about 105 U.S. dollars after public outcry. The same route normally costs just over 10 U.S. dollars.
For those who choose to drive to the venue, the outlook is equally daunting. Organizers say the stadium's parking lot will be closed to the public on most match days for security and service vehicles. Fans may instead use the adjacent American Dream mall, where about 10,000 spaces will be available at 180-200 U.S.dollars per day.
Officials hope more fans will rely on public transport, though post‑match departures could see tens of thousands queuing for buses or ride‑hailing services.
Besides transportation, accommodation and dining prices are also spiking. Standard rooms at chain hotels near the stadium will range a staggering 2,200–4,000 U.S. dollars per night for the final, while hotels a few kilometers away priced just above 600 U.S. dollars.
In dining, many businesses in New York and New Jersey are considering temporary surcharges. Restaurants and shops at the American Dream mall anticipate long lines during the tournament and may adopt dynamic pricing based on demand.
Facing soaring costs, some residents say they will stay away from the stadium.
"Already there's so much inflation. I have to pay so much already for the gas to get here, and now even more for tickets. You know, that's so awful. I'm so sorry to hear that. That definitely means I won't be able to go. And I think a lot of people are going to feel very jaded about that. So I really hope they can reevaluate it or at least give some kind of a discount for people who are really huge fans," said a resident.
Soaring costs prompt fans to reconsider attending 2026 World Cup games in US
