New Jersey to World Cup Fans: Come on Over

5/26/2026

New Jersey municipalities are increasingly welcoming short-term rentals ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, positioning the state to capture tourism demand that New York City is largely shutting out with strict restrictions. With more than a million expected visitors and multiple matches at MetLife Stadium, officials in towns like Hoboken, Jersey City, North Bergen, and Guttenberg have relaxed or revised local rules to allow homeowners to rent out properties, often with conditions tied to primary residence requirements. State officials have encouraged cities to treat the World Cup as an opportunity to generate income for residents and keep tourism spending local. Supporters argue the policy helps homeowners benefit financially from a major global event, while critics warn it could disrupt neighborhoods and affect housing availability.

The New York Times (05/21/26) Addie Morfoot