Key facts
- Airbnb is lobbying to relax short-term rental regulations in US World Cup host cities.
- The company argues this will boost local economies and accommodate visitor influx.
- Critics fear this could exacerbate housing costs and set a precedent for deregulation.
- Los Angeles has existing regulations, but enforcement is reportedly understaffed.
- Airbnb spent significant amounts on lobbying efforts in California and Los Angeles.
As the World Cup approaches, Airbnb is intensifying its lobbying efforts to relax short-term rental regulations in host cities across the U.S., including Los Angeles and New York City. The company, an official supporter of the World Cup, argues that existing hotel capacity will be insufficient and that loosening regulations will generate vital economic revenue. Airbnb has also announced investments in host city infrastructure and offered bonuses to attract new hosts.
However, these efforts are meeting resistance. Critics, including groups like Better Neighbors LA, argue that the proliferation of short-term rentals contributes to rising rents and housing costs. They are concerned that temporary deregulation for major events could set a precedent for permanent changes, negatively impacting housing affordability and potentially leading to service cuts if revenue is not generated as expected. In Los Angeles, despite a 2018 ordinance regulating short-term rentals, thousands of units are estimated to be in violation, with enforcement reportedly lacking sufficient resources.
While some studies indicate increased demand for short-term rentals during the World Cup period, other reports suggest demand is lower than anticipated. Airbnb's lobbying expenditures in California and Los Angeles have been substantial, highlighting the company's commitment to influencing policy ahead of the major international event.