World Cup Rental Guide: How To Earn $6,000 Per Night and Secure Your Home

It's finally almost go time for the World Cup, and for some homeowners that means it's time to vacate the premises. Not because they are avoiding the crowds, but because they're welcoming FIFA fans into their homes.

With some Airbnbs topping $6,000 per night in hot host areas like New York, New Jersey and Miami, according to The Financial Post, people looking to make extra money during matches are choosing to skip the games and rent out their homes instead.

Nationally, June reservations are pacing 15.2% above last year, and July is up 17.1%, supported by peak-season travel and the upcoming World Cup, according to data analytics company AirDNA's March 2026 report.

Some U.S. host cities have seen bookings for June and July surge up to 58%, an early indicator of the massive travel demand spurred by the international soccer tournament.

And it's not a bad idea for those who are able to make it happen. In fact, Airbnb notes that cashing in during big events like the FIFA World Cup can offer local hosts a significant source of extra income to offset the rising costs of living.

But along with the rewards, come risks. As such, anyone renting out their living space must take precautions to protect their assets.

"Renting out your home for a major event like the World Cup is a great opportunity but it does require some thoughtful preparation before handing over the keys," says Jimmy Lin, vice president of product management at ADT. "It’s best to think beyond traditional ‘lock and key’ security and move toward a layered, smart home security system."

With that in mind, here are some safety precautions and practices that anyone renting out their home for the World Cup—or any other major event—should put in place to keep their valuables, guests, and property fully protected.

When in doubt, document and lock it up

Renting your home during an event like the World Cup is exciting, but you’re also handing over your space to people you have never met, and often for longer stays.

"The first thing I'd tell any homeowner is: Don't leave that to chance," says Annie Potter, head of marketing at Reolink, North America. "Before guests arrive, do a walkthrough and ask yourself what you’d actually be upset about if something went wrong—anything irreplaceable, jewelry, important documents, sentimental items, should be stored off-site or in a securely locked space that guests can't access."

Potter suggests creating a "lockdown zone," which is a space in your home—whether it's a closet, a room, or even a garage bay—where anything you'd be devastated to lose gets moved before guests arrive. Then "lock it down" using safes and smart locks wherever possible.

"Out of sight, out of mind, and physically inaccessible is the goal," says Potter.

Also, document everything. "Do a thorough photo and video walkthrough of your home before guests check in: every room, every valuable fixture, every appliance," advises Potter. "It sounds tedious, but if there's ever a dispute, that documentation is everything."

Secure your entryways and exteriors the smart way

Before guests arrive, you want to make sure all entry points are in good working order.

"Check that doors fully latch, windows lock properly, and any side or basement entrances are secured," says Lin. This not only protects your property, but it protects your guests as well.

For access control, a smart lock on the front door is one of the best investments you can make before handing your home over to guests. "It lets you issue temporary, time-limited codes so you're not dealing with physical keys, and you can deactivate access the moment their stay ends, no handoffs, no guesswork," says Potter.

Pair that with outdoor cameras at your entry points and a video doorbell, and you've got a really solid foundation. "The doorbell gives you a vantage point that a standard camera can't always capture; you can see exactly who's at the front door in real time, which adds a meaningful layer of visibility," says Potter.

For areas of your property that don't have great natural lighting, a floodlight camera pulls double duty. It illuminates the space and records it, so nothing is happening in the dark. "When you might have guests staying for an extended stretch, knowing exactly who's coming and going and having a record of it gives you a level of accountability that a key handoff simply can't," says Potter.

Consider using other types of protection

While most people first think about securing their home before allowing in guests, there are other very important safety measures to consider that aren't just about entrances and exits.

"You have to think holistically about home security and protection," says Lin. "Break-ins are just one risk but fire, water leaks, and carbon monoxide are often more common and more costly." 

That's why life safety devices are just as important as security systems. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are crucial, especially for short-term renters who aren’t familiar with the home. Connected smart home security systems that monitor these risks and send real-time alerts may also add extra reassurance for both you and your guests.

Be transparent about security with your guests

While you want to keep an eye on your property when you're renting it out, you shouldn't be keeping a literal eye on your guests.

"Remote visibility is important but it should be intentional," says Lin. "Focus on exterior cameras and entry points rather than interior surveillance, as this will give you peace of mind without crossing privacy boundaries."

Also, don’t underestimate simple communication. "A clear house manual that outlines security protocols, how to properly lock up, what to do in an emergency, and who to contact goes a long way to protect your guests and your home," says Potter.

Let your guests know what safety and security features are installed—like smoke detectors or cameras in exterior areas (never inside the home)—and how you will respect their privacy during their stay. Transparency builds trust during this property exchange.

If you want a bit of extra visibility without using indoor cameras, some homeowners place motion sensors on cabinets or storage areas that are off-limits. That way, you’ll get an alert if something is opened, without making guests feel like they’re being surveilled.

"The best smart home technology is the kind you don’t have to think about, and your guests shouldn’t feel like they’re being monitored or managed," says Lin.

The ultimate security goal for World Cup rentals

The bottom line for anyone renting out their home for the World Cup is to make sure your bases are covered, and your guests are safe.

"Don't feel like you have to install everything at once," says Lin. "Start with access control, visibility, and safety alerts—those three areas will cover most situations and give you peace of mind while renting out your home.