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A complete guide to the eleven World Cup host cities in the USA for 2026, covering every stadium, host region, and what fans can expect on the ground.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the biggest in history, and the United States is at the heart of it. With 11 host cities stretching from coast to coast, the USA will stage the bulk of the tournament's 104 matches, including the final at MetLife Stadium. Whether you are planning a multi-city trip or picking one base, this guide breaks down every American host city, its stadium, and what makes each stop worth the journey.
Why the USA Anchors the 2026 World Cup
For the first time, the World Cup is shared by three nations, but the United States carries the largest share of the load. Its eleven venues are world-class NFL stadiums, most with retractable or fixed roofs, climate control, and capacities well above 60,000. That scale means more group-stage drama, more knockout fixtures, and a final on American soil. You can follow every result as it unfolds on our live scores page and map out the full schedule through the fixtures hub.
East Coast Host Cities
The eastern corridor is dense with iconic venues. New York-New Jersey, centered on MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, headlines the region and hosts the final on July 19, 2026. Just north, Boston plays its matches at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, a short trip from the city's historic sports culture.
Philadelphia brings passionate energy to Lincoln Financial Field, while Atlanta offers one of the most modern stadiums anywhere in Mercedes-Benz Stadium, famous for its retractable petal roof and electric crowd. Down south, Miami stages matches at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, blending Latin American football fervor with year-round sunshine.
Getting Around the East
Rail and short domestic flights link these cities efficiently, making a Boston-to-Miami run realistic for dedicated fans chasing multiple group-stage games.
Central Host Cities
The American heartland delivers some of the loudest atmospheres in the tournament. Dallas, playing at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, boasts one of the largest capacities in the entire competition and a colossal video board. Houston uses the climate-controlled NRG Stadium, a relief during the Texas summer.
Kansas City rounds out the central trio at Arrowhead Stadium, long regarded as one of the most intimidating and atmospheric venues in North American sport. Expect a thunderous backdrop for every match staged there. As the group tables take shape, the standings page is the fastest way to track who is advancing.
West Coast Host Cities
The Pacific side of the country offers a stunning trio of modern venues. Los Angeles showcases SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, a futuristic indoor-outdoor arena and one of the most expensive stadiums ever built. The San Francisco Bay Area hosts matches at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, a tech-hub venue in the heart of Silicon Valley.
Further north, Seattle brings its famously loud supporters to Lumen Field, a city with a deep and growing football culture. The West Coast cities pair world-class football with iconic scenery, from the Pacific coastline to mountain backdrops.
Choosing Your Base City
Picking where to stay depends on your priorities. Fans who want maximum match density should target the East Coast cluster, where venues sit relatively close together. Travelers chasing weather and nightlife may prefer Miami or Los Angeles, while those after raw stadium atmosphere will love Kansas City, Seattle, and Atlanta.
If you are following a specific nation, check where they are based before booking. You can explore squads and group placements on our teams page to plan your route around the sides you most want to see.
Planning Tips for American Venues
- Book early: Demand for accommodation near stadiums will be extreme, especially for knockout rounds.
- Use public transit: Cities like Seattle, Boston, and Philadelphia have solid transit links to their venues.
- Mind the climate: Summer heat in Texas and the South can be intense; choose indoor venues when possible.
- Stay connected: Keep up with goals and highlights through our goals feed during every matchday.
Conclusion
The eleven USA host cities give fans an extraordinary range of experiences, from the futuristic arenas of Los Angeles and Atlanta to the roaring traditions of Kansas City and Seattle. With the final set for MetLife Stadium, the road through America will define the 2026 World Cup. Start planning now, and let the journey across these host cities become part of your World Cup story.
