FIFA World Cup Comes to Atlanta

Colliers U.S., a leading diversified professional services and investment management company, announces the release of its inaugural metro report, From Stadiums to Skylines: Real Estate Trends in World Cup Host Cities, highlighting Atlanta’s dynamic growth and readiness to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With eight matches scheduled at Mercedes-Benz Stadium (MBS), including a semifinal, Atlanta is poised to welcome over 520,000 spectators, contributing an estimated $503.2 million to Georgia's economy.

"As an Atlanta native, I am incredibly excited to see our city shine on the global stage as a host for the 2026 FIFA World Cup”, said Colliers’ Nathan Knowles, Executive Managing Director of Atlanta. “This is more than just a sporting event—it’s a moment for our community to showcase its growth, resilience, and hospitality. Colliers’ From Stadiums to Skylines report is an invaluable resource, offering unparalleled insights into the transformative impact of the World Cup on Atlanta’s economy and real estate sectors. The data and analysis within this report highlight not only Atlanta’s readiness but also its potential to thrive for years to come.”

Key Findings from the Report Include:

• Transformative Development: Major mixed-use projects, such as the $5 billion Centennial Yards and upgrades to South Downtown and Home Depot Backyard, are transforming Atlanta's urban core. These developments will boost street-level activity and attract new residents and businesses, linking the area around the stadium with the rest of downtown.

• Hospitality Growth: By 2026, downtown Atlanta will have added nearly 3,000 hotel rooms, a 20% increase in inventory since 2022, including standout projects like the Signia Hotel and Anthem Hotel near MBS.

• Multifamily Surge: The metro area is delivering a record-number of apartment units, with 15,000 built in the urban core since 2019 and 23,960 more anticipated over the next year.

• Strategic Office Expansion: Midtown and West Midtown have emerged as prime locations, with over 11.4 million square feet of Class A office space delivered or under construction since 2016.

• Industrial Hub: Atlanta remains a logistics powerhouse, delivering over 155 million square feet of industrial space since 2019 and emerging as a top data center destination.

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity for Atlanta to showcase its vibrant economy, infrastructure, and community on the world stage,” said Marianne Skorupski, Director of National Office Research at Colliers. “The 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup will not only solidify Atlanta's position as a global city but also catalyze long-term growth in real estate and business sectors.”