The 2026 FIFA World Cup is bringing millions of visitors to Los Angeles, but it’s not just hotels, restaurants, and attractions benefiting from the influx. According to a new survey from DatingAdvice.com, the tournament is also transforming the city’s dating scene.
The nationwide study of singles living in World Cup host cities found that 45% of Los Angeles singles say they’ve already gone on a date or had a fling with a World Cup visitor, placing L.A. among the cities with the highest levels of tournament-inspired romance.
With fans arriving from around the world, it’s no surprise. Watch parties, fan festivals, bars, and beaches have become popular places to meet new people.
L.A. is one of the busiest dating cities during the World Cup
Across all U.S. host cities, 68% of singles said their dating life has improved since the tournament began. Los Angeles ranked among the cities with the most dates and hookups involving visiting fans.
The top cities were:
- New York (47%)
- Atlanta (46%)
- Los Angeles (45%)
- Dallas (44%)
The survey suggests that the World Cup is bringing people together both on and off the field.
Dating apps are seeing a major World Cup boost
The dating boom isn’t only happening in person. According to the survey, 80% of singles in host cities matched with someone on a dating app during the tournament. More than one in four respondents matched with four or more people.
Soccer isn’t the only attraction
Shared excitement for the World Cup was one of the biggest reasons people connected. But it wasn’t the only one.
The survey found that 21% of singles said a visitor’s accent was their biggest attraction. Only 11% said physical appearance came first.
When asked who they’d most like to date, respondents chose fans from Argentina and Brazil more than any other countries.
More than just matchday fun
Los Angeles has always been a city where people come together. This summer, the World Cup is making those connections even easier. Whether fans came for the matches or the beaches, some are heading home with more than just World Cup memories.
