Searches surge nearly 130% in college football towns this Labor Day weekend

College football is back and fans are looking for Airbnbs near their favorite college towns, with searches surging by nearly 130 percent for several big games during Labor Day weekend.¹ This latest trend highlights a desire for “event-cations,” where travelers combine attendance at major events, such as concerts or sporting events, with unique stays in nearby homes, leveraging Airbnb’s Categories feature.

From Gainesville to Eugene, Oregon, cities with strong college football traditions are seeing a major influx of interest from guests planning their trips. Whether it’s booking a nearby weekend getaway this Labor Day to cheer on the Gators, Aggies, or Ducks, Airbnb is becoming the go-to choice for football fans seeking a place to call home as they root for their teams.

Guests are also selecting listings in categories like Amazing Views and Cabins, enhancing their stays by blending the thrill of the game with the comfort of a memorable Airbnb experience. As game day excitement builds, travelers are also opting for unique accommodations that align with their football weekend plans. Below, are the top trending college football towns leading up to the season opener.

Gainesville, FL – Most Booked Category: Amazing Pools

Gainesville, home to the Florida Gators, is seeing a massive surge in searches of over 1,600 percent as fans get ready to fill The Swamp. Guests are booking stays with amazing pools, perfect for a post-game family dip or a cooling escape after cheering on the Gators.

College Station, TX – Most Booked Category: Tiny Homes

Searches for College Station have spiked by over 180 percent, as Aggie faithfuls gear up for game day. Many are opting for tiny homes, offering cozy, unique stays that enhance their Texas A&M football experience.

Columbia, SC – Most Booked Category: National Parks

With a rise in searches of nearly 200 percent, Columbia is drawing Gamecock fans who are looking to combine their love for football with outdoor adventure, booking stays near national parks to soak in the natural beauty alongside the game-day excitement.

Tallahassee, FL – Most Booked Category: Private Rooms

Searches in Tallahassee have jumped by over 160 percent, with Florida State fans locking in stays that feature private rooms, ensuring stays near the heart of Seminole country.

Lubbock, TX – Most Booked Category: Play

In Lubbock, searches have increased by nearly 150 percent as Red Raider fans prepare for a spirited season. Guests are gravitating toward stays categorized for play, where they can unwind with recreational amenities after catching the action at Texas Tech.

Lincoln, NE – Most Booked Category: Play

The Cornhuskers’ loyal fanbase is driving a surge of nearly 25 percent in searches in Lincoln, where travelers are favoring stays categorized for play, ensuring they have plenty of entertainment options beyond the stadium.

Knoxville, TN – Most Booked Category: National Parks

As searches rise by over 80 percent, Vols fans are flocking to Knoxville, where the most popular stays are located near national parks, allowing guests to enjoy nature’s beauty alongside football fervor.

Eugene, OR – Most Booked Category: Cabins

In Eugene, home of the Ducks, searches have risen by over 30 percent. Fans are seeking out stays in cabins, ideal for those looking for a rustic and peaceful retreat after a lively game day.

Scoring Big: How college football drives local economies and tourism

Beyond the boost in local tourism, college football season has a significant economic impact on towns across the country. Research shows that college football events contribute billions of dollars to local economies each year, with businesses benefiting from an influx of travelers. For example, a report from the National Bureau of Economic Research notes that college football games can inject as much as $1.5 million into the host city’s economy on game weekends, providing a financial lifeline to small businesses and restaurants.²

What’s more, by offering visitors affordable, nearby accommodations, Airbnb helps boost local tourism and economies — including in areas with few or no hotels. In 2023, Airbnb guests in the US spent on average $210 per day on attractions, transportation, and small businesses as part of their stay, including approximately $65 on local restaurants. This helped generate an estimated $80 billion in visitor spending across the country last year alone.³