Hoboken spikes short-term rentals ahead of world cup, defying neighboring towns

New Jersey is rapidly becoming a hotbed for short-term home rentals ahead of this summer's FIFA World Cup, with Hoboken welcoming soccer fans with open arms while neighboring towns impose strict limits.

Metlife stadium in nearby east rutherford to host eight matches, including final

Hoboken, with just over one square mile of land, believes there's room for tourists, seeing the tournament as a once-in-a-generation opportunity for homeowners. 'We know it's going to be crowded, but FIFA only happens so often. So why not?' said resident Yue Feng. 'History is rich. If you have the space, why not take it?' added Fausto Santana.

However, cities like Kearny, Union City, Secaucus and others are imposing bans, strict limits and hefty fines on short-term rentals starting before the tournament.

Hoboken plans for the expected tourism spike, but with rent-controlled homes in the city unable to be listed, the city is already thinking of the additional resources needed to keep up. 'That means we need more police and fire on duty. There could be potential for more accidents. There could be just increased traffic congestion, and those are all things that have to pay for as a city,' said Councilman Joe Quintero.

Quintero believes strict rules could create a black market for short-term rentals. 'Good fences make for good neighbors,' he said, hoping that hosts and tourists adhere to each city's rules for everyone's safety.

Airbnb is offering a $750 bonus to first-time hosts in World Cup cities between now and the end of July, saying 'We're glad that New Jersey residents are seeing expanded opportunities to earn supplemental income from homesharing.'