The 2028 Summer Olympics are coming to Los Angeles, and the city is already seeing changes that could affect the housing market. Major international events like the Olympics bring a mix of excitement, investment, and long-term economic impact. But they also raise questions about housing affordability and who benefits most from the boom.

Rising Demand Near Olympic Venues

Whenever a city hosts the Olympics, neighborhoods close to the main event areas become highly desirable. In Los Angeles, places near the Coliseum, SoFi Stadium, and the downtown area are already drawing interest from buyers and investors. People expect these areas to attract tourists and businesses, which often drives up prices and rent.

New Development and Construction

Large projects—like new hotels, sports facilities, and transportation improvements—are often built to prepare for the Games. In LA, the Metro expansion and other upgrades will make commuting easier. But as infrastructure improves, surrounding property values typically go up. For homeowners, that’s good news. For renters, it often means higher rent or fewer affordable options.

Short-Term Rentals and Investment Properties

With millions of visitors expected, property owners may turn their homes into short-term rentals. Platforms like Airbnb usually see a huge increase in listings during Olympic years. This can boost income for some owners but can also limit the number of long-term rental options for local residents, pushing up overall housing costs.

Gentrification and Displacement Risks

The downside of Olympic-driven growth is that lower-income residents often get priced out. Areas that were once affordable, like South Central or parts of Inglewood, may become too expensive for longtime locals. This pattern has happened in other host cities, including London and Rio, where neighborhoods were transformed before and after the Games.

What to Expect After the Games

While prices usually rise leading up to the Olympics, they can cool off afterward. Some investors sell once the event is over, and cities sometimes struggle to maintain new facilities. However, LA’s strong economy and established infrastructure make it better positioned than most cities to hold onto the gains.