College Football Impacts Housing Markets Across the U.S. Short-term rentals driven by affluent fans and investors are transforming college towns, affecting resident housing in places like Athens, Georgia. The University of Georgia's football games draw thousands of fans, creating a three-month market for short-term rentals. This phenomenon extends to other cities such as Auburn, Tuscaloosa, and Gainesville, where football rules the economy during the fall. As a result, the rental markets inflate, pricing locals out and limiting available housing. Measures have been taken, such as temporary moratoriums and proposed regulations, but the impact on communities remains a concern. Character count: 496