When it comes to buying concert tickets, one of the biggest considerations is whether to get general admission (GA) tickets or assigned seating. GA tickets typically allow access to a general standing area near the stage, while assigned seats have specific row and seat numbers printed on them. There’s an ongoing debate among concertgoers about which option is better, and one of the biggest factors is cost. So are GA tickets generally more expensive than seats? Let’s take a closer look.
The Draw of General Admission Tickets
GA tickets are popular for several reasons. Being in the GA section puts you right up near the stage for the full concert experience. You don’t have to look over or around anyone and you can get as close as you want by lining up early. The energy is palpable when you’re standing shoulder-to-shoulder with other excited fans. Plus, the GA area is usually where the most die-hard fans congregate. So for many concertgoers, the GA experience is worth paying extra.
How GA Ticket Prices Are Set
Like all tickets, GA ticket prices are based on supply and demand. Promoters want to charge what the market will bear to maximize their profits. For highly anticipated shows where demand is sky-high, promoters know they can charge higher prices and fans will pay. Other factors like the size of the venue also come into play. GA tickets for arena shows often cost more than smaller club shows simply because there are far more fans vying for limited floor space. The scarcity drives up resale values as well.
When GA Tickets Cost Less
That said, GA tickets don’t automatically cost more than seats in every scenario. Here are some cases when GA tickets may actually be cheaper:
- Smaller, more intimate venues. Club shows with capacities under 1,000 people often have inexpensive GA options since the venues are smaller.
- Less popular performers. Shows without huge demand will have lower GA prices across the board.
- Weeknight performances. Weekend shows are almost always more expensive.
- Last-minute purchases. As the event date nears, any unsold GA tickets will drop in price.
So if you want GA tickets but don’t want to spend too much, look for shows during the week for artists with smaller fanbases playing at more intimate venues.
How Seated Tickets Are Priced
For seated tickets, location is everything. Just like with real estate, it’s all about proximity to the stage. Front row seats will command the highest prices while the upper levels and ends of rows will be cheaper. Supply and demand affects seating too, especially for highly coveted front and center sections. Moreover, VIP packages with perks like meet and greets make the best seats even more expensive. However, even mid-range seats often run cheaper than GA prices for blockbuster concerts at big venues.
When Seats Are More Expensive
While GA ticketing is frequently more expensive, there are some exceptions where coveted seats actually cost more. A few examples:
- VIP packages with exclusive extras.
- Luxury box suites at major stadiums and arenas.
- Front row seats inches from the stage.
- Platform seating elevated above the GA pit area.
These premium seated options provide immense proximity and viewing advantages for die-hard fans willing to pay top dollar. In these cases, the seats are actually more desirable and scarce than GA spaces.
Average Cost Comparison
Looking at typical ticket pricing for major concert tours provides helpful benchmark numbers. Here are some average price ranges:
Section | Average Price Range |
---|---|
General admission floor | $150 – $250+ |
Lower level front rows | $200 – $500+ |
Lower level middle rows | $100 – $250 |
Upper level/mezzanine | $50 – $150 |
These numbers illustrate how GA and the best lower level seats typically exceed the average prices for seats further back in major venues. Front row seats can sometimes challenge GA for the highest prices. But overall, general admission ticket prices are difficult to beat for prime positioning close to the stage.
Tips for Saving on GA Tickets
Since GA tickets are often the most in-demand, how can you get them for less? Here are some tactics:
- Buy during presales. Getting in early helps secure tickets before the feeding frenzy.
- Join fan clubs. Artist fan clubs often have access to exclusive presales.
- Consider weekday shows. Fridays and weeknights are less popular than weekends.
- Watch for ticket drops. Follow venues and artists on social media for new ticket announcements.
- Shop resale sites. As the event date nears, resale prices tend to drop.
Is GA Worth the Price?
At the end of the day, whether the GA ticket price is worth it comes down to personal preferences. Die-hard fans up for standing for hours and battling crowds usually find GA worth the cost. Others prefer the comfort and guarantees of an assigned seat. My advice is to weigh your budget, passion for the artist, and stamina when deciding. GA gets you close at a premium price, but you can still enjoy shows further back for less money. Ultimately there’s no right choice – go with what provides the experience you want as a fan!
Conclusion
On average, general admission tickets do tend to run higher than most seated tickets for major concerts and tours at large venues. The opportunity to be front and center drives high demand and prices for prime GA real estate. However, GA isn’t always the priciest option – front row seats or VIP packages can sometimes exceed GA. Regardless of section, supply and demand determines prices, so less popular and smaller shows often have cheaper GA pricing. When paying more for GA, buying early, picking weekdays, and scouring resale markets can help find deals. While GA tickets come at a premium, for many fans the unforgettable experience is worth stretching the budget.