Attending an NFL game is a memorable experience for any football fan. From the energy of the crowd to seeing your favorite players up close, NFL games create lasting memories. However, enjoying an NFL game in-person comes at a price. NFL tickets can be quite expensive compared to other professional sports. Understanding the costs associated with NFL tickets can help fans budget for an NFL game experience.
Average NFL Ticket Prices
According to data from Statista, the average price for an NFL ticket during the 2021 season was $192. That price includes both regular season and playoff games. However, ticket prices can vary significantly depending on the team, seat location, and demand.
Some key factors that influence NFL ticket prices include:
- Team popularity – Popular teams like the Dallas Cowboys and New England Patriots command higher prices
- Seat location – Lower bowl midfield seats are most expensive while upper deck corner seats are cheapest
- Opposing team – Games against rivals or marquee teams raise prices
- Day of the week – Weekend and primetime games are more in demand
- Stadium amenities – Newer stadiums with more amenities and better sightlines cost more
To illustrate the variance in ticket prices, here are the average ticket costs during the 2021 season for some sample teams:
Team | Average Ticket Price |
---|---|
Dallas Cowboys | $274 |
New England Patriots | $215 |
Pittsburgh Steelers | $156 |
Atlanta Falcons | $128 |
Jacksonville Jaguars | $86 |
As the data shows, popular big-market teams like the Cowboys and Patriots have much higher average ticket prices than less popular franchises like the Jaguars. However, even within a team’s schedule, ticket prices can vary greatly depending on the specific game.
Ticket Prices by Seat Location
In addition to differences between teams, ticket prices also differ drastically depending on seat location within each stadium. Lower bowl seats closest to the 50-yard line command the highest prices while upper deck seats in the corners and end zones are most affordable.
Here are some sample average ticket prices for different seat locations during the 2021 season:
Seat Location | Average Price |
---|---|
Lower bowl, midfield | $425 |
Club level, between 40 yard lines | $295 |
Upper corner, end zone | $85 |
Fans hoping to sit near midfield or at the 50-yard line should expect to pay a premium while budget-conscious fans can find deals higher up in the upper decks. Knowing the different price levels by seat location is helpful when shopping for NFL tickets.
How NFL Ticket Prices Are Set
NFL teams use variable or dynamic pricing models when setting ticket prices for each game. This means prices fluctuate during the season based on projected demand. Specific factors that influence single-game ticket prices include:
- Opposing team’s popularity
- Day and time of game
- Current team standings
- Special events like holidays or promotions
- Stage of season (early regular season vs. playoffs)
Teams also gather historical data on ticket sales trends when pricing their seats. Rivalry games, weekend dates, and contests against the top teams will garner higher prices.
In addition to variable game pricing, some NFL teams use personal seat licenses (PSLs) to help determine season ticket holder costs. A PSL gives the ticket holder to the right to buy season tickets for that seat. PSL fees are generally a one-time upfront cost. Teams then set season ticket prices on top of the PSL fee.
Tips for Finding NFL Ticket Deals
While rising costs have put some NFL tickets out of reach for many fans’ budgets, deals and discounts can make games more affordable. Here are some tips for finding NFL tickets at lower prices:
- Be flexible – Consider attending a preseason game or a less in-demand opponent during the regular season.
- Buy upper deck seats – The highest rows generally have the cheapest NFL tickets.
- Look for single seats – Most fans buy pairs so single seats often go unwanted.
- Buy group tickets – Many teams offer group packages for parties of 10-25 people.
- Shop online exchanges – Sites like Stubhub often have below face value resale tickets.
- Ask about specials – Teams will run specials like college student or family packs during weaker selling games.
While lower demand games may lack a little excitement, they offer the most affordable way for budget-minded fans to experience the NFL live. With extra diligence, even prime games can sometimes be found at reduced prices.
NFL Ticket Prices vs Other Sports
Compared to the other major professional sports leagues, NFL tickets generally have the highest prices. The NHL, NBA, and MLB all have lower average ticket costs than the NFL. Some key comparisons in average ticket price for a 2021 regular season game:
League | Average Ticket Price |
---|---|
NFL | $192 |
NHL | $105 |
NBA | $89 |
MLB | $35 |
NFL teams play far fewer home games (8 regular season) than other leagues which contributes to the supply-demand imbalance that raises prices. The popularity of pro football also boosts willingness to pay higher prices among fans.
Conclusion
NFL tickets require one of the largest financial investments for fans among major sports leagues. However, buying NFL tickets is still a bucket list goal for many football devotees. Understanding the factors that determine NFL ticket pricing allow fans to find the best deals. With flexibility and diligent shopping, football fans on every budget can experience the excitement and camaraderie of an NFL game in-person.