Going to an Austin FC soccer game can be an exciting experience, but before buying tickets it’s important to understand the different options and prices. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down all the costs associated with attending an Austin FC match at Q2 Stadium so you can best plan your budget.
Ticket Prices
The first major expense for an Austin FC game is of course the ticket price. Tickets can vary quite a bit based on the specific section, seat location, and when you purchase. Here’s an overview of the different Austin FC ticket options and prices:
- Supporter Section: These tickets behind the north goal start at $42 per game when purchased as a full season ticket package. Individual game tickets start at around $50.
- Premium Seats: Seats in midfield sections closest to the action, like the Lexus Club seats, can cost over $200 per ticket.
- Upper Level Corner: The cheapest seats are in the upper corners, starting at around $35 per ticket.
- Family Packs: Discounted blocks of 4 or more tickets are available in certain sections for around $100 total.
- Resale: Buying secondhand from other fans often offers prices over face value for high demand matches.
Austin FC ticket prices will also vary based on the specific opponent and day of the week. Rivalry matches against teams like the Houston Dynamo tend to be the highest demand and most expensive. Midweek games are generally cheaper than weekend dates.
Season Ticket Memberships
To get the best value on Austin FC tickets, many fans opt for full or partial season ticket packages. Here are the season ticket options:
Package | # of Games | Avg Price Per Game |
---|---|---|
Full Season | 17 | $42+ |
Half Season | 9 | $50+ |
Quarter Season | 5 | $60+ |
Season ticket holders get perks like presale access to high demand matches and invites to special club events. There is often a long waitlist for Austin FC season tickets though.
Parking Costs
Another big expense to factor in is parking near Q2 Stadium on match day. Here are the main options:
- Q2 Stadium Parking – $20
- 3rd Party Lots – $10-$30
- MetroRail Station – Free-$10
- Rideshare – $15+ each way
Getting to the match early is key to avoid surge pricing and sold out lots. Parking fills up fast. Prepurchasing a pass ahead of time for the main stadium lot or taking MetroRail are good ways to lock in cheaper parking.
Transportation to/from the Match
If you want to avoid parking altogether, there are some other transportation options:
- MetroRail – $1.25 each way
- Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) – $15+ each way
- Bus – $1.25 each way
- Bike – Free (bike parking at stadium)
- Walk – Free (for those closeby)
The MetroRail and bus can get packed after the match ends so be prepared for crowds. Leaving the game a bit early or hanging back at bars near the stadium for an hour can help you miss the transportation rush.
Food & Drinks
Don’t forget about eats and drinks when budgeting for an Austin FC game. Food and beverage options at Q2 Stadium include:
Concessions
- Hot Dogs – $6
- Nachos – $8
- Pizza Slices – $8
- Popcorn – $5
- Cracker Jacks – $5
Q2 Stadium allows you to bring in your own food, which can save a lot of money. Making sandwiches, snacks, and water bottles at home is an economical option.
Beer
- Domestic Beers – $11
- Craft Beers – $13
- Cocktails – $14
- Waters – $5
- Sodas – $6
You’re better off buying alcohol outside the stadium before or after the match at bars in the Domain. Inside Q2 Stadium, beers start at $11 which adds up fast.
Austin FC Merchandise & Gear
Many fans like to represent their team colors when attending matches. Here’s a look at the cost for Austin FC merchandise:
- Jerseys – $85-$150
- Hats – $25
- Scarves – $25
- T-Shirts – $30
- Supporter Gear – $15-$50
The main team store at Q2 Stadium has the largest selection. You can often find sales and discounts on Austin FC gear at other retailers like Academy Sports and online shops.
Supporter Section Gear
Die-hard fans in the supporter section called Los Verdes have special bandanas, scarves, and gear ranging from $15-$50. Joining the Los Verdes supporters section is the best way to embrace the passionate Austin FC matchday experience.
Is Austin FC More/Less Expensive Than Other MLS Teams?
Compared to other Major League Soccer teams and stadiums, Austin FC tickets tend to be priced right around the league average. For example, here is how Austin FC ticket costs compare for a few MLS rivals:
Team | Lowest Ticket Price | Highest Ticket Price |
---|---|---|
Austin FC | $35 | $200 |
FC Dallas | $30 | $180 |
Houston Dynamo | $25 | $125 |
LA Galaxy | $32 | $275 |
Concession food, drinks, and parking tend to be comparable to other MLS stadiums as well. The rising costs reflect the growing popularity of Major League Soccer across the US.
Additional Austin FC Game Day Expenses
Beyond just getting tickets to the match, there are some other costs that can come up on Austin FC game day:
- Babysitter – $15+ per hour if getting childcare
- Souvenirs – $5-$50 for keepsakes
- Event Parking – $10-$30 for tailgating
- Rideshare tips – $5+ each way recommended
It’s easy to underestimate all the little extras that come with attending an Austin FC game. Planning ahead helps account for any surprise expenses that pop up before or after the match.
Saving Money on Austin FC Tickets
If the costs of attending an Austin FC game are starting to look intimidating, here are some smart ways to save money and cut expenses:
- Buy season tickets – Bulk pricing discounts
- Go to midweek games – Lower demand than weekends
- Sit in the supporters section – Cheapest face value tickets
- Take public transportation – Avoid parking costs
- Eat before – Bring own cheaper food/drink
- Buy gear online – Lower prices than the stadium store
With the right planning and research, you can find great deals on Austin FC tickets and have an awesome time at Q2 Stadium without breaking the bank.
Are Austin FC Tickets Worth the Price?
Only you can decide if Austin FC games are worth the ticket cost and expenses required. The atmosphere and excitement of a live soccer match is a one-of-a-kind experience. But the costs do add up quick.
For big soccer fans up for making a day out of going to Q2 Stadium, Austin FC games are definitely worth the splurge occasionally. It’s easy to get caught up in the moment and overspend though if you’re not careful.
Be realistic about your budget constraints before getting Austin FC tickets. And consider going in with friends on season tickets or less expensive seats to make the costs more manageable.
Conclusion
Attending an Austin FC match can cost anywhere from $50 per person for basic upper corner seats to over $500 with premium tickets, food, merchandise, parking, and everything else. But by picking midweek games, taking public transit, tailgating before, and finding ticket deals, you can cut those costs considerably.
While Austin FC ticket prices are comparable to other MLS teams, the overall costs still price some fans out or make it hard to attend as often as they’d like. Careful budgeting and planning can help you enjoy Austin FC games without breaking the bank.
The exciting atmosphere and quality play on the field make Austin FC matches a sought after experience in the growing Austin sports scene. Just be strategic in finding affordable tickets and limiting excess expenses to get the most bang for your buck.