Buying NFL tickets can be a tricky decision. Ticket prices fluctuate leading up to game day, so it’s hard to know if you should buy early or wait until the last minute. Here’s a look at some of the key factors to consider when deciding when to purchase NFL tickets.
How Ticket Prices Typically Fluctuate
In general, NFL ticket prices tend to start high when they first go on sale to the public, often many months in advance of the game. Prices then gradually decline over time as the event date approaches. The exception is for high-demand matchups and playoff/championship games where prices remain steady or even increase as game day nears.
There are a few reasons prices follow this trajectory:
- Early buyers are often diehard fans willing to pay a premium to secure tickets far in advance.
- As an event date gets closer, sellers lower prices to attract more buyers and sell remaining inventory.
- For big games, late demand from casual and traveling fans often drives prices back up near game day.
Regular Season vs. Playoffs/Championships
During the regular NFL season, ticket prices will generally decline over time and be lowest 1-3 weeks before each game. For primetime, inter-conference, and divisional matchups, prices may rebound slightly at the very end as demand increases.
For playoff games and the Super Bowl, prices typically remain more stable from the initial on-sale through game day. Late demand is higher, so prices are less likely to drop off over time. Buying early helps avoid the risk of limited late inventory.
Factors That Impact NFL Ticket Pricing
Several factors can influence NFL ticket prices leading up to game day:
Team Performance
If a team is underperforming as game day approaches, prices tend to decline as fewer fans are willing to pay high prices. Conversely, a surging, playoff-bound team sees late demand drive prices up.
Opponent
Prices for marquee, high-profile opponents like division rivals or championship contenders tend to remain elevated later into the season versus less in-demand foes.
Day and Time of Game
Weekend and primetime games are typically in higher demand and less likely to fall in price. Sunday day games often see the steepest declines.
Overall Team Dynamic
Popular, high-scoring teams like the Chiefs, Bills, and Bengals now see steadier pricing due to loyal, engaged fan bases buying early. Teams with struggling attendance may have deeper price drops.
Stadium Size
Smaller stadiums with less ticket inventory like the Bears, Patriots, and Packers tend to maintain stronger demand and more stable pricing.
Week of Season
Early and late season demand is typically lower than middle of the season. The best values are often found in September and December.
Buying Early vs. Waiting Strategies
Given the many factors impacting NFL ticket prices, fans have two main options for securing tickets:
Buy Early
Buying tickets as soon as they go on sale, often in the spring and summer prior to the NFL season, guarantees you tickets and locks in the initial market price. While expensive, this avoids the risk of short supply leading up to game day.
Fans buying early are typically diehards fans of their team and less price sensitive. Buying early is best for high-demand games where prices are unlikely to drop much.
Wait Until Close to Game Day
Waiting until 1-4 weeks out from game day means taking on some risk that prices may rebound or inventory will be limited. But buying at the last minute often yields significant savings, especially for low-demand games.
Procrastinators can score deals on the secondary market. This strategy requires closely tracking prices and being flexible on seating areas.
Recommendations for NFL Ticket Buyers
Here are some best practices based on typical NFL ticket price movements:
- Buy playoff and Super Bowl tickets at the initial on-sale if convenient. Prices usually hold steady.
- Aim for middle of regular season for best deals. Avoid marquee opponents if cost-conscious.
- Wait until week of game for low-demand matchups, especially December contests.
- Monitor prices daily 1-2 weeks out to find price drops, especially on weekdays.
- Use sites with price charts and data to strategically time purchases.
- Have backup seating options in case demand surges late for a specific section.
Average NFL Ticket Prices by Timing of Purchase
Here are estimated average NFL ticket prices this season at different purchase times:
Timing of Purchase | Average Ticket Price |
---|---|
At initial on-sale (February) | $275 |
Summer (June/July) | $250 |
1 month before game | $225 |
1 week before game | $200 |
Day before game | $175 |
Last Minute Purchasing Considerations
Here are a few things to keep in mind if planning to purchase NFL tickets at the last minute:
- Be flexible on seating location – lower level and midfield seats are likely limited.
- Have multiple sellers in mind in case one sells out of inventory.
- Be prepared to move quickly when you find a deal.
- Verify tickets immediately and have a plan for last-minute delivery.
- Consider mobile tickets for fastest access to scans.
- Know the stadium transfer policies in case issues arise.
Beware of Scams
Unfortunately, fake NFL tickets spike on game day. Buy only from trusted sellers and platforms. Learn to spot scam artist tactics.
Conclusion
NFL ticket prices can fluctuate widely, so fans need to balance cost savings with demand risks. For high-profile games, early buying provides access and price lock-in. But more patient fans can often save significantly by purchasing at the last minute for low-demand contests.
Carefully tracking price movements and having flexible seating options are key to scoring deals. While waiting until the day of to buy NFL tickets can offer big savings, buyers need to be cautious of limited inventory and potential scams.