World Cup parking prices higher than tickets

• Parking for 2026 World Cup matches in Los Angeles reaches $250–$300, exceeding some ticket prices.
• Rising hotel rates and travel costs prompt some fans to cancel plans amid affordability concerns.

Football fans heading to the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches in Los Angeles are being warned to brace for steep parking costs that, in some cases, exceed the price of admission.

Parking passes for games at SoFi Stadium are listed between $250 and $300, according to The Athletic, with many designated lots located more than a mile from the venue.

The expanded 2026 World Cup, the largest in the tournament’s history, kicks off in June across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Los Angeles will host eight matches, including a quarterfinal, making it one of the tournament’s main hubs.

Parking costs outpace ticket prices

While some match tickets remain relatively affordable, parking is emerging as a major expense. Lower-tier Category 3 tickets at SoFi Stadium are expected to sell for under $200, The Athletic reported.

In contrast, parking for high-profile matches, including the United States opener against Paraguay, is priced at $300. Even less prominent group-stage games, such as Iran vs New Zealand, carry parking fees of $250.

Most parking options are located near Intuit Dome, the Los Angeles Clippers’ new arena. FIFA estimates fans may face a walk of around 20 minutes to reach SoFi Stadium, depending on security procedures and entry routes.

By comparison, parking at the same garages typically costs under $60 for NBA games and remains below $100 for most major events.

FIFA defends pricing

FIFA has defended the parking rates, citing local market factors. In a statement to The Athletic, a spokesperson said parking prices are set based on local conditions and comparisons with similar large-scale events previously held in each host city.

Parking passes are sold in advance through FIFA’s official partner, JustPark. Fans are limited to one parking spot per match ticket and must present both a valid match ticket and parking permit on game day.

Rising costs prompt travel concerns

Parking is not the only expense climbing ahead of the tournament. Hotel prices and short-term rental rates in Los Angeles have surged for match dates, with some properties charging several times their usual prices.

The rising cost of parking, accommodation, and travel is prompting some fans to reconsider their plans. Reports indicate that a number of supporters have canceled hotel reservations and travel arrangements, citing both escalating expenses and concerns over political tensions and uncertainty in the United States under President Donald Trump.

Accessibility questions grow

With parking fees surpassing ticket prices and accommodation costs continuing to rise, critics warn that attending World Cup matches in Los Angeles could become inaccessible for many fans.

FIFA maintains that advance booking and structured pricing are essential to managing traffic and logistics for a tournament expected to attract millions of visitors. As of now, no changes to parking or accommodation pricing have been announced, keeping affordability a growing concern ahead of the 2026 World Cup.