As one of the most iconic and beloved teams in Major League Baseball, the Chicago Cubs have a loyal fan base that spans generations. With the team’s rich history, beautiful stadium, and exciting gameplay, it’s no wonder that Cubs season tickets are a coveted commodity. But are they a good investment? In this article, we’ll delve into the world of Cubs season tickets, exploring their benefits, drawbacks, and return on investment (ROI) to help you make an informed decision.
The Benefits of Cubs Season Tickets
Owning a piece of history: Wrigley Field, the Cubs’ home stadium, is a National Historic Landmark and one of the most iconic ballparks in the country. As a season ticket holder, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the magic of Wrigley Field 81 times a year.
Unparalleled Fan Experience
Cubs season tickets offer an unbeatable fan experience. Imagine watching your favorite team take the field, surrounded by the lively atmosphere of Wrigley Field, with the smell of hot dogs and popcorn wafting through the air. You’ll be part of a community of die-hard Cubs fans, all cheering on the team together.
Access to Exclusive Events
As a season ticket holder, you’ll receive invitations to exclusive events, such as pre-game warm-ups, post-game autograph sessions, and special tours of Wrigley Field. These experiences will create lifelong memories and give you a deeper connection to the team.
Priority Access to Postseason Tickets
When the Cubs make the playoffs, season ticket holders get priority access to postseason tickets. Imagine being part of the electric atmosphere at Wrigley Field during a playoff game – it’s an experience you’ll never forget.
The Drawbacks of Cubs Season Tickets
High Upfront Costs: Cubs season tickets are a significant investment, with prices ranging from a few thousand to tens of thousands of dollars per year, depending on the seat location and package.
Commitment and Obligation
Buying Cubs season tickets requires a significant commitment of time and resources. You’ll need to attend or sell tickets to 81 games, which can be challenging, especially for those with busy schedules.
Financial Risk
The value of Cubs season tickets can fluctuate, and there’s always a risk that the team’s performance will decline, reducing demand and resale value.
The Return on Investment (ROI) of Cubs Season Tickets
While Cubs season tickets can be a significant investment, they can also provide a strong ROI. Here are some factors to consider:
_residual Value
Cubs season tickets retain a high residual value, even after the initial purchase price. According to a study by SeatGeek, the average resale value of Cubs season tickets is around 75% of the face value.
Increased Demand
The Cubs’ loyal fan base and Wrigley Field’s limited seating capacity create a high demand for tickets, driving up resale prices. This means that season ticket holders can often sell their tickets for a profit, especially for high-demand games.
Tax Benefits
As a business expense, Cubs season tickets can provide tax benefits, such as deductions for business entertainment and advertising expenses. Consult with a tax professional to explore these benefits further.
Example ROI Scenario
Let’s say you purchase a 4-seat season ticket package in the upper deck for $10,000 per year. Over the course of the season, you attend 40 games and sell the remaining 41 games on the secondary market for an average price of $50 per ticket. You’d generate $8,200 in revenue, reducing your net cost to $1,800 per year. If you hold the tickets for 5 years, the total ROI would be around 25%.
Alternatives to Season Tickets
While Cubs season tickets can be a great investment, they might not be the best fit for everyone. Here are some alternatives to consider:
Partial Season Ticket Plans
The Cubs offer partial season ticket plans, which allow you to purchase tickets to a smaller number of games. These plans can provide a more affordable entry point and still offer some of the benefits of full season tickets.
Single-Game Tickets
You can purchase single-game tickets to Cubs games, which can be a more flexible and cost-effective option. However, be prepared for higher prices and limited availability for high-demand games.
Conclusion
Are Cubs season tickets a good investment? The answer depends on your individual circumstances, financial goals, and passion for the team. If you’re a die-hard Cubs fan who can attend a significant number of games, season tickets might be a great investment, providing a strong ROI and unforgettable experiences. However, if you’re looking for a purely financial investment, you might want to explore alternative options. Ultimately, Cubs season tickets are a unique opportunity to own a piece of baseball history and be part of a loyal community – and that’s priceless.
What are the benefits of owning Cubs season tickets?
Owning Cubs season tickets comes with a range of benefits, including access to exclusive events, priority ticket purchasing, and VIP experiences. Season ticket holders also get to enjoy a sense of community and camaraderie with fellow fans, as well as the opportunity to build lifelong memories at Wrigley Field.
In addition to these perks, season ticket holders often receive special privileges, such as early access to postseason tickets, discounts on merchandise, and invitations to meet-and-greets with players and coaches. Some season ticket holders may also be eligible for rewards programs, which can include perks like complimentary parking or food and beverage vouchers.
How much do Cubs season tickets typically cost?
The cost of Cubs season tickets can vary widely, depending on factors such as the number of games, seat location, and package type. On the lower end, upper-level seats for a partial season plan (20-30 games) might start around $1,000-$2,000 per seat. Mid-level seats for a full season plan (81 games) can range from $5,000-$10,000 per seat.
Premium seats, such as those in the lower level or near the dugouts, can cost $15,000-$25,000 per seat or more for a full season plan. It’s also worth noting that prices may be higher for popular games, such as Opening Day or rivalry matchups. Additionally, ticket holders may need to pay separate fees for things like parking, concessions, and merchandise.
Can I resell my Cubs season tickets if I can’t attend a game?
Yes, Cubs season ticket holders are generally allowed to resell their tickets to games they cannot attend. In fact, many season ticket holders view reselling tickets as a way to offset the cost of their initial investment. The Cubs organization offers a ticket resale platform, Cubs Ticket Assure, which allows ticket holders to sell their tickets to verified buyers.
It’s worth noting that resale prices can fluctuate based on factors such as the opponent, day of the week, and time of year. Season ticket holders should be aware of the Cubs’ ticket resale policies and guidelines, as well as any applicable state and local laws, to ensure they are selling their tickets legally and ethically.
Are there any additional costs associated with owning Cubs season tickets?
In addition to the upfront cost of the tickets, Cubs season ticket holders may incur additional expenses throughout the season. These can include parking fees, which can range from $20-$50 per game, depending on the location and type of parking. Concession costs, such as food and beverages, can also add up quickly.
Other potential expenses might include merchandise, parking passes, and charitable donations. Some season ticket holders may also choose to purchase travel packages or accommodations for road games. It’s essential for potential season ticket holders to factor these additional costs into their budget to ensure they can afford the overall investment.
Can I finance my Cubs season tickets?
Yes, the Cubs organization offers financing options for season ticket holders. The Cubs’ ticket payment plan allows fans to split their season ticket payment into multiple installments, which can help make the upfront cost more manageable.
It’s essential to review the terms and conditions of any financing agreement carefully, including the interest rates, payment schedules, and any fees associated with late payments. Additionally, fans should consider their own financial situation and ensure they can afford the monthly payments before committing to a financing plan.
How do I purchase Cubs season tickets?
The Cubs organization typically offers season tickets for sale through their website, as well as through authorized ticket brokers and resellers. Fans can also contact the Cubs’ ticket office directly to inquire about availability and pricing.
It’s crucial to ensure that you are purchasing tickets from an authorized seller to avoid scams and fraudulent activity. Be wary of prices that seem too good to be true, and always research the seller’s reputation before making a purchase.