The Pittsburgh Steelers are one of the most popular and successful franchises in the NFL. With 6 Super Bowl titles and a loyal fanbase, Steelers games at Heinz Field are always in high demand. In this article, we’ll examine if Steelers games typically sell out and what factors impact ticket availability.
Steelers Home Game Attendance
The Steelers have sold out every home game at Heinz Field since it opened in 2001. This sellout streak spans over 20 seasons and counting. Even during down years, Steelers fans reliably pack the stands for home games. According to ESPN, the Steelers had the NFL’s best home attendance percentage in 2021 at 103.9%. Heinz Field has a capacity of 68,400, meaning Steelers games consistently draw over 70,000 fans.
This level of fan support is a testament to the passion of Steelers fans. While many NFL teams struggle to sell tickets, Steelers fans will brave the elements and high ticket costs because attending the game is ingrained in the culture of Pittsburgh. Steelers football is a community event that brings people together.
Why Are Steelers Games Always Sold Out?
There are several factors that drive the consistent sellouts for Steelers home games:
- Dedicated, multi-generational fanbase – Steelers fans stay loyal to the team, passing down their fandom through the generations.
- Waiting list for season tickets – There is a long waiting list of over 50,000 people waiting for the chance to buy season tickets.
- Primetime games – The Steelers are often scheduled for night games which draw bigger crowds.
- Limited supply – Heinz Field has one of the lower seating capacities in the NFL.
- Strong secondary market – Fans who don’t have season tickets can usually find resale tickets, often at premium prices.
The enthusiasm for Steelers football is deeply embedded in the culture of Pittsburgh. Going to the game with family is a ritual. Even when the team is having a down year, fans still tune in religiously on TV and radio. This multi-generational dedication ensures sellouts will continue as long as people populate western Pennsylvania.
Are Single Game Tickets Available?
Since all Steelers home games technically “sell out”, single game tickets can be hard to come by. However, that doesn’t mean it’s impossible to get tickets. Here are some ways fans can acquire tickets to Steelers games:
Buy on Secondary Market
The most reliable way to get Steelers tickets is to purchase them on a secondary ticket site like StubHub, VividSeats or Ticketmaster. The secondary market provides tickets being resold by season ticket holders and other fans. You will pay a premium over face value, with prices ranging from $150-500 on average depending on the opponent and seat location.
Join the Season Ticket Waiting List
You can put your name on the Steelers season ticket waiting list. The wait time is estimated to be around 8-10 years right now. Once your name comes up, you have the option to purchase a full season ticket package. This route takes patience, but guarantees you’ll eventually have access to tickets.
Try Your Luck at Gametime
Some isolated single game seats may become available at the last minute through official channels. Checking the Steelers ticket site or calling the box office close to game day is an option. There’s no guarantee of finding tickets, but you might get lucky.
Find a Ticket Giveaway
Radio stations, bars, and other local businesses will sometimes run ticket giveaways and contests. Following them on social media and keeping an ear out for promotions can score you free or discounted seats.
Purchase Travel Packages
Companies like Primesport offer travel packages to Steelers games that bundle tickets with hotel, transportation, and other perks. The catch is you have to book their other services, so it’s not the cheapest route.
How Much Do Steelers Tickets Cost?
Steelers ticket prices vary greatly depending on the seat location, opponent, and whether you buy on the primary or secondary market. Here is an overview of the pricing:
Direct from the Steelers Box Office
When season tickets were last available in 2015, the prices were:
| Section | Price |
| Lower Level Sideline | $108 |
| Lower End Zone | $98 |
| Upper Level Sideline | $78 |
| Upper End Zone | $68 |
| Upper Corners/Ends | $58 |
These are face value prices direct from the Steelers. Single game tickets would have similar pricing when available.
Secondary Market Average Prices
On secondary sites, Steelers ticket prices can vary widely depending on demand. According to TicketIQ, the average secondary market price was $236 in 2021. Some key benchmarks:
- Low demand game (vs. Lions) – $150
- Medium demand game (vs. Seahawks) – $275
- High demand game (vs. Ravens) – $425
Games against rivals like the Ravens, Cowboys, Patriots, and Browns fetch the highest resale values. Preseason and less attractive opponents are cheapest.
Factors Impacting Price
Some key factors that influence Steelers ticket prices:
- Opponent – More exciting matchups increase demand.
- Day/time – Primetime and weekend games are costlier.
- Steelers’ success – Prices rise if the team is playoff bound.
- Weather – Late season snow games can get cheaper.
- Promotions – Giveaways and special events raise prices.
While the prices fluctuate, expect to pay a minimum of $150 for the worst seats against a lackluster opponent. Any major rival or night game will easily run over $200 per ticket.
Other Ways to Attend a Game
If you simply want to be part of the gameday atmosphere, there are cheaper ways to attend besides buying tickets. Consider these options:
Find a Bar
Pittsburgh has tons of Steelers bars all over the city, allowing you to watch the game with other fans. Many bars offer gameday specials on food and drinks to draw crowds.
Hang Outside the Stadium
You can soak up the energy outside Heinz Field without ever going in. Fans tailgate in the parking lots for hours before kickoff.
Watch the Away Game simulcast
When the Steelers play on the road, Heinz Field opens up to simulcast the game on the jumbotron. It’s free to attend and concessions are open.
Attend a Training Camp Practice
The Steelers hold 3 weeks of open training camp practices each August at Saint Vincent College in Latrobe. Fans can get autographs and watch drills up close.
Conclusion
Pittsburgh Steelers home games have essentially been sold out since Heinz Field opened in 2001. The long waitlist for season tickets and strong secondary market ensure prices stay high and availability low. While single game seats are hard to find, Steelers fans remain dedicated to supporting the team. The cost, effort, and planning required are well worth it for locals who consider attending the game part of their identity.