The Detroit Lions are a professional American football team based in Detroit, Michigan. They compete in the National Football League (NFL) as a member club of the league’s National Football Conference (NFC) North division. The Lions play their home games at Ford Field in Downtown Detroit.
As one of the older franchises in the NFL, having been founded in 1930, the Lions have a long and storied history in Detroit. They have won four NFL championships, with the last one coming in 1957. While the team has struggled in recent decades, Lions games remain a popular draw in Detroit. Fans still come out to Ford Field on Sundays in the fall to cheer on their hometown Lions.
Ticket prices for Lions games can vary depending on a number of factors. Some of the key influences on Lions ticket prices include:
Opponent
The opponent that the Lions are facing in a given game impacts ticket prices. When the Lions play divisional rivals like the Chicago Bears and Green Bay Packers, or other marquee NFL teams, demand for tickets is higher. Games against major opponents will be more expensive.
Day and Time
The day and time of the game will also affect ticket prices. Sunday afternoon games tend to be the most affordable. Sunday night, Monday night, and Thursday night games will be pricier as they are in primetime slots.
Seat Location
Where your seats are located in Ford Field makes a big difference in the cost of Lions tickets. Lower bowl seats closest to the field are most expensive. Prices get progressively cheaper the farther back you sit from the action and the higher up you go. Upper deck seats carry the lowest ticket prices on average.
Secondary Market Prices
If purchasing tickets from a secondary resale site like Stubhub instead of directly from the Lions, the prices can see dramatic fluctuations based on supply and demand. Less desirable games will have cheaper resale tickets while big games will command premium pricing.
Average Ticket Prices
According to data from Team Marketing Report, the average ticket price for a Detroit Lions game in 2022 is $123. This makes Lions tickets the 13th most expensive in the NFL this season.
To analyze the range of ticket prices and costs, here is a look at prices for different locations in Ford Field this season:
Lower Bowl Sideline Seats
These seats directly flank the field on the lower level providing close-up views of the action. Lower bowl sideline seats range from around $175 on the ends to past $300 for seats at midfield. Expect to pay a premium for the proximity.
Lower Bowl Corner Seats
In the lower bowl on the corners of the end zones, Lions tickets can be purchased for between $150-225 on average. You get the lower level experience at a slight discount.
Lower Bowl End Zone Seats
Sitting in the lower level behind the end zones comes with more affordability. These vantage points are still low and close to the field, but looking right at the goal line rather than the whole field. Prices are usually $125-$200.
Club Seats
For premium amenities like access to the Club Lounge, in-seat food and beverage service, and cushioned seats, Club Seats are pricier. Tickets here are around $210-$350 depending on location.
Upper Bowl Sideline Seats
The upper deck sidelines have an elevated sightline over the whole field. These seats are marked by prices of $80-$150 on average.
Upper Bowl Corner/End Zone Seats
The cheapest seats in Ford Field are found in the upper corners and end zones. Tickets regularly sell for between $50-$100 up here.
How Ticket Prices Fluctuate
Lions ticket prices are not static. They rise and fall across the season and between seasons based on many circumstances. Here is a look at some of the reasons tickets may be more or less expensive:
Team Performance
When the Lions are winning and vying for a playoff spot, tickets are hot commodities. Fans turn up to see a winning product. In down years, when the Lions are out of contention, demand slacks. This allows tickets to be found for cheaper.
Opposing Team Strength
As noted earlier, the visiting opponent has a big impact on prices. Seeing upper echelon teams like the Kansas City Chiefs or San Francisco 49ers will garner lots of interest. Bad teams usually struggle to sell out their ticket allotments, creating excess supply.
Time of Year
Early season games in September and October tend to be cheaper. By late season, with playoff implications, prices rise. December/January games also sell for more as people enjoy indoor events in winter.
Day of Week
Weeknight and Sunday night games have a higher demand as they draw larger viewing audiences. Sunday afternoon is the most affordable.
Giveaways and Promotions
When the Lions hand out promotional items like team apparel on a particular date, it boosts attendance and prices. Big halftime shows also provide more perceived value.
COVID-19 Factors
The pandemic suppressed ticket prices the last two seasons. Limited capacities and health concerns kept the market soft. Prices are rebounding now as full crowds return.
How to Get the Best Ticket Deals
For those seeking Lions tickets on a budget, here are some of the best tips and strategies:
Buy Upper Level Sideline Tickets
You can’t beat the overhead view of the action from up high at an affordable price. These tickets regularly come in under $100.
Purchase Preseason Tickets
Exhibition games in August don’t count, so they garner far less interest. But you still get to see the team play in live action for cheap.
Look for Group and Family Packs
The Lions offer discounted ticket bundles for groups of 10+ people and families of 4+. You get good sections at sizable discounts.
Buy Early Before the Season
There are lots of unknowns early so teams keep initial prices low. Buying a few months out yields savings versus late buys.
Shop Resale Sites Leading Up to Game
Prices fall on secondary markets as kickoff approaches if a game hasn’t sold well. Check sites routinely for price drops.
Inquire About Specials and Promos
Ask your Lions ticket rep about specials they may be running for certain games later in the year to boost sales.
Sign Up for Lions Email Newsletters
Sales and discounts are announced to email subscribers first. Be ready to take advantage before the general public.
Use Cash Back and Rewards Sites
Look for bonuses and cash back through places like Rakuten when you buy to effectively lower prices.
Ticket Price Comparison By Opponent
To demonstrate the fluctuation in ticket prices depending on the opponent, here is a table showing the range of average asking prices both on the primary and secondary market for different Lions games this season:
Opponent | Lowest Price | Average Price | Highest Price |
---|---|---|---|
Philadelphia Eagles | $125 | $185 | $375 |
Washington Commanders | $75 | $110 | $225 |
Seattle Seahawks | $90 | $130 | $250 |
Green Bay Packers | $175 | $275 | $450 |
Jacksonville Jaguars | $65 | $100 | $200 |
Minnesota Vikings | $125 | $200 | $350 |
Buffalo Bills | $150 | $225 | $400 |
Chicago Bears | $175 | $250 | $425 |
The premium commanded by divisional games against the Packers, Vikings, and Bears is clear in the data, as are contests versus top AFC contenders like the Bills. Meanwhile, games against losing clubs like the Jaguars have far cheaper tickets available. This table illustrates the sizable fluctuations in pricing.
Conclusion
Detroit Lions tickets can be an affordable and fun way to experience live professional football. While the team has struggled lately, their games remain a popular tradition and mainstay of the Detroit sports scene. By following the tips listed for finding deals and discounts, you can land great seats at Ford Field without breaking the bank. Lions games are the perfect opportunity to get together with fellow fans and support the hometown team.