Are Kentucky Derby tickets more expensive this year? Here's what we know
If it feels like it is more expensive to attend the Kentucky Derby every year, that's because it is.
As Churchill Downs Racetrack has added more suites and exclusive seating options, elevated its fan experience, and built out new physical features like the $200 million paddock, average ticket prices have steadily ticked upward for visitors, too.
Ahead of this year's 150th Run for the Roses, the average ticket price to go to the Derby is over $1,200, according to a study conducted by TicketSmarter Inc., a Kansas-based online ticket marketplace and ticket resale site.
"It is a bucket list item for many people even if they are not fans of horse racing," said Jeff Goodman, CEO of TicketSmarter. "And I think in particular, with some of the premium seating areas, that demand is reflected in the increased price points."
Here's what we know about ticket prices ahead of this year's Kentucky Derby.
Have Kentucky Derby ticket prices increased?
Yes.
In 2014 the average Kentucky Derby ticket price was $378.67. This year, the average ticket price is $1,254.43 ahead of the first Saturday in May.
Here's a glimpse at average ticket prices — which includes ticket prices from the infield up to the most exclusive seating options Churchill Downs offers — over the last decade:
2024: $1,254.43
2023: $1,214.41
2022: $1,092.96
2021: $735.80
2019: $696.57
2018: $768.56
2017: $497.82
2016: $520.03
2015: $364.95
2014: $378.67
Note: 2020 data is not included due to the pandemic impacting ticket sales and attendance levels.
How much have Kentucky Derby ticket prices increased?
This year's pricing reflects a 231% increase in price compared to 10 years ago.
When compared to 2023, tickets for this year are about 3% or $40 more expensive on average, according to data from TicketSmarter.
Why have tickets for the Kentucky Derby increased so much post-COVID?
While ticket pricing data for 2020 was not reflected in the TicketSmarter study due to limited attendance allowance that would skew the data, Goodman notes the demand for tickets in a post-pandemic world has increased drastically.
With people looking to go out and experience live events more, prices are able to rise alongside this desire. The largest average price jump occurred in 2022, post-pandemic when the Derby allowed full capacity again.
"I think the price jump tells us that the demand for live events post-COVID has never been stronger," Goodman said. "It also shows that the price per ticket for live events has risen and in particular across high-profile events like the Kentucky Derby, Super Bowl, Masters, etc."
It's worth noting that tickets for the Kentucky Derby post-COVID for all areas where you purchase a seat are all-inclusive for food and beverages, which also contributes to higher ticket prices.
What are Kentucky Derby ticket prices now?
Here's a look at available tickets and prices according to Ticketmaster as of April 26:
Infield General Admission: $130-$144
Reserved seating: starting at $923 and selling upward of $10,781
Contact business reporter Olivia Evans at oevans@courier-journal.com or on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter at @oliviamevans_.
This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: How expensive are Kentucky Derby tickets? Here's what we know
