The Chicago Bears have announced a significant increase in season ticket prices, raising rates by an average of 13.5% for the 2026 season. This decision follows the franchise’s first playoff victory in 15 years, marking a notable turnaround for the team. The announcement was made by Bears President and CEO Kevin Warren in a letter to season ticket holders on Tuesday.
This price hike comes on the heels of a 10% increase implemented last year. Warren emphasized that the adjustment is part of a broader strategy founded on “detailed analysis and market research.” He articulated the team’s commitment to building a sustainable winning culture and a competitive team.
In his letter, Warren stated, “Our goals have not changed. We are working to build a sustainable winning culture, a team that competes for championships, and to construct a world-class stadium for the Chicagoland area and our fans.” He acknowledged the challenges ahead, reinforcing the organization’s dedication to its supporters.
Warren also expressed appreciation for the contributions of head coach Ben Johnson and general manager Ryan Poles, noting their efforts to foster a winning environment characterized by attention to detail and perseverance. He thanked fans for their unwavering support throughout the 2025 season, regardless of challenging weather conditions. Notably, fans braved one of the coldest games in Soldier Field history on December 14, 2025, when temperatures dipped to 8 degrees Fahrenheit at kickoff against the Cleveland Browns.
During the 2025 season, the Bears averaged 58,127 attendees across eight regular-season home games, a slight decrease from the previous year. However, attendance surged above 60,000 for both playoff games held in January at Soldier Field, highlighting the enthusiastic support from the fan base.
Looking ahead, the Bears will host nine regular-season games and one preseason game in 2026. In addition to their three NFC North rivals—the Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers, and Minnesota Vikings—they will host the Jacksonville Jaguars, New England Patriots, New Orleans Saints, New York Jets, Philadelphia Eagles, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Specific dates and times for these matchups will typically be announced in May.
As the organization continues its search for a new stadium, potential sites are being explored in locations such as Arlington Heights, northwest Indiana, and even Iowa. This pursuit aligns with the Bears’ vision of enhancing the game-day experience for their fans and solidifying their presence in the competitive landscape of professional football.
The increase in ticket prices, while a point of contention for some, reflects the Bears’ ambition to not only improve their on-field performance but also to invest in the infrastructure necessary to support a thriving franchise. As the team looks to the future, fans will undoubtedly be watching closely to see how these changes translate into success on the field.
