Detroit Lions Ticket Prices Soar as Playoff Run Boosts Local Economy

Ticket Prices Reach Unprecedented Heights: The Lions' home game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday has become the most expensive Divisional playoff game on record. According to online marketplace TickPick, the average ticket price for this game is a staggering $1,097. This figure nearly doubles the previous record set last year during the Divisional round playoff game between the San Francisco 49ers and the Dallas Cowboys. Even standing room-only tickets are selling for almost $700, highlighting the immense demand to witness the Lions' Cinderella run towards the Super Bowl. Fans who have waited decades for this moment are determined to be a part of it, regardless of the steep prices. Economic Boost for Detroit: The Lions' playoff success extends beyond ticket vendors. The entire Detroit economy is reaping the benefits of the team's rare triumph. Bars, restaurants, casinos, and hotels are witnessing a surge in demand as local fans and visitors flock to downtown Detroit to support the team. Consulting firm Anderson Economic Group projects that Sunday's playoff game alone will boost the Detroit metro economy by a staggering $52 million. This economic stimulus encompasses fan spending inside the stadium as well as outside at various establishments. The impact is particularly significant for a city that has faced challenges like the Great Recession, the collapse of the US auto industry, and the largest bankruptcy in American history.

The Taylor Swift Effect: The Lions' playoff success has created a similar phenomenon to Taylor Swift concerts, where fans are unwilling to give up their seats regardless of the price in the secondary market. Detroit fans, who have endured years of disappointment, are determined to be part of this historic moment. The scarcity of ticket inventory further drives up prices, with the "get-in" price for a physical seat at the Lions' game surpassing the combined cost of attending all other Divisional Round playoff games this weekend. Putting Detroit in the National Spotlight: As the Lions' playoff game airs on NBC, Detroit will once again find itself in the national spotlight. The $52 million economic stimulus estimate from Anderson Economic Group does not even factor in the halo effect that Detroit, a city striving to rebuild its image, will enjoy from this exposure. The national spotlight provides an opportunity for the real Detroit to shine, showcasing its urban gardens, lively apartments, and Instagram-worthy restaurants.