Rocket Companies Inc. Reveals Impact of Housing Costs on Super Bowl Attendance

The report indicates that fans from Seattle can expect to pay the equivalent of approximately three monthly mortgage payments to attend the Super Bowl. Similarly, fans traveling from Boston face a comparable financial strain. The costs associated with attending the game are significantly high, emphasizing the ongoing struggles with housing affordability in these regions.

For those planning to travel to Santa Clara, California, the total estimated cost for two people—including tickets, airfare, and lodging—amounts to $12,681 for Seattle residents and $13,031 for those coming from Boston. Here’s a closer look at the cost breakdown:

The analysis illustrates that attending the Super Bowl costs roughly 2.8 times the median monthly mortgage payment for Seattleites and 3.1 times for Bostonians.

Daryl Fairweather, Redfin’s chief economist, commented on the broader implications of these findings. The high costs of housing combined with high discretionary spending on experiences like the Super Bowl illustrate the widening economic gap in the U.S., often referred to as the K-shaped economy.

“For fans who place a high value on experiences, spending the equivalent of several months’ housing payments can feel rational, not reckless, as long as it fits within their budget,” Fairweather stated. “Big events like this aren’t just about the game; they’re about memories, identity, and social connection. The emotional payoff of being there can outweigh the sticker shock, if you can comfortably afford it.”

The report highlights a crucial point: many Americans are grappling with housing costs that consume a significant portion of their income. In Seattle and Boston, the typical household is spending nearly half of their earnings on mortgage payments, a stark contrast to the widely accepted guideline of spending no more than 30% of one’s income on housing.

This financial strain leaves little room for discretionary spending, putting events like the Super Bowl out of reach for many fans.

Rocket Companies, through Redfin, has provided a thought-provoking analysis that sheds light on the intersection of housing affordability and consumer spending on experiences. As fans prepare to travel across the country for the big game, the financial implications of attending such events continue to reflect broader economic trends. While some may view spending on experiences as a worthwhile investment, for many, it remains a significant financial challenge.

As the report suggests, the ability to afford such experiences varies widely, showcasing the disparities within today’s economy. For those lucky enough to enjoy the Super Bowl, the memories made may just be worth the financial sacrifice.