News Summary
New York City anticipates a significant economic boost of approximately $909 million from its Major League Baseball teams, the Yankees and Mets, during the 2025 season. With both teams’ home games drawing tens of thousands of fans, local businesses like restaurants and hotels will benefit from increased spending. Projections show the Yankees will contribute around $594 million, while the Mets are expected to add $315 million. The influx of visitors is positioned to support job growth across various sectors, promoting a recovery post-pandemic.
New York City is set to experience a significant economic boost from its Major League Baseball teams, the Yankees and Mets, during the upcoming 2025 regular season. A recent economic forecast indicates that home games for both teams will generate approximately $909 million in economic activity throughout the city.
With tens of thousands of fans flocking to the stadiums for home games, spending will extend well beyond the ballparks, positively impacting businesses throughout the five boroughs. This influx of visitors to the games will lead to increased spending in local restaurants, retail stores, hotels, and other services, all of which contribute to the local economy and job market.
The economic benefits are further highlighted by the types of jobs that will see an uptick due to this spending. Workers in various sectors, including chefs, bartenders, waiters, and retail employees, will benefit from the heightened activity brought on by games and events associated with the teams. The projected impact of the economic activity for the Yankees is approximately $594 million, while the Mets are expected to contribute about $315 million.
This balance reflects the Yankees’ higher ticket prices and historically greater attendance in comparison to the Mets. The 2024 season saw a record number of ticket sales for the Yankees, aided by strong postseason attendance figures, which underscores their dominant presence in the local baseball scene.
The cumulative economic contribution of New York’s professional sports teams has been substantial, particularly in the wake of the pandemic. In the prior year, the Yankees, Mets, and WNBA Liberty collectively generated nearly $200 million during their playoff appearances, demonstrating the significant draw and economic impact of local sports.
The recent playoff run by the Yankees contributed to a noticeable increase in business activity within the Bronx, greatly benefiting food, retail, and hospitality sectors in the area. The positive economic trajectory is further supported by a decrease in unemployment rates across all demographic groups in New York City since the administration of Mayor Eric Adams commenced. The city has achieved its highest-ever employment levels, breaking records multiple times since taking office, complemented by a rise in small business formation and affordable housing projects.
Looking ahead, tourist numbers are also projected to reach a record high in 2025, further bolstering the city’s recovery efforts. The mayor’s office has noted the pivotal role local sports teams play in energizing the economy following the challenges posed by COVID-19. There are hopes that a Subway Series—where the Yankees and Mets face off against one another—could provide even greater economic benefits if it comes to fruition.
The 2025 season opener for the Yankees is scheduled for March 27 against the Milwaukee Brewers, while the Mets will kick off their season on April 4 against the Toronto Blue Jays. The financial impact projections take into account various factors such as ticket sales, concessions, merchandise, as well as transportation and lodging expenses incurred by visitors.
In a continuing effort to enhance fan experiences at Citi Field, Mets owner Steve Cohen is driving initiatives aimed at increasing attendance and fan engagement. This includes proposed investments in a new Metropolitan Park project to bolster its facilities further. Efforts are also underway to improve the guest experience at both stadiums, ensuring that fans continue to have a reason to attend games and support their teams, boosting local economic activity in the process.
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Additional Resources
- Manhattan Times
- BX Times
- ABC 7 NY
- Sports Business Journal
- AM New York
- Wikipedia: New York City
- Google Search: Yankees Mets economic impact
- Google Scholar: Yankees Mets economic impact
- Encyclopedia Britannica: New York City
- Google News: Yankees Mets economic impact
