Disneyland prices have just gone up, in an increase that sees tickets for peak dates break the $200 mark for the first time.
How much will it cost me?
The overnight price change took place on Wednesday 9th October 2024 and means most park tickets now cost 6% more, with some yearly passes, or so-called “Magic Keys” for the original Disney resort in California, up to 20% more expensive. In raw terms that means a layout of between $12 and $61 more per ticket, according to CNN, and $100 more on Magic Keys, taking them to $599.
Extra perks, such as Lightning Lane passes, are up 7% to $32, but only when bought in advance. If you wait until you get there, you could pay far more depending on how busy the park is, as per the Disney philosophy of managing crowd numbers through ticket pricing.
22 price rises in 35 years
CNN also cited analyses that show tickets for the Anaheim Park in California have increased by 114% in the last 10 years and that Disney World has raised prices in 22 of the past 35 years, one fewer hike than at Universal Resort Orlando. The bad news is that Universal price increases usually follow close on Disney’s heels, so that’s an additional cost to look forward to.
Some have criticised Disney’s prices, seen as an inflation barometer, for being too exclusive. Still, Disneyland Resort spokesperson Jessica Good defended their offer in a statement, saying, “We always provide a wide variety of ticket, dining and hotel options, as well as promotional offers throughout the year, to welcome as many families as possible.”
Are there still any affordable tickets?
Commentators point out that the lowest-priced Disneyland tickets are usually single-park, one-day passes, in off-season. These prices are set to stay the same as they have been for six years: $104. Tickets for the busiest days are double that, now priced at $206, $12 more than previously. Meanwhile, at Disney World in Florida, the lowest entry point will go up by over $10 from $116.09 (including tax) to $126.74 (including tax) in 2025.
But, those planning Disney trips should be aware that multiday tickets can represent better value and that buying one brings down the price of other things, such as queue-hopping privileges. Getting to know the discount system is paramount, Disney insiders say.
Why is Disney raising prices?
The price increases come in the wake of a disappointing August earnings call that noted falling profits in Disney’s usually buoyant parks arm. The tumbling profits must have been doubly unwelcome given the commitment the company made last year to invest significantly in both parks and cruises, with $60 billion set aside for parks, experiences and products.
Part of the problem is also increased costs, with wages in particular on the rise. While consumers might not see any direct benefit from increases in staff salaries, investments that they will soon see come to fruition include a new Disneyland Tiana’s Bayou Adventure attraction, not to mention the year-long extravaganza that will come as the company celebrates its 70th anniversary in 2025.
