When talking about the 11 most expensive NFL stadiums to build, one must first understand the depth of impact of football on American culture. The sport, often described as the “American passion” (as opposed to baseball, which is nicknamed the “National Pastime”), showcases just how significant football has been to the American public.
Originally, football stadiums were built to simply accommodate the players and their fans; however, as the years passed, and the sport became more and more popular, the design and purpose of NFL stadiums evolved, incorporating pleasure and comfort, as well as numerous amenities that turned them into complete destinations for sports teams. You might, as well, be interested in checking our list of the 10 most profitable US sports teams.
Currently, the 11 most expensive NFL stadiums to build, as well as dozens of others out there are not just used for hosting football games. Their open fields and large seating capacities also make them ideal for concerts, festivals, city-wide celebrations, and more. Additionally, these football stadiums stand as testaments to the architectural progress that America has achieved all throughout these years.
11. The University of Phoenix Stadium
This massive football arena located in the heart of Glendale, Arizona was built in 2003 and hosted a wide range of events including the 2011 BCS National Championship Game and Super Bowl XLII. Built on a cost of $527 million, the University of Phoenix Stadium boasts a seating capacity of 63,400, as well as 14,000 on-site parking spaces and a movable field. There is also an eight-acre field called the “Great Lawn” which can be used for tailgating events.
10. Sports Authority Field at Mile High
Known mostly for hosting the home games of the Denver Broncos, the Sports Authority Field at Mile High has also featured games for the city’s Men’s Lacrosse team, the Denver Outlaws. Built on a cost of $528 million, this stadium has seen multiple upgrades throughout the course of its use, such as the inclusion of the Pepsi Center and Coors Field.
9. Ford Field
Ford Field is undoubtedly one of the most popular in this list of the 11 most expensive NFL stadiums to build due to the number of events that it has hosted since it opened to the public in 2002. Aside from featuring numerous NFL games, Ford Field also became famous for hosting WWE WrestleMania 23 in 2007, where it had its highest attendance. It cost $558 million to build Ford Field, and had to undergo approval due to its specialized design where it allowed more natural sunlight to reach the playing field compared to all other NFL stadiums.
8. CenturyLink Field (formerly Qwest Field)
Home of the Seattle Seahawks, the CenturyLink Field proudly holds the Guinness World Record for the “Loudest Crowd Road at an Outdoor Stadium” due to the intense amount of cheering that the team’s fans make during their games. Originally named Qwest Field, CenturyLink Field was built on a cost of $558 million, and features facilities such as the WaMu Theater and a public plaza. The stadium also hosts soccer games.
7. Paul Brown Stadium
More popularly known as “The Jungle” due to being the home stadium of the Cincinnati Bengals, the Paul Brown Stadium boasts a seating capacity of 65,535, several training and practice facilities, as well as administrative offices on 22 acres of property. Built on a cost of $617 million, this football arena was the only NFL stadium to be featured in Harris Interactive’s “America’s Favorite Architecture” list, as well as the very first NFL-based structure to win an AIA award.
6. Lincoln Financial Field
The nest of the Philadelphia Eagles is not only outstanding in its appearance but also in its facilities. Since its opening in 2003, Lincoln Financial Field has hosted multiple sporting events including soccer games for Manchester United and FC Barcelona. With a construction cost of $650 million, Lincoln Financial Field includes numerous training facilities, Wi-Fi spots, LED displays, and more. The stadium was also awarded the most environmental friendly NFL stadium in 2013.
5. Lucas Oil Stadium
After opening its doors to the public in 2008, the Lucas Oil Stadium became a favorite for a wide variety of events, including the Super Bowl XLVI, Monster Jam, as well as the Bands of America Grand National Championships. Nicknamed “The House That Manning Built” as a tribute to Peyton Manning (a former Indianapolis Colts quarterback), the Lucas Oil Stadium was constructed on a cost of $735 million.
4. Soldier Field
Popular for being the oldest NFL stadium, the Soldier Field underwent numerous renovations throughout its years of use. The latest, which was done in 2003, cost around $802 million, and greatly improved the arena’s facilities. Although Soldier Stadium is one of the smallest NFL stadiums, with a seating capacity of only 61,500, it has seen numerous international events.
3. Levi’s Stadium
The home of the San Francisco 49ers, Levi’s Stadium was built on an estimated cost of $1.3 billion. It features a seating capacity of 68,500, as well as numerous training facilities and offices. Levi’s Stadium hosted several events including WrestleMania 31 and Super Bowl 50.
2. AT&T Stadium
The home of the Dallas Cowboys is one of the largest NFL stadiums ever built. Completed in 2009, the AT&T Stadium is known for being one of the highest-priced stadiums in the NFL, with very expensive parking fees and programs. Built on a cost of $1.3 billion, the AT&T Stadium boasts a seating capacity of 80,000.
And, the most expensive NFL stadium ever built is: Metlife Stadium
It is no surprise that the most expensive NFL stadium ever built sits in the busiest city in the United States. Constructed at a cost of $1.6 billion and completed in 2010, the Metlife Stadium has hosted several major events such as Super Bowl XLVIII and WWE WrestleMania 29.
