Sports teams today aren’t just about winning games; they’re becoming billion-dollar businesses. Some franchises are now worth more than entire companies, and the numbers keep rising every year.
This blog breaks down the most expensive sports teams across the world, showing how certain franchises have reached unbelievable price tags.
We will also look at why NFL teams dominate the list, how NBA values are exploding, and why soccer clubs have slipped behind.
You’ll see what drives team valuations, which franchises are growing the fastest, and what makes certain teams so powerful even when they aren’t winning championships.
It’s a full guide to how the sports world is turning into one of the biggest money machines on the planet.
Who’s #1?
The Dallas Cowboys are still the most expensive sports team on the planet. They’re worth an incredible $10.1 billion as of 2024-2025. That’s right – over 10 billion dollars for a single football team!
The Cowboys have held the top spot for nine years straight. They’re also the first sports franchise ever to cross the $10 billion mark. Pretty impressive for a team that hasn’t won a Super Bowl since 1996, right?
You might have heard rumors that the Los Angeles Lakers could be worth more, especially amid talk of a $10 billion sale.
But according to Forbes and Statista – the experts who track these numbers – the Cowboys are still number one.
Complete Rankings: Top Highest Valued Sports Teams
These rankings highlight the world’s most valuable sports franchises, showcasing the teams that dominate financially through market power, global fanbases, iconic branding, and massive revenue growth.
#1. Dallas Cowboys
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Years at #1 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dallas Cowboys | NFL | $10.1 Billion | +14% | Jerry Jones | 9 Years |
The Cowboys generate massive revenue from AT&T Stadium, which attracts over 200,000 visitors annually for tours alone. Their merchandise consistently ranks first or second league-wide, regardless of playoff performance.
Jerry Jones revolutionized team sponsorships by negotiating individual deals outside the NFL’s collective structure.
The franchise benefits from being in the nation’s fourth-largest media market and maintains a global fan base spanning generations.
#2. Golden State Warriors
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Championship Wins |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golden State Warriors | NBA | $8.8 Billion | +10% | Joe Lacob & Peter Guber | 4 (2015-2022) |
Purchased for just $450 million in 2010, the Warriors have delivered a staggering 20x return for their ownership group.
The Chase Center in San Francisco hosts over 200 events annually beyond basketball games, generating year-round revenue.
Their location in Silicon Valley attracts tech billionaires willing to pay premium prices for courtside seats and luxury suites.
The team’s dynasty era transformed them into a global brand with massive international appeal.
#3. Los Angeles Rams
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Home Stadium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Rams | NFL | $7.6 Billion | +23% | Stan Kroenke | SoFi Stadium |
Stan Kroenke’s $5 billion SoFi Stadium investment has paid off handsomely, driving the Rams’ value up 23% in just one year.
The venue hosts major events, including concerts and college championships, and will feature prominently in the 2028 Olympics.
Kroenke’s real estate empire complements the team’s operations through mixed-use developments surrounding the stadium.
Winning Super Bowl LVI in their home stadium further elevated the franchise’s brand power across Los Angeles.
#4. New York Yankees
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | World Series Titles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York Yankees | MLB | $7.55 Billion | +5% | Steinbrenner Family | 27 |
The Yankees dominate baseball’s financial landscape through ownership of the YES Network, their regional sports broadcaster that reaches millions during the 162-game season.
Their iconic pinstripe uniforms and interlocking NY logo are recognized worldwide, making them a true global brand.
The franchise plays in America’s largest media market and commands premium pricing for everything from tickets to luxury suites. Their history of excellence attracts top free agents willing to play in the Bronx spotlight.
#5. New York Knicks
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Home Venue |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York Knicks | NBA | $7.5 Billion | +8% | Madison Square Garden Sports | Madison Square Garden |
Despite decades without an NBA championship, the Knicks remain extraordinarily valuable thanks to their Madison Square Garden location in Manhattan’s heart.
The arena hosts countless high-profile events beyond basketball, from concerts to boxing matches, generating diverse revenue streams.
Playing in America’s top media market guarantees maximum exposure and premium advertising rates. The team’s ownership also controls significant real estate assets tied to the arena complex, adding hidden value layers.
#6. New England Patriots
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Super Bowl Wins |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New England Patriots | NFL | $7.4 Billion | +3% | Robert Kraft | 6 |
Robert Kraft purchased the Patriots for just $172 million in 1994, making this one of sports’ most profitable investments ever.
The team’s two-decade dynasty under Tom Brady and Bill Belichick built a loyal national fanbase far beyond New England.
Gillette Stadium features Patriot Place, a massive outdoor shopping and entertainment complex that generates revenue year-round.
The franchise’s consistent winning culture allows premium pricing across tickets, merchandise, and corporate partnerships.
#7. New York Giants
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Home Stadium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York Giants | NFL | $7.3 Billion | +11% | John Mara & Steve Tisch | MetLife Stadium |
The Giants share MetLife Stadium with the Jets, but their storied history gives them a valuation edge over the Jets.
Playing in the New York market offers unmatched corporate sponsorship opportunities and media exposure valued at hundreds of millions annually.
The Mara family has owned the team since 1925, representing one of football’s most iconic ownership legacies. Four Super Bowl victories since 1986 keep the fanbase engaged and merchandise sales strong.
#8. Los Angeles Lakers
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | NBA Championships |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Lakers | NBA | $7.1 Billion | +12% | Jeanie Buss & Family | 17 |
The Lakers are basketball royalty, with a celebrity-studded fanbase that includes Hollywood’s biggest stars sitting courtside at every home game.
Their purple and gold brand resonates globally, making them one of sport’s most recognizable franchises worldwide.
Speculation about a potential $10 billion sale continues to swirl, which would shatter records for sports franchise sales.
The team’s consistent ability to attract superstar players like LeBron James and Anthony Davis maintains their competitive relevance and marketability.
#9. New York Jets
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Home Stadium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| New York Jets | NFL | $6.9 Billion | +9% | Woody Johnson | MetLife Stadium |
Despite limited playoff success in recent decades, the Jets thrive financially thanks to their presence in America’s premier media market.
They split MetLife Stadium costs and revenues with the Giants, creating an efficient operational structure.
The franchise commands premium prices for personal seat licenses, with some fans paying six figures just for the right to buy season tickets.
Woody Johnson’s ownership includes significant real estate investments that complement the team’s core operations.
#10. San Francisco 49ers
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Home Stadium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco 49ers | NFL | $6.8 Billion | +7% | Denise DeBartolo York | Levi’s Stadium |
Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara serves as a high-tech showcase befitting Silicon Valley’s premier NFL franchise. The venue hosted Super Bowl 50 and regularly attracts major events, including college football championships and international soccer matches.
The team’s five Super Bowl victories from their dynasty era created generational fan loyalty across Northern California.
Their proximity to tech wealth means corporate partnerships with giants like Google, Apple, and Intel generate substantial sponsorship revenue.
#11. Las Vegas Raiders
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Home Stadium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Las Vegas Raiders | NFL | $6.7 Billion | +12% | Mark Davis | Allegiant Stadium |
The Raiders’ move to Las Vegas has been one of the most financially successful relocations in sports history. Allegiant Stadium sits right off the Strip, drawing tourists and visiting fans willing to pay premium ticket prices.
The team’s iconic silver-and-black branding maintains national appeal, while Vegas’ booming entertainment economy fuels sponsorship growth.
The franchise’s relocation instantly elevated its value and opened new revenue channels unavailable in its previous markets.
#12. Real Madrid
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Competition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Real Madrid | Soccer | $6.6 Billion | +9% | Club Members | La Liga / UEFA Champions League |
Real Madrid is one of the most valuable global sports brands, driven by consistent Champions League success and worldwide fan devotion.
The club operates under a membership model, giving it unique financial autonomy. Revenue pours in from global merchandising, international tours, and massive broadcasting deals.
The ongoing renovation of the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium promises even greater year-round revenue through concerts, events, and premium hospitality.
#13. Chicago Bears
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Founded |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago Bears | NFL | $6.4 Billion | +4% | McCaskey Family | 1919 |
As one of the NFL’s founding franchises, the Bears carry more than a century of football history. Situated in a major media market, the team benefits from strong broadcasting revenue and a dedicated fanbase.
The Bears’ plans for a new stadium complex could further elevate their valuation.
Despite inconsistent on-field results, the franchise consistently ranks among the league’s most profitable due to loyal fan support and long-term brand strength.
#14. Manchester United
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Home Stadium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manchester United | Soccer | $6.3 Billion | +2% | Glazer Family | Old Trafford |
Manchester United remains one of the world’s most commercially powerful soccer clubs. Their global fanbase generates enormous merchandise sales and social media engagement.
Despite recent competitive struggles, international sponsorships and massive broadcast deals keep revenue high.
The club’s iconic Old Trafford stadium is a historic destination, though discussions over modernization continue as ownership evaluates future investments.
#15. Washington Commanders
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Home Stadium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Washington Commanders | NFL | $6.3 Billion | +21% | Josh Harris | FedExField |
The Commanders saw a dramatic valuation spike following Josh Harris’s record-setting purchase, which reset expectations across the NFL.
The team’s location in the Washington, D.C. region provides strong political, corporate, and media ties. A new stadium project is expected to be a major future value driver.
With new leadership and a refreshed brand direction, the franchise is entering one of its most transformative eras.
#16. Boston Celtics
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | NBA Championships |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Boston Celtics | NBA | $6.1 Billion | +28% | Wyc Grousbeck | 18 |
The Celtics’ historic brand, combined with their 2024 NBA championship, has driven one of the largest year-over-year valuation jumps in sports.
Playing in one of America’s most passionate sports markets boosts merchandise sales and local sponsorships.
Their long-standing rivalry with the Lakers fuels global recognition. With a young, superstar-led roster, the franchise is positioned for sustained success on and off the court.
#17. Philadelphia Eagles
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Super Bowl Wins |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Philadelphia Eagles | NFL | $6.0 Billion | +9% | Jeffrey Lurie | 1 |
The Eagles benefit from a fiercely loyal fanbase and one of the NFL’s most successful eras in recent memory. Lincoln Financial Field and its surrounding developments create strong gameday and year-round revenue.
Consistent playoff contention boosts national TV exposure and merchandise sales. Jeffrey Lurie’s modernized organizational strategy has helped elevate both on-field performance and financial growth.
#18. Houston Texans
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Founded |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Houston Texans | NFL | $5.9 Billion | +8% | Janice McNair | 2002 |
Though a younger franchise, the Texans benefit from operating in the nation’s fourth-largest city with a massive corporate presence.
The energy sector offers lucrative sponsorship deals, while NRG Stadium hosts major events such as the rodeo and international soccer.
With a rising young quarterback and revived fan enthusiasm, the Texans’ brand and revenue potential continue to grow.
#19. Chicago Bulls
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | NBA Championships |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Chicago Bulls | NBA | $5.7 Billion | +11% | Jerry Reinsdorf | 6 |
The Bulls remain a global brand thanks to the enduring legacy of Michael Jordan, whose era solidified Chicago as a basketball powerhouse.
Their international appeal drives strong merchandise sales and global partnerships. The team plays in a top U.S. market, boosting local revenue streams.
Even without recent championships, the Bulls maintain one of the most valuable positions in the NBA.
#20. Barcelona
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Competition |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Barcelona | Soccer | $5.6 Billion | +6% | Club Members | La Liga / UEFA Champions League |
Barcelona remains one of the world’s most iconic soccer clubs, supported by a massive global fanbase and years of elite success.
Despite recent financial turbulence, the club continues to generate strong revenue from sponsorships, media rights, and worldwide merchandise.
The renovated Spotify Camp Nou promises to unlock major new revenue streams once complete. Their global academy network further solidifies long-term brand strength.
#21. Los Angeles Dodgers
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Home Stadium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Dodgers | MLB | $5.6 Billion | +7% | Guggenheim Baseball | Dodger Stadium |
The Dodgers remain one of baseball’s most profitable franchises thanks to their massive Southern California market and winning tradition.
Dodger Stadium is MLB’s largest ballpark by capacity, helping drive strong ticket revenue. Their lucrative local TV deal and consistent playoff appearances boost national visibility.
A diverse, loyal fanbase and strong player development pipeline keep the franchise financially and competitively elite.
#22. Denver Broncos
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Home Stadium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Denver Broncos | NFL | $5.5 Billion | +4% | Walton-Penner Group | Empower Field at Mile High |
The Broncos enjoy one of the NFL’s most passionate fan bases, with decades of strong attendance. The Walton-Penner Group’s recent ownership shift brought significant investment power from America’s wealthiest family.
Denver’s strong regional support and consistent national appeal keep sponsorships high. Even during rebuilding phases, the Broncos maintain robust franchise value due to market strength and storied history.
#23. Miami Dolphins
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Home Stadium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miami Dolphins | NFL | $5.5 Billion | +9% | Stephen Ross | Hard Rock Stadium |
The Dolphins’ valuation continues to climb thanks to Hard Rock Stadium’s transformation into a year-round event hub.
The venue hosts F1, the Miami Open, concerts, and major football events, creating diverse revenue streams. Miami’s global appeal strengthens the franchise’s brand across Latin America and international markets.
With improved on-field performance, fan engagement and merchandising have surged.
#24. Cleveland Browns
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Home Stadium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cleveland Browns | NFL | $5.4 Billion | +13% | Haslam Family | Cleveland Browns Stadium |
Despite limited competitive success in recent decades, the Browns benefit from an intensely loyal fanbase and a stable regional market.
Their downtown stadium location anchors significant local economic activity. The Haslam family continues investing in stadium improvements and modernization efforts.
Rising NFL media rights deals alone significantly boost franchise valuations year over year.
#25. Seattle Seahawks
| Team Name | League | Valuation | 1-Year Change | Owner(s) | Home Stadium |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seattle Seahawks | NFL | $5.4 Billion | +8% | Jody Allen | Lumen Field |
The Seahawks maintain one of the NFL’s loudest and most dedicated fanbases, famously known as the “12s.” Lumen Field’s design amplifies crowd noise, creating a major home-field advantage.
Seattle’s strong tech-driven economy supports premium sponsorship deals. The team’s consistent competitiveness over the past decade has kept merchandise sales and national visibility high.
Why NFL Teams Dominate
Look at that list again. Notice how many NFL teams made the cut? There’s a good reason for this. The NFL has 15 teams in the top 25 most valuable franchises worldwide. That’s more than half!
Here’s why American football teams are worth so much:
- Massive TV deals: The NFL signed media rights contracts worth $125.5 billion through 2033. That means every single team gets about $380 million per year just from TV money.
- Limited supply: There are only 32 NFL teams, and owners almost never sell. When they do, prices go through the roof.
- Sunday tradition: Football is deeply woven into American culture. Families plan their whole week around game day.
The Dallas Cowboys: World’s Richest Team
Let’s talk about why the Cowboys are worth more than any other team on Earth.
The Cowboys call themselves “America’s Team,” and honestly, that nickname is worth billions. Even people who hate the Cowboys know about them. That’s the kind of brand recognition companies dream about.
Jerry Jones, the owner since 1989, turned the Cowboys into a money-making machine. Here’s how he did it:
Stadium Magic: AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, isn’t just a football field. It’s a tourist destination. People visit when there aren’t even games happening! The stadium brings in money from:
- Concerts and special events
- Stadium tours (over 200,000 visitors yearly)
- Luxury suites that cost up to $500,000 per season
- Naming rights from AT&T
Sponsorship Goldmine: The Cowboys have corporate partnerships with everyone from Pepsi to Ford. These deals bring in hundreds of millions each year.
Merchandise Madness: Walk into any sports store in America, and you’ll see that star logo. The Cowboys consistently rank #1 or #2 in merchandise sales, even in years when they don’t make the playoffs.
The NBA’s Incredible Growth
Basketball teams have seen their values explode over the past decade. NBA franchises have grown 596% in value over just 10 years. That’s an average of 15% growth every single year!
Golden State Warriors: $8.8 Billion
The Warriors sit at #2 on our list, and it’s no accident. When Joe Lacob bought the team in 2010 for $450 million, people thought he overpaid. Now the team is worth nearly $9 billion. That’s a 20x return!
What changed? Everything:
- They built the Chase Center in San Francisco, which hosts 200+ events per year
- They won four NBA championships in eight years
- They’re located in Silicon Valley, surrounded by tech billionaires who want courtside seats
- The NBA signed a new $76 billion media deal that kicks in soon
Why NBA Values Keep Rising
Basketball is taking over the world. The NBA now has fans in every country, and games are broadcast in over 200 territories. Plus, the sport itself is perfect for social media – highlight dunks and three-pointers get millions of views.
The league also has younger, more diverse fans than other sports. That matters to sponsors who want to reach the next generation of consumers.
Soccer: Still Valuable, But Falling Behind
European soccer clubs used to dominate these lists. Not anymore. Only a few soccer teams crack the top 25 now.
Real Madrid: $6.6 Billion (#12)
Real Madrid is the most valuable soccer club on Earth. They’ve won the Champions League more than any other team and have superstars like Vinícius Júnior and Jude Bellingham on their roster.
Manchester United: $6.3 Billion (#14)
Despite struggling on the field, United remains incredibly valuable thanks to its worldwide fanbase. Over 650 million people around the globe support the Red Devils.
Barcelona: $5.6 Billion (#20)
Barca rounds out the top soccer clubs. Like Real Madrid, they’re owned by their members (called “socios”), not by billionaires.
Why Soccer Teams are Worth Less than NFL Teams
This might surprise you, but here’s the reality:
- Smaller TV deals: Premier League teams only get about $150-200 million per year from TV rights. That’s less than half what NFL teams get.
- No Salary Cap: Teams can go broke trying to compete. Some clubs carry massive debts.
- Relegation Risk: In soccer, if you finish last, your team can be relegated to a lower league. That would devastate your value.
What’s Driving Team Values Higher?
Several big trends are pushing sports team values into the stratosphere.
Media Rights Explosion
Streaming services like Apple, Amazon, and YouTube are now bidding for sports rights against traditional TV networks. This competition drives prices up.
The NFL’s deals now bring each team $380 million annually. The NBA just signed contracts that will pay each team around $230 million per year.
Stadium Economics
Modern stadiums are entertainment complexes. SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles (home of the Rams) cost $5 billion to build. It hosts concerts, college football championships, and will host the 2028 Olympics.
The Rams’ value jumped 23% in one year, partly because of this stadium.
Teams now build mixed-use developments around their venues – apartments, restaurants, shops, and hotels. This creates year-round revenue, not just on game days.
Fastest Growing Teams
Some teams are growing faster than others. Here are the speed demons:
- Boston Celtics: +28% in one year (championship effect + NBA TV deal)
- Los Angeles Chargers: +23% (SoFi Stadium impact)
- Green Bay Packers: +22% (unique fan-ownership structure attracting attention)
- Washington Commanders: +21% (new ownership group led by Josh Harris)
How these Numbers are Calculated
You might wonder how anyone figures out what a team is worth. This is what is looked at and how its calculated:
- Revenue from tickets, suites, merchandise, and sponsorships
- Operating income (profit after expenses)
- Stadium economics
- Media rights contracts
- Brand value
Wrapping Up
The world of sports is changing fast, and team values are rising higher than ever. From massive TV deals to high-tech stadiums, every part of the industry is growing and generating more revenue each year.
Some franchises are now global brands with fanbases that span continents, and their financial power shows no signs of slowing.
Even teams that aren’t winning championships retain significant value because of loyal fans, smart business moves, and strong market demand.
With so much happening behind the scenes, it’s easy to see why the sports world has become such a major business.
Want more deep dives like this? Stick around for more breakdowns, rankings, and sports insights.
