"Even in the best of times, a Disneyland vacation is a luxury, one that can easily cost thousands of dollars. But over the past year, when costs for everything have gone up, jobs are unstable and rumblings of a recession are louder than ever, luxury travel has been an easy-to-cut expense for those who had to stretch to afford it in previous years."
"That profit isn't necessarily due to more guests, though - year over year from 2023 to 2024, attendance at domestic Disney parks remained relatively flat, up only 1.2%. A significant percentage of the additional money is coming from fewer guests spending more money per visit. That excess comes from higher ticket prices, higher hotel room prices, the addition of paid Lightning Lane access and increased food costs (which have some cost-conscious adults pivoting to ordering kids' meals)."
"Disney hasn't seen that selectivity affect its earnings just yet. Recently, the Walt Disney Co. has reported net positive profits for its Disney Experiences division, which covers theme parks and cruises, among other things. On the Nov. 13 earnings call, CEO Bob Iger reported "record operating income for both Q4 and the full year, with operating income up 13% for the fourth quarter compared to the prior year and up 8% for the full year.""
Disneyland vacations remain expensive and have become less affordable as general costs rise, jobs fluctuate and recession concerns grow. Disneyland implemented new ticket deals and a value-added annual pass for 2026 to encourage visits from lower-spending guests. Disney Experiences reported net positive profits and record operating income, driven by revenue increases rather than higher attendance. Domestic park attendance rose only 1.2% year over year from 2023 to 2024. Increased per-guest spending stems from higher ticket and hotel prices, paid Lightning Lane access, and elevated food costs. Company insiders have expressed concern that these rising costs may be unsustainable.
Read at SFGATE
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