Nicholas Molinari Nicholas Molinari
Associate Manager, Tax and Economic Policy, U.S. Chamber of Commerce
Rachel Ledbetter Rachel Ledbetter
Director, Policy & Political Communications, U.S. Chamber of Commerce

Published

February 06, 2025

Share

Super Bowl LIX isn’t just a football game—it’s the American economic sports event of the year, an accelerator of businesses of all sizes, and a cultural moment that brings Americans together in record-breaking numbers.

The final estimated local economic impact of last year's Super Bowl in Las Vegas was $1 billion – fueled by direct spending by visitors and residents, indirect spending at local businesses, employment, and tax revenue.

But the effects are felt in communities across the country. From takeout from local restaurants to investing in new electronics, the Super Bowl drives spending that positively impacts local businesses, workers, and customers.

New Orleans is hosting its 11th Super Bowl this weekend. Initial estimates for Super Bowl LIX show a local economic impact of at least $500 million, but the final figure could be much higher.

From booming hospitality and tourism to innovative programs designed to uplift local entrepreneurs, the Super Bowl serves as a testament to the interconnectedness and resilience of the U.S. economy. The game is truly brought to fans by American businesses.

This year, the energy is electric in New Orleans, a city known for its legendary exuberance, world-class cuisine, and southern hospitality—all of which will be on full display as over 100,000 visitors descend on the Crescent City. And none of it could happen without the support of countless businesses in New Orleans and across the country. 

Playbook of Progress: The Super Bowl's Sustainable Economic Contributions 

In anticipation, the New Orleans Super Bowl Host Committee has launched an innovative 13,000-square-foot economic development center in the heart of the Big Easy, serving as a showcase for visiting business leaders.

This hub will foster entrepreneurship long after the final whistle, ensuring that the game’s local impact extends beyond game day. The Host Committee also plans on documenting best practices, lessons learned, and success stories generated, creating a valuable resource for future event organizers.

Additionally, the “Impact 59 Powered by Entergy” program has provided $3.5 million in grants to 65 nonprofit organizations across Greater New Orleans, funding initiatives focused on youth development, workforce training, education, and other community programs. This level of private investment showcases how the Super Bowl is a catalyst for sustainable growth in countless communities. 

End Zone Economics: Super Bowl Sunday’s Financial Boom 

While Super Bowl Sunday is the largest American sports event each year, it’s also the second-largest food-centric event in the U.S., behind only Thanksgiving.

By the Numbers: According to a survey by Premio Foods, Inc.:

  • 100 million pounds of chicken wings will be eaten.
  • 11.2 million pounds of potato chips and 8.2 million pounds of tortilla chips are consumed, complemented by 8 million pounds of guacamole 
  • 1 in 7 Americans order takeout

Beyond food, the entertainment industry is cashing in, with Super Bowl commercials expected to surpass $700 million in revenue—topping last year’s record. The average cost of a 30-second national spot has jumped from $7 million in 2024 to a projected $8 million this year, proving that brands are willing to pay top dollar to reach the projected 203.4 million U.S. adults tuning in—nearly 60% of the U.S. population. 

Super Bowl LIX: Making the Big Easy the MVP 

New Orleans has long been one of America’s most unique travel destinations. With demand for travel increasing by 204% compared to the last time New Orleans hosted the Super Bowl in 2013, visitors are flying an average of 911 miles to attend.

Ticket demand for this Chiefs-Eagles rematch is 38% higher than when the teams faced off at Super Bowl LVII in 2023.

Beyond the stadium, 40 impact events will take place up until gameday, with local community highlights including:

  • The planting of 600 tree saplings to serve as a storm surge buffer and the restoration of wetland coastline by community organizations. 
  • Collaboration between private sector leaders, nonprofit organizations, and local government, to ensure that Super Bowl LIX inspires a continued model for inclusive economic development. 

A Celebration of America’s Business Strength in the Big Easy  

At its core, the Super Bowl is more than a football game—it’s a celebration of American enterprise, the spirit of commerce, and economic resilience. From the businesses behind the game-day extravaganza to the local businesses supporting an entire city and the thousands of expected guests, the Super Bowl represents the best of the U.S. economy in action.

With record spending, investment in local communities, and a city that’s ready to shine on the global stage, New Orleans is proving that the Super Bowl isn’t just about touchdowns—it’s about economic transformation, continued growth, and the power of business to unite and uplift.

As the saying goes in the Bayou State, “Laissez les bons temps rouler!”—let the good times roll. With Super Bowl LIX, the excitement of the big game and its economic impact is sure to keep rolling long after the trophy is lifted.


The Chamber’s Brought to You by American Business campaign showcases how America’s businesses are working together to deliver unforgettable moments and experiences during important moments throughout the year. 

About the authors

Nicholas Molinari

Nicholas Molinari

Nicholas Molinari is an associate manager for the Tax and Economic policy teams at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Read more

Rachel Ledbetter

Rachel Ledbetter

Rachel Ledbetter is a director of policy and political communications at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

Read more

Topics