Major League Soccer teams have reached historic valuation levels, with the combined worth of all clubs hitting $23 billion as the league prepares for the 2026 season. The average MLS team’s value has climbed to $767 million, marking a 6% increase compared to the previous year and a 39% surge since 2021, according to the latest report from Sportico.
Top-Earning Teams Lead the Growth in Franchise Worth
Inter Miami CF, the reigning MLS Cup presented by Audi champions, stands out as the most valuable franchise with a valuation of $1.45 billion, boasting the highest increase of 22% across the league. Los Angeles FC closely follows at $1.4 billion. Additional teams surpassing the $1 billion mark include LA Galaxy, Atlanta United, and New York City FC, each showing steady growth in their valuations.
Sportico’s detailed breakdown reveals the following valuations and year-over-year increases for the top five MLS clubs:
- Inter Miami: $1.45 billion (22% growth)
- LAFC: $1.4 billion (9% growth)
- LA Galaxy: $1.17 billion (5% growth)
- Atlanta United: $1.14 billion (6% growth)
- NYCFC: $1.12 billion (12% growth)
Significance of Rising MLS Team Values
The continued rise in MLS team values reflects growing fan engagement, expanding media rights, and increasing commercial opportunities linked to soccer’s surge in popularity across North America. These valuations include real estate holdings and ancillary team-related businesses, underscoring the breadth of club investments.
As the league approaches the 2026 season, marked by international events such as the FIFA World Cup hosted partly in the United States, the upward trend in franchise valuations suggests expanding revenue streams and heightened global visibility for MLS teams. Growth among clubs like Inter Miami CF and LAFC also illustrates the influence of star player acquisitions and strategic market positioning.
Official Valuation Insights from Sportico
“NEW 2026 @MLS Team Valuations: @InterMiamiCF ranks first at $1.45 billion, up a league-high 22%.The average MLS team is worth $767 million, up 6% from last year. Five clubs worth more than $1 billion 🔥Full rankings from @kbadenhausen here: https://t.co/ms4FWZs1n7 pic.twitter.com/4dK1UkRRM8”
— Sportico
Outlook for MLS Amid Expanding Team Value
With MLS team values climbing steadily, the league is positioned for continued growth both on and off the field. Investments in talent, stadium infrastructure, and business operations are likely to accelerate as franchises capitalize on increased valuations. This financial momentum also supports ambitions for broader fan outreach and competitive strength.
As clubs such as Real Salt Lake and Columbus Crew make notable player acquisitions, including Juan Manuel Sanabria and Nariman Akhundzada respectively, the league’s profile is enhanced, contributing further to these positive valuation trends.
NEW 2026 @MLS Team Valuations: @InterMiamiCF ranks first at $1.45 billion, up a league-high 22%.
The average MLS team is worth $767 million, up 6% from last year. Five clubs worth more than $1 billion 💰
Full rankings from @kbadenhausen here: https://t.co/ms4FWZs1n7 pic.twitter.com/4dK1UkRRM8
— Sportico (@Sportico) February 10, 2026
