“So much more than a game”: the staggering amount Super Bowl LIX was worth to New Orleans

A new study conducted by Louisiana State University (LSU) through its E.J. Ourso College of Business found that Super Bowl LIX generated a staggering $1.25 billion in economic impact statewide, making it one of the most financially successful events in Louisiana’s history.

That’s double the revenue generated the last time New Orleans hosted the Super Bowl in 2013, when the Ravens and 49ers faced off in Super Bowl XLVII.

The eye-watering numbers behind Super Bowl LIX: jobs, wages, hospitality...

The report, commissioned by Louisiana’s Department of Economic Development - the agency tasked with attracting investment to the state - also revealed that the event created nearly 10,000 new jobs (9,787 to be exact), resulting in $395 million in wages for local workers.

Gayle Benson, owner of the New Orleans Saints, emphasized the long-term importance of hosting marquee events like the Super Bowl and confirmed that the city is already lobbying to bring the big game back. New Orleans has hosted the Super Bowl 11 times - tied with Miami for the most in NFL history - and one more appearance would put “The Big Easy” in the record books.

“The Super Bowl is so much more than just a game. It’s a reflection of everything that makes our community special,” Benson said. “We’ve already started conversations with the NFL, and I’ve personally reached out to Commissioner Roger Goodell to express our strong interest in hosting again soon.”

The hospitality sector saw the biggest windfall from the Super Bowl festivities. Hotels brought in $91.1 million from fans who attended the game at the Caesars Superdome, and another $42.5 million from visitors who came to soak up the atmosphere without going inside the stadium. Casinos and sportsbooks also saw strong numbers, pulling in $81.8 million and $28.7 million, respectively.

The NFL Experience, a special event for New Orleans

One of the cornerstone events of Super Bowl week was the NFL Experience at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, a fan-focused extravaganza that offered everything from interactive games and exhibits to autograph sessions and memorabilia displays. Designed as a theme park for football lovers of all ages, the NFL Experience played a key role in drawing visitors and driving local spending.

In fact, LSU’s report found that fans spent $35.5 million on retail purchases across Louisiana during Super Bowl week, with the NFL Experience serving as the largest single site for official Super Bowl LIX merchandise sales.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.