Introduction to NFL Tailgating
NFL football is back in action, and there’s no better way to celebrate the return of your favorite team than with a classic tailgate. For dedicated Houston Texans fans, tailgating at NRG Stadium this year won’t break the bank, as a new report reveals the stadium is in the bottom half of the NFL’s most expensive tailgating destinations in America.
Ranking the Stadiums
Online sports betting experts Oddspedia ranked 30 stadiums nationwide based on their parking costs, food and drink prices, and overall average tailgate costs. The estimated cost of tailgating for four Texans fans at NRG Stadium comes out to $194.15, which is the 17th highest tally out of all 30 stadiums on the list. This is about five percent less than the national average, which is $205.17.
Food and Drink Costs
In the national comparison of just food and drink costs, Texans fans tied with Dallas Cowboys fans for the sixth-highest grocery costs. To feed four hungry tailgaters on either team, the average grocery trip cost comes out to $154.15, which covers ingredients for "cheeseburgers, hotdogs, Italian subs, chicken wings, pretzels, chips and dips," among other culinary necessities. Fans can also enjoy Truth BBQ at sections 109 and 129.
Parking Costs
Luckily for fans, a good chunk of the overall cost won’t get eaten up by pulling into a top parking spot at NRG Park. The report found parking at NRG Stadium costs $40, which is more affordable than the average cost for parking across all 30 stadiums, which came out to $57.38.
Comparison to Other Teams
The most committed Texans fans can take pride in knowing they aren’t rooting for the Dallas Cowboys, as tailgating at AT&T Stadium in Arlington costs $242.15 for four people. Dallas Cowboys fans are saddled with the third highest tailgate costs in the U.S., according to the report. The top 10 NFL teams with the most expensive tailgating experiences are:
- No. 1 – San Francisco 49ers, Levi’s Stadium ($292.33)
- No. 2 – Los Angeles Rams/Chargers, SoFi Stadium ($257.75)
- No. 3 – Dallas Cowboys, AT&T Stadium ($242.15)
- No. 4 – Philadelphia Eagles, Lincoln Financial Field ($238.32)
- No. 5 – Washington Commanders, Commanders Field ($224.10)
- No. 6 – Cincinnati Bengals, Paycor Stadium ($217.16)
- No. 7 – Miami Dolphins, Hard Rock Stadium ($216.14)
- No. 8 – New York Giants/Jets, MetLife Stadium ($211.20)
- No. 9 – Denver Broncos, Empower Field at Mile High ($210.77)
- No. 10 – New England Patriots, Gillette Stadium ($210.64)
The Most Affordable Option
Fans of the Arizona Cardinals can rejoice at having the least expensive tailgating experiences. Tailgate costs at State Farm Stadium only add up to $158.07 for four fans, the lowest on the list.
Conclusion
The study analyzed costs of a tailgate experience for a group of four people, including cost of parking in the tailgate zone for the first games of the season, and a list of "essential party foods and drinks" to kick off the festivities. With the average cost of tailgating at NRG Stadium being lower than the national average, Texans fans can enjoy the game without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just looking for a fun day out, tailgating at NRG Stadium is an affordable and exciting way to experience NFL football.
