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Surprisingly The Carolina Panthers Are One Of The More Affordable Games To Attend In The NFL

The Panthers are one of the more affordable teams to attend games for in the NFL. But does it even matter? I made a deal with myself before the first…

CHARLOTTE, NORTH CAROLINA - SEPTEMBER 18: Bradley Bozeman #56, Chandler Zavala #62, and Ikem Ekwonu #79 of the Carolina Panthers look on during the second half of a game against the New Orleans Saints at Bank of America Stadium on September 18, 2023 in Charlotte, North Carolina.
(Photo by Jared C. Tilton/Getty Images)

The Panthers are one of the more affordable teams to attend games for in the NFL. But does it even matter? I made a deal with myself before the first preseason game this year. It was when I came across a Panthers jacket that I absolutely loved. But, I told myself that I am not allowed to spend any money on the Panthers until the team has a winning record. That includes tickets and merchandise. And at this point, it could be years before that threshold has been broken. The team hasn't had a winning record since David Tepper purchased the team. In those 6 years, they are 29-56. At no point have the eclipsed 7 wins. And now, under the third coach of the David Tepper era, Frank Reich, the Panthers are 0-3.

This die-hard football fan just doesn't have an emotional investment in the team anymore. I still watch but with zero expectations to actually win. It is sad when you think about the teams of the past that brought so much joy and excitement to the city of Charlotte. But if you, unlike me, are a little more optimistic or have money to burn, then I do have good news for you. The Carolina Panthers are actually one of the more affordable teams to attend games for. I know what you're thinking- how can that be? Well, Bookies.com calculated the cost of attending an NFL game in every station. And below average, ranked as one of the cheapest is the Carolina Panthers and Bank of America Stadium.

These calculations are based on the cost of 4 of the cheapest tickets, a parking pass, two 16 oz. beers, two 20 oz. sodas, and four hotdogs. That cost for a Panthers game? $459.50. That's the 9th lowest in the NFL (out of 32 teams). It is still quite expensive to invest in a team that isn't winning. Heck, it's a lot of money to invest in a team that's undefeated. And I love attending sporting events- I have season tickets for my college football team. And even with travel costs it's a significantly lower price point.

The most affordable stadium to see a game at? It's not far down the road- Atlanta's Mercedes Benz Stadium. I've attended 2 concerts at the stadium and I have to say it is by far my favorite of the 7 NFL stadiums I have personally visited. The food is super affordable. I was able to get two alcoholic drinks and a bottle of water for less than $20 when I was there in April. And a few years ago, the "specialty cocktail" was just $10. You can't even get a beer for that price in Charlotte. I'm not a Falcons fan at all, and Atlanta isn't my favorite city by any means, but I'll take any opportunity to attend a show or event at Mercedes Benz Stadium.

In contrast, the most expensive team to support? It's the Las Vegas Raiders. This is driven mostly by high ticket prices. You can see the full breakout for each NFL Team here.

Cost to attend a Carolina Panthers Game (One of the NFL's most affordable teams)

  • Four (4) tickets -cheapest price point: $366.50
  • Lot Parking: $40
  • 2 16oz Beers: $20
  • 2 20oz Sodas: $9
  • 4 Hot Dogs: $24
  • Total Cost: $459.50

Average Across The NFL

  • Four (4) tickets -cheapest price point: $550.62
  • Lot Parking: $45.03
  • 2 16oz Beers: $17.86
  • 2 20oz Sodas: $10.64
  • 4 Hot Dogs: $22.70
  • Total Cost: $646.88

Not A Panthers Fan? Here’s Where To Watch Your Favorite NFL Team In Charlotte North Carolina

In a city with as many transplants as Charlotte, there is a true melting pot of NFL fans in the Queen City. Hopefully, if you have chosen to call Charlotte home you at least cheer for the Panthers when they aren't playing your original home team. Nothing illustrates this more than Bank of America Stadium, especially in the recent down years on Sundays. I went to the Denver Broncos game here last year. And keep in mind the Broncos were just as bad as the Panthers. But there was still just as much or probably even more orange than blue in the stadium. And I can't think those fans traveled (unless they thought it was one of a few games they could actually win- they didn't though).  Here's where to watch your favorite NFL Team in Charlotte North Carolina.

So you want to cheer on your team with like-minded fans in Charlotte? The good news is most teams have a team bar to visit on Sundays. These are typically locations secured by organized fan groups. Unfortunately, not every team has a bar or group. You won't find an official meet-up spot for any of the other NFC South teams for example. So sorry Falcons, Saints, and Buccaneers Fans. That would certainly be a risky business move hosting the rival teams so I can understand it!

So before you grab your friends and head to the bar to cheer on your team, check out this list of where to watch each NFL team and their Charlotte North Carolina home. And I'm sure I'll see you cheering them on the next time each team rolls into Bank of America Stadium. Maybe then the Panthers will be good enough for fans to actually want to attend the game? Personally they are going to have to have a better chance of winning before I drop NFL ticket money.

Arizona Cardinals

LANDOVER, MARYLAND - SEPTEMBER 10: Zaven Collins #25 of the Arizona Cardinals celebrates with teammates after his interception during the second quarter against the Washington Commanders at FedExField on September 10, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Scott Taetsch/Getty Images)

You're on your own kid if you're an Arizona Cardinals fan. If you own a sports bar or restaurant consider adopting the Cardinals fans. I do know a few!

Atlanta Falcons

ATLANTA, GEORGIA - SEPTEMBER 10: Tre Flowers #33 of the Atlanta Falcons and Bud Dupree #48 of the Atlanta Falcons celebrate after a sack during the fourth quarter against the Carolina Panthers at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on September 10, 2023 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)(Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty Images)

Sorry Falcon's fans, there isn't a dedicated Falcon's bar in the Queen City. You can request to join the private Facebook group Charlotte Atlanta Falcon's Fans which may include meet-up locations!

Baltimore Ravens

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - SEPTEMBER 10: Odafe Oweh #99, Roquan Smith #0, and Justin Madubuike #92 of the Baltimore Ravens celebrate after the Ravens sacked quarterback C.J. Stroud #7 of the Houston Texans in the third quarter at M&T Bank Stadium on September 10, 2023 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)(Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)

Baltimore Ravens fans in Charlotte spend game days at Crown Station Pub (3629 N. Davidson St). Crown Station is home to the Queen City Ravens Nest fan group.

Buffalo Bills

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 11: Quarterback Josh Allen #17 of the Buffalo Bills throws a pass during the first quarter of the NFL game against the New York Jets at MetLife Stadium on September 11, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.(Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Buffalo Bills fans your go-to spot on game day in Southend's Tavern On The Tracks. Located at 1411 S. Tryon Street Tavern on the Tracks has been the longtime home of the Charlotte Bills Backers!

Chicago Bears

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - SEPTEMBER 10: Justin Fields #1 of the Chicago Bears huddles with the offense against the Green Bay Packers during the first quarter at Soldier Field on September 10, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois. (Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Bubba's Bunkhouse in Harrisburg is the home of Beardown Charlotte. Enjoy southern comfort food while cheering on the Bears!

Cincinnati Bengals

CINCINNATI, OHIO - JANUARY 15: Joe Burrow #9 of the Cincinnati Bengals throws a pass against the Baltimore Ravens during the second half in the AFC Wild Card playoff game at Paycor Stadium on January 15, 2023 in Cincinnati, Ohio. (Photo by Dylan Buell/Getty Images)

Are you a Bengals fan in Charlotte? Or just enjoy watching Joe Burrow (guilty)? Watch the game with other Bengals fans at Greystone Pub at 3039 South Blvd.

Cleveland Browns

CLEVELAND, OHIO - SEPTEMBER 10: Nick Chubb #24 of the Cleveland Browns plays against the Cincinnati Bengals at Cleveland Browns Stadium on September 10, 2023 in Cleveland, Ohio. (Photo by Gregory Shamus/Getty Images)

Perhaps it's a different Ohio team you are cheering for on Sundays. If your team is the Cleveland Browns (my sympathies as you've dealt with a lot) you'll want to visit Protagonist LoSo on game day.

Dallas Cowboys

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 10: Dak Prescott #4 of the Dallas Cowboys passes the ball against the New York Giants at MetLife Stadium on September 10, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.(Photo by Mitchell Leff/Getty Images)

Sorry, first I have to ask have you even been to Dallas? If you're a Cowboys fan please stay amongst your own kind at 1st and Goal Sports Bar in the University area.

Denver Broncos

DENVER, COLORADO - SEPTEMBER 10: Russell Wilson #3 of the Denver Broncos and Justin Simmons #31 of the Denver Broncos react after their team's 17-16 loss against the Las Vegas Raiders at Empower Field At Mile High on September 10, 2023 in Denver, Colorado.(Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)

There are either a ton of Denver fans in Charlotte or they just travel well even when the team is struggling because Bank of America Stadium was orange last year when the Broncos came to town. The weekly gathering spot is Duckworth's at Rea Farms!

Detroit Lions

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - SEPTEMBER 07: David Montgomery #5 of the Detroit Lions celebrates their 21-20 win over the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on September 07, 2023 in Kansas City, Missouri. (Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Lions fans you're game day spot is in Plaza Midwood. Hattie's Tap & Tavern is the home for Detroit Lions fans in Charlotte.

Green Bay Packers

CHICAGO, ILLINOIS - SEPTEMBER 10: The Green Bay Packers looks on against the Chicago Bears during the first quarter at Soldier Field on September 10, 2023 in Chicago, Illinois(Photo by Michael Reaves/Getty Images)

Cheeseheads unite! Those of you who migrated south can still watch the Packers with fellow fans at Blackfinn Ameripub in Ballantyne.

Houston Texans

BALTIMORE, MARYLAND - SEPTEMBER 10: C.J. Stroud #7 and members of the Houston Texans take the field for warm ups before the start of the Texans and Baltimore Ravens game at M&T Bank Stadium on September 10, 2023 in Baltimore, Maryland. (Photo by Rob Carr/Getty Images)

If you're looking to have a fan meet-up for the Houston Texans, you'll have to create your own. Currently, there is not an official bar or organized fan group.

Indianapolis Colts

INDIANAPOLIS, INDIANA - SEPTEMBER 10: Shaquille Leonard #53 of the Indianapolis Colts reacts after a play in the second half of a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Lucas Oil Stadium on September 10, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana.(Photo by Michael Hickey/Getty Images)

I'm shocked there isn't a fan group or bar for the Colts. Seems like a great opportunity for someone to start one!

Jacksonville Jaguars

JACKSONVILLE, FL - NOVEMBER 06: Safety Deke Cooper #35 of the Jacksonville Jaquars rushes the punter against the Houston Texans on November 6, 2005 at Alltel Stadium in Jacksonville, Florida. The Jaguars defeated the Texans 21-14. (Photo by Doug Benc/Getty Images)

Jacksonville is just a 5-hour drive from Charlotte. But there must not be too many Jags fans here. With Clemson star Trevor Lawrence at the helm for the Jaguars there has to be a sizable fan base in the Charlotte area. But as of now, no official Jacksonville Jaguars bar.

Kansas City Chiefs

KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI - SEPTEMBER 07: Felix Anudike-Uzomah #97 of the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium on September 07, 2023 in Kansas City, Missouri.(Photo by Jamie Squire/Getty Images)

Kansas City Chiefs fans can cheer on Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs at the Kilted Buffalo. The Charlotte Chiefs Fans group takes over this Plaza Midwood spot weekly.

Las Vegas Raiders

DENVER, COLORADO - SEPTEMBER 10: Greg Van Roten #70 of the Las Vegas Raiders, Andre James #68 of the Las Vegas Raiders, Jakobi Meyers #16 of the Las Vegas Raiders, and Austin Hooper #81 of the Las Vegas Raiders celebrate after Meyers touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field At Mile High on September 10, 2023 in Denver, Colorado(Photo by Justin Edmonds/Getty Images)

The Raiders have bounced around from market to market throughout their history. The fans that have stuck with them and made their way to Charlotte spend gamedays at Club House Kitchen & Cocktails on Central Ave.

Los Angeles Chargers

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 10: Justin Herbert #10 of the Los Angeles Chargers calls a play in a huddle during a 36-34 loss to the Miami Dolphins at SoFi Stadium on September 10, 2023 in Inglewood, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

Unfortunately there isn't a Chargers bar for fans (if there are any) in Charlotte. After leaving San Diego for LA I don't think there are too many in California either!

Los Angeles Rams

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - SEPTEMBER 10: Byron Young #0 of the Los Angeles Rams in action against the Seattle Seahawks at Lumen Field on September 10, 2023 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

Relocated LA football teams must not have much of a fanbase in the Carolinas. The Rams fans are also without a gameday home in Charlotte.

Miami Dolphins

INGLEWOOD, CALIFORNIA - SEPTEMBER 10: Jaelan Phillips #15 of the Miami Dolphins warms up before the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at SoFi Stadium on September 10, 2023 in Inglewood, California.(Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)

Phins up! Cheering on the Dolphins in Charlotte? You'll have to be at Midnight Mulligan Brewing with the rest of the Charlotte Dolfans Club.

Minnesota Vikings

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - SEPTEMBER 14: Jordan Hicks #58 of the Minnesota Vikings reacts during the second half against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field on September 14, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

The Vikings are the only NFC North team without a Charlotte place to call home. There have to be fans who have escaped the Minnesota winters somewhere though!

New England Patriots

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS - SEPTEMBER 10: Mac Jones #10 of the New England Patriots and Mike Gesicki #88 walk through the tunnel before the game against the Philadelphia Eagles  at Gillette Stadium on September 10, 2023 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Maddie Meyer/Getty Images)

New Englanders you'll have to go a little south of Charlotte to Fort Mill to cheer on your team. You'll find the home of the Patriots at Mulligan's Sports Bar & Grille.

New Orleans Saints

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - SEPTEMBER 10: Derek Carr #4 of the New Orleans Saints celebrates after New Orleans 16-15 win over the Tennessee Titans at Caesars Superdome on September 10, 2023 in New Orleans, Louisiana.(Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)

Charlotte has seemingly unanimously avoided welcoming fans of any other NFC South Team. It must not be worth the boycott from Panthers fans that could be placed on any establishment supporting a rival team. There is a Facebook group of brave Saints fans in the Queen City however called New Orleans Saints Fans of Charlotte.

New York Giants

September 10, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey.(Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

There is no shortage of Giants fans in the Carolinas. Especially with former Duke QB Daniel Jones at the helm of the team. The Local in uptown Charlotte is where the local Giants Fans congregate on gameday.

New York Jets

EAST RUTHERFORD, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 11: Wide receiver Xavier Gipson #82 of the New York Jets celebrates with Allen Lazard #10, Michael Carter II #30 and head coach Robert Saleh after scoring the game winning touchdown on a 65-yard punt return during the overtime quarter of the NFL game against the Buffalo Bills at MetLife Stadium on September 11, 2023 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Jets defeated the Bills 22-16 in overtime. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

If there are Giants fans there are Jets fans. If the other NY team is the one you fancy, hang out with like-minded fellow fans at Dillworth Neighborhood Grille.

Philadelphia Eagles

PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA - SEPTEMBER 14: Justin Evans #30 of the Philadelphia Eagles celebrates after breaking up a pass intended for T.J. Hockenson #87 of the Minnesota Vikings during the fourth quarter at Lincoln Financial Field on September 14, 2023 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images)

Steamers Sports Pub on Pierson Dr is the Charlotte home of the Eagles. Rise up, is another Super Bowl run in the works?

Pittsburgh Steelers

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - SEPTEMBER 10: Kenny Pickett #8 of the Pittsburgh Steelers looks to throw a pass in the first half of a game against the San Francisco 49ers at Acrisure Stadium on September 10, 2023 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)

Steelers fans you'll have to share you're bar with the Jets. Dilworth Neighborhood Grille hosts both fan groups weekly.

San Francisco 49ers

PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA - SEPTEMBER 10: Brock Purdy #13 of the San Francisco 49ers reacts after running for a first down in the fourth quarter of a game against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Acrisure Stadium on September 10, 2023 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Joe Sargent/Getty Images)

Niner Empire of Charlotte is the 49ers fan group locally. RSVP Southend is where the game watch parties take place.

Seattle Seahawks

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - SEPTEMBER 10: Geno Smith #7 and DeeJay Dallas #31 of the Seattle Seahawks prepare to take on the Los Angeles Rams at Lumen Field on September 10, 2023 in Seattle, Washington.(Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

I was a 10-year Seahawks fan thanks to Russel Wilson and it was a fun time! Lucky Lou's Tavern on Park Road is where the 12th Man hangs out in Charlotte!

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA - SEPTEMBER 10: Tristan Wirfs #78 of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers walks off the field after the Buccaneers defeated the Minnesota Vikings, 20-17, at U.S. Bank Stadium on September 10, 2023 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by David Berding/Getty Images)

Sorry Bucs fans, rivalries don't let you have a welcome spot in the Carolinas. At least you get to see your team play here once a year.

Tennessee Titans

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - SEPTEMBER 10: Kindle Vildor #20 of the Tennessee Titans, Anthony Kendall #40 of the Tennessee Titans, and Matthew Jackson #39 of the Tennessee Titans, celebrate after a play during the fourth quarter against the New Orleans Saints at Caesars Superdome on September 10, 2023 in New Orleans, Louisiana(Photo by Jonathan Bachman/Getty Images)

I'm shocked that there isn't a Titans bar in Charlotte. But luckily Nashville is just a short flight from Charlotte to get your football fix.

Washington Commanders

LANDOVER, MARYLAND - SEPTEMBER 10: Jeremy Reaves #39 of the Washington Commanders celebrates after a defensive stop during the third quarter against the Arizona Cardinals at FedExField on September 10, 2023 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Jess Rapfogel/Getty Images)

Last but not least is the team a lot of North Carolinians cheered for prior to the Panthers. If you want to cheer on the Commanders and former Panthers coach Ron Rivera you can do so at Jack Beagles on Morehead.

Melanie Day is a graduate of North Carolina State University. She has worked for Beasley since 2012 in a variety of behind-the-scenes roles in both digital and promotions. Melanie writes about a diverse range of topics some of her favorites include travel, restaurants, Taylor Swift, and college athletics. When not at work you'll find her at a country concert or NC State sporting event.