APS Athletics Announces Ticket Price Increases

Department cites rising operational costs and expanded sports programming as drivers for the change.

For fans of APS athletics, the Friday night lights and mid-week matches are about to come with a slightly higher price tag. Albuquerque Public Schools is increasing general admission for athletic games to help cover rising costs.

Adult tickets will rise to $8, an increase of about $2, while student admission will move to $5, up about $1. Those prices include the $1 service fee charged by the vendor that processes payments. 

The adjustments arrive as the district works to balance the books against a backdrop of increasing operational expenses. APS Athletics pointed to a range of financial pressures, from mandated pay raises and increased mileage reimbursements for officials — set by the New Mexico Activities Association — to the climbing costs of everything from team uniforms to district-wide transportation.

But the shift also reflects the expansion of the athletic landscape within the district. With new offerings like powerlifting and girls’ wrestling, alongside the launch of programs at Corrales K-8 and Coronado K-8, the department is managing a wider roster of opportunities for students than ever before. Additionally, the district is boosting event staff pay, an adjustment intended to support the staff who make these games possible.

The transition coincides with a digital update for fans. APS is moving its ticketing over to GoFan, the platform used by the New Mexico Activities Association, replacing the previous Hometown ticketing system in an effort to streamline the game-day experience.