Average Attendance per Game in the NFL

Significant Drop in 2020

The National Football League experienced a drastic decrease in average attendance in 2020, plummeting to only 5,721, likely due to the global COVID-19 pandemic restrictions, which contrasts sharply with the attendance numbers before and after this year.

Recovery and Growth Post-2020

Average attendance rebounded significantly in 2021 to 67,288, and has been on a consistent upward trajectory since, reaching a peak of 69,582 in 2023, indicating a strong recovery and growth phase post-pandemic.

Comparison of Pre and Post-Pandemic Averages

Comparing the pre-pandemic (2019) average attendance of 66,151 with the most recent year, 2023, shows an increase of 3,431 attendees on average, suggesting that the NFL has not only recovered but also expanded its audience base post-pandemic.

Overall Attendance Growth Over the Last Decade

From 2014 to 2023, the NFL saw a modest but steady increase in average attendance, with numbers growing from 68,331 to 69,582, indicating a sustained interest in football despite the significant disruption in 2020.

Highest and Lowest Attendance Records

The year 2023 boasts the highest average attendance recorded at 69,582, while the lowest outside of the anomalous 2020 season was in 2021 with 67,288, highlighting the volatility and eventual recovery of spectator numbers.

Steady Growth Before the Pandemic

Before the unexpected dip in 2020, the NFL was experiencing a period of steady growth in attendance, with the average rising from 66,957 in 2010 to 67,405 in 2017, underscoring the league's pre-pandemic popularity.

The Anomaly of 2020 Compared to Other Years

The attendance in 2020 (5,721) was not only an outlier but also significantly lower than any other year's average, demonstrating the extraordinary impact of the pandemic on live sports events, with a more than 91% drop from the previous year (2019).