As baseball season begins and the San Diego Padres explore a sale, a new report shows that Petco Park generates nearly $1 billion in economic impact for the region and supports 15,000 jobs.
The report commissioned by the Padres and conducted by the San Diego Regional Economic Development Corporation examined the economic impact of home games, major concerts, community events, national sporting competitions and the recent Gallagher Square renovation.
Based on 2024 data, the ballpark was responsible for $1.48 billion in sales and had a $913 million economic impact — the equivalent of five Comic-Cons, according to the EDC analysis released last week.
“The Padres take great pride as stewards of a public trust and committed civic partners, and our efforts extend well beyond the field,” said Padres CEO Erik Greupner. “Petco Park will continue to serve as a dynamic gathering place, both a ballpark and a community anchor, delivering benefits that extend far beyond the ballpark district.”
Padres home games alone were responsible for $789 million in economic impact, while other events at the facility added $123 million.
The report noted that outside of baseball season, year-round concerts and events drive tens of thousands of visitors to hotels, restaurants and shops throughout the region.
For the city of San Diego, all this business contributed $16.4 million to the general fund and up to $12.4 million in hotel tax revenue.
“The San Diego Padres are more than a ballclub — they’re a cornerstone of San Diego’s identity and a powerful engine for our economy,” said EDC President and CEO Mark Cafferty. “The franchise’s impact extends far beyond Petco Park, supporting thousands of jobs and millions in economic impact, and elevating our binational identity around the globe.”
