It’s that time of year again, one many Disney parkgoers dread: the annual ticket price hike. On Wednesday morning, Disney announced its latest round of increases for both Disneyland and Disney World. But this year, the news came paired with limited-time discounts.
Why the price hike?
The company pointed to high demand during peak times like Christmas and New Year’s as a driving factor behind the increases.
A single-day ticket on the most popular days now reaches $199 at Disneyland Resort in California, the highest regular price to date, according to CBS News.
In Florida, Magic Kingdom tickets will now cost $209 plus tax on the busiest days — the first time prices have crossed the $200 mark, CNN reported.
Despite the rising prices, Disney says its goal hasn’t changed.
“Disney Parks offer a full day of experiences each day, with ticket, hotel and dining options designed to suit a wide range of needs and budgets for all who visit,” Disney officials said in a statement. “Our commitment to creating magical experiences for everyone remains at the heart of what we do — and that will never change.”
Disneyland Resort increases
At Disneyland Resort in California, peak ticket prices are rising by 8.7% to $224. Five of the seven annual pass tiers will also increase by 3% or less, though the lowest-priced single-day ticket will remain at $104 — a price that hasn’t changed since 2019, Disney told CBS News.
The most expensive annual passes, however, are getting steeper. The Inspire Key will now cost $1,899, and the Believe Key will rise to $1,474.
New prices at Disney World
Most single-day, single-park tickets to Disney World have gone up by an average of $5. The lowest-priced ticket at the Magic Kingdom is a day at Animal Kingdom and still starts at $119 plus tax — unchanged from last season.
For families wanting to plan a longer trip, a new discount at Disney World offers up to $250 off per night of a four-night stay or longer room-and-ticket packages during certain times between February to July. To add to savings, the deal can be stacked with a free dining plan for kids ages 3-9 with the purchase of an adult dining plan — a perk valid through all of 2026.
According to Don Munsil, president of travel site MouseSavers.com, the deals are a strong incentive for families planning early 2026 vacations.
Why the discounts?
Gavin Doyle, founder of Disney planning site MickeyVisit, the mix of modest price hikes and generous discounts might signal a lull in attendance after a wave of major anniversaries: Disney World’s 50th, the company’s 100th, and Disneyland’s 70th.
“We’re in a period between huge announcements they’ve made and nothing dramatic (new attractions) opening in 2026,” Doyle said.
When will price increases take place?
The latest price increases took effect immediately after the company’s announcement on Wednesday, Oct. 8.