How Much Does Comic Con Cost?


Written by:  Howmuchisit.org Staff

Comic Con, founded in 1970, refers to the San Diego Comic-Con International.  It is a four-day event held during the summer in San Diego, California, that features various events for comic book fans and professionals alike.

Aside from the panels, seminars, and workshops with professionals, attendees have the opportunity to preview upcoming feature films and review portfolios with top comic book and video game companies.  There are also other interesting events, such as Cosplays, that can be enjoyed by most comic books enthusiasts.  These and a lot more are featured during the event.

San Diego Comic Con by kevin dooley, on Flickr
San Diego Comic Con” (CC BY 2.0) by kevin dooley

 How much do Comic Con tickets cost?

Like any event, the prices will change every year; however, as 2017, the prices for an adult was $60, with the exception of Sunday, when the tickets were $20 cheaper.  Juniors, who are considered those between the ages of 13 to 17, would cost $30, with the exception Sunday, when the tickets were $10 cheaper.  Lastly, children under 12 are free with a paying adult.  U.S. Military and Senior Citizens will receive 50 percent off.

Keep in mind, however, that if you were to attend, badges sell out almost immediately, so if you plan on attending, it’s important to buy the minute they go on sale.  When sold to the public, the open registration will begin a specific day, and even if you register that day, it doesn’t mean you will receive a badge.  ScreenCrush.com says the registration process works similar to a doctor’s waiting room.  You will input your registration information and wait your turn until you’re called in if chosen.  In order to register, you will need a registration code, member ID, last name and credit card number.

Comic Con overview

Comic Con is held for four days (Thursday to Sunday) during the summer, typically in mid to late July, in San Diego, California.  Each day has major events that comic and fantasy enthusiasts can enjoy such as panels, seminars, and workshops with comic book professionals, awards, ceremonies, costume contests, and some traditional events like the eclectic film programs.  The event also features screening rooms devoted to Japanese animation, gaming and programs.

As with other conventions, Comic-Con features a large floorspace for exhibitors.  This floor will include media companies such as movie studios, TV networks, comic book dealers and collectible merchants.  In 2016, there were more than 725 exhibitors on the floor.

The convention also includes an autograph area where comic fans have the chance to have an autograph with some prominent personalities in the comic book industry.  There is also the “Artists’ Alley” where most artists can sketch for a fee or for free for their fans.  Signings will vary from year to year, so it’s best to check the official website for more information.

To see the official schedule for the upcoming convention, go here.

What are the extra costs?

The costs mentioned above will only include the badges.  Depending on where you live, you also need to factor in the flights, hotels, transportation and food/drink expenses.  Again, these costs can greatly vary depending on where you live.  On Reddit.com, for instance, one member, who resided on the east coast, said they paid $450 for the flight, $250 for the tickets, $190 per night at the hotel and another $40 to $50 per day for food.

Tips to know:

My Bucket List Events tells us that you shouldn’t forget to reserve your seats at a panel, discussion and/or film premiere.  Even with restaurants, it’s best to make reservations well ahead of time.  The more you plan ahead of time, the smoother the trip will be.

The event is open to all ages and no restrictions are in place.  In fact, the convention offers an on-site daycare for a fee.

How can I save money?

Always try to buy tickets from the official site.  If at all possible, do not purchase tickets from scalpers as you might be overcharged if you purchase from other sites not authorized by Comic Con.  In addition, possibilities of not getting into the event, even if you have the ticket, may happen since your ID will be needed.  If you buy one from a scalper, your name may not match with what is on the ticket and may be rejected from entry.

If you are an avid attendee,  buy tickets well in advance (for next year) while you are at the convention.  Once you get into the Comic-Con, head straight for the ticket booth to buy tickets for next year. Getting tickets on site is the easiest way to guarantee your entry.  This saves you money, time, and hassle as well.

Preview night and Sunday will always be up to half off.  Consider these days if you want to attend and save the most money.

You can attend for free if you are considered a “creative professional.”  From the official website, a creative professional is someone who takes an active role creation, design, writing, editing, or production of comics, animation, films, books, video games, or toys.  The same can be said about those who work for a website or a media outlet.  Again, your application will need to be approved by the convention.  Lastly, if you were to volunteer for an event, you could volunteer for a three-hour assignment, and in return, you can get a complimentary badge for the day.

If you plan on staying at a hotel, check out the list of participating hotels near the convention center that may be able to offer you a discount.


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