Analysis finds $286 million Orange Bowl local impact

Last year’s Orange Bowl Festival, including the 2025 College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Capital Orange Bowl, generated $286.3 million in new economic impact and media exposure value for South Florida, according to a study by Rockport Analytics.

Rockport Analytics was commissioned by the Orange Bowl to develop an independent estimate of the quantifiable benefits of Orange Bowl events from May 2024 to April 2025. Overall, the study estimated that the Orange Bowl events drew 64,215 visitors to the area, including 79% of the game attendees from outside of South Florida. Additionally, the events generated an estimated 72,886 incremental hotel room nights throughout the region.

“For more than 90 years, the Orange Bowl has been more than just a game – it’s been a gateway to showcasing the very best of South Florida,” said Henri Crockett, president and chair of the Orange Bowl Committee. “Our mission has always been clear: bring people here, drive our economy, and give back to the community that makes this place so special. The support of our fans, partners, and volunteers allows us to create moments that live far beyond the football field – from record tourism and economic impact to life-changing opportunities through Orange Bowl Cares. As we prepare to host another marquee College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at the Capital One Orange Bowl, we’re not just putting on a game – we’re putting South Florida on the national stage. That’s the power of the Orange Bowl.”

Beyond the direct economic benefits, the study also found that the Orange Bowl events generated more than $28.6 million in taxes and supported 1,233 full and part-time jobs that generated $60.1 million in personal earnings. The total economic impact figure contains $110.7 million in media exposure value for South Florida, including 17.8 million viewers for the game on ESPN and pre-game coverage live from South Florida.

“The Capital One Orange Bowl has long been one of the country’s signature sports traditions, and its impact continues to be felt well beyond the field,” added David Whitaker, president and CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. “From generating millions in economic activity to showcasing Greater Miami and Miami Beach on a global stage, the Orange Bowl is an extraordinary example of how sports tourism fuels our economy, creates jobs, and highlights Miami as one of the world’s premier event destinations. We are proud to partner with the Orange Bowl Committee and look forward to welcoming future College Football Playoff games and, ultimately, National Championships.”

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