Most valuable franchises in MLS

Major League Soccer has quietly grown into serious financial territory, where the top clubs are now worth close to or more than a billion dollars. The mix of new stadiums, bigger media deals, and star power has turned a once modest league into a global investment play. The Messi effect has only poured fuel on that fire, pulling more eyeballs, sponsors, and commercial partners into the league.

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At the very top, a small group of teams has separated itself with strong brands, smart infrastructure projects, and ambitious ownership groups. They are not just local clubs anymore; they are trying to operate like global soccer properties. Here is a look at the five most valuable MLS franchises right now, based on recent Forbes valuations.

5. New York City FC

Mar 1, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles FC Falcon Ollie holds onto a logo of New York City FC before the game at BMO Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-Imagn Images

Estimated value: around $875 million

NYCFC sits in one of the richest sports markets in the world and benefits from the reach of City Football Group. A long-awaited, soccer-specific stadium project in Queens should unlock new revenue from premium seating, naming rights, and non-soccer events. That is why many expect New York City FC to cross the billion-dollar line once the stadium opens.

4. Atlanta United

May 15, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; The Atlanta United logo on the shorts of defender Brooks Lennon (11) during the first half against FC Cincinnati at TQL Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports

Estimated value: around $975 million

From the moment Atlanta United entered the MLS, they felt like a super club. They pack Mercedes-Benz Stadium with huge crowds and rank near the top of the league in ticket revenue and matchday atmosphere. Even when results wobble, the size of their fan base and the strength of their commercial deals keep their valuation high.

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3. LA Galaxy

Aug 26, 2020; Carson, California, USA; A general view of the LA Galaxy logo at the locked gates at Dignity Health Sports Park after the MLS game against the Seattle Sounders was postponed in the wake of protests following the police shooting of Jacob Blake in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Estimated value: about $1 billion

The Galaxy is still the original glamour club of MLS, built on a history that runs from Landon Donovan and David Beckham to Zlatan Ibrahimovic. Their valuation reflects a mature stadium, a long track record with sponsors, and a brand that still carries weight overseas. Even with LAFC grabbing some of the spotlight in recent years, the Galaxy remain one of the league’s financial anchors.

2. Los Angeles FC

Nov 1, 2022; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles FC logo soccer balls at the LAFC HQ store at Banc of California Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Estimated value: roughly $1.25 to $1.3 billion

LAFC has been the pace setter on the business side, pairing a downtown stadium with a sharp, modern brand. Celebrity investors, strong ticket demand, and a run of competitive teams have made them a top draw for casual fans and partners. Their revenues sit near the top of MLS, which is why they consistently land near the top of any valuation list.

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1. Inter Miami CF

Mar 14, 2020; Fort Lauderdale, FL, USA; A general view of an Inter Miami CF team logo outside Inter Miami CF Stadium the day of its home opener against LA Galaxy after MLS suspended matches for 30 days due to the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-USA TODAY Sports

Estimated value: roughly $1.3 to $1.4 billion

Inter Miami has rocketed up the charts since Lionel Messi arrived. The club has seen surges in sponsorship revenue, shirt sales, international tours, and streaming interest, pushing its value past the rest of the league. In a short period, Miami has gone from a promising expansion side to the flagship business story of MLS.

What comes next for MLS values

With several clubs already worth close to or more than a billion dollars, franchise value has become one of the league’s key storylines. New stadiums, expansion markets, and the next wave of global stars will keep pushing those numbers higher. For owners, the formula is clear: control your stadium, build a strong local base, and think globally if you want to sit near the top of the valuation table.

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