60% of Coachella‘s attendees can’t afford to be there

In 2025, Coachella’s general admission ticket prices have soared to $649, not including additional expenses like travel, lodging, and festival attire. To manage these costs, approximately 60% of attendees have turned to payment plans, a significant increase from 18% in 2009  . This trend raises questions about the financial stability of consumers and the cultural pressures that drive such spending.

The Rise of Payment Plans

Coachella offers a payment plan that allows attendees to reserve tickets with a down payment as low as $49.99, followed by installments over several months, accompanied by a $41 fee  . This model has become increasingly popular, reflecting a broader shift towards financing options for non-essential purchases.

Cultural Implications

The prevalence of financing for festival tickets highlights a cultural phenomenon where experiences are prioritized, sometimes at the expense of financial prudence. The fear of missing out (FOMO) and the desire to maintain a certain lifestyle can lead individuals to make financial decisions that may not align with their means.

Broader Economic Context

The trend at Coachella is indicative of a larger pattern in American consumer behavior, where the availability of financing options can mask underlying financial instability. It prompts a discussion about the societal values that encourage spending beyond one’s means and the potential long-term consequences of such practices.

Conclusion

The increasing reliance on payment plans for events like Coachella serves as a reflection of contemporary consumer culture, where the allure of experiences and the pressure to conform to social expectations can lead to financial overextension. It underscores the need for greater financial literacy and a reevaluation of the cultural norms that drive such spending behaviors.

Note: This blog post is based on data and reports available as of April 2025.