The Struggles of Youth Soccer Affordability in the U.S.
Globally, soccer is known for its simplicity and accessibility, but in the United States, the sport is entangled in a web of costs that make it far less approachable. The financial burdens placed on families seeking to involve their children in soccer have sparked significant concerns and debates.
Di Anderson, a loan officer from Phoenix, shared her family’s experience: “When the cost for my son’s club team started (pushing) $2,000 because of all the expenses, my husband said, ‘We’re out.’ He wasn’t even a teenager yet.” This frustration is echoed by many parents navigating the costly world of youth soccer in America.
Les Carpenter, a Washington Post reporter, highlights a common sentiment: “For soccer around the rest of the world, you need a ball. For soccer in America, you need a uniform, you need referees, and you need a scoreboard.” The sport’s exclusivity is evident, with expenses encompassing league fees, tournaments, travel, equipment, and more.
As the U.S. gears up for the FIFA World Cup 2026, youth soccer participation is declining. A study by the Sports & Fitness Industry Association reveals a 5.5% drop in participation among 6-12-year-olds from 2013 to 2023, largely due to high costs.
Breaking Down the Costs
The expenses associated with youth soccer have surged, with families spending $910 annually in 2024, a sharp increase from $537 in 2019, according to an Aspen Institute’s Project Play survey. This “pay-to-play” model has roots in the sport’s late establishment in the U.S., mimicking other sports’ league structures without fostering organic growth.
Carpenter explains, “Soccer trailed the other sports here in terms of organization… It started so differently here than anywhere else.” Consequently, youth soccer in the U.S. has become a commercialized industry, prioritizing profit over participation, as noted by Jon Solomon from the Aspen Institute Sports & Society Program.
Seeking Solutions: A Community Approach
Efforts to address these challenges are underway. Amir Lowery, co-founder of Open Goal Project, aims to change the landscape by providing a free-to-play soccer program in Washington, D.C. Lowery emphasizes the importance of character development alongside talent, creating a supportive environment.
Open Goal Project ensures accessibility by aligning its league with public transportation and seeking diverse funding sources, including grants and sponsorships. This approach mirrors efforts like MLS GO, which seeks to offer affordable soccer experiences to underserved communities.
Ryan Sarna’s program in Vallejo, California, part of MLS GO, offers soccer at a fraction of typical costs and provides scholarships to ensure participation for all interested children. Sarna’s initiative has already granted nearly $18,000 in scholarships, demonstrating the potential for community-driven solutions.
Lowery stresses the need for broader involvement: “We need people in decision-making roles and leadership roles to take action, and that is one thing that has been sorely missed.” As the U.S. prepares for the FIFA World Cup, the spotlight on these issues may prompt necessary changes to make youth soccer more inclusive and accessible for future generations.
