MLS Money Power Rankings: Which 10 Clubs Will Dominate the Wealth Game in 2026?

Major League Soccer is witnessing unprecedented growth, with franchises throughout the United States and Canada reaching remarkable valuations as we enter 2026.

MLS has consistently expanded since launching in 1996, growing in scale, influence and significance throughout the past three decades. The recruitment of superstar players such as David Beckham, Zlatan Ibrahimović and Lionel Messi, alongside investments from celebrity owners including Matthew McConaughey, Will Ferrell and Giannis Antetokounmpo have attracted worldwide attention to the competition.

Increased viewership translates to greater revenue, and the premier MLS franchises have secured substantial financial gains. Based on information from Sportico, five teams now exceed $1 billion in value, while the typical franchise is valued at approximately $767 million.

Below are the top 10 wealthiest teams in MLS as we approach the 2026 campaign.

10. San Diego FC ($765 million)

In tenth place sits the league's most recent expansion franchise, San Diego FC. The Western Conference newcomer needed just one MLS season to surpass the value of 20 other league clubs.

San Diego holds a $765 million valuation despite being one of four California-based teams. The franchise quickly developed a loyal supporter base, and their journey to the Western Conference final—following a regular season division title—provided substantial financial benefits.

9. FC Cincinnati ($790 million)

Following closely are FC Cincinnati, assessed at $790 million. The Orange and Blue saw a 9% growth from their previous season's worth, yet maintain their position as the ninth wealthiest MLS franchise.

The Eastern Conference team may be hindered by their absence of a marquee star capable of attracting broader audiences beyond their city. The organization has also yet to capture MLS Cup, leaving both revenue and prestige unrealized.

8. Columbus Crew ($800 million)

In contrast to FC Cincinnati, Columbus Crew understand championship glory in MLS, though recent years have brought disappointment. Nevertheless, their $800 million assessment provides reason for optimism.

Despite finishing seventh in Eastern Conference standings last season and suffering an early MLS Cup playoff exit, the Crew achieved a 10% valuation increase. If such modest performance yields these results, a successful campaign—particularly in a World Cup year—could significantly benefit Columbus.

7. Austin FC ($910 million)

Seventh place among MLS's wealthiest franchises represents achievement for most teams, yet for Austin FC, it signals regression. The club previously held sixth position but lost ground to Seattle Sounders (detailed below).

Austin's $910 million valuation reflects only 5% growth. With Academy Award winner McConaughey as minority owner, Austin likely anticipated reaching Inter Miami or LAFC levels, but falls short of the top five.

6. Seattle Sounders ($915 million)

Claiming Austin's former sixth position are Seattle Sounders. The 2019 MLS Cup victors hold a $915 million value, establishing them as the third-wealthiest Western Conference franchise.

The 2025 campaign disappointed Sounders supporters, with Minnesota United eliminating them in the first playoff round, yet the team earned approximately $9.6 million from last summer's Club World Cup participation. Seattle also secured $2 million for their 2025 Leagues Cup triumph.

5. NYCFC ($1.12 billion)

New York City FC occupies fifth position following a 12% value increase over twelve months. The franchise becomes the first of five MLS organizations exceeding $1 billion, valued at $1.12 billion.

As MLS's sole representative in the NYC market, NYCFC enjoys an enormous fanbase spanning all five boroughs. City Football Group ownership—also controlling Manchester City—plus New York Yankees partnership creates a powerful boardroom combination before soccer considerations.

4. Atlanta United ($1.14 billion)

Another major market representative, Atlanta United carries a $1.14 billion valuation. The franchise grew 6% annually but maintained fourth position.

Atlanta's prosperity stems largely from their supporters, who consistently fill Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Record attendance figures have become standard in Georgia, elevating the team alongside other Atlanta sports franchises—a distinction few MLS clubs achieve.

3. LA Galaxy ($1.17 billion)

The 2025 campaign demonstrated LA Galaxy's enduring brand strength despite on-field struggles. Following their MLS Cup victory, the team endured a disappointing season, finishing second-last in the Western Conference with merely 30 points from 34 matches.

Nevertheless, LA Galaxy increased their valuation 5% to maintain $1.17 billion worth. The franchise's heritage, combined with sponsorship deals and historical achievements, preserved their top-three status among the league's wealthiest organizations despite poor performance.

2. LAFC ($1.4 billion)

A substantial $3 million gap separates LA Galaxy from crosstown rivals Los Angeles FC. The 2022 MLS Cup champions boast an impressive $1.4 billion worth, making them the Western Conference's wealthiest franchise, capable of affording record-breaking transfers like Son Heung-min.

These remarkable figures actually represent a decline for LAFC, who previously topped all Major League Soccer valuations. However, capturing the 2026 MLS Cup could restore the Black and Gold to first place, provided they execute proper strategies both competitively and commercially.

1. Inter Miami ($1.45 billion)

Could there be any question? Current MLS Cup champions Inter Miami lead the league in value at $1.45 billion. The Herons achieved an extraordinary 22% annual valuation increase through comprehensive success.

Inter Miami collected approximately $21.1 million from reaching the 2025 Club World Cup knockout rounds, plus an additional $300,000 for their MLS Cup victory. Combined with co-owner David Beckham's global influence, superstar Lionel Messi's presence, and passionate south Florida supporters, the Eastern Conference champions established the MLS benchmark over the past year.