Credit: DisneyGovernment officials are considering a new tax on theme park tickets and parking, which could mean your Disney parks experience is about to get a whole lot more expensive.
Disney Parks Could Become Even More Expensive for Millions of Families
The magic of Disneyland has always come at a price—but that price might soon rise in unexpected ways. For decades, Anaheim has relied on hotel taxes as its main revenue engine, quietly fueling city projects while leaving the gates of Disneyland untouched. Now, a bold new idea is surfacing, one that could rewrite how both locals and tourists experience the Happiest Place on Earth.
On the surface, it sounds like a simple policy change. But beneath the castle spires and fireworks, Anaheim’s latest debate could shape everything from ticket costs to parking fees, stirring both anticipation and concern among Disney fans.
The question is: how will this decision ripple through the parks, and more importantly, what does it mean for the millions of families who plan their dream vacations to Disneyland every year?
What’s New: The Anaheim Proposal
This week, Anaheim City Councilmember Natalie Rubalcava called for a fresh discussion on taxing tickets and parking at major entertainment destinations, including Disneyland Resort.
“We cannot continue to just depend on (the city’s hotel tax),” Rubalcava said at Tuesday’s council meeting. “I think it’s kind of time at this point for us as a elected body to review this.”
The proposal would need voter approval, with city staff expected to return with details at the September 23 meeting. If the plan advances, it could appear on the November 2026 ballot.
While no specific tax rates have been revealed, city spokesperson Mike Lyster acknowledged that existing agreements tied to the Angels and OCVibe projects could complicate implementation. A similar idea—known as a “gate tax”—was floated in 2022 but rejected, even though it could have raised $55 to $80 million annually.
How It Could Affect Your Disney Trip
At Disneyland, ticket prices currently start at $104. With more than 27 million visitors each year, even a modest new tax would quickly generate tens of millions in revenue. Parking, already priced at $35 per day, could also see increases.
For families, that might mean adding another $5–$10 per ticket—or an extra $20–$30 for parking—on top of already high vacation costs.
Pro tip: If this tax passes, consider strategies like purchasing multi-day tickets early, bundling through third-party sellers before rate hikes, or relying on Disney’s official mobile app for bundled packages that may offset new surcharges.
Insider Hacks If Prices Rise
Disney pros know that there are ways to soften the blow of higher costs:
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Annual Passholder Discounts – If the tax applies only to single-day tickets, passes may provide bigger long-term savings.
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Alternate Parking – Hotels near Harbor Boulevard sometimes offer cheaper daily rates than Disney’s lots.
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Off-Peak Visits – Plan trips during low-demand weekdays to avoid peak surcharges if they’re added.
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Mobile Food Orders – Saving time (and money) by skipping long lines often offsets extra costs.
Why This Matters for Fans
Disneyland isn’t just a theme park—it’s part of Anaheim’s identity. For many, the possibility of higher costs feels personal. Online forums are already buzzing with heated debates: some argue the city desperately needs revenue for community projects, while others fear it will price out families who save for years to afford their Disney vacation.
Historically, similar proposals have sparked emotional reactions. In 2022, the rejected gate tax ignited campaigns both for and against, reflecting just how much power Disney holds in Anaheim’s politics.
If Rubalcava’s proposal advances, it could mark one of the most significant shifts in Anaheim’s entertainment economy in decades.
The Bottom Line for the Disney Parks
This isn’t just another city council discussion—it’s the beginning of a story that could impact millions of Disneyland guests. Whether you’re a local Annual Passholder or a family flying in for a once-in-a-lifetime trip, the outcome of this proposal could shape the way you experience the Happiest Place on Earth.
For now, fans will have to wait until September 23 for more details, and potentially until 2026 before casting their votes. Until then, the looming question remains: will Anaheim’s magic come at a higher price?