Sportico has released its latest franchise valuation rankings, covering all 154 teams across the five major U.S. professional sports leagues: the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and MLS. The updated rankings highlight the continued surge in franchise values nationwide, with Washington-area teams playing a prominent role.
Among the five leagues, the NFL remains far and away the most valuable, with an average franchise valuation of $7.13 billion. NBA teams follow at an average of $5.51 billion. MLB franchises average $2.82 billion, while NHL teams come in at $2.1 billion. MLS continues its steady rise with an average valuation of $767 million. Four DC-area teams ranked inside Sportico’s overall top 100.
The Washington Commanders placed 15th overall with a valuation of $7.47 billion, well above the NFL average. The figure underscores the franchise’s long-term growth and the premium attached to NFL ownership. The team was sold in 2023 for a then record $6.05 billion to an ownership group led by Montgomery County native Josh Harris, with Magic Johnson and Mitchell Rales among the investors. That sale capped a massive increase in value over time. Montgomery County native Daniel Snyder purchased the franchise in 1999 for $800 million. From that purchase to the 2023 sale, the team’s value rose by more than 650 percent.
The Washington Wizards ranked 54th overall with a valuation of $4.78 billion, roughly in line with the NBA average. Despite recent on-court struggles, NBA franchises continue to see strong valuation growth driven by media rights, global reach, and long-term revenue stability.
The Washington Capitals ranked 85th at $2.3 billion, slightly above the NHL average. Consistent fan support, sustained competitiveness, and a strong regional brand continue to support the franchise’s value. Close behind, the Washington Nationals ranked 86th with a valuation of $2.25 billion. While MLB valuations trail the NFL and NBA, franchises continue to benefit from long-term asset appreciation across the league.
DC United is ranked 136th overall with a valuation of $750 million, just below the MLS league average of $767 million. Nearby in Baltimore, the Orioles were sold in 2024 for $1.725 billion, shifting control from the Angelos family to a group led by Montgomery County’s David Rubenstein. Sportico now values the team at $1.82 billion, an increase of roughly $95 million, or about 5.5 percent, following the sale.
