Los Angeles has been named by WalletHub the best sports city in the United States for 2024, cementing its reputation as a global hub for athletes, fans, and unforgettable sports moments. From its iconic teams to state-of-the-art venues, L.A. offers a diverse and electrifying sports culture unmatched by any other city.
What sets Los Angeles apart as a sports city?
Los Angeles thrives on its ability to host a range of professional and college teams that dominate their leagues. The city is home to:
- 🏀 Two NBA teams: Lakers and Clippers.
- ⚾ Two MLB teams: Dodgers and Angels.
- 🏈 Two NFL teams: Rams and Chargers.
- ⚽ Two MLS teams: LAFC and the LA Galaxy.
- 🏒 One NHL team: Los Angeles Kings.
No other city in the United States has this level of representation across major professional sports. The Lakers have won 17 NBA Championships, tied for the most in league history, while the Dodgers boast eight World Series titles, most recently this year.
Additionally, Los Angeles regularly hosts premier events like the Super Bowl, the NBA Finals, and MLS Cups, which adds to its allure.
How does Los Angeles rank in each major sport?
Thanks in large part to the monumental success of the Lakers and the abundance and affordability of Division 1 college basketball, the City of Angels is the top city for basketball fans.
It’s also number one for soccer fans, as the LA Galaxy and Los Angeles FC have brought the city more MLS Cup titles than any other city.
Los Angeles is also ranked second among baseball cities, given the number of times the Dodgers have led the city to championships.
When it comes to its collective NCAA baseball teams, Los Angeles is also the most successful city in the country. Finally, solid performances and affordable ticket prices make it the fourth-best city for football fans, too.
A year of championships and big moments
Los Angeles continued its winning tradition in 2024 with major achievements:
- The Dodgers won another World Series title after defeating the New York Yankees, with Freddie Freeman as MVP.
- The LA Lakers won the inaugural NBA Cup in Las Vegas, proving they can never be written off.
- LAFC won the 2024 U.S. Open Cup and the Galaxy will host the MLS Cup Final, highlighting L.A.’s global soccer presence.
- The Rams finished the season with a playoff appearance, and the Chargers hired the top college head coach and are off to a great start.
In addition, the city hosted marquee events like international competitions featuring world-class soccer teams.
A city of sports fans
L.A. fans are as diverse as the city itself. In 2023, the Lakers ranked third in NBA merchandise sales, while the Dodgers led MLB in total attendance with over 3.9 million fans at home games.
LAFC also boasts one of the most passionate fan bases in MLS, with 22 consecutive sellouts at BMO Stadium.
Iconic sports venues in Los Angeles
One reason L.A. stands out is its legendary venues. SoFi Stadium, home to the Rams and Chargers, is one of the most advanced sports arenas in the world.
Dodger Stadium provides breathtaking views alongside championship baseball, while the historic Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum is a testament to the city’s Olympic legacy.
For basketball fans, the Crypto.com Arena serves as the stage for Lakers games. But the big draw is the new state-of-the-art arena for the LA Clippers, the Intuit Dome.
The road to the 2028 Olympics
Los Angeles is already preparing for the 2028 Summer Olympics, which will solidify its global sports legacy. The city is investing heavily in infrastructure, including public transportation improvements and upgrades to existing venues.
Few cities can match L.A.’s combination of winning teams, historic venues, and passionate fans. Whether it’s the iconic chants at Dodger Stadium, the high-energy atmosphere of a Lakers playoff game, or the electric support for LAFC, the City of Angels remains the ultimate sports destination.