Atlanta United retain top spot in Forbes' annual MLS team valuations

Banc of California Stadium - panoramic - inaugural match

Forbes' annual MLS team valuations were released on the eve of MLS Cup 2019, and for the second consecutive season, Atlanta United top the list.


The Five Stripes retained their top spot with a value of $500 million, up from $330 million this time last season. The LA Galaxy remain second at $480 million while LAFC jump into the top three at $475 million. 


Behind that trio come the 2019 MLS Cup champion Seattle Sounders, valued at $405 million. Their MLS Cup opponents Toronto FC came in fifth at $395 million, narrowly edging out sixth-place Portland Timbers at $390 million. 


Per Forbes, the average MLS club is now worth $313 million, which represents 30% growth from last season. The year-over-year growth outpaces rising team values in the NBA (13%), NFL (11%), MLB (8%) and NHL (6%).


Growth continues to be on the horizon, as two more clubs will join the league in 2020, one in 2021, two in 2022 as well as a 30th expansion franchise to be awarded in the near future.  


Top 5 - 2018 Forbes list of Most Valuable MLS Teams:


  1. Atlanta United, $500 million
  2. LA Galaxy, $480 million
  3. LAFC, $475 million
  4. Seattle Sounders, $405 million
  5. Toronto FC, $395 million 


Forbes’ full list of valuations can be found here.