How Super Bowl Locations Are Chosen

By Sarah Miller · April 19, 2053

The Super Bowl location is decided years in advance by the NFL team owners, who vote on proposed host cities based on stadium quality, climate, infrastructure, and economic impact. The process typically begins 3–5 years prior to the event.

How Is the Super Bowl Location Chosen?

The National Football League (NFL) selects the Super Bowl venue through a formal bidding and voting process involving team owners. Unlike playoff games, which are hosted by higher-seeded teams, the Super Bowl site is predetermined—usually set 3 to 5 years in advance.

Key factors influencing the decision include:

Stadium suitability (capacity, retractable roof, luxury suites)
Weather conditions (preferably warm or indoor venues)
Hotel availability and transportation infrastructure
Local government support and financial incentives
Proven ability to host large-scale events

Cities interested in hosting submit bids through their stadiums or local organizing committees, often with support from tourism boards and state governments.

Timeline of the Selection Process

The NFL follows a structured timeline for choosing Super Bowl hosts. The process typically unfolds as follows:

Bid Submission

Interested cities submit detailed proposals to the NFL, outlining stadium readiness, accommodations, security plans, and funding. These bids are usually due 4–6 years before the intended game.

Inspection and Evaluation

NFL executives conduct site visits and evaluate each candidate city based on operational feasibility and fan experience potential.

Owner Vote

All 32 NFL team owners meet and vote during the annual league meetings. A simple majority is required to award the Super Bowl to a city.

Recent Super Bowl Locations and Stadiums

Year	Super Bowl	Host City	Stadium	Attendance
2022	LVI	Los Angeles, CA	SoFi Stadium	70,248
2023	LVII	Glendale, AZ	State Farm Stadium	67,629
2024	LVIII	Las Vegas, NV	Allegiant Stadium	65,562
2025	LIX	New Orleans, LA	Caesars Superdome	TBD
2026	LX	Santa Clara, CA	Levi's Stadium	Expected ~72,000

Table data source:1, 2, 3

The data shows a trend toward modern, domed or indoor stadiums that ensure weather reliability. Cities like New Orleans and Las Vegas are frequently selected due to their tourism infrastructure and climate advantages. Levi's Stadium’s selection for 2026 highlights the NFL’s preference for technologically advanced venues with strong transit access.

Why Certain Cities Are Favored

While any city with an eligible stadium can bid, some locations are chosen more frequently due to consistent advantages:

Warm climates or indoor facilities: Avoid weather disruptions.
Tourism capacity: Hotels, restaurants, and entertainment options enhance fan experience.
Proven track record: Cities like Miami, New Orleans, and Phoenix have hosted multiple times.
Public funding or incentives: Some states offer tax breaks or security support.

For example, State Farm Stadium in Arizona has hosted four Super Bowls since 2007 due to its retractable roof and desert climate.

Frequently Asked Questions About Super Bowl Hosting

How far in advance is the Super Bowl location decided?

The NFL typically decides the Super Bowl location 3 to 5 years in advance. For example, New Orleans was selected to host Super Bowl LIX in 2025 during the 2021 league meeting.

Can cold-weather cities host the Super Bowl?

Yes, but only if the stadium is suitable. MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ hosted Super Bowl XLVIII in 2014—the first outdoor cold-weather venue in over two decades. However, the NFL prefers domed or warm-weather sites to minimize weather risks.

Do all NFL stadiums qualify to host the Super Bowl?

No. To qualify, a stadium must meet NFL standards, including a minimum capacity of approximately 60,000, at least 6,000 premium seats, and 1,300+ hotel rooms within 15 miles. Additional requirements cover media facilities, security, and transportation.

How does a city submit a bid to host the Super Bowl?

A city submits a bid through its stadium operator or local organizing committee, often backed by state and local governments. The proposal includes logistical plans, financial commitments, and marketing strategies. The NFL evaluates these and shortlists candidates before the owner vote.

Which city has hosted the most Super Bowls?

Miami, including Miami Gardens, has hosted 11 Super Bowls, the most of any city. New Orleans follows with 8, and Los Angeles/Anaheim with 8. The combination of warm weather, large stadiums, and tourism infrastructure makes these cities top choices.