Chicago Bears confirm plans for a new stadium in Arlington Heights

In a surprising move, the Chicago Bears reached out to some fans via email, asking for their opinions on seating options and pricing for a potential new stadium. This communication, which took place in July 2025, has ignited speculation about the team's plans to relocate from Soldier Field to a site in Arlington Heights, a northwest suburb of Chicago. The Bears have previously made a significant investment by purchasing the former Arlington International Racecourse property in 2023 for $197 million, which they plan to convert into a state-of-the-art stadium for various events. The email survey revealed that the Bears are exploring new pricing structures, with some fans expressing concerns over the potential costs. One fan reported having paid $1,105 per seat for a permanent seat license in 2002, but is now facing potential prices more than double that for the new stadium, which are suggested to be around $4,450 each. This price hike reflects the overall increase in costs associated with building new venues, which are estimated to be upwards of $3 billion. Experts have noted that this move indicates the Bears are solidifying their intentions to hold a substantial presence in the suburbs. While there are still no final decisions about pricing or seating requirements, the team's method of gauging market conditions shows an awareness of the challenges associated with relocating. The Bears aim to ensure that their new stadium will be a versatile venue, available for concerts, sporting events, and community activities throughout the year. Despite fans’ concerns regarding the financial implications of a new stadium, sports business experts believe that such developments are typical in the current market. The operational and financial realities prompt teams to seek additional revenue through ticket sales and related amenities, thus intensifying the focus on pricing models that customers would accept. The email survey is just one step in a longer process of planning that will ultimately shape the future of football in the region and the possibilities for Bears fans in Chicago.