Disneyland management cuts dozens of workers in California while guests face the steepest ticket hike in park history

For many families dreaming of a trip to Disneyland, the “happiest place on earth” is starting to feel a lot less magical — at least for their wallets.

As ticket prices soar to new heights, Disneyland Resort has quietly laid off around 100 employees, sparking conversations about how much longer the average visitor can afford the Disney experience.

A Costly Recalibration Behind the Scenes

The layoffs affected workers across multiple teams in Anaheim, California, as part of what Disney describes as a necessary “recalibration.”

A company spokesperson explained that Disneyland Resort is entering a “steady, sustained” period of operations and wants to ensure it continues delivering top-quality experiences while preparing for the future.

That “recalibration,” however, has come with difficult decisions — including the elimination of several salaried positions.

According to the company, the overstaffing happened when parks reopened after the COVID-19 shutdowns, leading to more employees than needed once visitor levels stabilized.

The Business Backbone of Disney

Disney’s theme parks have always been a massive economic engine for the entertainment giant.

Last year, its Experiences Division — which includes all Disney theme parks, its cruise line, and the Aulani Resort in Hawaii — made up nearly 60% of the company’s total operating income.

Still, the latest layoffs and price adjustments indicate that Disney is tightening operations even as demand remains strong.

Ticket Prices Hit Record Highs

Just weeks before the layoffs were announced, Disneyland raised ticket prices to their highest levels ever.

Visitors looking for a one-day trip on the park’s busiest days will now have to pay $224, up from $206.

Those hoping to save by visiting on a quiet weekday can still get the lowest-tier ticket for $104, but most other tiers — based on crowd levels — have gone up between 1.5% and 4.8%.

Add-Ons Now Cost a Pretty Penny

The Park Hopper option, which lets guests visit both Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure on the same day, now costs between $70 and $90 per day, depending on the season — a noticeable jump from the previous $65 to $75.

Even parking isn’t spared, now priced at $40 per day for a standard vehicle, up from $35.

Inside the park, skipping the long ride queues through the Lightning Lane Multi Pass will cost visitors $34 a day, compared to $32 before.

Annual Passholders Feel the Pinch

Frequent visitors who rely on annual passes haven’t escaped the price hikes either.

The Inspire Pass, Disneyland’s most comprehensive option with year-round access, dining discounts, and parking included, has increased by $150, reaching $1,899.

The Believe Key also saw a $100 bump to $1,474, while the more limited Enchant and Imagine Keys remain at their previous prices.

The Shrinking Dream for American Families

Disneyland has long symbolized a family getaway, but affordability has changed dramatically over the decades.

According to Fortune, about 50 years ago, a family of four could enjoy Disneyland for what would now equal $262 in today’s money.

In 1998, even with the launch of Animal Kingdom, that same family could visit during peak season for under $300.

But fast-forward to 2025, and that same trip costs a staggering $766 — before taxes and without add-ons like Lightning Lane passes.

The Rise of “Pay-to-Play” at Disney

Financial experts have pointed out that Disney’s new model favors those willing to pay more for convenience.

With line-skipping passes and other costly extras, visitors essentially pay for a smoother experience — something critics describe as a “pay-to-play” approach.

Data also shows that over the past decade, ticket prices at Disney parks have increased almost nine times faster than inflation.

Food and Drinks Now a Luxury Too

Unfortunately, the higher prices don’t stop at the front gate. Even dining within the park has become an expensive affair.

At the Beauty and the Beast-inspired Be Our Guest restaurant, lunch costs $72 per adult and $43 for children.

A hot dog at Casey’s Corner — one of Disney’s “quick service” spots — costs nearly $16. Even a simple bottle of Coke from a refreshment stand sells for $4.50.

And for adults who want to unwind with a drink, expect to pay around $20 for a cocktail — or up to $46 if you fancy the themed Plunderer’s Punch served in a souvenir pirate mug.

A Magical Experience, but at What Cost?

Disneyland still promises the joy, nostalgia, and magic that generations have grown up with — but that magic comes with a price tag higher than ever before.

While the company says the changes are meant to “position Disneyland Resort for the future,” for many fans, the question remains whether that future will still include them.