For years U2 has filled massive arenas around the globe. Bono explained that the group maintains one consistent method to help make those performances more approachable.

Speaking on The New York Times podcast The Interview, Bono stated that U2 holds very little control over ticket costs for its shows. Even so, he added that the band has always aimed to keep some of the closest seats reasonably priced.

Bono said the group takes the best seats in the venue and ensures they remain among the most affordable options, a practice the band has followed throughout its career.

This approach does not prevent U2 from charging higher prices to some fans.

Bono remarked that the band sees no issue with taking money from wealthy supporters, noting that affluent people have emotions as well and that high prices are acceptable if fans choose to pay them.

The goal, Bono said, is for attendees to feel positive about their purchase. He highlighted that U2 concerts offer enough substance for people with differing political views to feel comfortable together.

Bono added that in the United States the band wants fans to feel satisfied with their decision to buy a ticket, even if the cost seems high.

U2 played 40 shows at the Sphere in Las Vegas between September 2023 and March 2024. Tickets began at 140 dollars, with 60 percent priced below 300 dollars and only a small number of premium options available.

Ticket prices for major tours have climbed sharply in recent years. Data from Pollstar shows the average cost for the top 100 tours increased from 96.17 dollars in 2019 to 132.62 dollars in 2025.

Dynamic pricing that adjusts with demand has contributed to the rise, and resale markets often list tickets at much higher amounts than face value.

Industry consolidation has also drawn scrutiny. A federal jury ruled in April that Live Nation violated antitrust laws, leading Ticketmaster to overcharge buyers by 1.72 dollars per ticket from May 2020 through 2024.

Fans of sports events face similar increases. An analysis of past sales found that a top-category ticket for this year's World Cup final reached 10,990 dollars in April, compared with a range of 988 to 1,783 dollars in adjusted terms for the prior seven finals.