Los Angeles Zoo Faces Price Increase and Funding Challenges

Romina Bergman interacted with a newborn chimpanzee named Yoshi at the Los Angeles Zoo last year. A recent decision by an L.A. City Council panel aims to increase zoo ticket prices by $2. The proposal, which affects adult admissions, awaits approval from the full City Council.

In efforts to close budget gaps, officials are proposing a 7% to 9% increase depending on ticket type. General admission tickets will rise to $29 for adults, $24 for children, and $26 for seniors. The city’s budget for fiscal 2026-27 already accounts for this change.

Last year, ticket prices increased by $5. Prior to that, the last hike was a $2 increase in 2012. The zoo, operated by the city, has been embroiled in legal tussles. In 2024, the city sued the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association (GLAZA), alleging the nonprofit withheld $50 million in endowment funds.

Since its founding in 1963, GLAZA handled fundraising and events. A judge recently blocked GLAZA from accessing or distributing funds in question. Bankruptcy claims by GLAZA were dismissed by a federal judge.

The zoo, showcasing 1,600 animals, faces funding and staffing shortages. Concerns over conditions led to the relocation of elephants Billy and Tina. Various exhibits await renovation amid accreditation challenges.

With the end of the partnership with GLAZA, an L.A. County grand jury urges exploring new private-public partnerships. Comparatively, while L.A. Zoo tickets rise, they remain lower than the San Diego Zoo, which charges $78 for adults.