San Diego Comic-Con is not going anywhere until at least 2030. Mayor Todd Gloria announced the new agreement on July 22, 2026, as Comic-Con 2026 opened with its Preview Night at the San Diego Convention Center.
The deal extends Comic-Con’s previous commitment, which only ran through 2027. Short extensions had fueled yearly rumors that the show might leave for a bigger or cheaper city.
Why it was in doubt
Comic-Con has been held in San Diego since 1970. But two problems come up every year: rising hotel prices and the size of the convention center. In 2026, hotel rooms were scarcer and pricier than ever, according to industry coverage.
Comic-Con said local hotels agreed to expand room blocks at competitive rates. That commitment was central to the new deal.
The economic stakes
City leaders shared projections for the 2026 show alone:
| Measure | 2026 projection |
|---|---|
| Attendance | 135,000+ over four days |
| Regional economic impact | $160 million+ |
| Hotel room nights | 61,000+ |
| Hotel and sales tax for the city | About $3 million |
The San Diego Convention Center called Comic-Con part of the city’s identity, citing the jobs and tax revenue it supports.
Comic-Con by the numbers
Comic-Con International describes itself as the largest show of its kind in the world. It offers more than 460,000 square feet of exhibit space, more than 1,000 exhibitors and over 2,000 hours of programming.
Key facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Announced | July 22, 2026 |
| New agreement | San Diego through 2030 (previously through 2027) |
| Announced by | Mayor Todd Gloria with Comic-Con, the Convention Center and San Diego Tourism Authority |
| 2026 show dates | July 22 (Preview Night) – July 26, 2026 |
| Venue | San Diego Convention Center |
Frequently asked questions
How long will Comic-Con stay in San Diego? Through at least 2030, under the agreement announced on July 22, 2026.
How many people attend San Diego Comic-Con? The city projected more than 135,000 attendees for the 2026 show.
How much is Comic-Con worth to San Diego? City leaders projected more than $160 million in regional economic impact for 2026.
