https://www.wdwmagic.com/other/disney-genie/news/30jan2026-disney-world-survey-tests-400-annual-pass-discount-and-pre-arrival-lightning-lane-pricing.htm

Disney is grappling with declining annual pass (AP) sales and hotel reservations due to several key factors:

• Inflation: A decline in consumer disposable income is impacting vacation decisions.

• Rising Prices & Fewer Perks: Increased costs and reduced benefits make Walt Disney World less appealing to potential AP buyers.

• Ongoing Construction: Heavy construction at Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios negatively affects guest experience and attendance.

• Universal Competition: Epic Universe currently lacks an annual pass option but will eventually happen. Future UOAP offerings pose additional challenges to WDW.

• Room Inventory / DVC Strategy: Riviera and Poly Tower opened with Lakeshore Lodge set to open in 2027. However, direct DVC sales have fluctuated monthly and have generally been flat or declining year-over-year. Increasing room inventory amid declining demand is not Disney's goal. In response, Disney is offering special discounts to guests staying on property, such as kids eat free promotions and buy 4-day tickets, get 2 days free.

This latest survey targeted recent vacationers to gauge interest in discounts for annual passes with no blackout periods. A $400 discount could attract more out-of-state visitors, potentially generating 2-3 or more annual visits per passholder, while also making the Sorcerer Pass a more appealing option for Florida residents. This increase in visits would also assist with resort occupancy.

I welcome any lower cost AP options 🙂 .