Disney (DIS.US) raised its peak-season ticket prices at its U.S. theme parks by about 6%

Disney (DIS.US) raised the price of its two Southern California theme parks by about 6% on the most popular days, effective immediately. While the lowest tier tickets will remain unchanged at $104, other single-day single-park tickets and multi-day single-park passes will increase by 5.9% to 6.5%. The most expensive single-day single-park tickets currently cost $206, up 6.2% from the previous $194. Disney officials said the price adjustments are made to balance demand and optimize the number of visitors, and reflect the value visitors receive from the parks. In addition, the Disney Parks, Experiences and Products division also raised the price of its Magic Key annual passes, with the cheapest Imagine Key now up $100 to $599. The project is currently on hold for new sales, and will reopen later this year. Notably, the theme park operator's resort business is slowing down, and rising costs are putting pressure on profits during the price hike.