In 2012, the Wrestling Observer Newsletter estimated that WWE spent around $820,000 per an episode of Raw, which was an increase on the $735,000 they were spending per a Raw in 2011. That cost is likely around the same figure in 2015, although WWE did take steps to cut back things like pyro and staging in the last few years. A figure in at least the $700,000 region is probable for the three hour productions that you see today. The reason for the great expense is all the logistical and contracted elements of the show. Multiple production trucks are required and skilled workers are required to man the cutting edge pieces of technology in play. HD cameras and stage set-up is not cheap. The logistics of filming a live show in a 8,000 capacity arena is continually challenging.
