Commercial Gaming Revenue Hits Record $72 Billion Driven by Online Gaming Growth

• Commercial gaming revenue hit a record high for a third consecutive year
• Players lost a record $72 billion in 2024
• iGaming and online sports betting operators continue to increase revenue

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In a remarkable turn of events, gamblers in the United States lost more money than ever before, with losses reaching an astonishing $72 billion in 2024. This surge in commercial gaming revenue sets new benchmarks and reflects the booming US commercial gaming market, particularly in the realm of online gaming.

The seventh anniversary of the Supreme Court’s repeal of the federal ban on sports betting signifies a pivotal moment. The mainstream acceptance of sports gambling has propelled the industry into a prosperous phase, attracting a new wave of gamers through sportsbooks and online wagering platforms.

According to the American Gaming Association’s (AGA) 2025 “State of the States” report, commercial gaming revenue—which encompasses all forms of legal nontribal gaming income aside from lottery gaming—grew by 7.5% from 2023, surpassing $72 billion. Concurrently, state taxes generated from this unprecedented revenue also increased significantly, climbing by 8.5% year-on-year to a record $15.9 billion.

“Propelled by another year of strong organic growth in existing online markets for both sports betting and iGaming, the commercial casino sector enjoyed a third consecutive record year,” said Bill Miller, president and CEO of the AGA. “The unprecedented success of our industry comes as more Americans than ever before have access to, and allocate their entertainment budgets to, the legal, regulated gaming market.”

The AGA estimates that over half of American adults engaged in some form of legal gambling last year, with 45% visiting brick-and-mortar gaming venues. This shift in consumer behaviour highlights the changing landscape of gambling.

Sports Betting and Online Casino Expansion

Almost all Americans now live within an hour’s drive from a casino or gaming facility. Meanwhile, while iGaming, or online casinos, is legal in just seven states—Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, and West Virginia—34 states permit legal sports betting through computers and mobile devices.

This growth is mirrored in revenues: while land-based casino income across 492 venues expanded by just 1% from 2023 to $49.9 billion, gross gaming revenue (GGR) from iGaming skyrocketed by 29%, totalling $8.4 billion. Furthermore, oddsmakers retained approximately $13.8 billion of player bets, an increase of 25% from the previous year.

More Gaming, More Acceptance

Gambling’s presence in society is growing stronger. Recent surveys indicate that nearly nine out of ten adults in the U.S. encounter gambling product advertisements at least once a week. This rising acceptance towards gambling is largely attributed to the proliferation of sports betting and the recent legalization of commercial brick-and-mortar casinos in various states, including Arkansas, Nebraska, and Virginia. Reports suggest that New York City may soon follow.

The significant expansion of gambling—moving from perceptions of vice in locations like Las Vegas and Atlantic City to being seen as a legitimate entertainment choice—reflects a dramatic public shift. “Americans increasingly view gaming positively, acknowledging our commitment to operate responsibly and recognizing the economic benefits we provide to local communities. These affirmations serve as the foundation of our industry’s credibility,” Miller stated.

In conclusion, the commercial gaming landscape is undergoing a monumental transformation emphasised by its record-breaking revenues exceeding $72 billion. With the growing integration of online betting and casinos, public acceptance continues to rise, paving the way for greater innovation and opportunities within the gaming sector.

This burgeoning interest signifies not only a thriving industry but also an evolving consumer landscape where gambling is embraced as an integral component of entertainment.