Gambling Participation Reaches All-Time High as More Than Half of Americans Place Bets
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The American Gaming Association released new data that shows 57 percent of U.S. adults gambled in the past year. That marks the highest participation rate the organization has ever recorded, a figure that includes people who bought lottery tickets, placed sports bets, visited casinos or played games through online platforms.
More than three dozen states now permit sports betting through physical locations or mobile applications. A smaller number have approved online casino gaming, which brings slot machines, poker and table games to computers and phones.
Casino visits have also surged. The association’s survey found that 134 million adults went to a casino within the past year. The figure accounts for about 53 percent of the population and reflects both new facilities and more interest from people who already live near casinos.
Americans have warmed to gambling in ways that seemed unlikely just a decade ago. The report found that 74 percent now support legalized sports betting in their states. Television networks show betting lines during games. Smartphone apps let people place wagers in seconds. People who want to gamble without visiting a casino can use these apps on the go and play casino games from anywhere.
Political divisions that define so many other issues don’t seem to apply here. Republicans and Democrats have nearly identical views on gambling, the survey showed. Both groups support legalization at similar rates, and that makes gambling one of the rare topics where Americans agree.
Money has played a role in changing minds. States that have legalized gambling collect billions of dollars in tax revenue each year, which gets directed toward schools, roads and other public services. Casinos have created jobs for dealers, security staff, restaurant workers and hotel employees, turning some struggling towns into entertainment destinations that draw weekend crowds.
The online side of the business has grown faster than anyone predicted. Companies that operate digital casinos and betting platforms have added millions of customers. These platforms appeal to people who enjoy gambling but don’t want to drive somewhere.
Gambling has moved into everyday life so what used to happen only in a few cities now happens in living rooms and offices across the country. Fantasy sports leagues pull in participants who might never set foot in a casino and poker tournaments get broadcast on cable channels.
State governments continue to debate gambling laws and regulations. Lawmakers argue about tax rates, licensing requirements and which companies can operate. Supporters say that legal markets beat illegal ones because they protect consumers and fund public programs.
The industry bet on mobile technology and convenience. The numbers show that approach worked. Younger generations have adopted sports betting and online casino games faster than older ones.
Companies have spent millions on user experience and app design over the past few years. That investment has paid off as casual sports fans have become regular bettors who place wagers from their phones during games.
The association’s report captures an industry at a high point, though questions remain about future growth. Some states saw revenue flatten sooner than expected after they legalized gambling. Operators compete hard for customers and spend heavily on advertising. But the trend shows continued expansion as more states approve laws and more people participate.