The U.S. gaming industry reached an unprecedented milestone in May 2025, generating $6.73 billion in revenue—a new monthly record, according to the American Gaming Association’s (AGA) Commercial Gaming Revenue Tracker. This figure reflects a robust 10.9% increase compared to May 2024, propelled largely by the accelerating digital shift within the sector.
While the headlines may center on digital growth, traditional casino formats—especially slot machines and table games—still contribute the bulk of the industry’s revenue. In May alone, these formats delivered $4.45 billion in combined revenue.
Slot machines remained dominant, pulling in $3.24 billion, a 4.4% rise from the previous year. Table games also posted a healthy increase, generating $894 million, up 3.3% year-over-year. These numbers highlight the staying power of brick-and-mortar casinos, which continue to offer immersive, communal experiences that digital alternatives have yet to replicate fully.
Online Growth Fuels Industry Expansion
Digital gaming continues to reshape the landscape. Regulated online casino platforms, collectively known as iGaming, saw revenues surge by 33% year-over-year, reaching $899.8 million. Online sports betting followed with a 21.4% increase. Together, iGaming and digital sports wagering accounted for $2.19 billion—nearly a third of May’s total revenue.
This dramatic growth signals a pivotal shift in consumer behavior and regulatory focus. As digital channels become a core component of gaming infrastructure, they are transforming not just player engagement but also operational strategies across states.
Mixed Results Across the States
Despite the national high, not all regions shared in the gains. Three states saw revenue declines in May:
- Nevada: –3.4%
- South Dakota: –2.7%
- Delaware: –1.0%
Nevada’s downturn is particularly noteworthy given its historical dominance in U.S. gambling. The decline suggests that relying solely on land-based models may no longer be sufficient, even for icons like the Las Vegas Strip, which now competes with the real-time accessibility of online platforms.
Emerging Markets See Explosive Growth
In contrast, several emerging gaming states experienced rapid expansion:
- Nebraska: +149.8%
- Virginia: +36.1%
- West Virginia: +24.4%
- Illinois: +22.7%
- New Jersey: +10.9%
These states demonstrate the potential of integrated strategies that combine physical venues with regulated digital platforms. New Jersey, in particular, stands out for its leadership in responsible iGaming policy and execution.
From January through May 2025, total commercial gaming revenue in the U.S. reached $31.89 billion, marking a 7.1% improvement over the same five-month period in 2024. This consistent growth pattern signals strong momentum for the sector heading into the second half of the year.
The latest data reflects more than financial success—it signals a broader transformation. The American gaming experience is transitioning from a location-based pastime to a more integrated, omnichannel ecosystem.
As interest grows from international markets in Europe, Asia, Latin America, and the Gulf, the U.S. continues to define what the future of gaming could look like. For stakeholders paying attention, the message is clear: those who adapt early to digital realities will shape the next era of global gaming.
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