It appears last year was a record-setting one for commercial casinos in the United States. The American Gaming Association (AGA) is reporting that its Commercial Gaming Revenue Tracker shows the nation reached $53 billion in revenues for 2021. This total blasts the previous record from 2019 when the US reached over $43 billion. The industry was able to end 2021 with a bang, as the final quarter set a new revenue record of $14.31 billion.

Remarkable Results

Last year, there were 23 operational jurisdictions offering commercial gaming that set new individual records when it comes to year earnings. With 34 jurisdictions in operation, the majority were able to reach new heights for the year.

Land-based gaming paved the way by leading in the recovery efforts from 2020’s COVID-19 pandemic. Slot and table game action within commercial casinos brought in $44.94 billion, a 6.6% increase from 2019’s record.

Sports betting was up too, presenting over $57 billion in handle plus $4.29 billion in earnings. This was a huge boost from 2020 totals, with a 165% higher handle and 177% higher revenues. The boost in earnings was due to new markets such as Louisiana, South Dakota, Arizona, and Wyoming, plus the established markets like New Jersey and Nevada.

CEO and President of the AGA, Bill Miller, commented on the record earnings, calling the results ‘remarkable.’

“The success of 2021 reflects our commitment to health and safety and how Americans have welcomed gaming’s expansion across the country. Today’s industry is effectively meeting customers how and where they want to engage—whether at a casino or through mobile gaming.”

Despite the record-setting year in 2021, Miller is confident that continued growth will be seen in 2022.

Covering the US Market

The AGA provides continual coverage of the commercial gaming industry within the United States via its Commercial Gaming Revenue Tracker. The tracker focuses on individual state reports as well as cumulative earnings throughout the United States.

The recent issue of the tracker covers the full 2021 figures along with the fourth-quarter results. In the United States, a total of 33 individual states offers commercial gaming along with the District of Columbia. The operations include a mix of casino gaming, iGaming, and sports betting.

Last year, four new commercial gaming markets opened in the states, providing a good boost to the totals. These states include Wyoming, Arizona, Connecticut, Virginia.

The AGA also has a State of Play Map that was recently updated to provide charts involving the economic impact of gaming, as well as industry regulations and the locations of casinos in each state. Coverage is provided for both tribal gaming and commercial venues.