The American Gaming Association (AGA) has reported unprecedented achievements for the U.S. commercial gaming sector in 2024, positioning the industry for further expansion in 2025. Total revenue is projected to exceed $67 billion, marking a four-year streak of record-breaking performance. This growth reflects sustained demand across all gaming sectors, with online gaming emerging as a critical driver.

Record growth for the gaming industry:

According to AGA President and CEO Bill Miller, revenues reached $53.24 billion by the end of September, an 8% year-over-year increase. The third quarter alone set a new record, generating $17.71 billion. Online gaming showed remarkable growth, with iGaming revenue up 30.3% to $2.08 billion and sports betting revenue climbing 42.4% to $3.24 billion. Together, these digital platforms accounted for 29% of the industry’s total revenue.

Traditional brick-and-mortar casinos experienced a modest 0.9% decline, generating $12.38 billion in Q3. However, the segment remains stable, bolstered by new casino openings and consistent consumer interest despite broader economic pressures.

Bill Miller expressed optimism about the future, emphasizing the industry’s adaptability and resilience. “Looking ahead to 2025, I see tremendous opportunity,” Miller said in an email. “The age of our industry’s average casino visitor has dropped from 50 to 42, a shift that speaks volumes about our industry’s ability to evolve and attract new generations of customers.”

The AGA also highlighted efforts to tackle illegal gaming operators. A significant legal victory in Virginia against unlicensed gaming machines demonstrated the industry’s dedication to transparency and fairness. Miller underscored the importance of regulatory oversight in maintaining the integrity of the gaming sector.

The gaming industry has also gained bipartisan support, with 70% of voters from both major political affiliations recognizing its positive contributions to local economies. This support will be essential as the industry collaborates with a new administration, Congress, and state legislators in the coming year.

Looking ahead to 2025:

The AGA has outlined ambitious plans for 2025, including a refreshed approach to responsible gaming. A new campaign will focus on sustainable growth and consumer protection, leveraging in-depth consumer insights to enhance player experiences. Miller emphasized the importance of responsible gaming in fostering trust and long-term success for the industry.

The convergence of sports, gaming, and entertainment continues to offer exciting opportunities. As more platforms integrate these experiences, the gaming industry is poised to deliver innovative, seamless, and immersive products to a growing demographic of younger players.

The gaming sector also remains a vital economic contributor. In Q3 alone, the industry generated $3.79 billion in gaming taxes, an 8.9% increase from the previous year. These revenues support state and local budgets, reinforcing the industry’s role as an economic driver nationwide.