In a welcome boost to Pennsylvania’s gambling industry, sports betting has driven a significant increase in revenue for the state in September. According to Gaming Intelligence, the revenue generated from sports betting in the state was the highest ever recorded, contributing to the overall growth of the gambling sector.
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board reported that the total gaming revenue in the state for September was $384.2 million, representing a 9.3% increase compared to the same period last year. Sports betting revenue alone reached a staggering $34.2 million, up 184% from September 2020, and marking the highest monthly total since the state legalized sports betting in 2018.
The surge in sports betting revenue can be attributed to a number of factors, including the return of major sporting events such as the NFL season, as well as the increasing popularity of online sports betting platforms. In Pennsylvania, online sports betting accounted for 87% of the total betting handle in September, highlighting the growing trend of consumers opting for the convenience of betting from their own homes.
In addition to sports betting, other segments of the gambling industry in Pennsylvania also saw positive growth in September. The state’s online casino revenue reached $88.4 million, a 33% increase from the same period last year. This growth can be partly attributed to the continued impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has led to an increase in online gambling activities as consumers seek entertainment options from the safety of their homes.
Overall, the strong performance of the gambling industry in Pennsylvania in September is a promising sign for the state’s economy and the continued growth of the sector. With sports betting driving revenue growth and online gambling becoming increasingly popular, Pennsylvania is poised to remain a key player in the US gambling market. As the industry continues to evolve and adapt to changing consumer preferences, the state’s gambling revenue is expected to remain robust in the coming months.