In August, the casino industry in Mississippi saw a significant increase in revenue, with total earnings coming close to $210 million. This marks a 17% increase compared to the same month last year, signaling a strong recovery for the state’s gambling market.
According to data from the Mississippi Gaming Commission, the August total gaming revenue reached $209.6 million, with both commercial and tribal casinos contributing to the growth. Commercial casinos accounted for $185.2 million of the total, while tribal casinos brought in $24.4 million.
The increase in revenue can be attributed to several factors, including the easing of pandemic restrictions and pent-up demand from players eager to return to the casinos. Additionally, the state’s new sports betting market has also played a significant role in driving revenue growth. Mississippi legalized sports betting in 2018, and it has quickly become a popular option for both locals and out-of-state visitors.
The sports betting market in Mississippi has seen steady growth since its inception, with August marking the fourth consecutive month that revenue has exceeded $10 million. The total sports betting handle for the month reached $76.8 million, with $9.6 million generated in revenue. This represents a 14% increase in handle and a 41% increase in revenue compared to July.
The strong performance of the casino industry in August is a positive sign for the state’s overall economy, as the sector is one of the largest employers in Mississippi. The increase in revenue will also provide a much-needed boost to the state’s tax revenue, which has been strained due to the pandemic.
Looking ahead, industry experts predict that the momentum will continue into the fall, as more tourists visit the state and sports betting continues to attract new players. With several major sporting events on the horizon, including the NFL season and college football games, Mississippi’s casinos are expected to see further growth in the coming months.
Overall, the August casino revenue numbers in Mississippi paint a promising picture for the state’s gambling industry, with strong performance across both commercial and tribal casinos. As the industry continues to recover from the challenges of the past year, the future looks bright for Mississippi’s gaming market.