In 2024 alone , legal sports betting generated an estimated $ 2.5 billion in tax revenue , funding critical efforts from education to law enforcement and infrastructure .
AMERICAN GAMING ASSOCIATION
SUPER BOWL :
Betting on More Than Just the Game
Legal sports betting is a win for local communities
BY JOE MALONEY
As confetti rained down and fans cheered for their favorite teams during Super Bowl LIX , the excitement wasn ’ t just confined to the field .
Across the country , millions of Americans found another way to immerse themselves in the action — by placing a legal wager on the big game . The American Gaming Association estimates that a record $ 1.39 billion was legally wagered on the Super Bowl , showcasing the growing role of sports betting in enhancing fan engagement and fueling economic impact .
Legal sports betting isn ’ t just providing entertainment . It ’ s delivering real , tangible benefits to communities nationwide . A recent AGA survey found that 76 percent of Americans recognize the positive economic impact of gaming . They see how gaming fuels jobs , generates tax revenue , and supports essential public services in their communities .
In 2024 alone , legal sports betting generated an estimated $ 2.5 billion in tax revenue , funding critical efforts from education to law enforcement and infrastructure .
The additional tax revenue provided by legal sports betting is making a measurable impact on local economies and community development . As the legal market expands , states can look forward to more jobs , enhanced educational opportunities , and greater investments in public services .
In 2024 alone , legal sports betting generated an estimated $ 2.5 billion in tax revenue , funding critical efforts from education to law enforcement and infrastructure .
annual u . S . CommerCial GaminG revenue
The numbers tell a compelling story . Since the federal ban on sports betting was lifted in 2018 , Americans have embraced the opportunity to wager legally , with three-quarters of U . S . adults supporting legal sports betting . This groundswell of support has driven the growth of legal markets , now spanning 39 states and Washington , D . C .
This momentum translates to recent data from GeoComply , showing a 20.2 percent increase in active legal sports betting accounts this NFL season compared to last year . This data reflects the growing popularity and trust in regulated sportsbooks .
With the close of another exhilarating NFL season , one thing is clear : legal sports betting is more than just entertainment — it ’ s an economic powerhouse and a driver of critical public services . The future is bright for both fans and communities alike .
Joe Maloney is senior vice president , strategic communications for the American Gaming Association .
10 Global Gaming Business MARCH 2025