More Americans than ever before recognise economic impact of casino gaming
Record numbers recognise the sector’s positive economic and social contributions
More Americans than ever before are engaging with the gaming industry, according to new research from the American Gaming Association (AGA). The data shows that 57 per cent of American adults participated in some form of gambling over the past year, with 30 per cent visiting a physical casino and 21 per cent placing a sports bet.
This record level of engagement reflects growing acceptance: nine in ten Americans find casino gambling acceptable, while 62 per cent view gambling as personally acceptable. A total of 134 million American adults (53 per cent) visited a casino for gambling or entertainment in the last 12 months — the highest rate on record.
Compared to other leisure activities, casino gaming is increasingly seen as a modern and worthwhile form of entertainment. According to the AGA, 89 per cent of visitors consider casino experiences innovative, and 90 per cent believe casinos offer good value for money.
This perception continues to attract younger generations, with the average age of casino visitors well below pre-pandemic levels, underscoring the sector’s growing cultural relevance.
Public awareness of gaming’s economic benefits remains exceptionally strong. 77 per cent of Americans say the gaming industry has a positive impact on the US economy. 85 per cent believe casinos bring entertainment and dining to regions that might otherwise lack them. 86 per cent agree casinos increase tourism and attract conventions and events. 82 per cent recognize gaming’s role in job creation and domestic investment. 82 per cent say the industry provides well-paying jobs that cannot be outsourced.
These findings highlight widespread acknowledgment of gaming’s value as a growth engine and community partner across the country.
Public backing for legal, regulated sports betting remains high, with 74 per cent of Americans supporting it across party lines. This growing consensus reflects confidence in regulated markets to protect consumers and drive tax revenues.
As the gaming industry expands, Americans are increasingly aware of its commitment to responsible gaming and ethical practices. 64 per cent of respondents believe the industry actively encourages responsible gambling — up from less than 40 per cent in 2018. Among casino players, 77 per cent share this confidence, rising to 84 per cent among sports bettors. 72 per cent of all Americans report exposure to responsible gaming messages in the past year, compared to 56 per cent in 2022.
These findings demonstrate tangible progress in responsibility outreach and consumer education.
The study, conducted by Kantar on behalf of the AGA, surveyed 2,001 registered voters aged 21 and older between July 22 and August 8, 2025, with a margin of error of ± two per cent.
