Published on: February 19, 2026, 12:43 PM.
Updated on: February 19, 2026, 12:43 PM.
- A Sphere in Maryland is projected to deliver an annual economic boost of $1.3 billion for Prince George’s County
- EY forecasts that the MGM National Harbor Sphere would create 7,100 jobs, including 1,250 directly at the venue
According to Maryland’s state and local officials, the introduction of a Las Vegas-style Sphere at MGM National Harbor is expected to compensate for the tax losses arising from the future relocation of the NFL Washington Commanders from Landover to D.C.
In January, Sphere Entertainment, part of billionaire James Dolan’s Madison Square Garden Entertainment Corp., finalized a partnership with Maryland and Prince George’s County to construct a smaller replica of the Las Vegas Sphere at the MGM resort in Oxon Hill. An economic impact analysis by Ernst & Young indicates that the advantages for the area adjacent to the nation’s capital will be substantial.
EY predicts a $1.6 billion economic engagement during the construction phase and an ongoing annual impact of $1.3 billion. The Sphere is expected to generate 7,100 full-time and part-time positions, including 1,250 jobs directly within the venue.
MGM National Harbor stands as the leading casino in terms of revenue outside Las Vegas. In 2025, it reported $501 million in slot revenue and $322.2 million from table games. Borgata in Atlantic City, which is also operated by MGM, came in second with $800.8 million.
Promoting the Sphere
Since its announcement, the MGM National Harbor Sphere has faced criticism largely due to the $200 million in public incentives involved. Given Maryland’s current $1.4 billion budget deficit, the rationale behind assisting a billionaire in building a concert hall has been questioned by some.
However, the EY analysis argues that the investment of $200 million is a smart decision for both the state and Prince George’s County. It estimates that the county could gain $63 million annually in new tax revenue, while the state could benefit by $65 million each year.
We are witnessing the transformative impact this development will have, not only for Prince George’s County and the state of Maryland but truly for the entire region,” said Governor Wes Moore (D) on Wednesday.
Aisha Braveboy (D), Prince George’s County Executive, emphasizes the need for the county to strategize for anticipated revenue declines following the Commanders’ move to D.C.
I’m optimistic about getting this project underway before the Commanders depart,” stated Braveboy.
Braveboy believes the tax income generated by the Sphere will effectively counteract losses incurred by the Commanders’ relocation. Additionally, the entertainment venue is expected to alleviate reductions in revenue caused by the 2025 closure of Six Flags America in Woodmore.
MGM National Harbor Sphere Details
The planned MGM National Harbor Sphere is significantly smaller than its Las Vegas counterpart, measuring about one-third its size. While the Las Vegas venue accommodates 19,000 visitors, the Maryland Sphere is designed for 6,000 attendees. EY estimates that over two million visitors could attend events at the MGM Sphere each year.
The financial cost for the National Harbor Sphere has not yet been disclosed.