Published on: October 31, 2025, 08:08h.
Updated on: October 31, 2025, 08:10h.
- The American Gaming Association reports that public sentiment toward gambling is at an all-time high.
- Gambling participation among Americans has reached unprecedented levels as options proliferate nationwide.
In light of a significant gambling scandal that has cast doubt on the NBA’s integrity, the American Gaming Association (AGA) reveals that American attitudes towards legalized gambling have never been more positive.
According to AGA’s annual consumer survey conducted by Kantar from July 22 to August 8, an unprecedented number of Americans are visiting casinos, and their perceptions of these establishments are more favorable than ever.
Among the 2,000 surveyed individuals, over half of American adults (57%) engaged in some form of gambling over the past year, with about 53%—or nearly 134 million adults—visiting a casino. Both statistics represent all-time highs.
The findings revealed that 90% of participants view casinos as acceptable for themselves or others, and over 60% believe that gambling is personally acceptable.
“These results establish a solid foundation for growth in the American gaming industry, showcasing robust consumer confidence in a state-regulated market as a reputable entertainment option,” stated AGA President and CEO Bill Miller.
The Kantar study carried a margin of error of +/- 2%. The AGA represents the interests of commercial and tribal gaming sectors at both federal and state levels.
Unprecedented Gambling Landscape
Just a few decades prior, legal gambling was largely restricted to Nevada, Atlantic City, and tribal casinos. Today, various forms of legal gambling (casinos, racinos, iGaming, and sports betting) are permitted in all but four states: Georgia, Hawaii, South Carolina, and Utah. However, both Georgia and South Carolina do operate state-run lotteries.
Commercial and tribal casinos are operational in 43 states, sports betting is legal in 39 states and Washington, DC, while iGaming is approved in seven states.
Americans are not only gambling more than ever but also experiencing higher losses. In 2024, commercial gaming revenue reached $74 billion, marking the third consecutive year of record earnings. Tribal casinos recorded a staggering $43.9 billion in revenue during their most recent fiscal year, also representing a fourth straight year of record earnings across 243 federally recognized tribes operating in 29 states.
According to AGA’s findings, Americans seem unfazed by losses amounting to nearly $120 billion annually. The survey reveals that 77% perceive the gaming industry as a force for good in the US economy, 85% believe casinos enhance the entertainment and dining scene in areas otherwise unable to support such options, and 86% feel that casinos contribute to increased tourism and conventions.
More than 80% agreed that the gaming industry creates jobs and investments in the US that cannot be outsourced, with 82% asserting that casinos generate quality employment opportunities.
A Positive Outlook
The AGA-sponsored consumer survey paints a vibrant picture of both commercial and tribal gaming markets. Notably, 64% of Americans feel that the industry is dedicated to promoting responsible gaming and addressing gambling issues, with nearly three-quarters having encountered responsible gaming messages in the previous year.
This study was conducted prior to the FBI unveiling the NBA scandal. The repercussions of federal prosecutions involving NBA personnel for alleged illegal betting schemes on consumer perception will become apparent over time.