The Growth of Legal Gaming in the US
The American Gaming Association (AGA) has released its latest annual consumer survey, which reveals a record number of Americans engaged in legal gaming in 2025. The survey also highlights a growing preference for legal gaming options among players and increased recognition of responsible gaming measures. Additionally, there is sustained bipartisan support for sports betting.
Engagement in Legal Gaming
More than half of US adults (57%) reported engaging in some form of gambling over the past 12 months. This helps drive recognition of the industry’s commitment to responsibility and its economic impact. According to AGA President and CEO Bill Miller, “These results underscore a sustainable foundation for the American gaming industry, reflecting strong consumer confidence in a state-regulated market as a safe and trusted form of entertainment.”
Benefits of Casinos
Some 134 million Americans visited casinos in the past year, which marks the first time visitation surpassed the halfway point. Nearly three-quarters of Americans believe having casinos in their states is beneficial because they help create jobs, generate tax revenue, promote tourism, and boost local businesses. Several states are currently considering new commercial casino licenses, reinforcing this momentum. For example, Indiana, California, and New York are all considering new casino projects that could generate substantial tax revenues and create thousands of jobs.
Support for Sports Betting
Legal, regulated sports betting also receives broad bipartisan support, with 74% of Americans favoring it. Additionally, 78% of Americans consider sports betting a form of entertainment. This backing comes as states such as Missouri prepare to enter the regulated market, highlighting that emerging jurisdictions anticipate competition with border states and view legalized wagering as part of economic strategy.
Regulated Gaming and Player Trust
Ninety percent of iGaming players and 93% of sports bettors say legality is a deciding factor when choosing where to play, showing online gamers overwhelmingly prefer regulated platforms. However, more than 40% of gamers and bettors report difficulty distinguishing between legal and illegal platforms. States where sports betting is legal report that 70% of residents believe the industry acts responsibly in marketing and advertising, which is critical to guiding players toward legal options.
Industry Efforts to Promote Responsible Gaming
Consumer recognition of the industry’s commitment to responsible gaming continues to grow. More than three-quarters (77%) of brick-and-mortar casino visitors say the industry’s responsible-gaming programs are effective, up from 67% in 2018. Nearly nine in ten (88%) sports bettors similarly rate these programs as effective. The Responsible Online Gaming Association (ROGA) partnered with the free blocking-software tool BetBlocker to give players an accessible means to restrict access to gambling websites and apps. Regulators in Michigan and New Jersey have also taken steps to promote responsible gaming, including designating September as Responsible Gaming Education Month and proposing comprehensive responsible-play rule frameworks.
Conclusion
The growth of legal gaming in the US is a positive trend that reflects a shift towards safer and more transparent gaming practices. The industry’s commitment to responsibility and its economic impact are driving consumer confidence in state-regulated markets. As the industry continues to expand, it is likely that we will see even more innovative initiatives to promote responsible gaming and protect players. According to Bill Miller, “We will continue to build on this momentum by expanding the legal market, strengthening responsibility, and ensuring gaming delivers for players and communities alike.”
