New Jersey isn’t just known for boardwalks and beaches. It's also a powerhouse in the gaming world, with Atlantic City casinos, online gambling, and sports betting combining to generate billions in revenue and fuel steady growth year after year.
New Jersey has a long and evolving relationship with gambling. Atlantic City became the epicenter of East Coast gaming after casino gambling was legalized there in 1977, turning it into a major tourist and entertainment destination. Fast forward to 2013, and New Jersey became one of the first states to legalize online casinos, quickly gaining a reputation as a trailblazer in digital gaming. Today, the industry includes a mix of iconic land-based casinos, thriving NJ online casino platforms, and leading sportsbooks, positioning the state as a national model for regulated gambling.
New Jersey's gaming industry has grown into a multibillion-dollar powerhouse that plays a major role in the state’s economy. Fueled by its historic casino presence in Atlantic City and a rapidly expanding online sector, the industry continues to set new records and drive economic momentum. From job creation to tax revenue, the impact of gaming reaches well beyond the casino floor, touching everything from tourism to local development.
New Jersey's gaming industry achieved a historic milestone in 2024, generating a record-breaking $6.3 billion in total gaming revenue. This figure represents a 9% increase over the previous year, underscoring the state's prominent position in the national gaming landscape.
This revenue surge came from three core segments, each contributing to New Jersey's diverse and balanced gaming market:
New Jersey has become a national leader in online gambling, building one of the country’s most robust and profitable digital gaming markets. Since the launch of regulated online casinos in 2013, the state has seen consistent growth, with platforms offering everything from slots and table games to live dealer experiences. Major online casino platforms have found a strong foothold here, giving players seamless access to casino action from their phones, tablets, or desktops.
Sports betting, which was legalized in 2018 following the repeal of PASPA, has added even more momentum. Every month, billions of dollars flow through online sportsbooks, with the state regularly reporting over $1 billion in monthly betting handles. The convenience of mobile wagering and wide coverage of professional and college sports have made it a go-to for casual bettors and seasoned fans.
New Jersey’s success in rolling out both online casinos and mobile sports betting has turned it into a blueprint for other states exploring gambling expansion. Its combination of forward-thinking regulation, strong technology partnerships, and consumer trust has helped set the standard for legal, secure, and high-performing gaming markets across the US.
One key reason New Jersey’s gaming industry continues to thrive is its strong embrace of technology and innovation. Behind every smooth bet or online spin is a network of advanced tools working in the background to enhance security, convenience, and overall user experience. Fast, secure payment solutions and responsive mobile apps are just some of the tools powering the state’s gaming platforms, all designed with today’s digital-first players in mind.
Geolocation technology is vital, ensuring users are physically within New Jersey's borders before placing a bet. This keeps the state compliant with federal laws and builds trust with players who know they're using a legitimate, licensed platform.
NJ's success wouldn't be possible without its partnerships with leading tech firms and game developers. These collaborations bring high-quality content, innovative features, and new experiences to players, including live dealer games, VR elements, and gamified loyalty programs. The state's progressive regulatory framework has encouraged this growth, creating an environment where operators can innovate while prioritizing responsible gaming and player protection.
New Jersey's gaming industry is one of the most successful and forward-thinking in the country, combining historic charm with cutting-edge innovation. Its impact is undeniable, with billions in annual revenue, a strong mix of land-based and online options, and a regulatory model that other states look to emulate. As technology continues to evolve and player preferences shift, New Jersey is well-positioned to stay ahead of the curve and continue shaping the future of gaming nationwide.
