The iGaming industry has come a long way in the United States. What started as a niche corner of the internet has grown into a serious economic powerhouse. With more people choosing to play and place bets online, the industry is now making a real impact on the country’s financial landscape.
Experts say the US iGaming market is on track to hit $56.3 billion in gross gaming revenue by 2028. But it’s not just about the numbers. The industry currently supports close to two million American jobs and brings in billions in tax revenue each year. That’s money going into schools, roads, and public services.
In this article, we’ll explore what leading voices in the field are saying about the iGaming boom, and how it’s shaping the economy from the ground up. And if you’re thinking about joining the growing number of people making money from betting, now might be the perfect time.
However, as expert tipster and iGaming expert Kate Richardson points out, it’s important to stay informed, especially when choosing where to play. You also want to be informed on the betting markets, odds, player safety and bonuses. Many players now check review sites like MightyTips for honest reviews and up-to-date info on these details in order to make the right call from the start.
Economic Impact of the iGaming Industry on Revenue Generation
The rise of iGaming isn’t just transforming the way people play but also becoming a major driver of government revenue across the U.S. In 2024, the entire commercial gaming industry, including internet casino gaming, sports betting, and traditional casinos, raked in over $72 billion in revenue, setting yet another record for the fourth year in a row.
As more Americans choose to play online, platforms are generating billions in gross gaming revenue. This means a steady flow of tax money that goes directly into public services like schools, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Experts say this isn’t just a passing trend. With more states legalizing and regulating iGaming, the potential for long-term revenue growth is clear.
AGA president and CEO Bill Miller summed it up well: “The US gaming industry delivers long-term growth and impact to communities, generating significant tax revenue, creating strong jobs, supporting local small businesses, and funding critical community priorities.”
That impact is especially visible in states with legal iGaming, where digital platforms are helping boost state budgets without relying on physical casino expansion.
Significant Impact on Job Creation
When people talk about iGaming’s economic impact, what often comes up is revenue and regulation. But let’s not overlook what’s happening behind the scenes, particularly in job creation.
A new study by Analysis Group shows an interesting trend: states that legalized iGaming between 2017 and 2022 saw land-based casino jobs grow by 49.6% over that period. That’s nearly double the growth seen in states without iGaming. This suggests that digital gaming has helped support – not replace – traditional casino jobs.
The industry supports close to 1.8 million jobs across the U.S. These roles span a wide range of fields, including software developers, customer support teams, marketing professionals, security staff, legal advisors, and more.
What’s more, employment in gaming services, like game dealers, supervisors, and support staff, is expected to remain steady, with around 23,300 openings each year over the next decade.
Impact on Tax Revenue
Beyond boosting jobs and revenue, iGaming is feeding state and local budgets. Every wager placed online contributes to public funding, helping governments invest in everything from infrastructure to education.
Take New Jersey as an example, around 8% of gross gaming revenue from online casinos and sportsbooks is funneled into programs for seniors and people with disabilities. That’s not just smart regulation; it’s money going exactly where it’s needed.
The public is starting to notice, too. In a Reddit thread, one user pointed out: “The revenue generated from online gambling is primarily used to support state programs for seniors and people living with disabilities among us.”
Economic Development and Investment
The growth of iGaming is also attracting serious investment and driving economic development in several parts of the country.
As states legalize online gambling, operators are setting up new offices, hiring local talent, and investing in tech infrastructure. This creates ripple effects in related industries like fintech, cybersecurity, marketing, and customer support.
In areas where iGaming is thriving, we’re seeing:
- New startups entering the market
- Tech hubs expanding to support the industry
- More partnerships between gaming companies and local suppliers
- Boosts to real estate as offices and data centers grow
All of this points to a long-term shift, where iGaming is becoming part of the backbone of local economies, not just a digital pastime.
Final Thoughts
There’s no denying that the iGaming industry has been on a strong upward path. Beyond the entertainment and rewards it offers players, it’s proving to be a valuable contributor to the U.S. economy.
From job creation to tax revenue and local investment, the industry is playing a bigger role than many might realize – and it looks like that impact is only going to grow.