As the national gambling landscape continues to evolve, North Carolina remains relatively conservative when it comes to casino gaming. While neighboring states and others, like New Jersey, have leaned into the potential revenue streams of both online and commercial casinos, North Carolina still largely limits casino activity to tribal lands. But with shifting political attitudes and recent legislative developments, many are wondering, could change be on the horizon?
Currently, only three casinos operate in the Tar Heel State, all on Native American lands. The Harrah’s Cherokee locations in the mountains and the newer Catawba Two Kings Casino near Charlotte serve as the state’s only sanctioned options. These facilities offer thousands of slot machines and a range of table games, but they’re not easily accessible for everyone in the state. For residents in the central or eastern regions, out-of-state trips to Virginia or casino cruises remain more practical options.
Over the last few years, state lawmakers have made some strides in gambling legislation. Most notably, online sports betting went live in March 2024, giving North Carolinians a taste of legal wagering through mobile apps. That launch was seen as a potential gateway to broader casino expansion. Still, efforts to add three commercial casinos in 2023 fell short, and in a surprising twist, Senator Phil Berger reversed his support for online casinos in early 2025. That political shift introduced a new wrinkle into an already complex conversation.
Online casinos remain illegal in North Carolina. While the appetite exists in certain circles, there are the usual sweepstakes and social casinos, and players looking for a more New Jersey Online Casino version will probably have to wait for some time still. Social and sweepstakes platforms offer free-play or promotional token options, but they don’t pay out real money and exist in something of a legal grey area. For those craving the real deal, waiting continues.
Public sentiment, however, appears to be shifting. A Meredith College poll conducted earlier this year found that 58% of North Carolinians now support expanding casino gaming to non-tribal lands. Only 32% opposed the idea. The remainder were undecided. These numbers reflect a changing cultural outlook, a sign that the views of North Carolina residents are being considered and respected. As pollster David McLennan noted, the normalization of lotteries and sports betting, and the proximity of out-of-state casinos, have made the idea of full-fledged gambling less controversial for many residents.
Still, the General Assembly faces a balancing act. Moral objections, concerns about addiction, and economic impacts in local communities continue to give some legislators pause. Yet for others, the potential for keeping gambling revenue within state borders and stimulating economic development, especially in rural areas, presents a compelling case for reconsideration. It’s important to consider the potential risks, such as increased gambling addiction, that could come with casino expansion. These risks should be carefully weighed against the potential benefits.
In short, North Carolina isn’t there yet. But the pieces are on the table. With increasing public support and precedent set by sports betting, another push for commercial and possibly online casinos is expected during the 2025 legislative session. This potential for future change should make North Carolina residents feel excited and engaged in the ongoing conversation about casino gaming in the state. Whether lawmakers will follow through remains to be seen. But the conversation is far from over.