AGA: More Americans Turning to Casinos and Sports Betting

In July, the American Gaming Association (AGA) published its Commercial Gaming Revenue Tracker that offered insights into the growth of the casino industry in the US, signaling positive gaming metrics in most states. 

Now, AGA’s latest “American Attitudes Toward Gaming 2025” study reveals that more Americans are engaging with gaming than ever before. 

The survey, conducted online by data analysis and consulting agency Kantar between July 22 and August 8, 2025, among 2,001 registered voters aged 21 and older, had a margin of error of plus or minus 2%.

Record Number of Players

Over the past year, 57% of adults took part in some form of gambling, from casinos to sports betting, while 30% of adults visited a physical casino in the past year, and 21% placed a sports bet. 

This record participation aligns with shifting public attitudes, with 9 in 10 Americans now saying casino gambling is acceptable, and 62% calling it personally acceptable.

In total, 134 million adults, roughly 53% of the population, visited a casino in the past year, whether for gambling or other entertainment. The AGA says that’s the highest number ever recorded. 

Casinos, Deemed Innovative by 90% of Gamblers

Visitors also view casinos positively when compared with other forms of entertainment. Nearly 90% say casinos are innovative, and 90% believe they offer good value for money.

Casinos are also attracting younger audiences, with the study suggesting that newer generations view casinos as relevant and modern forms of entertainment.

Moreover, approximately 77% of Americans believe gaming has a positive impact on the national economy, and most also recognize its local benefits. 

According to the data, 85% believe casinos bring in entertainment and dining options that might not otherwise exist, 86% say they boost tourism and attract conventions, and 82% think the industry creates good-paying jobs that stay in the US.

Trust in Responsible Gambling Policies

Support for legal sports betting also remains high. About 74% of Americans say they favor regulated sports betting for adults in their state.

As more people interact with the industry, awareness of responsible gaming initiatives is also growing, with 64% stating that the gaming industry is committed to promoting responsible gaming and combating problem gambling. 

The percentage is up from less than 40% in 2018. Among casino visitors and sports bettors, that confidence is even higher, at 77% and 84%, respectively. Responsible gaming messages are also apparently reaching more people, with about 72% of Americans saying they’ve seen information promoting safe gambling practices in the past year, up from 56% in 2022.