New Survey: 1 in 4 Sports Bettors Missed a Bill Due to Wagering

The Alarming Financial Toll

The nationwide survey of 1,200 recent sports bettors paints a stark picture of the industry’s dark side. One-quarter of respondents said they have been unable to pay a bill because of their wagers, with some admitting they bet their rent money.

Nearly one-third (30%) of bettors attribute personal debt directly to their gambling habits. Of those with gambling-related debt, more than half owe $500 or more.

To fund their betting, 15% have taken out personal loans, and 12% have resorted to high-interest payday loans, creating a cycle of high-risk borrowing.

A Disconnect Between Perception and Reality

Despite these financial strains, the survey uncovered a major disconnect between bettors’ actions and their self-perception. Only 18% of respondents said wagering was negatively impacting their financial health.

This suggests a significant portion of players are either in denial or do not recognize the severity of their financial situation.

This finding comes as the American Gaming Association reports that Americans bet nearly $150 billion on sports in 2024. The massive growth of the industry has made betting easier and more accessible than ever, but the U.S. News survey shows this convenience comes with a considerable cost for many.

Problem Gambling and Personal Impact

The financial pressure is also taking a personal toll on bettors. One in four respondents worry they can’t control their gambling, and 9% have already sought treatment for a gambling addiction. The survey also found that one-third of bettors have hidden their sports betting debts from a loved one.

The negative consequences are also spilling over into the sports world itself. A startling 21% of respondents admitted to verbally abusing an athlete, either online or in person, after losing money on a bet. This behavior was most common among bettors aged 35 to 44.

The survey included both casual and heavy bettors, making the negative findings even more concerning. While 44% place fewer than five bets a month, a significant 27% wager at least $500 monthly. The vast majority (81%) use mobile apps or online platforms, highlighting the always-on nature of modern betting.

Parlays were the most frequently made wager for about a quarter of bettors. These high-risk, high-reward bets are popular with players but also generate higher margins for operators, creating a dynamic where the most popular products can also lead to the fastest losses.

A Sobering Industry Reality

The U.S. News survey provides a sobering look at the real-world consequences of the rapidly expanding sports betting market. The report highlights that even as the industry celebrates record-breaking revenue, a substantial segment of its customer base is struggling.

The data reveals a clear need for more effective responsible gaming measures and public awareness campaigns. As sports betting becomes more entrenched in American culture, the industry faces the growing challenge of balancing growth with the financial and personal well-being of its players.