Tribal Gaming Revenue Hits Record $43.9 Billion in Fiscal Year 2024
The tribal gaming industry in the United States set a new revenue record in fiscal year 2024, generating $43.9 billion in gross gaming revenue (GGR). The new figures, released by the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC), represent a 4.6% increase from the previous year, highlighting the continued strength and resilience of the sector.
A Story of Sustained Growth
The $43.9 billion total marks an increase of $2.0 billion over fiscal year 2023, confirming the industry’s powerful post-pandemic recovery and its role as a major economic engine for tribal nations.
The data was compiled from independently audited financial statements from 532 gaming operations run by 243 federally recognized tribes across 29 states.
“This year’s GGR reflects not only the resilience of the tribal gaming industry, but also the dedication of tribal leadership in preserving and growing this important economic driver for their communities,” said NIGC Acting Chairwoman Sharon Avery.
“The continued success of Indian gaming is a testament to the strong tribal governance and the sound regulation that protects the integrity of the industry.”
Broad-Based Growth Across the Country
The revenue growth was not limited to a few major markets. All eight of the NIGC’s administrative regions reported year-over-year increases. Two regions, Oklahoma City and Washington, D.C., saw particularly strong double-digit growth of 12.7% and 11.2%, respectively.
The NIGC did caution that regional growth can be influenced by a variety of factors, including the opening of new properties, major expansions, and regulatory changes, and should not be used as a direct indicator of local economic conditions.
The record-breaking revenue is more than just a number; it is a critical source of funding for essential services in tribal communities. NIGC Vice Chair Jeannie Hovland emphasized the direct link between gaming revenue and community well-being.
“These revenue numbers demonstrate the positive impacts of tribal gaming and the essential role it plays supporting tribal sovereignty, job growth, infrastructure, education, and important social, health, and welfare programs in tribal communities,” Hovland said.
A Look Inside the Numbers
The NIGC report also provides a fascinating look at the structure of the tribal gaming industry. The data shows a market that is highly concentrated at the top end. Just 9% of tribal gaming operations, those generating over $250 million in GGR, accounted for a massive 55% of the industry’s total revenue.
On the other end of the spectrum, the 54% of operations that generated less than $25 million in revenue collectively accounted for only about 5% of the total GGR. This highlights the diverse scale of tribal gaming, from small, local facilities to major resort destinations.
The 2024 results solidify tribal gaming’s position as a cornerstone of the broader U.S. gambling industry and a powerful force for economic development and self-sufficiency for Native American communities.
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