The surge in online gambling is significantly boosting gaming revenue across Pennsylvania. In July 2024, the state reported a total revenue of $557,666,142 from all gaming forms and fantasy contests, marking an increase of 11.4% compared to the same month last year. The growth is primarily driven by a remarkable 41.3% rise in iGaming slot revenue, according to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB).
Potential for Further Growth
Doug Harbach, the director of communications for the PGCB, suggests that the online gaming market still has room for expansion. “I think we probably have not peaked in regards to gaming through online,” he stated. Harbach emphasized that the overall gaming figures could be even more substantial if not for the presence of offshore sites marketing within Pennsylvania.
Locally, Mohegan Pennsylvania in Plains Township reported a revenue increase of 2.3% in July, rising from $18,786,927 to $19,221,388. This growth was largely attributed to a 38.5% increase in iGaming revenue. Meanwhile, retail slot machine revenue at the casino increased by 2.9%, but retail table games saw a decline of 22.8%.
In contrast, Mount Airy Casino Resort in Paradise Township experienced a 5.2% drop in revenue, falling from $20,974,319 to $19,892,839. Although retail slot machine revenue rose marginally by 0.35% and retail table games increased by 1.7%, the iGaming revenue at this facility decreased by 29.3%.
Challenges and Future Outlook
Both properties noted a decline in sports wagering revenue, with Mount Airy reporting a 59.6% drop and Mohegan Pennsylvania seeing a 17.2% decrease. Harbach anticipates that interest in sports gambling will rebound as the college and professional football seasons commence. “The 800-pound gorilla is ready to hike the ball, and when that happens, you will see the sports wagering numbers increase significantly,” he remarked.
The rise of skill games, which are electronic video games available in bars and gas stations, is also affecting casino revenues. Harbach noted that many casinos have conducted studies indicating that a high concentration of these machines within a short radius of their facilities is impacting their numbers. “They believe that’s having a great impact on their numbers,” he added.
As online gambling continues to evolve, Pennsylvania’s gaming landscape is poised for further transformation, driven by both opportunities and challenges that will shape the future of the industry.
