The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) has reported a significant increase in the state’s overall gaming revenue, driven largely by the booming popularity of online gambling. For July 2024, total revenue from all forms of gaming and fantasy contests reached an impressive $557,666,142, marking an 11.4% rise compared to the same month last year. The growth is particularly notable in iGaming, where revenue from online slot machines surged by 41.3%.
According to Doug Harbach, director of communications for the PGCB, the online gaming market still has room for further expansion. “I think we probably have not peaked in regards to gaming through online,” he stated. Harbach suggested that the presence of offshore gambling sites, which market to Pennsylvania residents, could be limiting the potential for even higher revenue numbers.
Local Casino Performance Varies
At the local level, performance among casinos shows a mix of trends. Mohegan Pennsylvania, located in Plains Township, experienced a revenue increase of 2.3% in July, rising from $18,786,927 to $19,221,388. This growth was propelled by a remarkable 38.5% increase in iGaming revenue. In contrast, retail slot machine revenue at the casino rose by 2.9%, while revenue from retail table games fell by 22.8%.
Mount Airy Casino Resort in Paradise Township reported a different scenario, with a revenue decline of 5.2%, dropping from $20,974,319 to $19,892,839. Although retail slot machine revenue experienced a slight increase of 0.35% and retail table games saw a 1.7% increase, the casino’s iGaming revenue dropped significantly by 29.3%.
Impact of Sports Wagering and Skill Games
Revenue from sports wagering also declined at both casinos, with Mount Airy seeing a drop of 59.6% and Mohegan Pennsylvania experiencing a 17.2% decrease. Despite the downturn, Harbach is optimistic about the upcoming college and professional football seasons, which he believes will reignite interest in sports gambling. “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—slot-like electronic video games available in bars, gas stations, and other venues—has introduced new competition for traditional casinos. Harbach noted that many casinos have conducted studies indicating that the proliferation of these machines within close proximity to their facilities is negatively impacting their revenue. “They believe that’s having a great impact on their numbers,” he explained.
As the online gaming market continues to evolve, the PGCB will likely monitor its dynamics closely, especially as the state navigates the challenges posed by both offshore sites and emerging forms of gambling. The future of Pennsylvania’s gaming landscape remains promising, with potential for growth driven by technological advancements and changing consumer preferences.
