Illinois gambling revenue continues to grow, up to $2B

ILLINOIS (WCIA) — A report by the Commission on Government Forecasting and Accountability indicates that Illinois made more money in gambling tax revenue than ever before this year.

In the fiscal year 2024, the state made $2.088 billion from various types of gambling and the Illinois Lottery. According to the report, this was a 4.8% increase over fiscal year 2023.

Revenue from video gaming has steadily increased, and in 2024 it raised $848 million in state tax revenue.

When ranking municipalities, Springfield was found to have the most gaming terminals with a total of 837. Decatur had the fourth most terminals at 531. However, Springfield and Decatur took the number one and two spot respectively for the highest amount of net terminal income in FY 2024.

Overall, the Illinois State Lottery remained on top for most revenue generated throughout the year. Total sales grew from $3.610 billion in 2023 to $3.858 billion in 2024. And, that earned the state $886 million in revenue in 2024.

According to the report, around $147 million in tax revenues was given to local governments in FY 2024, and almost $851 million to the Capital Projects Fund.

Despite the overall growth, the commission did find that horseracing and riverboat casinos made less than previous years.

In FY 2025, the commission said a new graduated tax structure begin. They said it is estimated to increase the annual tax revenue of sports wagering by approximately $200 million.

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