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Football Season Fuels Betting Activity
North Carolina’s betting volume is still dominated by football. Over $3.55 billion in wagers were handled by bookmakers between September and January. The NFL and college schedules’ busiest times, when fan interest is at its highest, fall inside that time frame. The 2025 football season ended in January, which contributed to the high wagering totals. Super Bowl betting is not included in the month’s figures, though. The biggest single-day betting action of the year usually occurs during the championship game. That event alone is expected to generate over $75 million in wagers, according to analysts. Sportsbooks have had monthly wagers of over $600 million nine times since the market’s debut in March 2024. In two of those months, the total surpassed $700 million. These numbers indicate a thriving market.
Revenue Growth and Tax Collections
Bettors have placed more than $12.6 billion in paid wagers since launch. Operators have also issued an additional $691 million in promotional bets to attract and retain customers. Together, these efforts have helped sportsbooks generate nearly $1.4 billion in gross wagering revenue. North Carolina collects an 18 percent tax on gross wagering revenue from operators. That structure has produced more than $250 million in total tax revenue so far. January alone generated $14.4 million in tax payments, marking the fifth consecutive month above $12 million. The increasing tax flow shows how regulated sports betting supports public funding priorities while keeping the rate of commercial growth.
How the State Uses Betting Income
Tax proceeds flow into several public programs across North Carolina. The Department of Health and Human Services receives a portion of the funds to support statewide initiatives. Youth sports programs benefit from direct financial backing tied to betting revenue. Athletic departments within the UNC System also receive allocations, excluding NC State and the University of North Carolina. The state directs additional funding toward a major events program designed to attract large sporting events. Remaining funds support the general budget.
A Market Finding Its Tread
North Carolina’s sportsbook industry has grown far from its beginnings. The monthly totals consistently indicate significant consumer advancement and dependable operator outcomes. Key athletic competitions, mobile connectivity, and contest platforms continue to enhance participation. The 7% increase in January reinforces the market’s rising trajectory. As the football season wraps up successfully and other sports gain traction, North Carolina’s regulated wagering market is thriving
Source: North Carolina State Lottery Commission
