2025 may still be relatively fresh, but it has surely brought up some interesting igaming-related news. One such report came from Illinois, and January’s Illinois igaming revenue figures are the subject of interest.Illinois AGR Up 21% Year on Year for January | Reports
Sixteen Illinois casinos reported adjusted gross receipts (AGR) of over $143.9 million in January 2025. Compare this with the $118.6 million generated in January 2024 and you’ll spot a massive 21.3% increase. Although this was still lower than the $157 million recorded in December 2024, the early signs point to significant long-term growth.Illinois AGR Up 21% Year on Year for January | Reports
According to official reports, electronic gaming devices (EGDs) were the star performers. These machines raked in $108.8 million, translating to a 25.1% jump from last year. Industry sources put this down to casinos bringing some much-needed innovation to their machines, and players appreciating the results.
Table games did not fare too badly either, with blackjack and poker bringing in $31.6 million, reflecting an 11% year-over-year increase. As Illinois continues to show its willingness to provide a more welcoming iGaming environment, expect more traditional players and high-rollers to come on board.
A few of the sixteen casinos that pooled these AGR figures contributed exceptionally well. With $38.7 million in revenue, Rivers Casino retained its spot at the top of the Illinois casino rankings. The venue’s prime location near Chicago, and sophisticated gaming floor, remain a big draw for all types of players.
A few other top performers deserve a mention too. Here are some of the most impressive numbers reported:
The gaming boom didn’t just benefit the house and its players – the state of Illinois also got its cut as tax revenue. In January, $25.4 million of the total revenue generated by casino activities found its way to the state’s public coffers. From this money, $8.7 million went to local communities, and $16.7 million to state programs, including those for public education, infrastructure, and social programs.
The tax derived from this casino revenue has continued to be a state funding source. This funding is even more critical now as Illinois seeks to offset budget deficits. Illinois casinos, sportsbooks, and VGTs brought more than $1.7 billion in tax revenue to the state during 2024. This is why the relationship between the state and its iGaming scene continues to thrive, thanks to a shared understanding of their roles.
The Illinois gaming sector is undoubtedly one of the most diverse and competitive in the US. It has 16 land-based casinos already, and more currently under development, including the new Bally’s Chicago casino, which is set to launch during 2026.
The 48,700 Video Gaming Terminals in Illinois represent a US high. Their contribution in terms of tax revenue hitting the $884.2 million mark last year. Then there’s the sports betting sector, the second-largest in the country, which contributed $244.2 million in state taxes during 2024.
While gaming revenue continues to rise in Illinois, events over the coming months will be key to shaping the direction of the industry. Bills like SB 1963 and HB 3080, which seek to legalize online casinos in the state, are gaining momentum on a long and critical legislative process run.
Elsewhere, the sports betting sector is bracing for tax adjustments to all Illinois sportsbooks. These taxes will range from 20% to 40%, in a move that looks certain to be replicated for casinos and VGTs. Casinos and sportsbooks are showing no signs of slowing down, with the 21% increase in AGR for January 2025 proving the point.
