US tribal casinos achieved a new milestone in fiscal year 2025, posting $46.2 billion in gross gaming revenue (GGR), according to the latest annual report from the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC). This figure marks a 5% increase over the previous year and continues a longstanding trend of record-setting results for Indian gaming, with the only exception being the pandemic-impacted 2020 fiscal year.
The NIGC gathered data from 545 facilities operated by around 250 tribes in 29 states. Leaders attribute this sustained growth to responsible management and the critical role gaming revenue plays in supporting tribal economies, community investment, and essential services.
Regional Performance Highlights
Seven out of eight NIGC-designated regions reported year-on-year revenue growth in FY25. The Sacramento region, which includes California and northern Nevada, once again led the nation with $12.6 billion in GGR—a 4% increase. For comparison, the Las Vegas Strip posted $5.5 billion for the same period.
The Washington, D.C. region, encompassing much of the East Coast, was next with $11.2 billion—a notable 10% jump, the largest increase among all regions tracked. Both Oklahoma City and Tulsa regions (covering Oklahoma, Texas, and Kansas) posted $3.7 billion each, up 3% and 2.5% respectively.
- St. Paul region: $5.3 billion (+3%)
- Portland region: $4.9 billion (+5%)
- Phoenix region: $4.2 billion (+5%)
- Rapid City region (Dakotas and surrounding areas): $439.8 million (less than 1% decrease)
Leadership Changes at the NIGC
The positive revenue figures come amid a period of transition for the NIGC. Since February 2024, the commission has operated without a confirmed chair, following former chairman Sequoyah Simermeyer’s departure for a role at FanDuel. Vice Chair Billy Kirkland and other commissioners have managed operations, but industry observers have expressed concerns about the NIGC’s effectiveness, especially after the closure of seven regional offices last year.
Despite these challenges, the commission remains focused on upholding the integrity and growth of tribal gaming operations. “These GGR results reflect the continued commitment of tribal regulators and operators to responsible growth and community benefit,” noted Commissioner Sharon Avery.
Prediction Markets Pose New Risks
While FY25 results add to a decade-long streak of growth, tribal leaders are increasingly concerned about the rise of prediction markets. These platforms, which allow users to bet on political and cultural outcomes, have become a contentious issue, with several tribes filing lawsuits alleging violations of the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act and state compacts.
James Siva, chairman of the California Nations Indian Gaming Association, estimated that prediction markets may have diverted about 5% of tribal gaming revenue since their surge in late 2024. He warned that, if left unchecked, the impact could grow to as much as 25% of GGR within a year, threatening essential funding for tribal services like education and healthcare.
The issue was highlighted during a recent House subcommittee hearing, where Indian Gaming Association Chairman David Bean criticized the Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s oversight of prediction markets, expressing concerns about player protection and regulatory capture.
Looking Ahead for Tribal Gaming
Despite strong revenue growth, the outlook for US tribal casinos is increasingly shaped by emerging regulatory and competitive pressures. Industry leaders are calling for greater oversight and collaboration to ensure the sustainability of Indian gaming and safeguard the benefits it provides to tribal communities.
For more details, the official NIGC revenue report is available on the NIGC website.