Atlantic City’s casino operators have posted the strongest single-month total gross revenue for May in recent history, according to figures released Tuesday by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE). The state reported total gaming revenue of $627.1 million for the month, representing a 2% increase compared to May 2025.
Brian Tyrrell, who will assume the role of faculty director of Stockton University’s Lloyd D. Levenson Institute of Gaming, Hospitality and Tourism (LIGHT) on July 1, noted that while the overall results are positive, the industry is navigating a complex landscape of regional competition and evolving player preferences.
The growth was largely anchored by a record-setting performance in the digital sector. Internet gaming revenue reached $276.3 million, an 11.9% increase year-over-year. Meanwhile, brick-and-mortar casino win reached $265.6 million, a slight 0.1% increase over the previous year, setting a new near-term record for May.
However, Tyrrell highlighted a divergence in physical casino performance:
- Slot Revenue: Experienced significant year-over-year gains.
- Table Games: Saw a decline in revenue for the month.
“It’s too soon to say for certain, but the decline in table games revenue may be an indication of competition from Resorts World New York, which launched table gaming operations on April 28,” Tyrrell explained. “This situation merits further monitoring to determine how much of an impact there is and whether it will be lasting—or if it is a function of the novelty of the new offerings at Resorts World—or simply the natural variability of the industry.”
Despite the headwinds of regional competition, Atlantic City benefited from a strong start to the summer tourism season. Tyrrell pointed out that the month included an extra Saturday compared to May 2025, as well as the second annual “Soar & Shore” airshow, which likely provided a boost to industry revenues.
While total gaming revenue is up 7.2% year-to-date, reaching $2.93 billion, other segments have shown contraction. Sports wagering revenue for the month was $85.2 million, a 16.9% decrease compared to May 2025.
As the industry enters the busier summer months, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how the Atlantic City market balances the sustained growth of internet gaming against the potential impact of new land-based competition in neighboring states.
