Virginia Lottery Corporation reports that in September, the total sports betting handle in the state reached $737.2 million, an 18.4% increase year-over-year and a 44.5% increase month-over-month, marking the second highest monthly record in the state's regulated market history, only behind November 2024's $761 million. Online betting accounted for 99.2% of the total, amounting to $731.5 million, while physical sports betting venues contributed $5.6 million. The adjusted total revenue was $64.5 million, with a bookmaker's margin of 8.75%, and the state government received approximately $9.7 million in taxes, most of which was allocated to the general fund, with a portion going to the problem gambling treatment fund.
Historic High Betting Volume
In September, Virginia's total sports betting handle reached $737.2 million, marking the second highest monthly record in state history, only behind November 2024's $761 million. The year-over-year growth was 18.4%, and the month-over-month increase was 44.5%, indicating a continuous growth trend in the market. Online betting dominated, totaling $731.5 million (99.2% of the total), while physical venues accounted for $5.6 million. Players received a return of $667.4 million, and the Virginia Lottery allocated $5.3 million for other purposes.
Fiscal Revenue and Tax Distribution
The adjusted total revenue in September was $64.5 million, slightly lower than the $65.9 million in the same period in 2023, but up 10.6% month-over-month. Online gambling contributed $63.6 million, and retail channels contributed $891,700. The bookmaker's margin was 8.75%, lower than August's 11.43% and September 2023's 11.5%. The state government received approximately $9.7 million in taxes, with $9.4 million allocated to the general fund and $241,700 allocated to the problem gambling treatment and support fund.
Market Participation and Operational Overview
In September, approximately 14 mobile lottery operators and 3 casinos conducted sports betting operations in Virginia. Despite the historic high betting volume, the state lottery did not disclose specific performance details of each operator. Market performance shows a continuous increase in consumer demand for sports betting, with online platforms being the absolute dominant channel and physical venues having a relatively small share. Tax distribution reflects the state government's emphasis on preventing problem gambling, with part of the revenue specifically allocated for related treatment and support projects.
