Michigan’s Online Gambling Revenue Nears Record High

Michigan’s online gambling industry generated $302.7 million in gross revenue in September, marking the state’s second-highest monthly total on record. The figure represents a 16% year-over-year increase, although gains from online casino gaming offset a steep decline in sports betting activity. The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) reported that the total was only 3.1% below August’s record haul, reflecting both the maturity and growth potential of the state’s regulated online gambling sector. Analysts noted that while the iGaming segment continues to expand steadily, sports betting has shown volatility in recent months, largely influenced by seasonal factors and major sporting events.

 

iGaming Growth Offsets Sports Betting Slump

Gross receipts from iGaming, which includes online casino games such as slots, blackjack, and roulette, surged 27.9% year-over-year to $259.1 million. This growth underscores the increasing popularity of digital casino platforms in Michigan, as players continue to migrate from traditional retail casinos to online formats that offer convenience and diverse gaming options. Conversely, gross sports betting receipts fell 25.3% to $43.6 million, reflecting a slowdown in wagering that industry experts attribute to the absence of major professional and collegiate sporting events compared to the prior year.

When accounting for promotional credits and other adjustments, total adjusted gross receipts (AGR) reached $256.6 million—up 22.3% from September 2024. iGaming AGR climbed 33.5% to $243.4 million, while adjusted sports betting revenue fell sharply by 52% to $13.2 million. These figures highlight the significant role that online casino promotions and loyalty programs play in driving net revenue, as well as the inherent variability of sports betting margins based on betting patterns and event outcomes.

FanDuel and its local partner, MotorCity Casino, maintained their lead in both the iGaming and sports betting segments. The pair reported $69.8 million in gross iGaming revenue and $65.6 million in adjusted revenue, topping all other operators. Their dominance reflects strong brand recognition, marketing reach, and a wide range of online offerings tailored to Michigan players.

MGM and BetMGM followed closely, generating $65.6 million in gross iGaming revenue and $61.9 million in adjusted figures. DraftKings, operating in partnership with the Bay Mills Indian Community, ranked third with $40.4 million gross and $38 million adjusted. In sports betting, FanDuel again led with $18.3 million in gross revenue and $6.4 million adjusted from $180.5 million in wagers—reflecting a 10.14% hold. DraftKings took second with $10.6 million in gross revenue and $462,507 adjusted, while BetMGM posted $6.8 million gross and $3.5 million adjusted, highlighting the competitive yet concentrated nature of Michigan’s digital gambling market.

State and local governments collected a combined $71.1 million in taxes and payments from online operators. The state’s share totaled $51.6 million—$50.8 million from iGaming and $768,038 from sports betting—reflecting the heavier reliance on online casino activity for public revenue. The City of Detroit received $13.4 million in wagering taxes, while tribal operators contributed $6.1 million to their respective governing bodies. These figures illustrate the fiscal impact of Michigan’s regulated online gambling sector and underscore its growing importance for both state and local budgets, funding programs ranging from education to public infrastructure.

Detroit Casinos Continue to Lag

While the online market posted strong results, Detroit’s three commercial casinos reported a 3% year-over-year decline in total revenue to $98.9 million. September’s figure was also 7.5% lower than in August, continuing a trend of slow recovery for brick-and-mortar casinos compared with their digital counterparts. Table games and slot revenue fell 3% to $98.2 million, while qualified adjusted gross receipts from retail sports betting slipped 1.1% to $775,903.

MGM Grand Detroit retained its dominant position with a 47% market share, followed by MotorCity Casino at 30% and Hollywood Casino at Greektown with 23%. Industry analysts suggest that while Detroit’s casinos remain an important part of Michigan’s gaming ecosystem, their growth is increasingly tied to integrating online platforms and expanding entertainment offerings to retain foot traffic.

 

Michigan’s online gambling revenue reached $302.7 million in September 2025, driven by strong iGaming growth, while sports betting experienced a significant decline, highlighting the state’s shift toward digital casino platforms.

 

Outlook

The latest data underscores Michigan’s ongoing shift toward digital gambling, with online casino play more than compensating for weakness in sports wagering. Despite a slowdown in Detroit’s retail gaming sector, the state’s online platforms continue to post near-record results, suggesting strong long-term growth potential for Michigan’s regulated gambling market. Experts anticipate that iGaming expansion, technological improvements, and strategic operator partnerships will remain the key drivers of revenue growth in the coming months.