AGA survey reveals that Americans are embracing the gaming industry

Garance Limouzy September 2, 2024

SiGMA news

AGA survey reveals that Americans are embracing the gaming industry

A new survey conducted by the American Gaming Association (AGA) reveals that a record number of Americans are embracing the gaming industry, both as a form of entertainment and as a significant contributor to the U.S. economy. The survey, which sampled 2,000 registered voters aged 21 and over, proves the increasing acceptance and participation in gaming activities, particularly in casino gambling and sports betting.

Joe Maloney, AGA Senior Vice President of Strategic Communications, explained: “These latest survey results highlight a consistent trend over the years: as gaming expands to new audiences, Americans increasingly see the benefits of a legal, regulated gaming marketplace that contributes to communities, prioritises responsibility, and provides unmatched entertainment.”

Economic benefits of the industry recognised

Americans are acknowledging the broader economic benefits of the gaming industry. A significant majority, 76 percent, recognise the positive impact of gaming on the overall U.S. economy. Furthermore, more than three-quarters of respondents credit the industry with bolstering local economies, creating jobs, and boosting tourism. 85 percent believe that casinos bring entertainment and dining options to regions that might not otherwise attract them, and 84 percent agree that casinos increase tourism and draw conventions and meetings to their locations.

**Source: AGA – American Attitudes Towards Gaming 2024.**

Public trust in responsible gaming efforts

According to the survey, an increasing number of Americans, 65 percent, now believe that the gaming industry is committed to promoting responsible gaming and addressing problem gambling, a sharp rise from 40 percent in 2018. Among those who directly engage with the industry, such as physical casino players and sports bettors, this confidence is even higher, with 81 percent and 88 percent respectively affirming the industry’s dedication to responsible gaming.

Additionally, awareness of responsible gaming resources and messaging has grown substantially. Two-thirds of Americans reported encountering responsible gaming messaging in the past year, up from 56 percent in 2022. Among casino players and sports bettors, 92 percent and 96 percent respectively are now familiar with at least one responsible gaming resource.

Casinos’ entertainment value praised

According to the survey, 90 percent of casino visitors perceive casinos as providing innovative entertainment, and 89 percent believe that the value for money offered by casinos is superior to other entertainment options.

Growing number of players

According to the AGA’s research, 55 percent of American adults engaged in some form of gambling in the past year. Casino visitation reached an all-time high, with 49 percent of the adult population, or 122 million Americans, visiting a casino for gambling or other entertainment purposes in the past 12 months. This represents the highest level of casino engagement on record.

Younger players

According to the survey, the last years have seen a shift in the demographic profile of casino-goers. The average age of casino visitors has steadily decreased over the past five years, dropping from 49.6 years in 2019 to 41.9 years in 2024.