New York posted modest sports betting gains in September in a performance that still pales in comparison to New Jersey.
The four upstate casinos pulled in a combined $17.4 million in handle for the month, up 90% from August. Those bets yielded $3.2 million in revenue and about $318,000 in taxes to the state.
New Jersey meanwhile became the first state to eclipse the $1 billion mark for sports bets in a single month–more than 50 times as much activity as New York.
It is estimated that around a quarter of that record number comes from bettors who reside in New York.
September in NY, by the numbers
It should be noted that because of the NFL returning, September is typically a lucrative month for sportsbook operators. Indeed, handle for all four NY commercial casinos reached 2021 highs.
| Licensee | Handle | Revenue | State Tax |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rivers | $7,963,041 | $1,414,035 | $141,403 |
| Del Lago | $5,431,184 | $1,162,877 | $116,288 |
| Resorts World | $2,708,185 | $421,525 | $42,153 |
| Tioga Downs | $1,253,372 | $188,608 | $18,861 |
| Total | $17,355,781 | $3,187,045 | $318,704 |
In terms of total casino revenue, Rivers set a new monthly record at $17.4 million. The other three properties also performed relatively well:
- Resorts World: $21,119,125
- Rivers: $17,392,918
- Del Lago: $14,183,891
- Tioga Downs: $7,987,194
Policymakers hope to have NY online sports betting up and running in time for the Super Bowl.
New Jersey’s enviable sports betting success
Sen. Joe Addabbo expressed some frustration to PlayNY about the massive numbers out of New Jersey. But Addabbo also reiterated that the New York State Gaming Commission is on track to select applicants for licenses before Dec. 6.
Given its population advantage, New York has the potential to surpass New Jersey in sports betting handle down the road. But given these numbers, it’s certainly going to be an uphill battle.
