The Nevada Gaming Control Board (NGCB) reported that total gaming revenue in the US state in December 2024 was $1.46 billion. This value represents an increase of 2% compared to the same period last year.
According to the NGCB, the growth was mainly driven by slot machines, which generated US$981.1 million, an increase of 14.4%. On the other hand, table games saw a significant drop of 16.5%, totaling US$480 million.
Despite the decline in table games, December 2024 marked the highest amount of gaming revenue ever recorded for the month in Nevada history.
This performance reinforces the state’s dependence on strong slot machine revenue to offset losses in traditional categories such as baccarat, craps and roulette.
2.7% drop on the Las Vegas Strip and performance in other regions of Nevada
The Las Vegas Strip, responsible for most of the state’s gaming revenue, saw a 2.7% decline in December 2024, with total earnings of $881.3 million. The decline was mainly attributed to table games, which fell 16% to $385.9 million.
However, slot machines on the Strip hit a record high with revenue of $495.4 million, an increase of 11.1%. This growth reflects a change in consumer behavior, who are migrating from traditional table games to electronic options.
In Clark County, total gaming revenue in fiscal year 2024 was $13.6 billion, an increase of 0.6%. Additionally, downtown Las Vegas saw a record $931.3 million in gaming revenue, up 2.4% from the previous year.
Other regions also showed positive performances. Carson Valley, for example, had revenue of $135.7 million, an increase of 1.2%. Mesquite registered US$ 189 million, with growth of 3%. These regional markets continue to expand, providing stability to the industry even as the Strip fluctuates.
Statewide Trends and Gaming Market Changes in Nevada
Across the state of Nevada, slot machines accounted for much of gaming revenue in 2024, generating $10.5 billion, a 2.3% increase. In contrast, table games fell 2.8% to $5.1 billion for the fiscal year.
This trend indicates a change in player preferences, with slot machines gaining more and more space in the market. Additionally, the decline in high-value table games such as baccarat suggests a shift in the spending habits of high rollers.
Outlook for 2025
Nevada’s gaming industry enters 2025 with mixed prospects. While slot machines continue to break records, table games face persistent challenges. The Las Vegas Strip, in particular, has suffered from consecutive declines, especially in the high-stakes segments.
The next Nevada Gaming Control Board meeting, scheduled for early 2025, is expected to address regulatory changes and tax adjustments. Additionally, volatility in sports betting, which fell 57.5% in October 2024 due to unfavorable results in the NFL, will also be a point of attention.
