Illinois Casino Revenue Blossoms in July as New Facilities Fuel Growth
Illinois Casino Revenue Blossoms in July as New Facilities Fuel Growth
The rapid expansion of the Illinois gaming sector is driving a significant surge in casino revenue across the state. The rapid expansion of the Illinois gaming sector is driving a significant surge in casino revenue across the state. As new venues open and player engagement climbs, the overall growth of the Illinois casino market is being fueled by a consistent and impressive rise in casino revenue.
- July gross gaming revenue soared 23% from a year ago
- New casinos are fueling the revenue surge
While several commercial gaming states are experiencing declines in in-person revenue this summer, Illinois stands out as its casino industry flourishes.
The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) recently announced that gross gaming revenue (GGR) across the state’s 17 brick-and-mortar casinos exceeded $167.5 million in July. This figure represents a robust 23.3% increase compared to the previous year, amounting to an additional $31.7 million compared to July 2024, when casinos amassed $135.8 million.
Local gamblers have a strong preference for slots, which alone accounted for nearly $127.6 million of this month’s total revenue. Notably, the revenue from table games contributed less than $40 million.
Rivers Casino Des Plaines continues to lead, recording a GGR exceeding $44 million in July. This casino, located at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport, was the only operation in Illinois to surpass the $19 million mark last month.
Wind Creek Chicago Southland followed in second place with $18.8 million in GGR. Impressively, no other casino earned over $13 million during this period.
Casino Expansion
The commercial casino sector in Illinois is on an expansion trajectory. Last month, all but a pair of casinos reported year-over-year GGR increases.
The only exceptions were Hollywood Casino Joliet, which saw a 44% drop in income to $4.2 million, and Harrah’s Joliet Casino & Hotel, experiencing a 3% decline to $10.6 million.
The decline at Hollywood Joliet was anticipated as the riverboat was only operational for 28 days last month. On July 29, the operator Penn Entertainment shut down the floating establishment after 33 years of service.
Penn Entertainment has transitioned to a new land-based facility for Hollywood Casino Joliet located roughly two miles from its previous riverboat dock. This $185 million brick-and-mortar casino boasts significantly more gaming options, including 1,000 slot machines and 43 live-dealer table games, a high-limit section, and an ESPN Bet Sportsbook. Additionally, the property features a restaurant led by celebrity chef Giada De Laurentiis and an events centre.
July 2025 benefitted from two additional casinos operating: Wind Creek and Fairmount Park.
Wind Creek, operated by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians—an esteemed federally recognized tribe from Alabama—opened in November 2024, marking its presence in Illinois.
Wind Creek Chicago Southland stands as Illinois’ largest casino, providing 81,000 square feet of gaming space equipped with 1,400 slots, 56 tables, and a sportsbook.
Conversely, Fairmount Park introduced slot machines and electronic table games to the horse racetrack following its acquisition by Accel Entertainment, offering around 300 gaming positions.
More Growth Likely
It seems set that the GGR figures in Illinois will continue to rise in the coming years as more facilities come online.
Boyd Gaming is considering a new Par-A-Dice casino project intended to replace its longstanding riverboat in East Peoria, igniting a competition over the final location between East Peoria and Peoria.
The IGB maintains its focus on in-person casino gaming only. The regulatory agency has this year dispatched multiple cease-and-desist orders to unregulated, unlicensed online casinos, sportsbooks, and prediction market platforms, including Kalshi, Bovada, Crypto.com, Robinhood, and BetOnline.
Additionally, a bill aimed at prohibiting online sweepstakes casinos is currently under consideration in the Illinois General Assembly.
Summary
The Illinois casino landscape is thriving, driven by a strong performance in July marked by significant revenue growth and the advent of new casinos. As the state looks to the future, ongoing expansion is anticipated, reinforcing its position as a key player in the gaming industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the percentage increase in July revenue?
July gaming revenue soared 23% compared to the previous year.
Which casino had the highest revenue in July?
Rivers Casino Des Plaines led with a GGR exceeding $44 million.
Are there any upcoming casino expansions in Illinois?
Yes, more facilities are expected to open, which will likely increase revenue further.
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