Atlantic City’s casinos just wrapped up their hottest summer in more than 10 years, with August revenue hitting new highs that could reshape the gambling scene. This surge, driven by both in-person visits and online bets, hints at a comeback for the seaside spot. But what fueled this win streak, and can it last?
Strong August Pushes Revenue to New Peaks
The numbers tell a thrilling story. Figures from the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement show the nine casinos raked in nearly $312 million in August, a solid 6.1% jump from last year. This marks the best summer performance since before the pandemic shook things up.
Brick-and-mortar spots led the charge, outpacing online gambling for the fourth month in a row. That shift matters because it brings people back to the city, boosting local jobs and tourism.
Online betting still shone bright, setting yet another monthly record. It’s a sign that digital play keeps growing, even as physical casinos rebound.
One standout? The Borgata, which helped drive overall profits up 6% in the second quarter compared to 2023.
What Drove the Summer Boom
Several factors lit the fuse for this revenue explosion. Warmer weather and packed events drew crowds to the boardwalk, filling hotel rooms and slot machines.
Internet gambling played a huge role too, with New Jersey’s online casinos hitting $247 million in July alone, paving the way for August’s record.
Experts point to a mix of live entertainment and easy online access as the winning combo.
Compare that to other spots: Detroit casinos pulled in $106.9 million in August, down from last year, while Iowa saw a 4.9% rise to $151.2 million. Atlantic City’s growth stands out in a mixed national picture.
This isn’t just about luck. Rising room rates and higher occupancy show smarter business moves by casino bosses.
Challenges Amid the Wins
Not every casino shared the glory. Bally’s Atlantic City reported losses in the first half of 2025, with revenue down 7.7% to $90.6 million.
Rising costs for staff and supplies squeezed profits for some, even as overall numbers climbed.
Six casinos saw declines in the second quarter, highlighting uneven recovery across the board.
Still, leaders like Ocean Casino Resort bucked the trend with strong gains, proving that fresh attractions can make a difference.
The industry faces headwinds from competition in nearby states, but this summer’s haul suggests Atlantic City holds its own.
Looking Ahead for Atlantic City
What does this mean for the future? More revenue could mean new investments in shows, dining, and tech to keep visitors coming.
Here’s a quick breakdown of key August stats:
- Total revenue: $312 million, up 6.1% year-over-year
- Brick-and-mortar wins: Outpaced online for fourth straight month
- Online record: Another monthly high, building on July’s $247 million
| Casino Highlight | August Revenue Impact | Year-Over-Year Change |
|---|---|---|
| Borgata | Led profit gains | Up significantly |
| Ocean | Strong performer | Key growth driver |
| Bally’s | Reported losses | Down 7.7% |
This table shows how top players shaped the month’s success.
The boost helps everyday folks too, with more jobs in hospitality and tourism lifting local families.
As a journalist who’s covered gambling ups and downs for 25 years, I’ve seen Atlantic City weather storms before. This summer feels like a real turning point, blending old-school fun with modern tech.
