The online casino scene in the U.S. is evolving fast, and nowhere is that clearer than in New Jersey (NJ) and Pennsylvania (PA). With soaring revenues and changing regulations, both states offer compelling markets. This detailed guide breaks down everything you need to know about revenue growth, user spending, game popularity, legal developments, and where that leaves you if you want to play online games at Borgata Casino.
Revenue Growth & Market Share: Who Came Out Ahead
New Jersey and Pennsylvania both shattered previous revenue records in 2024, according to the American Gaming Association’s (AGA) data. Take a look at the revenue growth and market share of each state below:
- New Jersey achieved a record US$6.30 billion in commercial casino revenue.
- Pennsylvania led the nation with US$6.87 billion, including a notable 31% jump in online casino revenue during April 2025.
While NJ has an edge in sports betting, PA has pulled ahead in iGaming gains. Both of these leading states demonstrate valuable growth, but Pennsylvania’s aggressive surge gives it a slight edge in online gaming dominance.
Record-Breaking Revenue in Both States
Online gaming is the clear growth engine in both states, as they have broken revenue records, such as:
- New Jersey’s commercial casino revenue continued its upward climb, hitting US$6.30 billion at the end of 2024.
- Pennsylvania recorded US$227.7 million in online casino revenue for April alone, a31.3% year-over-year increase.
That monthly figure means that PA operators are projected to hit nearly US$3.36 billion in online gaming revenue for 2025. Meanwhile, NJ’s annual iGaming haul rose 24.1%, reaching US$2.39 billion in 2024. It is evident to see that both states are thriving, and online casinos and gambling sites are now forming the backbone of that growth.
Game Trends in 2025: What Players Favored in NJ vs. PA
Evidence from both leading online casino markets shows players are embracing online slots and table games:
- Pennsylvania reported significant gains in online slots and table games while poker dipped slightly.
- New Jersey’s iGaming popularity continues to rise, and although specific game breakdowns aren’t detailed in AGA, the steady revenue increase suggests stable player engagement.
In April 2025, PA iGaming alone was about US$227 million, pointing to surging demand for online casino content. This increase indicates players are more keen on slot machine games and digital versions of table staples like Blackjack, Baccarat, Roulette, and captivating human live-dealer games.
If you plan to play casino games at Borgata online for real money, New Jersey offers a solid selection, but Pennsylvania’s rapid iGaming expansion suggests opportunities may outpace expectations there.
How Legal Frameworks Shaped the Market
Regulatory regimes in both states are stable, and that consistency drives growth and holds a bright future ahead for them.
New Jersey
- Legalized online casino gaming in 2013 as an early and well-run market.
- Operators are licensed by the NJ Division of Gaming Enforcement and Casino Control Commission.
Pennsylvania
- Legalized in 2017 and undergoing regular oversight by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB), including responsible gaming measures like online self-exclusion tools, deposit limits, and helpful organizations since 2020.
Both jurisdictions maintain high regulation, strong taxation, and consumer protections, making them reliable ecosystems for players.
Average Monthly Spend per Active User in NJ vs. PA Online Casinos
While exact figures aren’t available, AGA data helps us infer player behavior:
- PA: “Mixed-mode gamblers” (who mix online and land-based gaming) typically spend around US$50/month, with occasional players around US$20.
- NJ research (2022): Internet gaming revenue was US$136.9 million for the month, indicating high per-player engagement.
PA’s explosive growth of 1.4 billion in five months and projected 3.5 billion this year suggests significant per-user spend, likely averaging in the mid‑$40–60 range. NJ, with its longstanding platforms like Borgata, likely draws similar numbers. Always keep in mind that NJ players spend generously, but PA’s rising numbers hint at an increasingly vibrant competitive market.
The Final Say About Online Casinos in New Jersey and Pennsylvania
With online casino revenue booming and player spending increasing, New Jersey and Pennsylvania offer compelling options for casino lovers in 2025. NJ is a mature market backed by established platforms like Borgata and Caesars, while PA shows aggressive growth thanks to increased player adoption and expanding iGaming offerings.
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