Atlantic City casinos shattered records in 2025 by generating $1.1 billion in taxes and fees for New Jersey, a sharp 24.8 percent jump from 2024, even as they battled rising costs and stiff competition. This windfall powers vital state programs and underscores the Atlantic City casino industry’s powerhouse role in the regional economy. But flat profits raise questions about what comes next.
The Atlantic City casino industry poured a record $661.7 million into the Casino Revenue Fund in fiscal year 2025. This cash supports seniors and people with disabilities in big ways.
Most of that money, $590 million, went straight to housing for those with developmental disabilities. Another $16 million aided community programs for older adults. Lawmakers also got $5 million for drug help and $4 million for personal care services.
These funds come at a key time. New Jersey faces growing needs for support services. The boom ties to hot growth in online gaming and sports betting. Internet slots and wagers now lead tax gains, outpacing old-school slots and tables.
Total taxes and fees hit $1.1 billion, up from $883.2 million the year before.
Jobs Backbone Powers Local Growth
Casinos employ 22,500 New Jersey workers, or 0.4 percent of the state workforce. In Atlantic County, 14,500 locals hold casino jobs, making up 11.1 percent of jobs there. Atlantic City sees the biggest slice: 4,600 residents work at resorts, one in three city jobs.
This workforce keeps money flowing. Casinos spent $634 million on goods and services from New Jersey sellers last year. Nearly 60 percent, or $373.9 million, stayed in Atlantic County.
Vendor ties boost small businesses. From food suppliers to cleaners, locals cash in. The setup creates a ripple effect. Families eat better, kids go to school, communities thrive.
Over 22,500 jobs mean steady paychecks for South Jersey amid tough times.

Investments Surge Despite Profit Squeeze
Operators dropped $195.6 million on upgrades in 2025. That pushes five-year spending past $1.2 billion. Think fresh hotel rooms, bigger gaming floors, and new eats and shows.
Net revenue held steady at $3.29 billion, same as 2024. Non-gaming like hotels and food now tops half of income at times. But gross profits fell 3.9 percent to $681.6 million. Costs for wages, supplies, and fixes ate gains.
Here’s a quick look at revenue shifts:
| Revenue Type | 2023 | 2024 | 2025 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Net Revenue | $3.33B | $3.31B | $3.29B |
| Gaming Net | $1.67B | $1.67B | $1.67B |
| Non-Gaming Net | $1.66B | $1.64B | $1.62B |
| Gross Profit | $814M | $709M | $682M |
Flat gaming hurts brick-and-mortar spots. Online now rules, pulling in crowds from home.
Casinos fight back with smart bets. New spots draw 17.6 million visitors, down just 2.6 percent.
Community Partners Step Up Big
Beyond cash, casinos give back hard. They donated over $31 million in gifts and services. Workers logged 10,870 volunteer hours.
Key efforts include:
- Casinos United Against Hunger, fighting food shortages.
- Youth programs and vet support.
- Big awareness drives on health and safety.
These moves build trust. Locals see resorts as neighbors, not just slots. In tough spots like inflation, this aid hits home.
Challenges loom large. New York downstate casinos grab players. North Jersey pushes for more spots. Smoking rules spark fights. Yet leaders stay bullish.
Jane Bokunewicz from Stockton University says it best. Casinos invest in people and places to win long-term.
The Atlantic City casino industry stands tall in 2025, fueling taxes, jobs, and hope for South Jersey families despite profit pains and rivals on the horizon. This engine keeps the region humming, but smart moves will decide if the ride lasts.








