Missouri Casino Revenue Climbs 9% Year-Over-Year as State Prepares for Sports Betting Launch

Missouri's casino market reported big year-on-year gains for October, setting the stage for the state's upcoming move into legal sports betting. The month's results reflected rising electronic gaming activity, broad improvements across most riverboat properties, and expanding operator partnerships ahead of the December 1 launch.

Missouri casinos reported $164.9 million in October revenue, a 9% increase compared with the same period last year, according to figures published by the Missouri Gaming Commission. Electronic gaming devices were the primary contributor, bringing in $143.5 million and recording an 11% year-on-year gain. In comparison, table games generated $21.4 million, representing a 3% year-on-year decline. 

However, despite this, the sector still performed well.

Of the state’s 13 riverboat casinos, 11 reported higher revenue than they did in October of last year. Century Casino & Hotel Caruthersville had the greatest growth, with a 61% increase. Ameristar St. Charles also reported the highest October revenue at $25.2 million, a 7% year-on-year increase. 

The strong month comes at a key time for the state's gaming industry, which is getting ready to open the legal Missouri sports betting market.

Several casinos have already formed partnerships with sportsbook operators, including Fanatics and ESPN BET, to facilitate both online wagering and on-site betting lounges. Upon launch, ESPN Bet will be rebranded to theScore Bet by its operator, PENN Entertainment.

High-revenue properties such as Ameristar St. Charles, River City Casino, Hollywood Casino, and Ameristar Kansas City have secured Missouri sports betting app operator alliances ahead of the market opening.

Forecasts indicate that sports betting could generate more than $3 billion in bets in its first year. This could bring more people to casinos, since bettors will be able to do both sports betting and regular gaming. The sector's growth also aligns with approvals for two major new casino developments on Lake Ozark, indicating that Missouri's gaming landscape is expanding overall.

Missouri sports betting operators prepare for launch

Missouri sportsbook promos are already a reality, as the market is now two weeks away from launch, and residents can pre-register with approved operators. Ten operators have been authorized, though not all are expected to activate immediately at launch.

Under the new regulatory framework, sports betting revenue will be taxed at 10%, with possible deductions for specific promotions and adjustments based on federal tax guidelines. This structure was designed to give operators clarity about their fiscal responsibilities while also allowing Missouri to project its potential revenue stream more accurately. 

While bettors will miss wagering opportunities during the college football regular season, they will be able to participate in betting on the Army-Navy game on Dec. 13 and subsequent conference championship events. 

Beginning in 2026, the full college and professional sports calendar will be accessible.