North Carolina Books $65.2 Million in Wagering Revenue in May

Sports betting in North Carolina showed mixed results in May 2025. While the total amount wagered increased compared to last year, the monthly handle was among the lowest seen since late 2024. Still, sportsbooks saw stronger revenues thanks to improved hold rates.

Good to know

• Sportsbooks in North Carolina took in $547.8 million in bets during May.
• Gross wagering revenue reached $65.2 million for the month.
• The state collected over $11.7 million in tax proceeds from these bets.

The North Carolina State Lottery Commission reported that total handle for May hit $547.8 million. That marked a 10.8% increase from the same month in 2024, but it also ranked as the second-lowest monthly handle since September of last year. Only February 2025, with $526 million, came in lower.

Despite that dip, sportsbooks posted stronger earnings. Gross wagering revenue climbed to $65.2 million, up 3.4% from the previous May. The higher hold percentage helped May outperform April in revenue terms. The only month that generated more this year was January, which came in at over $74.5 million.

The report also showed that $14.4 million worth of promotional bets were placed during the month, and roughly $4.1 million in bets were either voided or cancelled. Promotional credits continue to be a key tool for operators looking to retain customers in a competitive market.

From the tax angle, North Carolina collected more than $11.7 million in estimated proceeds during May. Of that total, $2 million per year is dedicated to the Department of Health and Human Services to fund gambling addiction prevention and treatment. An additional $1 million goes toward expanding youth sports programs through the state’s amateur sports division. The rest is split, with half going directly into North Carolina’s general fund.