Chicago, Illinois, November 11, 2026. Illinois’ 17 casinos generated US$182.93 million in adjusted gross revenue (AGR) in October 2026, representing 10.4% year-over-year growth, while the Illinois Lottery recorded US$295.66 million in September ticket sales, a 14.9% decline, equivalent to US$51.89 million.
Casino revenue increased from US$165.76 million in October 2025, according to the Illinois Gaming Board (IGB). Slot machines generated US$140.7 million (+11.3%), while table games contributed US$42.2 million (+7.2%). Admissions reached 1,391,547 (+4.1%), with 14 properties reporting revenue growth.
- Illinois casino revenue surges 12.7% to US$178 million
Rivers Casino in Des Plaines led the market with US$43.6 million (+1.1%), followed by Wind Creek Chicago Southland at US$20.2 million (+16.8%); Hollywood Casino Aurora, US$14.7 million (+75.2%); Hard Rock Rockford, US$13 million (+4.6%); and Bally’s Chicago, US$12.1 million (+16%).
Hollywood Casino Aurora’s new land-based facility, operated by PENN Entertainment since June, accounted for approximately 36.7% of the statewide revenue increase. Grand Victoria generated US$11.9 million, while Hollywood Joliet recorded US$11.7 million. Par-A-Dice (-6.5%), Walker’s Bluff (-1.6%), and Argosy Alton (-0.7%) reported declines. Under IGB Administrator Marcus D. Fruchter and the Illinois Gambling Act (230 ILCS 10), tax allocations reached US$49.6 million for the state (+12.5%) and US$11.7 million for local governments (+10.5%).
- Illinois outpaces Iowa as casino revenue reaches US$312 million in June
Harold Mays
Meanwhile, the Illinois Lottery, directed by Harold Mays, recorded a 74.8% decline in Powerball sales, which fell to US$12.55 million. Mega Millions generated US$9.06 million (-35.9%), Fast Play US$42.24 million (-13.8%), and instant tickets US$170.23 million (-1.3%). The financial report submitted on October 29 by Chief Financial Officer Amber Chappell to State Treasurer Michael W. Frerichs recorded prize expenses of US$208.45 million and operating income of US$55.05 million (-27.7%).
Under the Illinois Lottery Law (20 ILCS 1605), US$65 million was transferred to the Common School Fund for public education, alongside US$0.9 million for special causes. During fiscal year 2026, the lottery had achieved record sales of US$3.87 billion and contributed US$792 million to education.
