Key points:
- Total gaming revenue for November 2024 was $1.316bn, a 4.21% decline year-on-year
- Las Vegas Strip revenue fell by 3.91% to $788.7m, while Downtown Las Vegas dropped 2.69% to $79m
- Mesquite (+8.78%) and North Las Vegas (+6.05%) were among the few regions to report growth
Nevada’s nonrestricted gaming licensees reported gaming win of $1.316bn in November 2024, reflecting a 4.21% year-on-year decrease. This marks a continuation of fiscal-year challenges, with total gaming revenue from July to November 2024 falling 2.85%.
While the statewide decline underscores challenges faced by many operators, growth in specific regions and market segments demonstrates the complexity of Nevada’s gaming landscape.
Clark County and Las Vegas Strip lead declines
Clark County, which generates the bulk of Nevada’s gaming revenue, reported a 4.23% decrease to $1.163bn. Within the county, the Las Vegas Strip, the most significant revenue contributor, posted a 3.91% decline to $788.7m.
Downtown Las Vegas recorded a 2.69% revenue drop to $79m, while other areas within the county, such as Laughlin (-15.52%) and the Boulder Strip (-20.57%), experienced more substantial losses. These declines reflect the broader struggles of traditional gaming hubs heavily reliant on in-person visitation.
Regional growth in North Las Vegas and Mesquite
Despite the statewide downturn, some regions showed resilience. North Las Vegas posted a 6.05% increase in gaming revenue, reaching $24.5m, while Mesquite saw an 8.78% rise to $16.4m. Elko County also reported a 4.65% revenue increase, driven by an 8% gain in Wendover.
Good to know: These growth areas highlight opportunities for diversification within Nevada’s gaming market, particularly in regions less dependent on traditional tourist hubs
Statewide fee collections see modest growth
In December 2024, Nevada collected $87.17m in percentage fees based on November’s taxable revenues, marking a 1.50% increase. Despite this, year-to-date collections declined by 2.12%, indicating the ongoing pressures faced by the industry.
Broader industry context
November’s results continue trends observed earlier in 2024, where declines in land-based gaming revenue were partially offset by growth in non-traditional areas. As consumer preferences evolve, Nevada’s reliance on legacy gaming formats faces challenges from increasing competition and the rise of digital alternatives.
For example, Mesquite and North Las Vegas have benefited from local customer bases, while more established areas like the Las Vegas Strip have experienced sharper declines, reportedly due to external pressures and market saturation.
Past news
November’s results follow a similar trend seen in October 2024, when Nevada’s total gaming revenue dropped 2.2% to $1.28bn. The Las Vegas Strip saw its fourth consecutive month of declines, with revenue falling 3% to $692m.
However, local markets like the Las Vegas Locals segment posted a 10% revenue increase, while South Lake Tahoe experienced an 18.7% rise, highlighting growth in less tourist-dependent regions. Statewide sports betting revenue in October fell sharply by 57.5%, continuing challenges in that segment, with operators citing unfavourable NFL results.
Looking ahead
Nevada’s gaming industry faces a pivotal moment as it seeks to navigate a rapidly changing landscape. While some regions continue to grow, others are under pressure to adapt to shifting consumer trends.
The next meeting of the Nevada Gaming Control Board, scheduled for early 2025, is expected to provide further insights into the regulatory and strategic measures shaping the industry’s future.
