Maryland, February 9, 2026
Maryland’s gaming industry reported a total of $147.9 million in revenue for January, reflecting a decrease from the previous year despite an increase in contributions to state funds. The impact of a winter storm and resilience from local businesses were notable amidst the challenges. While individual casinos showed varied performance, the overall decline in gaming revenue raises concerns, yet the positive contributions, especially to the Education Trust Fund, highlight the ongoing importance of the state’s gambling sector.
Maryland Casinos Report $147.9 Million in January Gaming Revenue
A closer look at Maryland’s gaming revenue trends and support for state initiatives
Maryland’s gaming scene has faced some challenges, as January 2026 saw the state’s six casinos generating $147,877,520 in gaming revenue, a 2.6% decrease from January 2025. While a winter storm disrupted travel in late January, impacting foot traffic, the resilience of our local entrepreneurs remains evident. Positive signs are seen in the contribution these casinos continue to make to state revenues, underscoring the importance of supporting and investing in our local economy.
Despite the decline in gaming revenue, casino contributions to the state have surprisingly grown, indicating the determination of state leaders to maintain a favorable business environment. This trend hints at the benefits of limited regulation fostered by an entrepreneurial spirit, which allows businesses to thrive even amid adverse conditions.
State Contributions and Education Trust Fund
In January 2026, casinos contributed $63,932,961 to the state, marking a 0.4% increase year-over-year. Among this amount, $46,101,513 was dedicated to the Education Trust Fund, reflecting a small but significant 0.2% rise from January 2025. This consistent support is crucial for funding local education and demonstrates how gambling revenues can benefit the broader community.
Fiscal Year 2026 Performance
As we analyze the performance over the first seven months of Fiscal Year 2026, from July 2025 through January 2026, the total gaming revenue reached $1,115,947,377, which represents a 1.9% decrease compared to the same period in Fiscal Year 2025. Meanwhile, total state contributions tallied $479,522,250, indicating a 1.2% decrease year-over-year. While the overall revenue drop is concerning, it highlights the importance of ongoing efforts by state officials and the business community to adapt and innovate.
Individual Casino Performance
Examining the performance of individual casinos reveals notable variances:
- MGM National Harbor (Prince George’s County): $61,846,263 in January 2026, an 8.5% decrease from January 2025.
- Live! Casino & Hotel (Anne Arundel County): $56,358,457, a 2.2% increase from the previous year.
- Horseshoe Casino Baltimore (Baltimore City): $12,382,295, a 7.8% decrease.
- Hollywood Casino Perryville (Cecil County): $6,870,825, a 3.8% increase.
- Ocean Downs Casino (Worcester County): $6,467,621, a 13.2% increase.
- Rocky Gap Casino Resort (Allegany County): $3,952,059, a 19.4% increase.
This data reflects both the challenges and successes that various establishments are experiencing, shedding light on how adapting to consumer preferences and market conditions can drive growth within the gaming sector.
Revenue Allocation
Casino gaming revenues play a crucial role in supporting numerous state initiatives. These funds are allocated not only to education but are also directed toward local communities, the horse racing industry, and aid to small, minority-, and women-owned businesses. This diversification demonstrates how gaming revenues can be harnessed to uplift various sectors of the economy.
Key Features of Maryland’s January 2026 Casino Revenue Report
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Gaming Revenue | $147,877,520, a 2.6% decrease from January 2025 |
| State Contributions | $63,932,961, a 0.4% increase from January 2025 |
| Education Trust Fund Allocation | $46,101,513, a 0.2% increase from January 2025 |
| Fiscal Year 2026 Performance (July 2025 – January 2026) | Revenue: $1,115,947,377 (down 1.9%); State Contributions: $479,522,250 (down 1.2%) |
| Highest Revenue Decrease | MGM National Harbor: 8.5% decrease |
| Highest Revenue Increase | Rocky Gap Casino Resort: 19.4% increase |
| Revenue Allocation | Supports education, local communities, horse racing industry, and small, minority-, and women-owned businesses |
Conclusion
In summary, while January 2026 brought about some declines in overall gaming revenue for Maryland’s casinos, the steadfast contributions to the state’s budget, particularly towards education, signify a commitment to continued growth and support for local communities. As we move further into the year, the potential for recovery and growth within the Maryland gaming industry remains strong, pointing towards opportunities for enhancement in our local business ecosystem. It’s essential for residents to support local entrepreneurs and engage with initiatives benefiting the overall economic landscape of Baltimore and beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What was the total gaming revenue generated by Maryland’s casinos in January 2026?
Maryland’s six casinos generated $147,877,520 in gaming revenue during January 2026, marking a 2.6% decrease from the previous year. This decline is attributed to a winter storm that disrupted travel in late January.
How much did Maryland’s casinos contribute to the state in January 2026?
Despite the revenue drop, casino contributions to the state increased by 0.4% to $63,932,961. Of this, $46,101,513 was allocated to the Education Trust Fund, a 0.2% rise from January 2025.
What is the performance of Maryland’s casinos for the first seven months of Fiscal Year 2026?
For the first seven months of Fiscal Year 2026 (July 2025 through January 2026), total casino gaming revenue reached $1,115,947,377, down 1.9% from the same period in Fiscal Year 2025. State contributions during this timeframe totaled $479,522,250, a decrease of 1.2% year-over-year.
Which Maryland casinos experienced the highest and lowest revenue changes in January 2026?
In January 2026, MGM National Harbor experienced the highest revenue decrease at 8.5%, while Rocky Gap Casino Resort saw the highest increase at 19.4%.
How are casino gaming revenues utilized in Maryland?
Casino gaming revenues support various state initiatives, including education, local communities, the horse racing industry, and small, minority-, and women-owned businesses.
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