Casinos in Atlantic City are feeling the pressure once again, as the latest report from the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement has revealed that onsite casino gaming revenue has gone down this April. Physical casino revenue has continued its decline, showing a 2.7% decrease from April of last year, and this amounted to a loss of nearly $6 million. Meanwhile, iGaming revenue continues to grow by leaps and bounds.

Atlantic City's nine casinos continue to face headwinds, with the latest revenue figures from April 2025 showing a nearly 3% decline in brick-and-mortar gaming performance compared to the same month last year. As the traditional casino industry in New Jersey grapples with reduced in-person activity and dwindling sports betting revenue, the steady rise of online gaming provides a rare bright spot.

In-person casino revenue drops yet again

According to data released Friday by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement, gross gaming revenue from Atlantic City's physical casinos totaled $211 million in April, down 2.7% year-over-year. This equates to a loss of approximately $5.9 million from April of 2024.

The drop was driven largely by a sharp decline in table game earnings. Dealers retained just under $48.8 million from players' wagers - a drop of $9.3 million or nearly 16%. Slot machines fared better, with revenue increasing 2.1% to $162.2 million, but not enough to offset the broader decline.

So far in 2025, retail casino revenue has lagged behind 2024’s pace. From January through April, Atlantic City's casinos have collectively earned 2% less than during the same period last year, translating to $17.5 million less in revenue from in-person gambling.

Sportsbooks see fewer bets, lower profits

Atlantic City's brick-and-mortar casinos aren't alone in their struggles. Sports betting revenue in New Jersey is also on the decline. From January to April 2025, total sports wagers amounted to $4.2 billion - a billion dollars less than the $5.2 billion bet during the same timeframe in 2024.

Oddsmakers won a total of $90.5 million in April, a 15% decrease compared to April 2024, when they earned $106.2 million. So far this year, sportsbooks' total revenue stands at $357.6 million, down 18% - or $76.6 million - compared to this point last year.

Analysts suggest several potential reasons for the decline: increased competition from offshore operators offering better odds, economic constraints curbing discretionary spending, and possibly the success of responsible gaming initiatives encouraging more cautious betting behavior.

Online casinos continue to thrive

While Atlantic City's casinos and sportsbooks stumble, New Jersey's iGaming sector remains a powerhouse. In April alone, online casino platforms raked in $235.2 million, up 25% from the previous year - a gain of $47.2 million.

Year to date, the iGaming sector has generated more than $908.4 million in revenue, representing a 21% increase over 2024. The bulk of that growth has come from online table games, slots, and poker, demonstrating the increasing shift in consumer preference toward digital gambling platforms.

All eyes on summer recovery

Industry stakeholders are now pinning their hopes on the summer season, traditionally Atlantic City's busiest time of year. With thousands of visitors expected to descend on the coastal resort from Philadelphia, New York, and North Jersey, casinos are hopeful for a revenue rebound.

Beach restoration projects along the northern end of the Boardwalk have improved public spaces, and local officials believe this could enhance the city's appeal. James Plousis, chair of the New Jersey Casino Control Commission, praised the city's hospitality workforce and expressed optimism for the months ahead.

"Tourists who visit Atlantic City receive first-class service from dedicated workers in the casino hotels," said Plousis. The enthusiasm shown at the Casino Reinvestment Development Authority's 'Host Awards' foreshadows a promising summer season, he added.

Competitive pressures loom

Looking further ahead, Atlantic City may face even stiffer competition. New York is expected to announce the locations of three new big-time casinos in the near future. With full-scale gaming - including slots, table games, and sports betting - these venues could divert traffic from Atlantic City as they draw patrons from densely populated regions closer to home.

With that in mind, the next few summers may prove pivotal for Atlantic City’s long-term viability. Casinos must not only capitalize on seasonal tourism but also refine their value propositions to retain regional gamblers as new options emerge.