The Indicator from Planet Money · Friday, July 31, 2026
Americans wagered an estimated $166 billion on sports betting last year, a figure that surpasses spending on movies, arts, museums, and music combined. However, a closer look at revenue suggests that while sports betting is a rapidly growing industry with 23% year-over-year growth, the net revenue for operators was $17 billion, comparable to spending in other entertainment sectors when adjusted.
“The headline was gambling becomes America's favorite pastime as Americans spend more on sports bets than movies, arts, museums, and music combined.”
“And by contrast, consumers spent roughly $16 billion in museums, 11 and a half billion on recorded music, and North America's box office saw $9 billion in ticket sales.”
“And if you just compare sports betting in 2024 to 2025, it's a 23% growth in just one year.”