North Carolina, September 10, 2025
News Summary
The North Carolina state-run lottery has achieved a historic milestone by surpassing $1 billion in sales for the third consecutive year, with a total of $6.6 billion in record sales. This success supports educational funding statewide. Digital sales are driving growth, now nearly 40% of total revenue. With the Powerball jackpot soaring, participation continues to rise, while consumer experts urge caution regarding gambling risks.
North Carolina – The North Carolina state-run lottery has announced that it has surpassed $1 billion for the third consecutive year, reaching an unprecedented total of $6.6 billion in record sales for the fiscal year 2025. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the lottery, which has consistently increased its sales since its inception.
Over $1 billion of the proceeds will be allocated to support various educational needs across the state, reaffirming the lottery’s commitment to funding education. The North Carolina Education Lottery stands out as the only state lottery in the nation to boast continuous sales growth every year since it began operations.
The surge in lottery sales can largely be attributed to the growing popularity of digital sales, which now account for nearly 40% of total revenue. One of the main drivers of this digital growth is a product known as Digital Instants, which allows users to play instant win games online. In addition to traditional ticket sales, North Carolina is among the few states that permit residents to purchase lottery tickets through a mobile application and an online platform.
In a recent move to expand digital offerings, the state’s lottery commission approved the sale of digital instant gaming in 2023, a decision that is likely to further enhance revenue streams. The convenience of purchasing lottery tickets via apps and websites has made it easier for players, contributing to the impressive financial results.
In a notable display of enthusiasm for lottery games, North Carolinians spent $16.8 million on Powerball tickets during the weekend before the latest report, as many sought to try their luck at winning the massive $1.8 billion jackpot. This Powerball drawing, which is set for September 6, has become a national sensation, prompting players from across the country to participate, knowing that the odds of winning the jackpot are approximately 1 in 292 million.
For contrast, the state’s Mega Millions lottery also saw a significant jackpot amount, reaching $453 million shortly after the Powerball drawing. As participation continues to rise, it’s essential to consider the financial implications of regular lottery play. On average, each North Carolinian spends about $421 a year on lottery tickets, placing the state 12th in the nation for lottery spending per capita. In comparison, Massachusetts leads with an average spending of $915, while North Dakota sees the least at just $50.
Despite the excitement surrounding lottery games, analysts caution players about the potential risks of gambling. Consumer finance experts have emphasized that playing the lottery is generally less beneficial financially than saving money in a bank account. Players should therefore approach lottery games with caution and awareness of their financial situation.
For those seeking assistance with gambling-related issues, resources are available at morethanagamenc.com, where individuals can find support and guidance.
Overall, the continued success of the North Carolina Lottery underscores the growing trend toward digital sales while contributing positively to education funding within the state. As lottery jackpots reach staggering heights, the allure of instant wealth will likely keep North Carolinians and players nationwide engaged in this popular form of entertainment.
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Additional Resources
- WRAL: North Carolina Lottery Surpasses $1B in Education Digital Sales
- USA Today: Powerball Ticket Purchase Cutoff Times
- North Carolina Lottery: Mega Millions Jackpot Grows
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lottery
- PR Newswire: Scientific Games Technology for NC Education Lottery
Author: STAFF HERE AIKEN
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