Iowa Gambling Revenues Reach Record Highs

Yes, Iowa gambling revenues have reached a record high. It is no wonder with all the casinos popping up everywhere and the one in our area has greatly expanded to attract more gamblers all the time. The previous record set in 2006 was $171 million and now it has reached $1.32 billion in fiscal 2007. Between July 1, 2006 and June 30, 2007, more than 22.5 million guests visited Iowa's 17 state-licensed casinos, losing an average of $62 each at the three racetrack casinos and $57 aboard the gaming boats.

Revenue Soars for Iowa Casinos

Iowa's gambling industry that is seeing double-digit revenue growth. The increased competition means some casinos are taking a hit. Casino revenues were up almost 17 percent during the past eight months. They are giving the riverboats a run for the money.The average gambler lost $58 between July 2006 and February 2007. This looks to put Iowa ahead of last year's record $1.5 billion that gamblers left behind at casinos. The newest casinos are in Emmetsburg, Riverside and Worth County. Revenues are down for 5 out of the 6 riverboats along the Mississippi River and both floating casinos in Council Bluffs on the Missouri River.