North Carolina, September 10, 2025
News Summary
North Carolina’s state-run lottery has surpassed $1 billion in sales for the third consecutive year, generating a total of $6.6 billion in revenue. This growth primarily stems from increased digital sales, with a significant portion of revenues directed toward educational funding in the state. The average player spends approximately $421 annually on lottery tickets, while many also engage in purchasing tickets for massive jackpots like Powerball and Mega Millions.
Charlotte, North Carolina – State Lottery Breaks Records for Third Consecutive Year
North Carolina’s state-run lottery has achieved a significant milestone, surpassing $1 billion in sales for the third consecutive year. The fiscal year 2025 saw the lottery generate a total of $6.6 billion in revenue, marking a continued upward trend that supports educational funding across the state.
Record Sales and Allocation for Education
As part of its ongoing success, the North Carolina Education Lottery is the only state lottery in the United States that has consistently increased sales every year since its inception. A substantial portion of its revenue, over $1 billion, is dedicated to educational programs, including public schools and colleges, helping to bolster North Carolina’s educational infrastructure.
Growth Driven by Digital Sales
A significant factor contributing to this growth is the rise in digital sales. Nearly 40% of all lottery sales are now generated through digital channels, with products such as Digital Instants played via mobile apps and online platforms. The state began officially approving and selling digital instant gaming in 2023, making North Carolina one of the few states offering such options.
Consumer Spending and Popular Games
During the weekend prior to the report, North Carolina shoppers spent approximately $16.8 million on Powerball tickets as they targeted a record-setting $1.8 billion jackpot. Shortly after, the Mega Millions jackpot reached $453 million. These high jackpots attract significant attention and increased sales, contributing to the overall economic impact of the lottery.
Player Spending and National Context
The average North Carolinian spends about $421 annually on lottery tickets, ranking the state 12th nationwide for lottery spending. Among states, Massachusetts tops the list with an average of $915 spent per person, while North Dakota has the lowest at $50. This spending pattern reflects varying attitudes and habits related to lottery participation across the country.
Gambling and Financial Advice
Consumer finance analysts highlight that the odds of winning major jackpots, such as Powerball, are approximately 1 in 292 million. For context, the US population is about 342 million people, illustrating the low probability of winning large prizes. Financial experts advise that playing the lottery is less beneficial financially compared to saving money in a dedicated savings account.
For those concerned about gambling habits, resources and assistance programs are available through dedicated organizations aimed at promoting responsible play and providing help for problem gambling behaviors.
National Lottery Highlights
The pursuit of record-breaking jackpots continues nationwide, with Powerball players competing for the largest lottery prize in U.S. history, which reached $1.8 billion. The next drawing was scheduled for September 6, with many hopefuls participating in hopes of claiming the massive prize.
Summary
Overall, North Carolina’s lottery success illustrates a growing trend driven by digital sales, with sustained contributions to the state’s educational funding and a high level of participation. Despite the significant jackpots attracting attention, experts emphasize the importance of responsible gambling and awareness of the slim odds of winning major prizes.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Mega Millions Jackpot Reaches $358 Million Ahead of Drawing
New Bern Resident Wins $100,000 Lottery Prize from Scratch-Off Ticket
South Carolina to Allow Debit Card Payments for Lottery Tickets
Florence After 5 Event Canceled Due to Severe Weather
Lottery Winners from Florence Plan to Share Jackpot
Florence Friends Claim $713,000 Palmetto Cash 5 Jackpot
Local Woman Wins $1 Million Jackpot with Scratch-Off Ticket
Florence Celebrates a Major Lottery Win
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 FLORENCE WRITER
FLORENCE STAFF WRITER The FLORENCE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREFlorence.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Florence, Florence County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Florence Festival of Lights, Pee Dee Pride, and agricultural expos at the Florence Center. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Florence Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Pee Dee Area Council of Governments, plus leading businesses in healthcare and retail that power the local economy such as McLeod Health and Pee Dee Electric Cooperative. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERECharleston.com, HEREColumbia.com, HEREGreenville.com, and HEREHiltonHead.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into South Carolina's dynamic landscape.
