Despite a dip in handle, higher operator win rates drive record GGR and boost education funding
New York’s online sports betting market continues its explosive trajectory, breaking yet another revenue milestone in May 2025. According to data released by the New York State Gaming Commission, the state posted $248.9 million in gross gaming revenue (GGR) for the month — marking an all-time high for New York’s digital sportsbook sector.
Slight Dip in Handle, But Win Rates Soar
While GGR climbed by 0.8% from the previous record of $247 million in January 2025, total handle in May fell to $2.21 billion, a 10.8% decrease from January’s $2.48 billion. However, year-on-year comparisons tell a more optimistic story: May’s handle is up 12.1% from the $1.97 billion reported in May 2024.
The revenue surge, despite a lower total wagered amount, points to a notably higher win rate for operators, with May’s GGR seeing a 22.4% increase over May 2024’s $203.3 million.
Education Funding Gets a Boost
As per New York’s tax framework, a significant portion of GGR is directed to the state’s education fund, and May was no exception. The Commission reported that $126.9 million from this month’s GGR will go towards education — another 22.4% jump year-on-year.
Since the launch of mobile sports betting in January 2022, the state has now accumulated over $6.5 billion in GGR and contributed more than $3.2 billion to education initiatives.
Platform Providers Reap the Rewards
Operators also saw a notable rise in their share. Platform providers took in $122 million in May, an increase of nearly $28 million compared to April 2025’s $94.4 million. Once again, FanDuel and DraftKings continued to lead the market, with FanDuel dominating GGR and DraftKings leading in overall handle.
Legislative Watch: Responsible Gambling Under Review
The record-breaking month comes at a time when state lawmakers are actively reviewing proposals aimed at tightening betting regulations. A bill introduced in April seeks to limit deposit levels and prohibit the use of credit cards in mobile sports betting—a move meant to curb problem gambling, though it has yet to advance.
As the legislative landscape continues to evolve, New York’s operators and regulators alike face the challenge of balancing explosive growth with responsible gambling mandates. For now, however, the Empire State remains the top-earning online sports betting market in the U.S., setting a pace others can only hope to match.
