North Carolina Sees $691 Million Wagered in September

The state collected nearly $15 million in tax revenue as sportsbook wagers remained high during the fall football season.

Updated on Oct. 30, 2026 in Gambling

North Carolina Sees $691 Million Wagered in September

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North Carolina bettors wagered more than $691 million in September 2026, marking the fourth-highest monthly total since the state legalized sports betting. This activity contributed nearly $15 million in tax revenue to state coffers.

Why it matters

Sports betting activity in the state consistently spikes during major athletic events like the fall football season and March Madness. The revenue reflects a sustained interest in legalized wagering, which has exceeded $500 million in monthly volume for 13 consecutive months.

North Carolina collected nearly $15 million in tax revenue in September 2026 following a legislative increase in the tax rate from 18% to 23%. Total taxes collected since the launch of sports betting now exceed $349 million.

The details

State lawmakers recently raised the tax rate on sportsbooks to 23%, helping the state reach over $349 million in total tax revenue since the platform launched. While September activity was significant, monthly wagers may reach $1 billion in October or November 2026.

Legal sports wagering launched in North Carolina in March 2024.
Bettors wagered $784 million in October 2025.
Bettors wagered $792 million in November 2025.
Bettors wagered $691 million in September 2026.

Culture Shift

The legalization of sports betting has fundamentally altered leisure habits, with 14% of adults now reporting five or more bets since the inception of the market. This reflects a broader societal integration of digital wagering that mirrors trends seen in other states with mature markets.

The rise in sports betting changes the landscape for local consumers who choose to participate, though it remains a discretionary activity. Residents should be aware of the state's tax framework and the frequency of participation reported among adults since the market opened.

The takeaway

The sustained volume of wagering underscores the popularity of sports betting during peak football months. Readers should approach sports betting as a form of entertainment rather than a reliable financial strategy.