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How Much Revenue Does the Poker Market Generate Worldwide?

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The global poker market, spanning both offline and online segments, has expanded significantly in recent years. As digital consumption increases across entertainment sectors, poker has emerged as a durable and increasingly online-driven market.

Market Size and Scope

According to Zion Market Research, the global online poker market alone generated approximately US $86.2 billion in revenue in 2022. The same report forecasts market value to climb to US $237.5 billion by 2030, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of about 13.5%. The story these figures tell is beyond just exponential growth. As both a commercial category, and technological product, this industry has taken over the world.

Grand View Research offers a narrower view of the market. It reports the online poker segment was worth US $3.86 billion in 2024. According to its projections, this segment will grow at a CAGR of 10.2%, reaching US $6.90 billion by 2030. The divergence in revenue estimates reflects differences in what constitutes market scope, whether purely real-money poker games or wider ecosystems involving app platforms, virtual currencies, and game development.

The broader poker economy, including live events, land-based tournaments, and casino offerings, is estimated to generate over US $150 billion annually. This includes not only tournament rake and cash game revenue but also complementary income streams such as hospitality, sponsorships, and media rights.

Offshore Poker Websites

Offshore poker websites contribute significantly to the revenue outlined in global estimates. These platforms operate under licenses from jurisdictions like Malta, Curaçao, Panama, and Cyprus. They accept international traffic, including from the United States, often without the same geographic limitations imposed by state-regulated poker sites.

The availability of safe offshore poker websites has allowed international users to access platforms offering licensed oversight, certified game fairness, and a wide range of payment options. These sites often feature larger tournament networks, varied gameplay formats, and promotional incentives that differ from domestically regulated environments.

Many offshore poker operators provide services in multiple currencies and accept cryptocurrencies, appealing to a global customer base. Their gaming suites typically include not only poker, but also sportsbook, slots, and casino games, supporting cross-segment revenue streams. Because these sites are not subject to U.S. federal gambling laws, they remain accessible to American players, particularly in states without regulated online poker markets.

Drivers of Growth

Mobile use has been a major factor in poker’s online growth. More people now play on smartphones than desktops, so poker sites focus on making their apps easy to use on mobile devices. ​ Virtual reality lets players join poker rooms that feel more like real life. Of course, then there's AI. Artificial intelligence can help in detecting cheating and gives players tools to improve their game.

Changes in gambling laws (mostly for the better) have also helped the market grow. In the U.S., several states now allow legal online poker, and more are considering it. In 2024, North America made up over 21% of global online poker revenue. Clear laws are really what will help poker sites work with regular payment services and advertisers, making the market stronger.

Revenue by Segment

Although research firms differ in how they define the online poker market, they are aligned in projecting consistent long-term growth. Some studies include broader digital ecosystems such as in-app features and virtual currencies, while others focus exclusively on real-money gameplay, and this accounts for the wide range of revenue figures.

Despite these differences, all forecasts anticipate a strong compound annual growth rate through the decade. Growth is driven by more people playing online, easier payment options, and greater access to poker sites in developing countries.

The wider poker economy, which includes both online and offline components such as live tournaments, casino-based cash games, and associated services, is believed to generate more than US 0 billion annually.

Forecast and Long-Term Outlook

Both Zion and Grand View projects sustained revenue growth in online poker, with annual CAGR estimates ranging from 10-14%. Most of the growth ahead is expected to come from better mobile apps, easier-to-use platforms, and new ways to pay.

As regulatory environments evolve and internet access expands in emerging markets, the number of active players is likely to increase. Tournament prize pools, cash game liquidity, and ancillary service demand should rise in parallel.

With the addition of technology such as blockchain-based smart contracts and real-time compliance tools, platforms will likely improve trust and operational efficiency, encouraging institutional investment and long-term market stability.

Market Outlook by Region

According to Market Research Intellect, Europe remains the largest regional poker market, responsible for roughly 30% of global revenue. This is driven by mature regulatory systems, high consumer confidence, and well-developed mobile infrastructure across countries like the UK, France, and Spain. The region's established tournament scene and strong operator presence help maintain its lead.

North America follows with more than 21% of global online poker revenues as of 2024. Growth across the region is supported by a rising number of regulated jurisdictions and strong investment in platform technology. Grand View Research estimates the market will continue expanding steadily through 2030, fueled by digital adoption and infrastructure improvements.

Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing region in the poker industry, with a projected compound annual growth rate of over 8%. Emerging markets like India and the Philippines are seeing rapid user acquisition thanks to expanding internet access, increased smartphone penetration, and rising disposable income. Cultural shifts toward skill-based online games are further accelerating the region’s upward trajectory.

Latin America currently represents about 10% of the global market. Brazil and Mexico are at the forefront, supported by young, tech-savvy populations and improving connectivity. While growth is steady, regulatory inconsistencies remain a challenge to wider regional expansion.

The Middle East and Africa account for an estimated 5% of global poker revenue. Interest is rising, particularly in regions with growing casino tourism and access to international online platforms, but broader growth is tempered by legal restrictions and cultural considerations.