BALTIMORE, Md., June 11, 2025 — Maryland’s sports wagering market delivered $7,746,363 to the state in May 2025, marking its fifth-best monthly performance since the program’s launch in December 2021. The funds, derived from a 15% tax on sportsbooks’ taxable proceeds, support the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund, which bolsters public education programs.

In May, Maryland bettors wagered a total of $504,448,190 across 11 mobile platforms and 12 retail sportsbook locations. Of this handle, $494,189,620 came from mobile wagering, while retail locations accounted for $10,258,570. After paying out $438,138,277 in prizes, sportsbooks retained a combined hold of 13.1%, or $66,309,912. The taxable win, calculated after deducting prizes, promotional wagers, and other amounts, totaled $51,642,420, resulting in the $7,746,363 contribution to the state.

For the first 11 months of fiscal year 2025 (July 2024 through May 2025), sports wagering has generated $79,696,891 for the Blueprint Fund, a significant increase from the $54,582,952 contributed during the same period in FY2024. Since its inception, the sports wagering program has provided $168,150,051 to the education fund and an additional $4,265,333 to the Problem Gambling Fund through expired prizes.

Mobile wagering dominated May’s activity, with a hold of 13.1% after paying $429,429,635 in prizes. Retail sportsbooks reported a slightly higher hold of 15.1%, paying out $8,708,643 in winnings. Promotional wagers, which are deductible from the taxable win, totaled $12,990,814 for mobile platforms and $29,050 for retail locations. A detailed breakdown of each sportsbook’s performance, including handle, hold percentage, and contributions, is available at mdgaming.com.

The sports wagering market’s growth reflects Maryland’s robust regulatory framework and the popularity of both mobile and retail betting options. The state’s 15% tax rate ensures a steady revenue stream for education, with the Blueprint Fund supporting initiatives such as early childhood education, teacher salaries, and school infrastructure improvements. The Problem Gambling Fund, fueled by unclaimed prizes, provides resources for prevention and treatment programs.

Maryland’s sports wagering program, legalized in 2021, has grown steadily, with mobile platforms driving the majority of betting activity. The state’s 12 retail sportsbooks, located at casinos and other licensed venues, complement the convenience of mobile apps. The May 2025 results highlight the program’s economic impact, as bettors’ participation translates into tangible benefits for public schools.

As the fiscal year progresses, Maryland’s sports wagering market continues to outperform previous years, positioning the state to further enhance its education system. Stakeholders anticipate sustained growth, driven by major sporting events and the increasing adoption of mobile betting. For a comprehensive summary of May’s results, including statewide handle and hold by sport, visit mdgaming.com.


David M. Higgins II is an award-winning journalist passionate about uncovering the truth and telling compelling stories. Born in Baltimore and raised in Southern Maryland, he has lived in several East...

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