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D.C. Sportsbooks Break $86M in April Handle

Published: Jul 20, 2025, 9:00 PM
3 min read
Updated: Jul 20, 2025, 9:00 PM

April Revenue Insights

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 21, 2025 
Washington, D.C.’s sports betting market just posted its highest single-month handle on record, with local sportsbooks processing $86,014,452 in total bets during April 2025. That figure represents a staggering increase from prior Aprils and continues a five-year pattern of volatility, steady growth, and market adjustment.

While D.C. has long lagged behind larger states in sports betting volume, the nation’s capital is showing signs of stabilization, with tax revenue for April reaching $1.91 million, the most ever collected in a single April since the market launched in 2020.

April Over April: 5-Year Growth Snapshot

YearHandleRevenueHoldTax Revenue
2021$10,746,937$2,087,24019.42%$463,216
2022$18,379,904$1,431,2757.79%$429,384
2023$12,532,899$2,024,80316.16%$540,339
2024$26,649,703$3,529,18613.24%$1,392,454
2025$86,014,452$6,224,2027.24%$1,917,367

Since April 2021, handle has grown by over 700%, and tax revenue has more than quadrupled, despite fluctuations in monthly win rates. The market has clearly matured, with April 2025’s hold percentage dropping to 7.24%, indicating more favorable outcomes for bettors, or at least more competitive pricing from operators.

Regulated Growth in a Small Market

Washington, D.C.’s sports betting ecosystem is unique. It operates under the oversight of the D.C. Office of Lottery and Gaming and includes a mix of localized and national sportsbook operators. Though the city has no NFL or MLB franchise of its own, it benefits from regional fan interest and an influx of cross-border bettors from neighboring states like Maryland and Virginia.

April’s record may also reflect post-March Madness betting behavior spilling over into NBA playoffs and early MLB action, both key drivers for spring wagering.

As D.C. continues to evolve its sports betting structure, these numbers suggest the market is not only expanding, but it’s finally stabilizing. With increased competition and better access through mobile platforms, all eyes will be on whether the district can sustain this momentum into the summer and fall.

<p><strong>Sol Fayerman-Hansen</strong> is Editor-in-Chief at RG.org with 20+ years of experience in sports journalism, gambling regulation, and tech. His work has appeared in <i>Forbes</i>, <i>ESPN</i>, and <i>NFL.com</i>, covering U.S. and Canadian gambling laws, major sports events, and wagering trends. Since 2023, Sol has led RG.org’s global editorial efforts, focusing on transparency, data accuracy, and regulatory insight. He works closely with researchers and legal experts to uphold E-E-A-T and Trust Project standards.</p><p>📍 Israel/Canada 🌐 English, Hebrew 🎯 Gambling law, responsible gaming, tech in betting</p>
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