Raleigh, North Carolina, September 10, 2025
News Summary
The North Carolina Education Lottery has surpassed $1 billion in sales for the third consecutive year, totaling a remarkable $6.6 billion in the latest fiscal year. This achievement underscores the lottery’s commitment to funding education across the state. The surge in sales is attributed to the popularization of digital lottery sales, particularly Digital Instants. North Carolinians’ enthusiasm for games like Powerball and Mega Millions further highlights the lottery’s role in supporting educational initiatives.
Raleigh, North Carolina – The North Carolina Education Lottery has achieved a significant milestone by exceeding $1 billion for the third consecutive year, with record sales reaching $6.6 billion in the fiscal year 2025. This continued success allows over $1 billion to be designated for educational initiatives throughout the state, highlighting the lottery’s ongoing commitment to contributing to public education funding.
This remarkable achievement positions the North Carolina Education Lottery as the only state-run lottery in the United States that has consistently increased its sales each year since its inception. The surge in revenue can be partially attributed to the rise in digital sales, particularly from a product known as Digital Instants, which now accounts for nearly 40% of total sales.
North Carolina distinguishes itself from many other states by permitting players to purchase lottery tickets via a mobile app and website, making it one of the few states that have adopted this technology. This move aligns with the 2023 approval by the state’s lottery commission for the sale of digital instant gaming, which has been met with increasing consumer interest and participation.
In the days leading up to this report, North Carolinians demonstrated their enthusiasm for lottery games when they collectively spent $16.8 million on Powerball tickets, drawn in anticipation of a staggering $1.8 billion jackpot. Immediately following this event, the Mega Millions jackpot soared to $453 million, further amplifying the excitement surrounding lottery games in the state.
On average, residents of North Carolina spend approximately $421 annually on lottery tickets, placing the state 12th nationwide in terms of spending per capita on lottery games. For context, Massachusetts ranks highest with an average of $915 per person, while North Dakota ranks lowest at $50.
Despite the thrill of lottery games, consumer finance analysts have pointed out that participating in the lottery is generally less financially advantageous compared to securing funds in a savings account. Advocates for responsible gambling emphasize the importance of understanding the odds, which for Powerball are approximately 1 in 292 million. Current national estimates indicate a U.S. population of around 342 million people vying for major lottery prizes.
The Funds estimated to support educational needs in North Carolina through lottery revenues have become increasingly vital. As sales continue to grow, so does the potential to bolster resources for schools and educational programs across the state. Additionally, players seeking assistance with gambling-related issues can find support resources at morethanagamenc.com, fostering a safer gaming environment.
In summary, the North Carolina Education Lottery has not only broken sales records but has also solidified its role as a crucial benefactor for the state’s educational landscape. As interest in digital lottery sales continues to rise, the lottery’s innovative approach may point the way for future growth and support for public education in North Carolina.
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Additional Resources
- WRAL: North Carolina Lottery Surpasses $1B in Education Digital Sales
- USA Today: Powerball Ticket Purchase Cutoff Times
- North Carolina Lottery: Mega Millions Jackpot Grows
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lottery
- PR Newswire: Scientific Games Technology for NC Education Lottery
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