Charlotte, North Carolina, September 10, 2025
News Summary
The North Carolina Lottery has reported record sales surpassing $1 billion for the third consecutive year, helping fund educational initiatives. This growth is driven by a rise in digital gaming, with almost 40% of revenues coming from digital platforms. Major jackpots, like the recent $1.8 billion Powerball, have also spurred ticket purchases, showcasing the lottery’s significant role in both education funding and public engagement.
Charlotte, North Carolina — Lottery Sales Surpass $1 Billion for Third Consecutive Year
The North Carolina Lottery has achieved a significant milestone by surpassing $1 billion in sales for the third consecutive year, marking continued growth and sustained interest in state-run gaming. For the fiscal year 2025, the lottery reported record sales totaling $6.6 billion, bolstering funding allocated to various educational initiatives across the state.
Record Sales and Dedicated Support for Education
Out of the total sales, over $1 billion is designated to support educational priorities in North Carolina. This consistent financial commitment underscores the lottery’s role in supplementing state funding for schools, scholarships, and educational programs. The North Carolina Education Lottery remains unique in the country as the only state-run lottery to show a steady increase in sales every year since it began operations.
Impact of Digital Sales on Revenue Growth
A major factor contributing to the increasing sales figures is the expansion of digital gaming options. Nearly 40% of lottery revenue now comes from Digital Instants, a product that allows players to purchase instant-win tickets via online platforms. This digital rollout was approved by the state lottery commission in 2023, making North Carolina among the few states to offer such convenient purchasing methods.
Players can buy tickets through a dedicated app and website, giving residents easier access to their favored lottery games without needing to visit physical stores. This digital evolution has played a pivotal role in boosting overall sales figures and engaging a broader demographic.
Recent Lottery Activity and Big Jackpots
Over the recent weekend, North Carolinians spent approximately $16.8 million on Powerball tickets, driven by anticipation for the then-record jackpot of $1.8 billion. This is the largest jackpot in U.S. history, attracting nationwide attention and increasing ticket sales across multiple states.
Following the Powerball draw, the Mega Millions jackpot also surged to around $453 million, further fueling ticket purchases. The heightened interest in these large jackpots demonstrates the significant role they play in driving lottery revenue and public engagement.
Spending Patterns and Comparative Data
On average, a North Carolina resident spends approximately $421 annually on lottery tickets, placing the state at 12th nationally in lottery expenditure per person. In comparison, Massachusetts leads with an average of $915 per person, while North Dakota has the lowest average at $50.
Experts note that while lottery participation is popular, it is less financially advantageous than saving money in a traditional savings account. This perspective emphasizes the importance of responsible gaming and awareness about the odds of winning.
Odds and Broader Context
The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are estimated at about 1 in 292 million, highlighting the extremely slim chance of hitting the top prize. Nationwide, an estimated 342 million people are eligible to participate in such draws. The drawing for the record $1.8 billion jackpot was scheduled for September 6, with many hopeful players nationwide participating.
Resources and Gambling Support
For those concerned about gambling habits or seeking assistance, resources are available at morethanagamenc.com, providing support and information about responsible gaming practices.
North Carolina’s ongoing lottery success demonstrates its role as a significant revenue source for educational programs, supported by innovative digital sales strategies amid the enduring popularity of traditional draws like Powerball and Mega Millions.
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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
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
The HERE Beaufort Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Beaufort community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background: Local Roots in Beaufort : Our team includes lifelong Beaufort residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent sale of the historic Crofts Block Building, Beaufort’s equestrian heritage, and growth in local tech and education sectors (e.g., BeaufortTechnical College programs). Collective Experience: With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Beaufort Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality: Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
