Gambling is big business in Deadwood latest figures show

PIERRE, S.D. (South Dakota Searchlight) – Spending on gambling in Deadwood reached nearly $750 million during the first half of the year, according to new monthly data from the state Department of Revenue.

Through June in the city, gamblers had spent about $700 million playing slot machines, $43.95 million buying chips for table games, and $4.36 million betting on sports.

The total spending of $748.3 million was up 1.5% from the first half of 2023.

The biggest increase was in the relatively new category of sports wagering, which was up 9% from the same period in 2023. South Dakota voters approved sports betting for Deadwood in 2020, adding it to the city’s pre-existing gambling offerings.

Casinos kept about $68 million during the first half of this year after payouts to winners. A 9% tax on that amount produced about $6 million to help fund the state budget, state efforts to promote tourism, Lawrence County (of which Deadwood is the county seat), and the state Gaming Commission.

Casinos also pay annual license fees to the Gaming Commission that help fund state historical preservation efforts, gambling addiction treatment and counseling, and cities and schools in Lawrence County.

Deadwood and Native American reservations are the only places in the state where full-fledged casino gambling is legal. The National Indian Gaming Commission reported last month that revenue among 45 Native American casinos in the four-state region including South Dakota grew 5% in the 2023 fiscal year to a total of $426 million.