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The Economic Impact of iGaming on New Jersey’s Job Market

Since the legalization of online gambling in 2013, New Jersey has emerged as a leader in the iGaming industry, significantly influencing the state's economy and employment landscape. Platforms like Borgata Online Casino have played a pivotal role in this transformation, contributing to job creation, tax revenue, and overall economic growth.

A Closer Look at iGaming in New Jersey

New Jersey was one of the first U.S. states to legalize online gambling in 2013. Since then, the Garden State has become a blueprint for successful iGaming regulation. With over a dozen licensed online casinos, the state generates over $1 billion in annual revenue from digital gaming alone.

Key Milestones for the iGaming Sector in NJ:

Our research experts have listed the top milestones per year for New Jersey’s iGaming sector below:

2013: Legalization of iGaming in New Jersey.

2018: Expansion following the repeal of PASPA (sports betting included).

2020-2023: Significant growth.

2024: iGaming revenue surpasses brick-and-mortar in several months.

New Jersey’s iGaming Role in Job Creation

Between 2013 and 2018, New Jersey's iGaming sector generated approximately 6,600 new jobs, encompassing technology, customer service, marketing, and regulatory compliance roles.


These positions span direct employment within online gaming companies and indirect roles in supporting industries. The expansion of iGaming has also bolstered employment in traditional casinos, and the growth suggests that iGaming complements rather than cannibalizes traditional casino employment.

What the Data Shows

According to a 2024 report by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement:


Over 5,000 direct jobs have been created in the iGaming sector since 2013.

The total employment impact exceeds 12,000 when including indirect and induced jobs.

As part of BetMGM, Borgata Casino employs hundreds of New Jersey residents across its digital and support operations.

The iGaming tech sector average salaries are 15-25% higher than the state median income.

These numbers are expected to grow as the gambling sector matures, expands, and integrates new technologies like live dealer gaming and virtual reality (VR) casino experiences.

Key Employment Roles Created by the NJ iGaming Industry:

Several leading employment roles have been created, thanks to the gambling sector. Here is a list of popular jobs created by the iGaming industry in New Jersey:

Game Developers & Engineers: Responsible for creating and maintaining interactive slot and table games.

Customer Support Agents: Multilingual service teams operate 24/7 to assist users.

Data Analysts: Monitor trends, player behavior, and optimize game offerings.

Compliance Officers: Ensure the platform meets regulatory requirements.

Marketing & Affiliate Managers: Drive traffic and build brand partnerships.

Economic Contributions & Tax Revenue

New Jersey's iGaming industry has substantially contributed to the state's economy. Reputable studies and official state reports say that from 2013 to 2018, the sector generated approximately $259 million in tax revenue. In January 2025 alone, the iGaming revenue surged to $221.6 million, a 20.9% increase from the previous year. This growth underscores the sector's expanding role in the state's fiscal health.

Borgata Online Casino & Its Contributions

Borgata Online Casino, operated by MGM Resorts International, exemplifies the success of New Jersey's iGaming sector. The platform's success has generated substantial tax revenue and created numerous employment opportunities in different areas.

Contributions from Borgata Casino:

Online gambling site, Borgata Casino, has positively contributed to the NJ iGaming sector including the following ways:

Consistent hiring for tech, customer service, and content management roles.

Local office presence supporting hybrid working models.

Partnership with Atlantic City’s Borgata Hotel to create integrated career pathways between land-based and online operations.

Internship programs and university collaborations.

Offers responsible gaming education, training specialists, and outreach teams that provide support for player health and safety, creating another avenue for meaningful employment.

Debates on iGaming's Economic Impact

While the economic benefits of iGaming are evident, some studies have raised concerns. A report by NERA Economic Consulting suggested that iGaming might be "net negative" for New Jersey's economy, arguing that funds spent on online gambling could have been allocated to other sectors with higher economic multipliers.

However, this perspective has been contested. The iDevelopment and Economic Association (iDEA) challenged NERA's findings, emphasizing that iGaming has successfully transitioned consumers from illegal platforms to regulated ones, enhancing consumer protection and generating legitimate tax revenue.

Challenges & Future Outlook for New Jersey’s iGaming Sector

While the iGaming sector in New Jersey has been largely positive, it still faces the following challenges:

Job saturation in some non-technical roles

Workforce training gaps in cybersecurity and data analysis

High competition from global talent markets

Problem gambling

However, with innovations like cryptocurrency gambling and interactive game shows, iGaming is evolving rapidly. Top online casino platforms are already exploring blockchain integrations and more immersive user experiences, and they are likely to create even more specialized roles soon.

The trajectory of New Jersey's iGaming industry suggests continued growth. With technological advancements and increasing consumer acceptance, platforms are poised to expand their offerings further, potentially leading to more job creation and economic contributions.

A Model for the Nation

New Jersey’s iGaming sector, with leading online casino sites being a cornerstone, has reshaped the state’s economy. Its job creation impact spans technology, hospitality, marketing, and education. As more states consider legalizing online gambling, New Jersey serves as a proven example of how digital entertainment can lead to real-world economic benefits, particularly when backed by strong regulation, strategic investment, and community-focused initiatives. As the industry evolves, maintaining a balance between growth and responsible gaming will be key to its sustained success.


author

Chris Bates


Monday, September 01, 2025
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