Georgians are spending more money on lottery tickets than residents in most other states, according to a new study from LendingTree.
The study ranks Georgia fifth in the nation for lottery spending, with residents spending nearly $500 per capita on lottery games, compared to the national average of just over $300.
According to LendingTree, Georgians spent more than $5.6 billion on lottery tickets in 2024, the most recent year examined in the study. Players won back nearly $3.8 billion.
Only four states ranked ahead of Georgia in lottery spending: Massachusetts, Virginia, Rhode Island and North Carolina. Massachusetts topped the list.
The findings come as two major lottery jackpots continue to grow.
Friday night’s Mega Millions drawing features an estimated $433 million jackpot, with a one-time cash option of $178.6 million.
Saturday’s Powerball drawing offers an estimated $674 million jackpot, with a cash option of $283.9 million.
