Key Moments:
- Vermont achieved a $20 million sports betting handle in September, a 19.8% year-over-year increase
- Football led wagering with $6.9 million in bets, followed by baseball, tennis, and soccer
- 13,159 local and 11,047 out-of-state users placed 818,441 bets during the month
Robust September Recovery Drives Vermont Market Gains
Following a subdued summer, Vermont’s legalized sports betting industry posted a notable rebound in September. According to the Vermont Liquor and Lottery, the state’s total sports betting handle hit $20 million. This figure reflects a 19.8% increase compared to the same period last year and signifies a substantial 49.2% jump over the handle reported in August 2025.
The state, which initiated online sports betting in January 2024, appears to be experiencing a period of market stabilization, propelled by heightened local interest and key US sports schedules. Vermont’s progress aligns it with nearby Northeastern states, including New Hampshire and Massachusetts, which have experienced similar trends after regulatory rollouts.
Football Drives Betting Surge
September data identified football as the dominant force in Vermont’s wagering landscape, with $6.9 million staked on the sport. Baseball attracted $2.5 million in bets, a 13% increase from the prior year. Tennis and soccer followed, contributing $1.4 million and $1.2 million, respectively.
Players took home a combined $18.5 million in winnings throughout the month. Operating companies reported $1.4 million in adjusted gross wagering revenue for the same period.
| Sport | Bets Placed ($ Million) | Year-over-Year Change |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 6.9 | Up slightly |
| Baseball | 2.5 | +13% |
| Tennis | 1.4 | – |
| Soccer | 1.2 | – |
Player Activity and Engagement Trends
Vermont’s betting market is exhibiting strong user engagement and indications of player trust. Of the $20 million handle, $14.9 million originated from in-state users, while $5.1 million was attributed to out-of-state bettors. During September, 13,159 local users and 11,047 out-of-state individuals were active on the platform, collectively placing 818,441 bets.
The average bet size registered at $24.48, reflecting a pattern of stable and confident wagering by participants. Ongoing oversight and regulatory clarity from the Vermont Liquor and Lottery have contributed to the development of a secure and sustainable market environment.
Pathway to Q4 and Market Maturity
Looking ahead, Vermont’s sports betting sector could witness further growth, with the NFL season underway and the return of basketball and hockey. Market experts expect this momentum to continue through the close of 2025, driven by enhanced promotions and user retention efforts by operators.
Vermont’s progress echoes trends across the United States, demonstrating that smaller jurisdictions can sustain robust growth through prudent regulation, participant education, and a strong focus on responsible gaming practices. By year’s end, Vermont is poised to emerge as one of the leading regulated markets in the region, illustrating effective growth strategies for other small states in the competitive iGaming landscape.
- Author
Daniel Williams
