Arizona’s sports betting market had another active month in September 2025 — and the numbers reveal some interesting trends. Football season kicked into gear, new player promos returned, and a few familiar sportsbooks shifted positions in the state’s rankings. Whether you’re a casual bettor or someone tracking the business side of sports wagering, September’s handle report tells an important story about how Arizona’s betting economy is evolving.

How Arizona’s Betting Handle Performed in September

According to recent reports from the Arizona Department of Gaming, the state’s sports betting handle topped $685 million in September 2025, a modest increase from August’s totals. That means Arizonans wagered nearly $23 million per day across retail and online sportsbooks.

Revenue also improved slightly — the combined taxable winnings for sportsbooks rose about 6%, largely due to higher hold percentages during early NFL season betting. It’s clear that football continues to be the engine of Arizona’s sports wagering market.

Which Sportsbooks Gained or Lost Market Share

The “big four” sportsbooks — FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, and BetMGM — continued to dominate the Arizona market, though some changes occurred.

• FanDuel extended its lead with roughly 32% of the total handle, thanks to an aggressive set of NFL promos and parlay boosts.
• DraftKings slipped slightly to 28%, but its same-game parlay feature still draws high engagement.
• Caesars stabilized around 18%, buoyed by its in-person sportsbook at Chase Field and ongoing loyalty program perks.
• BetMGM gained a small uptick to 14%, driven by new app improvements and casino cross-promotions.

Smaller operators like ESPN BET, BetRivers, and Hard Rock Bet rounded out the rest of the market. The consolidation trend continues — a few smaller brands may exit by 2026 as customer acquisition costs rise.

What’s Driving These Trends (Promos, Football, and Beyond)

September is traditionally a big month because of the NFL kickoff and early college football weeks. Operators rolled out fresh welcome bonuses, many of them retooled versions of “Bet $5, get $200” promotions.

Another factor behind the uptick: cross-state travel. Many tourists visiting Arizona for early-season football games placed bets while in-state, especially at Caesars’ downtown Phoenix location and FanDuel’s retail book near Glendale.

Industry insiders also note that more Arizona bettors are experimenting with live betting — in-play wagers that happen during the game. These quick-bet markets tend to increase handle but don’t always boost profitability, since player props and alternate lines carry higher variance.

How Arizona Compares to Other Legal States

Nationally, Arizona continues to rank within the top six U.S. sports betting markets by total handle. It trails heavyweights like New York, New Jersey, and Illinois but outpaces states such as Michigan, Virginia, and Tennessee.

Arizona’s combination of a large sports fan base, steady tourism, and moderate tax structure make it a stable and competitive market. While some states are tightening restrictions or raising taxes, Arizona has taken a more balanced approach — allowing the market to mature naturally.

The September data also show that Arizona bettors are becoming more price-sensitive, with many comparing odds between multiple sportsbooks before placing bets. That kind of consumer behavior signals a mature, informed betting audience.

What Bettors Can Expect Next Month

Looking ahead to October and November, handle totals are expected to climb again. NFL and college football will remain the primary drivers, but NBA preseason and NHL openers add more betting options.

FanDuel and DraftKings are both expected to introduce new loyalty tiers and profit-boost tokens heading into the holiday season. Caesars plans to expand its same-game parlay options, and BetMGM continues to refine its live betting speed — an area where it aims to close the gap with competitors.

If trends continue, Arizona’s total sports betting volume could exceed $7.5 billion for 2025, marking another record year for the state.

Responsible Gambling Reminder

As always, remember that betting should stay fun. Every licensed Arizona sportsbook offers deposit limits, self-exclusion tools, and timeout options. If you or someone you know struggles with gambling, resources like the Arizona Division of Problem Gambling and national helplines are available 24/7.

Final Thoughts

Arizona’s September 2025 sports betting handle shows a healthy and competitive market, led by established operators but supported by informed bettors. The steady growth, especially during football season, reinforces Arizona’s position as one of the country’s most dynamic regulated betting environments.

If you’re following the market or just getting started, check out our full Arizona Sports Betting Guide for legal updates, bonus offers, and sportsbook reviews.