Virginians are buying more lottery tickets as sales rise nearly 20%: state revenue report

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — Virginia is seeing a significant increase in lottery sales across the Commonwealth this year — though net profits have largely lagged behind — according to a new state revenue report.

On Friday, Nov. 14, Gov. Glenn Youngkin's office released the October 2025 revenue report that breaks down revenue data for the state.

Per the report, Virginia lottery sales are expected to bring in over $6.1 billion in state income for the 2026 fiscal year. Ticket sales totaled $530.1 million for the month of October — a 19.5% increase from last year's sales of $443.5 million during the same period.

October's year-to-date sales also saw an 18% hike, spiking to over $2.1 billion from roughly $1.8 billion last year.

For three consecutive months this year, from August to October, lottery sales in Virginia have seen at least an 18% increase compared to the same period in 2024. August saw an 18.3% increase, while September recorded a 22.9% rise.

But net profits from ticket sales haven't kept up with revenues' pace. Prize expenses have also seen a steady rise of 8.4% over the past three months, potentially leading to a shrinking profit margin of a consistent 2.9% drop during the same period, the report shows.

Earlier this year, the Virginia Lottery announced a price increase from $2 to $5 per single-play Mega Millions ticket. Officials said the price change also comes with bigger prizes, a larger starting jackpot and better winning odds for players.

Other highlights from the report

Per the report, the Commonwealth's total general fund revenues increased $134.1 million, or 7%, for the month compared to last October. The governor's office attributed the increase to higher individual income tax withholding and non-withholding, lower refunds and greater sales and use tax collections.

Net individual income tax makes up over 69% of the general fund revenues and is expected to total $21.7 billion. This reflects a 7.5% year-to-date increase, the report shows.

Per the report, sales and use tax are expected to total over $4.9 billion and contribute to 15.9% of the total general fund revenues.

“Virginia recorded another strong revenue month, despite the backdrop of the government shutdown... Historically, Virginia has not experienced significant revenue impacts from previous shutdowns. With that uncertainty behind us, we will continue to demonstrate – through prudent fiscal management, strong job growth, and record capital investment from companies expanding in the Commonwealth – that Virginia remains financially stronger than she has ever been,” Youngkin said.

See the full October 2025 revenue report below.