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North Carolina bettors placed more than $691 million in paid sports wagers in September 2026, according to WRAL. It was the state’s fourth-highest monthly total since legal sports betting launched in March 2024.
September also marked the 13th consecutive month with paid wagering above $500 million. The total exceeded September figures from both 2025 and 2024.
Fall Wagering Could Set a New Monthly Record
October and November have each outpaced September wagering every year since legalization. October 2025 produced $784 million in paid wagers, followed by $792 million in November.
WRAL reported that continuing trends could deliver North Carolina’s first $800 million month in paid wagering. Monthly total wagering, including promotional and free bets, could approach $1 billion.
Sports betting typically rises during the fall football season and March’s NCAA basketball tournament.
The growing handle comes alongside limited participation among many residents. Nearly two-thirds of North Carolina adults reported never placing a legal sports bet in the state, according to a recent WRAL/WSOC poll. Fourteen percent said they had bet five or more times since legalization.
Sportsbook Taxes Near $15 Million for September
North Carolina collected nearly $15 million in estimated sportsbook taxes in September. State lawmakers increased the sports betting tax rate from 18% to 23%.
Operators paid more than $40 million in taxes during the three months following that increase. Cumulative tax collections since launch exceeded $349 million.
Since legalization, bettors have placed more than $17.4 billion in paid wagers. Including promotional and free bets, total wagering exceeded $18.2 billion. Bettors received $16.2 billion in winnings.
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- North Carolina Senate Backs Higher Sports Betting Tax, New Winner Reporting Rule
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Source: As reported by WRAL.com.
