Online Poker Industry Surges Towards $11.4 Billion by 2030

Once an obscure corner of the digital gaming world, online poker has triumphantly entered the mainstream gambling scene. As highlighted in a recent analysis by Research and Markets, the online poker sector reported revenues of $5.3 billion in 2024. Excitingly, these numbers are projected to more than double by 2030, hitting a staggering $11.4 billion.

This remarkable growth is attributed to a steady compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 13.7%, fueled by technological advancements, demographic shifts, and evolving regulatory landscapes.

Technology and Demographics Fuel Growth

A multitude of factors have combined to accelerate the development of the online poker market. Key among these is the inclusion of the latest technologies that make accessing online poker easier than ever before. Through diverse digital platforms like mobile apps, robust desktop interfaces, and advanced blockchain networks, the game is now more accessible to a wider audience.

Notably, mobile technology has played a transformative role, with features such as e-wallet integration, cryptocurrency transactions, and streamlined KYC protocols enhancing player experience significantly. These innovations have led to the rise of mobile-first poker applications, drawing in both casual gamers and dedicated poker enthusiasts, thereby broadening the market.

Furthermore, as millennials and Gen Z players become more prominent, online poker benefits from its reputation as a skill-based form of entertainment. Gamifying aspects, such as leaderboards, avatars, and virtual currencies, help to retain a generation already accustomed to interactive digital experiences.

Global Trends and Regulatory Patterns

Global industry trends reveal variability, largely determined by regional regulatory frameworks. The UK, Spain, and Italy are examples of countries with long-established and supportive licensing systems, providing a firm foundation for legal online poker. In contrast, countries like India exhibit inconsistent policy structures regarding the industry. In the U.S., significant growth has been observed following the repeal of the PASPA law, reinvigorating key states like New Jersey, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. China’s market, too, is expected to grow robustly with a CAGR of 18.4%, potentially reaching $2.4 billion by 2030.

Meanwhile, the United States is projected to generate $1.4 billion in revenues by 2024. As operators venture into emerging markets, strategies focusing on localization are becoming essential for strengthening player engagement. Efforts to maintain a transparent regulatory environment, manage taxation comprehensively, and encourage responsible gambling practices are influencing mergers and acquisitions, along with enriching user trust.

Beyond these developments, strategic investments are crucial for market evolution, with online poker poised to remain a key component of the iGaming industry. Computer-based platforms are anticipated to reach $7.1 billion by 2030 with an annual growth of 14.4%, while the smartphone sector is projected to grow at a rate of 12% annually.

Source: Online Poker Industry Surges Toward $11.4 Billion Valuation by 2030, lcb.org, June 24, 2025.