Pa. outpaces N.J. as second biggest gaming hub in U.S.
Pennsylvania is pulling ahead of New Jersey as the country’s second-biggest gaming hub. Pennsylvania’s 11 casinos set a record last month, pulling in $233.1 million.
The winning recipe seems to be proximity to lots of customers.
Gregory Wanamaker comes from New Jersey to play the slots at SugarHouse Casino in Philadelphia.
“It’s closer, it’s easier to get here, like 15 minutes across the bridge, and it’s very convenient,” Wanamaker said.
Lisa Beckham made the trip to Philadelphia from Voorhees, N.J., with Wanamaker. She says she’s seen the floor here get busier since the pair began frequenting th casino to play the slot machines, a little under a year ago.
“You can tell by the parking,” Beckham said. “When you want to sit down and play a game, your game is not available. especially at night.”
New Jersey has been struggling to keep up against competition in all of its neighboring states. Pennsylvania’s lead has been solidifying since it overtook New Jersey in July.
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