Nebraska’s racetrack casinos saw significant growth in 2024, driven by expansion and diversification of betting options. The industry generated approximately $145.7 million in revenue last year—more than its total from the previous 1⅓ years combined. Lynne McNally, CEO of the Nebraska Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association, attributed the growth to the opening of WarHorse Omaha in August and the second phase of WarHorse Lincoln in November.
“The big jump is directly attributable to Omaha opening and Lincoln’s phase two expansion,” McNally said. She added that further expansion in Omaha and the planned opening of a casino in Ogallala could push revenue even higher in 2025.
In comparison, Nebraska casinos reported $89.1 million in gaming revenue in 2023 and $14 million in 2022, when both Lincoln and Grand Island’s casinos were only partially operational for a few months. WarHorse Lincoln led the state in total revenue for most of 2024, generating $59.3 million over the year and contributing $11.9 million to the state’s gaming tax revenue. However, WarHorse Omaha, which earned $32.8 million, briefly overtook Lincoln on a monthly basis after its grand opening. Grand Island Casino Resort brought in $35.3 million, while Harrah’s Columbus casino reported $18.3 million.
Slot machines remained the primary source of revenue for Nebraska’s casinos, with table games coming in second. WarHorse Lincoln also reported $2.9 million in sports betting revenue—more than double its earnings from table games.
Statewide, Nebraska casinos contributed $29.1 million in gaming tax revenue in 2024, up from $17.8 million in 2023. Of this, 70% went to the state property tax relief fund, with the rest benefiting the cities and counties where the casinos are located. Casey Ricketts, executive director of the Racing and Gaming Commission, credited WarHorse Lincoln’s second phase and Omaha’s opening for the increase.
Looking ahead, the casino industry in Nebraska is set for continued growth. WarHorse Lincoln is working on its third phase, while WarHorse Omaha’s second phase is slated to open in April. A WarHorse casino in South Sioux City has yet to break ground, and a project in Ogallala by Elite Casino Resorts is underway. McNally remains optimistic, saying, “We’re on a steady upward climb and will continue to do so until all six facilities are fully built out.”
Comments