More than half of U.S. sports bettors surveyed in 2026 said they had placed wagers in an effort to pay household bills, highlighting the connection between sports betting and personal finances among some participants.
The survey covered 1,200 Americans who had placed a sports bet during the previous year. Researchers conducted it between August 31 and September 3. Among respondents, 51% said they had wagered hoping to cover bills, while 21% reported betting to help pay rent or a mortgage.
Sports wagering remains frequent among many of those surveyed. Around 57% said they bet at least weekly, including 17% who wager daily. Half reported that their typical individual wager was below $25.
The findings arrive during another…