The economic heart of Las Vegas slowed down in September as both gambling income and tourist numbers dropped compared to the same month in the previous year. Even with this setback, experts and residents still believe the city’s ongoing growth will continue.

Nevada Casinos See September Dip but Still Cross $1B Mark

The Nevada Gaming Control Board reports that casinos across the state won 2.3% less money than in September 2024. Still, they managed to bring in over $1 billion. Clark County, where most of Nevada’s gambling happens, saw its revenue fall by 2.9%. The Las Vegas Strip took a bigger hit, with earnings dropping 5.5% to $687.8 million, reported The Las Vegas Review-Journal. Downtown casinos also made less, with a 2% decrease. On the bright side, places like Laughlin and Mesquite made a bit more money, which helped balance out some of the losses elsewhere.

Experts linked the drop to lower baccarat win rates and calendar oddities, like the Labor Day weekend starting in August. Even with the monthly slump, gaming revenue for the first fiscal quarter of 2025–26 stayed above last year’s figures, growing 2.3% across the state.

The tourism scene in Las Vegas was just as slow. Numbers from the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority (LVCVA) showed that 3.1 million people came to the city in September — 8.8% fewer than in the same month of 2024. The number of people at conventions dropped by almost 19% because big events like MINExpo did not happen, and Oracle moved its CloudWorld conference to a different time. 

Occupancy and Room Rates Slip in September, Yet Vegas Spirit Stays High

Hotels were less full, with occupancy down 5.2% to just under 79%. The average price for a room each day fell by 3%, which led to a 9% drop in how much money hotels made per room they had available.

The LVCVA tried to boost travel demand with its “Welcome to Fabulous” campaign and a “Fabulous 5-Day Sale” offering discounts at hotels, restaurants, and entertainment spots. Officials expect October’s numbers to show the impact of these efforts.

Despite the slowdown, many visitors and locals seem unworried. Travelers landing at Harry Reid International Airport this week said the city felt busy and packed. Some casino companies, like Boyd Gaming, reported steady business at their off-Strip and local-focused properties, showing the strength of the regional market.

Financial experts think the lower numbers show short-term pressures, not a long-term slump. A market watcher said that even though people are spending less on fun stuff, Las Vegas gambling trends are holding up okay, given the tough economy.

With big sports events and holiday trips coming up, many think the city will bounce back before the year ends. As one tourist said, Las Vegas still has its spark. No matter what the numbers say, the Strip feels just as lively as always.