New Survey Finds Most American Adults Gambled Before Age 21

A national survey shows that most American adults engaged in gambling before turning 21, even though most states restrict sports betting, casino gaming, poker, and fantasy contests to adults. Results also show rising concern about youth exposure and gambling addiction.

The study, conducted online by The Harris Poll on behalf of the National Council on Problem Gambling, surveyed 2,072 adults between Feb. 19 and Feb. 23.

Good to Know

• 65 percent of adults said they gambled before age 21
• 66 percent said they worry about children being exposed to gambling
• 79 percent believe gambling addiction is as serious as or worse than alcohol or drug addiction

Underage gambling appears to be more common among younger generations. Adults aged 21 to 44 reported higher participation rates before age 21 compared with those aged 55 and older. Survey data showed 33 percent of respondents aged 21 to 44 placed sports bets, compared with 11 percent among respondents 55 and older.

“Youth are at significantly greater risk for developing gambling problems, and as gambling becomes increasingly normalized in media, sports, and online spaces, the risks grow,” said NCPG executive director Heather L. Maurer, MA, CAE. “Prevention and education are essential to ensure young people, families, educators, and policymakers understand the potential harms and are protected from early exposure.”

The survey outlined common forms of gambling among young participants. Forty percent reported playing the lottery or scratch off tickets. Thirty seven percent said they bet at home with friends or family. Twenty three percent placed a sports wager. Twenty one percent played casino style games online. Sixteen percent participated in fantasy sports. Three percent cited another form of gambling.

While early exposure remains widespread, many respondents acknowledged the risks. Seventy nine percent said gambling addiction ranks as serious or more serious than alcoholism or drug use. Thirty percent went further and said gambling addiction presents greater danger.

Concern extends to younger audiences. Sixty six percent said they worry about children being exposed to gambling concepts. One in four described that concern as very strong. Exposure includes online and video games that incorporate chance based features such as loot boxes, which often require purchases tied to uncertain rewards.

“What we’re seeing is that the majority of Americans recognize gambling addiction as a legitimate behavioral health issue,” Heather added. “The next step is ensuring our public health systems, policies, and prevention strategies reflect that understanding.”

Prediction platforms have attempted to position themselves differently from traditional sportsbooks by framing contracts as peer to peer exchanges rather than house backed wagers. These platforms often do not impose a vig and instead adjust contract pricing based on real time demand.

However, public perception remains mixed. When respondents were asked to classify prediction platforms as gambling, financial forecasting, or investing, 30 percent labeled them gambling. Twenty four percent selected financial forecasting. Eighteen percent viewed them as investing.

“If they involve financial stakes, uncertain outcomes, and repeated participation, we must consider the public health implications and ensure appropriate, consistent protections are in place,” said Cole Wogoman, NCPG director of government relations and league partnerships.

Despite growing awareness, healthcare screening appears limited. Only 15 percent of respondents said their primary care provider had asked about gambling behavior.

“This represents a significant missed opportunity for early identification and intervention,” Heather said. “Gambling-related harm is often invisible until it becomes severe. Screening in healthcare settings can help normalize conversations and connect people to support earlier.”

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