DEADWOOD, S.D. – Deadwood’s gaming industry continued its strong 2026 performance in September, posting another month of growth and marking a third consecutive quarter of gains.
According to the South Dakota Commission on Gaming, the total gaming handle in Deadwood increased 10.6% in September compared to the same month last year. Through the first nine months of 2026, overall gaming activity is up about 9%.
Deadwood Gaming Association Executive Director George Milos says the city’s mix of gaming, special events, history and outdoor recreation continues to attract visitors.
Slot machines led the growth with an 11% increase, while table games were up nearly 9%. Sports wagering, however, continued a downward trend, falling more than 30% from a year ago and marking its sixth consecutive month of decline.
During September, casinos distributed more than $2.1 million in promotional free-play incentives and generated just over $16 million in taxable gross gaming revenue.
Gaming taxes collected during the month totaled nearly $1.45 million, with funding distributed to the state’s general fund, South Dakota Tourism and Lawrence County.
Officials say the latest numbers reflect continued strength in Deadwood’s gaming and tourism economy as 2026 heads into its final quarter.
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