Recent gaming and tourism statistics from Las Vegas reflect a familiar pattern: lower air traffic alongside rising gaming revenues. In May, the Strip's gaming revenue increased by 13% year-over-year, reaching $807.8 million, as reported by the Nevada Gaming Control Board. This upturn was largely driven by baccarat, which saw a remarkable 59% surge, bringing in $174.3 million for the month. With the fiscal year nearing its end, Las Vegas remains approximately 2.2% ahead of last year's performance, while the state as a whole is 2.7% ahead.
According to the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority, total visitation for May was just shy of 3.5 million, up 2%, marking the first year-over-year increase of 2% or more since 2024. Hotel occupancy citywide rose by 2%, with average daily rates and revenue per available room on the Strip increasing by 6% and 10%, respectively.
Despite this positive revenue trend, air travel continues to be a concern, with the passenger count at Harry Reid International Airport dropping by 8% to 4.5 million in May compared to the previous year. Year-to-date, total traffic is down 6%, maintaining the same decrease from 2025, while international traffic has also seen declines.
Contrastingly, Reno has experienced a vibrant tourism and gaming surge this year. Reno's gaming revenue rose to $70.5 million in May, an 11% increase year-over-year, positioning it 6% ahead for the fiscal year—the best performance among Nevada's major markets.
Air traffic into Reno-Tahoe International Airport also saw positive growth, with a 4% year-on-year increase reported for spring, reaching the highest passenger figures in April and May for almost two decades. Airlines have introduced an additional 45,000 roundtrip seats to accommodate soaring demand.
For the fiscal year-to-date through April, conventions and group business in Reno grew by 14% compared to the previous year, with taxable room revenue in April hitting a new record of $52.6 million. In May, both visitor numbers and taxable room revenue climbed by 17% and 27%, respectively, when juxtaposed with last year's figures.
Reno's positive momentum follows its best ever quarter, with Q1 taxable room revenue reaching $106 million, marking a 3% increase year-over-year.
Mike Larragueta, president and CEO of Visit Reno Tahoe, emphasized the importance of tourism for the region's economy, noting, "These numbers reflect the strength of our meetings and events business, the appeal of Reno Tahoe as an easy-access destination and the direct impact visitors have on local hotels, restaurants, shops and small businesses."
Nationally, Las Vegas continues to attract attention, particularly concerning major mergers and acquisitions. Caesar's Entertainment announced a deal to be acquired by Fertitta Entertainment in May, shortly before MGM Resorts’ largest shareholder, Barry Diller, put forth a buyout proposal for the casino giant. Analysts predict these high-profile moves could stimulate further mergers in the industry.
Additionally, Las Vegas is a strong contender for NBA expansion, with discussions ongoing for several years. The potential establishment of a team in Las Vegas is viewed as inevitable, though the financial logistics and venue specifics remain uncertain, with a final vote anticipated this month.
In Reno, developments are also promising. Alex Meruelo's Grand Sierra Resort is in the midst of an ambitious $1 billion expansion project, which includes a modern 10,000-seat arena set to become the home for the University of Nevada men’s basketball team by 2028.
Meanwhile, Jacobs Entertainment recently completed the $400 million Phase One renovations of its J Resort, which includes significant interior upgrades and new facilities. The company has committed more than $1 billion in total investment for the Reno area.
Long-established operators like Monarch Casino, which manages Atlantis Casino Resort, are also enjoying success, with their stock rising 35% this year—second only to Penn Entertainment’s 48% increase.
