Gambling Dealers Salary 2025: $34,320 Median, States That Pay Best, and Declining Job Outlook
The median gambling dealer in the U.S. earned $34,320 in 2024, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. That works out to about $17 per hour; the mean wage is $42,550.
This job is not growing. Employment of 83,910 is projected to shrink by 0.6% from 2024 to 2034, even as about 14,100 openings arise each year from workers leaving the occupation.
How much Gambling Dealers earn
Half of all gambling dealers earned between $24,040 and $77,090 in 2024. The low end ($24,040) is the 10th percentile; the high end is the 90th.
Because tips make up a large share of total pay in many casinos, actual earnings can vary widely. BLS estimates include tips. Some dealers in high-volume casinos pull in well over $77,000.
Pay by state
Where you deal matters a lot. The top-paying state is Oregon, at $62,230 mean annual wage. Wisconsin is second at $61,670, followed by Arizona ($60,940), Washington ($58,700), and New York ($50,860).
On the low end, Montana dealers average $21,940, Georgia $21,430, and Louisiana just $17,760—barely above minimum wage in some areas.
How to become Gambling Dealer
Most dealers start with a high school diploma and attend a dealer school, which can last a few weeks to a few months. These programs teach game rules, chip handling, and customer service. Cost is typically $500 to $2,000.
After training, you need a license from the state gambling or gaming commission. That involves a background check. Many casinos also require an audition or 'tryout' before hiring.
Some employers provide on-the-job training for new dealers, especially in house-managed games like blackjack or poker.
Job outlook
The BLS projects a decline of 0.6% for gambling dealers from 2024 to 2034—a loss of a few hundred jobs total. That's worse than the average for all occupations, which grows 4%.
Still, about 14,100 openings per year are expected, mostly due to workers quitting or retiring. Competition for full-time spots at high-end casinos can be stiff.
Frequently asked questions
What is the median salary for a gambling dealer?
The national median salary is $34,320 per year (about $17 per hour). Mean pay is $42,550.
Do gambling dealers get tips?
Yes, tips are a major part of compensation. BLS salary figures include tips, so actual cash wages can be lower.
What states pay gambling dealers the most?
Oregon ($62,230), Wisconsin ($61,670), Arizona ($60,940), Washington ($58,700), and New York ($50,860) are the top-paying states.
Is being a gambling dealer a growing career?
No. Employment is projected to decline 0.6% from 2024 to 2034. However, about 14,100 job openings occur each year due to turnover.
How do I become a gambling dealer?
You typically need a high school diploma, attend a dealer training program (lasting weeks to months), and obtain a state gaming license. Some casinos offer on-the-job training.
Salary figures are U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates (OEWS / Employment Projections). For informational purposes only; not career or financial advice. See the full Gambling Dealers data.