Survey Shows Broad NYC Skepticism of Casino Expansion

1,374 NYC residents were surveyed to reveal the true sentiments behind the city's new and approved Vegas-style casino resorts.

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2025 December 22 . 7:29 PM

1 min read

This image is clicked in the city. At the bottom, there is a road, on which there are cars. To the... — This image is clicked in the city. At the bottom, there is a road, on which there are cars. To the left and right, there are buildings and skyscrapers. At the top, there is a sky.

Survey Shows Broad NYC Skepticism of Casino Expansion

A new survey of 1,374 New York City residents shows strong scepticism about the city’s planned Vegas-style casino resorts. Conducted on December 17, 2025, the poll reveals widespread concerns over economic benefits, social impacts, and political ties to the projects.

The average respondent, aged 38.9, largely dismissed the idea of NYC becoming a gambling hub. Only 12% described the plans as 'the Vegas of the East' or 'something different and better'. Instead, 65% called the developments 'overhyped' or a 'cash grab', doubting their ability to rival Las Vegas.

Over half—55%—believed casinos were 'something NYC shouldn’t be doing at all'. Gambling addiction topped the list of worries at 61%, though 62% acknowledged job creation as the biggest potential upside. The survey also highlighted divisions across boroughs. Opposition peaked in the Bronx, where 71% rejected the plans, while Staten Island showed the most support at 40%. Another 60% felt the social costs of casinos would outweigh any economic gains. Political ties to the projects drew criticism too. A full 80% deemed it inappropriate for Donald Trump to profit from a casino deal linked to his former golf course. Meanwhile, 86% urged the Mets organisation to prioritise baseball over casino ventures.

The findings suggest New Yorkers remain unconvinced by the casino push. With concerns ranging from addiction risks to political conflicts, the projects face an uphill battle for public backing. Job growth remains the only widely recognised benefit in an otherwise sceptical climate.