Montana Crowned The Most Bingo-Mad US State Ahead Of World Bingo Day

As World Bingo Day approaches, recent data reveals an unexpected but clear frontrunner in America’s enduring love affair with bingo.

According to research conducted by Gambling.com, Montana is the most “bingo-mad” state in the nation, boasting an impressive 28.4 bingo halls per 100,000 residents—more than three times that of any other state.

With a modest population of approximately 1.14 million people, Montana houses a staggering 324 bingo halls. 

This gives the state the highest density of bingo halls per capita across the United States, solidifying its reputation as the country’s ultimate bingo hotspot.

The Rise of Bingo in Montana

Bingo has long been part of American social culture. It gained momentum after World War II and became a staple at community events, charity fundraisers, and casinos. 

In Montana, casinos have significantly supported this trend, as most of the state’s bingo halls are inside casino venues.

Cities such as Billings, Missoula, and Great Falls are particularly rich in bingo halls, forming localized clusters that make bingo a major recreational pastime. 

The economic model combining gaming with social entertainment has helped sustain the game’s popularity and expansion in the region.

Top 10 Most Bingo-Mad States Ranked

Top 5 Bingo States in America

While Montana dominates the rankings, a few other states also show strong enthusiasm for bingo. 

Vermont comes in second with 8.2 bingo halls per 100,000 residents, a far cry from Montana’s figure, but still significant. 

West Virginia lands third with 6.9 halls per 100,000, followed by North Dakota at 6.4 and New Mexico at 5.5.

These states share some commonalities, such as smaller populations and fewer large urban centers, which may contribute to the popularity of more traditional forms of entertainment like bingo. 

Bingo's communal and often intergenerational nature also appeals to these states’ demographics.

Nevada Surprisingly Low

Surprisingly, Nevada, often synonymous with gambling due to Las Vegas, ranks near the bottom of the list. 

The state hosts only 24 bingo halls across its 3.2 million residents, which results in just 0.7 halls per 100,000 people and places it 45th in the country.

While Las Vegas has a notable number of bingo venues, the rest of the state has few. While high-stakes gambling may be widespread in Nevada, traditional games like bingo haven’t experienced the same proliferation outside the Vegas strip.

No Bingo in Hawaii and Tennessee

Hawaii and Tennessee are at the bottom of the list with zero bingo halls recorded. 

In Tennessee, this decline can be attributed to waning attendance and the repurposing or closure of many bingo venues. 

Meanwhile, Hawaii’s strict gambling regulations have made it virtually impossible for bingo halls to take root in the Aloha State.

Big States, Small Numbers

Interestingly, some of the most populous states in the U.S., like New York and California, also rank surprisingly low. New York is 43rd, and California is 46th. 

Despite 390 bingo halls, their large populations mean both states fall below one hall per 100,000 residents.

Even Pennsylvania, which has the highest number of bingo halls in the U.S. at 702, ranks modestly at 5.4 halls per 100,000 residents due to its population of over 13 million.

Celebrating World Bingo Day

World Bingo Day, observed annually on June 27, celebrates one of the world’s most beloved games. 

Bingo has evolved significantly over the decades, now enjoyed both in traditional halls and online by millions. 

It has become more than a game; it's a cultural touchstone that connects generations and communities.

As Montana proudly takes the top spot in bingo enthusiasm, the data underscores how this seemingly modest game continues to capture the hearts of Americans nationwide, especially in places you might not expect.