Arizona’s Division of Problem Gambling has published a new statewide survey that found 18% of adults reported at least one indicator of gambling-related harm, while about 4% likely met diagnostic criteria for a gambling disorder.
According to the division’s report, the FY2025-26 Arizona Adult Gambling Survey was prepared for the Arizona Department of Gaming by Problem Gambling Solutions, Inc. with the National Opinion Research Center at the University of Chicago. It polled 1,047 adults in December 2025, used a weighted sample designed to represent Arizona’s adult population, and combined NORC’s probability-based AmeriSpeak panel with supplemental non-probability participants.
The survey is a three-year follow-up to the FY2022-23 study and was designed to track changes in gambling participation, gambling-related harm, public awareness of services, attitudes toward gambling and emerging trends. The report defines problem gambling as patterns of gambling that compromise, disrupt or damage personal, family or workplace activities and relationships.
Gambling was widespread. About 84% of Arizona adults said they had gambled in the past 12 months, and the share gambling weekly or more rose to 30% from 25% in FY2022-23.
Risk was not spread evenly. Elevated harm was concentrated among younger adults, people who gambled more frequently, sports bettors and those who used multiple forms of gambling, especially online and app-based play. The report also said elevated risk was strongly associated with online gambling, sports wagering, prediction markets and eSports betting.
Using the Problem Gambling Severity Index, a validated screening tool, the survey put 18% of adults in the moderate- to high-risk range. Scores of 4 to 7 are classed as moderate-risk, while scores of 8 or more indicate high-risk gambling with negative consequences and a possible loss of control.
The report also found strong relationships between gambling-related harm and broader behavioural health concerns, including mental health conditions, substance use, gaming and excessive internet use. Awareness of Arizona’s 1-800-NEXT-STEP helpline and support resources had risen 40% since FY2022-23, and the report said gambling-related harm remains an important public health concern in Arizona.
