An economic impact analysis report released in November found the total annual impact of California’s cardroom industry to be $5.6 billion dollars, providing over 32,000 in total local jobs. Commissioned by the California Gaming Association, John Dunham & Associates conducted an in-depth review of the direct, indirect and induced economic impact cardrooms have on California communities. The analysis reviewed jobs, wages, linked industries, state and local tax dollars, and total economic output.
In total, the California cardroom industry directly and indirectly creates about 32,425 living wage jobs with wages and benefits estimated at $1.64 billion. Tax revenue generated by California cardrooms totals roughly $500 million, with $398.8 in state taxes and $100.9 million in local jurisdiction gaming taxes.
“The data is clear—the cardroom industry is a vital part of local economies, creating irreplaceable jobs, needed state and local taxes to support local services, and, all totaled, a significant economic impact on California’s economy,” said John Dunham, President of John Dunham and Associates.
“The economic impact report illustrates what we know and experience every day—local cardrooms are essential to California communities across the state,” said Kyle Kirkland, president of the California Gaming Association. “California cardrooms provide tens of thousands of steady, living wage jobs, providing an opportunity for working Californians to support themselves and their families.
Furthermore, cardrooms across California spark additional economic activity, revenue and jobs by their presence and provide valuable tax revenue to host communities. In fact, some cardrooms generate over 50 percent of a city’s general fund revenue, providing the majority of funds for emergency services, fire departments, parks and other critical city programs and services.”
The economic impact analysis defines the cardroom industry as cardrooms and related third parties, associated restaurants, security services, gift shops, bars and hotels. Its findings show that the cardroom industry touches all corners of California, directly employing almost 18,000 people, providing $728.8 million in wages and benefits and generating $3.0 billion in economic activity in the state.
