Higher Living Costs, Less Discretionary $ for Gambling

05 November 2026

As living expenses climb, many households are seeing their discretionary budgets shrink. The latest data highlights the complex interplay between cost of living pressures and gambling habits, revealing that while most people maintained their gambling levels, those who are financially vulnerable may turn to it in times of stress.

A New Gambling Commission Report

In its 2024 report on the cost of living's impact on gambling, the UK regulator found that while the majority (62%) said their gambling stayed the same, a significant minority (22%) reported increasing their behaviour. Those who gamble online, or who show signs of problem gambling, were more likely to express concerns about finances.

The Commission found that when it came to household spending, rent and mortgage payments were seen as highest priority. Groceries and other essential items were also a major focus, though were seen as more flexible thanks to deals and offers. Lower-income households have been making bigger lifestyle changes, such as cutting back on heating, switching to pay-as-you-go meters, reducing car use, and switching to public transport or car shares.

When economic shocks such as car repairs or vet bills caused a financial squeeze, a minority (8%) reported turning to gambling to shore up finances. A slim minority (3.6%) explicitly said they used it to supplement income, pay household bills, or offset loans and credit card debt. Only around 1% of monthly gamblers had borrowed money recently to gamble. But it's a worrying sign for vulnerable individuals.

But the report noted that most gamblers (57%) were still living comfortably, even if they had to adjust spending. 21% said they were managing, and only 1% were seriously struggling.

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Gambling Contributes to Broader Financial Struggles

Generating $1.53 billion a year in gambling losses, Australian data from last year highlights the significant financial impact it can have, showing that low-income households are particularly vulnerable. Recent analysis showed gambling costs rising faster than other household expenses, and leaving many households with difficult choices.

That aligns with the Commission's UK report, which suggested that rising living costs did spur gambling in a small minority: only 8% said they started gambling to make money.

Expert Advice for Balancing Responsibilities

Those worried about gambling habit impacting household finances should seek support, say advisors. GamCare, the UK's leading gambling support charity, highlights tracking expenditure, budgeting, and setting spending limits on gambling, especially when people face hard choices about spending their money. Budgeting tools are available to help people assess what they spend and waste.

The South African data also highlighted gambling's impact, showing 53% of the population participated, with 42% saying they gambled to help cover expenses or debts. Exposure to gambling has risks, they noted. But when it comes to maintaining essentials like food, shelter, and clothing, spending on gambling should come after these needs are met.