Live! Casino Virginia in Petersburg has welcomed half a million guests since January 2026, reporting nearly $91 million in adjusted gross revenue and contributing $5.5 million in local tax revenue while operating from a temporary facility
Live! Casino Virginia in Petersburg has reported a significant early impact on the local gaming market, drawing approximately 500,000 visitors since its opening on January 22, 2026. The property, currently operating from a 75,000-square-foot temporary structure, has generated nearly $91 million in adjusted gross revenue during its first seven months, according to figures from the Virginia Lottery. The casino’s tax contributions to the city of Petersburg have reached almost $5.5 million, with the highest monthly payments recorded in February and March.
Visitor Reach and Market Demand
According to Renee Mutchnik, Vice President of Communications for Live! Casino Virginia and Cordish Gaming, the casino’s guest base extends well beyond the typical two-hour drive radius used by the industry to measure market reach. The Petersburg location draws visitors from Northern Virginia, the Washington, D.C. suburbs, Raleigh, Tidewater, Charlottesville, and Lynchburg, and has recorded guests from all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and Canada. Mutchnik attributes this broad appeal to strong demand for high-quality gaming and entertainment options in Central Virginia.
Temporary Operations and Workforce Expansion
The current facility, often referred to as “the tent,” is a temporary solution while construction continues on the planned $1.4 billion permanent casino-hotel-entertainment resort, which is scheduled to open in late 2027. Live! Casino Virginia currently employs around 500 staff members, about one-third of the workforce expected for the completed resort. To meet operational needs, Cordish Gaming has partnered with Richard Bland College to create a Dealers Institute, which has already trained over 100 table-game dealers. Recruitment and training efforts are ongoing as the property prepares for future expansion.
Revenue, Tax Impact, and Player Activity
Since launch, Live! Casino Virginia has maintained steady guest traffic despite fluctuations in gas prices and broader economic conditions. The casino’s adjusted gross revenue has approached $91 million, with Petersburg’s monthly tax share averaging in the mid-$800,000 range after initial peaks. Over the first seven months, the property has paid out more than $28 million in cash jackpots, including a single payout of $65,000. The casino’s focus on service, promotions, and a welcoming environment has been central to its early performance. Notably, the venue remained open and operational during a major snowstorm just days after opening, with thousands of guests visiting despite challenging weather. The growth of Virginia’s casino market has also been highlighted by major jackpot wins at other properties, such as a recent seven-figure table game payout at Caesars Virginia, as reported in coverage of record-setting jackpots in the state.
Adjusted gross revenue (AGR) is a key metric for evaluating casino performance in regulated U.S. markets. AGR represents the total amount wagered by players minus payouts, promotional credits, and certain allowable deductions. This figure is used by state regulators to determine tax obligations and assess market health. In Virginia, casino tax revenue is allocated to local governments and state funds, supporting public services and infrastructure. Understanding AGR helps clarify how casino activity translates into tangible financial benefits for host communities and the state budget.
