Big Book of Blackjack
Guess Where Casino Dealers Thrive the Most
source: Unsplash
source: Unsplash
Being a casino dealer comes with its share of highs and lows. It’s not just about standing at a table and dealing cards—dealers are part of a fast-moving environment where every hand and
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source: Unsplash spin matters.
Over time, the job has gone beyond the floors of traditional casinos. With more players joining from their devices, the role of online live dealers has grown fast, turning into a real career path for many. But not all online platforms treat dealers or players the same way.
That’s why, whether you’re thinking of playing or getting into the business, it really helps to read up on trusted reviews and real industry insights about the best online gambling sites available today. This way, you can avoid the bad apples and focus on places that actually do things right.
Where Casino Dealers Make the Most Money
Some states offer better pay, more job openings, and fewer tax headaches—making them strong picks for anyone working the tables.
1. Washington: Big Tips, No State Income Tax
Jackpot Score: 4.88 / 5 🎯🎲
Washington is easily one of the top states for dealers. The pay here is solid—just over $40,000 a year on average—and the tips are even better. With nearly 18% of players tipping generously dealers here can actually keep more of what they earn.
The state has a strong presence of tribal casinos too, which means more job options for dealers looking for steady work. It’s also one of those places where the work-life balance is better than most.
2. California: Plenty of Jobs, but the Bills Add Up
Jackpot Score: 4.63 / 5 🎯🎲
California has the highest number of casinos of any state—over 80—which means there’s no shortage of jobs for dealers. You’ll find large venues and constant demand. Average pay sits a little above $40,000 a year.
But here’s the catch: the cost of living in California is steep. Everything from rent to groceries adds up quickly, and when you factor in a 6% income tax, that paycheck starts to shrink. Still, for someone with experience or someone just starting out, the state’s booming casino industry makes it worth considering.
3. Nevada: The Original Casino Capital
Jackpot Score: 4.54 / 5 🎯🎲
Nevada, especially Las Vegas, is often the first place that comes to mind when thinking about casino jobs—and for good reason. The state has more than 360 casinos, meaning there’s always work for someone who knows their way around a table.
Base pay isn’t the highest, coming in at around $25,000 a year, but dealers often make up the difference with tips. Plus, Nevada doesn’t have a state income tax, which helps quite a bit. What really stands out, though, is the sheer volume of jobs and the constant stream of customers.
Where Dealers Have a Harder Time
Not every state is friendly to casino dealers—some have fewer jobs, lower pay, and higher living costs that make it tough to get ahead.
1. Virginia: Good Tips, but Everything Else Hurts
Jackpot Score: 1.11 / 5 ❌🎲
Virginia might not be the best place to set up as a casino dealer. While the tipping rate is decent, close to 19%, it doesn’t make up for everything else. The state has only a few casinos and the cost of living is pretty high.
Combine that with a 5.75% income tax, and you’re looking at tighter margins. The average salary ends up around $30,000, which doesn’t stretch as far as you’d hope.
2. Alabama: Not Much Going On
Jackpot Score: 1.14 / 5 ❌🎲
Alabama is another tough spot. There are only a handful of casinos, and the job market for dealers is pretty limited. The pay is also on the lower end, averaging under $18,000 a year after tips.
With a 5% income tax and very few places hiring, most dealers don’t stick around. If you’re thinking about relocating for this job, Alabama probably isn’t high on the list.
3. North Carolina: Few Jobs, Lower Pay
Jackpot Score: 1.15 / 5 ❌🎲
North Carolina faces a similar story. It only has a few casinos, which limits how many dealer jobs are out there. Pay is modest, sitting just around $18,000 a year, even though tips are fairly common.
The problem is that the average pay falls short of what it costs to live comfortably in the state. For someone new to the profession or trying to move up, there just isn’t enough opportunity here to grow.
Final Thoughts
Casino dealing can be a steady and rewarding career if you know where to look. States like Washington, California, and Nevada provide better pay, more job options, and often less financial stress.
With the role of live dealers continuing to grow in both physical and digital spaces, it’s smart to look beyond the surface. A little research upfront can go a long way.