Germany: Portrait of an online gambling audience in 2025

 The gambling market in Germany continues to grow, and by 2029 experts predict an increase in the number of gamblers to 12.2 million people. This growth reflects the popularity of both online platforms and traditional gambling establishments. Let's look at who makes up this audience, what their habits are, and what this means for the future of the industry.

Who is playing: age and gender

In 2023, 36.5% of Germans participated in gambling at least once, whether online or offline. Men are more likely than women to sit down to play: 40.4% versus 32.7%. The most active age group is people from 36 to 45 years old, where 34% of the players are concentrated. However, the proportion of participants increases with age: among those aged 56 to 70, 41.2% have already tried their hand at gambling.

Men show great regularity: 48% play weekly, while among women this figure is lower — 37%. At the same time, 46% of men choose high-risk games (daily or weekly), while only 35% of women do. Women are more likely to limit themselves to one type of gambling (72%), while 14% of men experiment with three or more types.

Preferences: online vs. offline

The choice of format also depends on gender. Men gravitate towards digital platforms: 36% prefer online casinos, sports betting or virtual machines. Women are more likely to choose traditional establishments — 44% prefer land-based casinos. At the same time, 10.7% of the players have completely switched online, without entering physical gambling halls.

Gambling addiction: Alarming numbers

Gambling is not only entertainment, but also a risk. In Germany, 1.3 million people (8% of the total audience) have signs of addiction, and another 3.3 million are at risk with early symptoms. The financial losses of dependent gamblers are impressive: if an ordinary gambler spends an average of €93 per month, then risky gamblers spend €206, and dependent gamblers spend from €603 to €769. This is 65-85% more than those who play moderately.

What awaits the market?

Men remain the main drivers of the market: they play more often, choose an online format and are willing to take risks. Women are more conservative, preferring offline and less variety of games. The main age group, 36-45 years old, sets the tone, but the older generation is also actively involved.

The growth of the audience to 12.2 million by 2029 promises a surge in demand for innovation. VR/AR technologies, artificial intelligence, mobile applications, and the integration of cryptocurrencies may become key trends. However, the increase in the number of addicted gamblers — 1.3 million already — is an alarming signal. This could lead to stricter laws, increased advertising controls, and new consumer protection measures.

Result

Online gambling in Germany is growing, based on the activity of men and the average age. But with the expansion of the market, the authorities are likely to tighten regulation to curb the wave of gambling addiction. The industry will have to balance innovation and social responsibility.