Mega Millions Ticket Price to Increase in 2025, Promising Higher Jackpots and Better Odds

NEW YORK, CNN — The widely popular multi-state lottery game, Mega Millions, will see a significant increase in ticket prices starting in April 2025. Lottery officials announced on Monday that the cost of a ticket will rise from $2 to $5. This price hike is accompanied by promises of enhanced odds and larger prizes, aimed at creating a more lucrative gaming experience for participants across the 45 states, Washington, DC, and the US Virgin Islands where the lottery is available.

This marks only the second time in Mega Millions’ 22-year history that ticket prices have risen. The previous increase occurred in 2017, aligning the ticket price with that of Powerball tickets. With this adjustment, participants could choose six numbers from two separate pools, and matching all numbers, including the Mega Ball, would secure the jackpot.

Mega Millions board member Joshua Johnston highlighted the anticipated benefits of the upcoming changes. “We expect more billion-dollar jackpots than ever before, creating more billionaires and many more millionaires as the jackpots climb,” Johnston stated. He further emphasized the aim to continue supporting meaningful causes wherever Mega Millions is played.

The price alteration is fueled by the continued appetite for substantial jackpots, particularly those exceeding $700 million to $800 million, and climbing beyond the billion-dollar mark, as demonstrated in 2023’s record-breaking Florida win. Notably, this year alone has seen three of the lottery’s top 10 largest ever jackpots.

Details on the improved odds, which are currently 1 in 302.6 million, are expected to be disclosed by February, with a focus on reducing the number of balls used in the draw. Johnston stated that these will be comparatively better than Powerball’s odds, which stand at 1 in 292.2 million. Additionally, every ticket will now include a built-in multiplier, potentially enhancing non-jackpot wins by up to 10 times.

In California, where 40% of Mega Millions ticket sales presently support public schools, the increased ticket prices could further benefit educational funding. Carolyn Becker, spokesperson for the California Lottery, explained that the amount from each ticket contributing to schools will increase significantly.

However, any changes to Mega Millions in California require approval from the California Lottery Commission. Harjinder K. Shergill Chima, the director of the California Lottery, expressed confidence in the approval of these changes, describing them as beneficial both for players and the mission of enhancing public educational funding.

Fans and prospective players can look forward to further announcements detailing the game’s enhancements in the upcoming months, as Mega Millions strive to attract participants with promises of greater rewards and a better gaming experience.