UNLV Study Reveals Surprising Problem Gambling Rate in Colorado

Dr. Annelies De Vos · 2026-10-13

When you think about gambling in Colorado, what comes to mind? Maybe the thrill of a weekend trip to Black Hawk or the convenience of betting on your phone. But a new study from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) is raising some eyebrows about just how many people might be struggling with gambling problems. ### The Numbers That Caught Everyone's Attention The preliminary findings suggest that 7% of surveyed Colorado gamblers experience serious gambling problems. That's higher than many expected, and it's sparking conversations about consumer risks in the state's regulated betting market. The research, led by UNLV psychology professor Shane Kraus, involved 500 randomly selected Colorado residents, including both gamblers and non-gamblers. Early results indicated that 4% participated in gambling, while the reported problem gambling rate was two percentage points higher among women. Researchers are still digging into the reasons behind these numbers, but the initial data is enough to make anyone pause. ### Why This Matters for the Industry If you work in or around the gambling industry, these findings aren't just statistics—they're a wake-up call. Colorado has a regulated betting market, and with regulation comes a responsibility to protect consumers. A 7% problem gambling rate suggests that existing safeguards might not be enough. It's a reminder that behind every bet, there's a person who could be at risk. > "We need to understand why these rates are what they are," said one researcher involved in the study. "It's not just about numbers; it's about people's lives." ### What's Next? The study is preliminary, and the researchers are quick to point out that more work is needed to understand the full picture. But for now, the findings are a strong signal that Colorado—and other states with legal gambling—should take a closer look at their prevention and treatment programs. After all, a healthy gambling market is one where people can enjoy the entertainment without falling into harm. As the industry continues to evolve, studies like this one will be crucial in shaping policies that protect players while allowing the market to thrive. So keep an eye on Colorado—what happens there could set a precedent for the rest of the country.