Which States Play Mega Millions?

Published on January 23, 2025 | 3 min read

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Mega Millions is one of the most popular lottery games in the United States, offering players the thrilling possibility of winning multimillion-dollar jackpots. This trans-state lottery game has captured the imagination of Americans across a significant portion of the country. But have you ever wondered which states participate in the Mega Millions lottery? In this article, we will delve into the details of where you can play Mega Millions, the history of the game, and a few tips that might boost your chances of hitting the jackpot.


The History of Mega Millions

Mega Millions was launched in 1996 under the name "The Big Game." Initially, only six states participated: Georgia, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, and Virginia. As the allure of jackpots grew, more states wanted to join, and in May 2002, the game was rebranded as Mega Millions. Since then, it has expanded significantly, bringing more players into the fold and creating some of the biggest lottery payouts in U.S. history.


Participating States

Mega Millions is available in 45 states, plus the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Here’s a complete list of states where you can purchase a Mega Millions ticket:

  1. Alabama
  2. Arizona
  3. Arkansas
  4. California
  5. Colorado
  6. Connecticut
  7. Delaware
  8. Florida
  9. Georgia
  10. Idaho
  11. Illinois
  12. Indiana
  13. Iowa
  14. Kansas
  15. Kentucky
  16. Louisiana
  17. Maine
  18. Maryland
  19. Massachusetts
  20. Michigan
  21. Minnesota
  22. Mississippi
  23. Missouri
  24. Montana
  25. Nebraska
  26. Nevada
  27. New Hampshire
  28. New Jersey
  29. New Mexico
  30. New York
  31. North Carolina
  32. North Dakota
  33. Ohio
  34. Oklahoma
  35. Oregon
  36. Pennsylvania
  37. Rhode Island
  38. South Carolina
  39. South Dakota
  40. Tennessee
  41. Texas
  42. Utah
  43. Vermont
  44. Virginia
  45. Washington
  46. West Virginia
  47. Wisconsin
  48. Wyoming


Please note that some states like Alaska, Hawaii, and Utah do not participate in Mega Millions.


How to Play Mega Millions

Playing Mega Millions is straightforward. Each ticket costs $2, and you can add a Megaplier for an extra $1 to increase non-jackpot prizes. Players select five numbers from 1 to 70 and a Mega Ball number from 1 to 25. Jackpots are won by matching all six numbers, but there are various other prize tiers for matching a combination of numbers.


Tips for Playing Mega Millions

While there’s no surefire way to guarantee a win, here are some tips to consider:

  • Diversify Your Numbers: Avoid playing consecutive numbers or numbers that are in the same group.
  • Consider the Odds: Know your odds and play responsibly; lottery games are a form of entertainment.
  • Join a Lottery Pool: Increase your chances by pooling money with friends and purchasing multiple tickets.


Final Thoughts

Mega Millions continues to be a source of excitement and dreams for millions across the nation, providing an opportunity to dream big. Whether you're a regular player or just indulging for the occasional big draw, now you know which states participate in Mega Millions and a little more about the game itself. Play responsibly and may luck be on your side!


Use this comprehensive guide to navigate your Mega Millions journey and stay informed about the states where you can play. Good luck!

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