Mega Millions Ticket Prices to Increase in 2025, Aiming for Bigger Prizes and Better Odds
Significant changes are set to take place in the Mega Millions lottery game starting in April 2025. Ticket prices will rise by 150%, from $2 to $5, with the goal of offering larger prizes and improved odds for players.
“Bigger, better, faster, more,” stated Mega Millions Consortium Lead Director Joshua Johnston. “We’re aiming for bigger jackpots, faster-growing jackpots, better odds, and more millionaires and billionaires.”
While specific details about the new odds will be revealed closer to spring, Johnston indicated they would be better than the current odds of 1 in 302.6 million. Additionally, the starting jackpot will be higher than the existing standard of $20 million. A built-in multiplier will also be included in every play.
“If you win a lower-tier prize—such as matching five, four, three, or two numbers—you will win more than the cost of your ticket, potentially upwards of $10 million,” Johnston explained.
This price adjustment marks only the second increase in Mega Millions history, with the first occurring in 2017.
Though the jump from $2 to $5 may come as a shock to some, many players are still inclined to participate. “I think it’s a good idea,” said Diane Bruno. “It gives us a better chance to win more money. It’s a gamble, so I’ll take the chance.”
“I’m still in,” added Jean Sandy. “I probably wouldn’t buy as many tickets, but I would spend the same amount. If I were going to spend $10, I’d just get two tickets instead of five like before.”
However, not everyone is convinced that the price hike will lead to increased winnings. “I think that’s a big rip-off because you don’t win enough,” Paul Keeton commented. “Even with claims of better chances, there’s still no guarantee you’ll win anything.”
“It’s about the same price as eggs,” remarked Jim Bob. “You’ve got a dozen eggs; you’ve got your Mega Millions.”
Since its launch in 2002, Mega Millions has produced six winners of billion-dollar jackpots. Since the last price change in 2017, over 1,200 players have become millionaires, averaging three millionaires per week.
