Gambling is a popular pastime in Canada, where over 20 million players of all ages and backgrounds actively play in both brick-and-mortar and online settings. And while the rules of the game remain the same, the way different age groups engage with gambling has changed a lot.
There are many factors thatinfluence these shifts, from spending habits to new technologies, with each showing how and where Canadians place their bets.
What recent studies reveal about gambling trends
The latest data on gambling habits back the main theory of how Canadians approach betting. About 40% of individuals aged 18-35 say they don’t gamble at all, taking a more cautious approach.
Meanwhile, only 32% of the 35-55 population completely avoids gambling, indicating more engagement in the golden years. However, the most dedicated gamblers still come from the 55+ group, where nearly 78% have gambled in the past year.
This breakdown also showed that younger players tend to be more selective with how and where they play - more than 94% of the Gen Z population are now choosing online casinos over “outdated” brick-and-mortar ones.
The rise of online platforms is no surprise
One of the biggest shifts in the gambling sector is the growing dominance of online poker, especially among younger players. This is driven by the convenience of mobile devices and instant access to games. No commutes, no waiting for a seat - just instant access to cash games and VIP tournaments, anytime, anywhere.
But, online action means much bigger and stronger competition, demanding players to refine and adapt their strategies for every single opponent.
However, according to CardPlayer.com, almost every poker site in Canada now includes casino games, so players no longer have to choose between poker rooms and slots and other table games - everything is available in one place.
How gambling habits are evolving
While online platforms continue to grow (there are over 19 million online gamblers in Canada), old-school casinos and poker rooms are still making billions - many players enjoy the experience of live action, reading their opponents face-to-face, and soaking in the energy of a real game. This is especially true for the older generation of players, who grew up playing in traditional settings.
The amount of money people spend on gambling also differs by age. Around 45% of those aged 35-54 spend between $1 and $20 per month on gambling. However, high rollers remain a minority across all age groups, with only 3% of Canadians spending more than $100 monthly on betting activities.
Younger players are also more likely to engage in skill-based gambling like poker and sports betting, where knowledge and decision-making play a role. Older gamblers, on the other hand, tend to favour luck-based games like slot machines and lottery tickets.
The future of poker and gambling in Canada
With each generation shaping the game in different ways, online casinos will likely continue evolving alongside the broader gambling industry.
As younger players push for innovation, expect to see even more tech-driven advancements, from AI-powered training tools to fully immersive live dealer experiences.
At the same time, the core elements that make poker so compelling - strategy, competition, and the thrill of the win - will always remain the same.
Whether it’s played in a high-stakes casino, at home with friends, or on a mobile device, poker will continue to attract players from every age group, proving that some games never go out of style.
DISCLAIMER: The information presented on this page/site is intended for entertainment purposes only. Please be aware that gambling entails inherent risks, and it's crucial to acknowledge this when utilizing online gambling platforms.
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