A recent study conducted by CSDB.gg analyzed Powerball data from 1992 to 2025 to identify U.S. states with the highest chances of winning Powerball prizes. Unfortunately, the tri-state area, comprising New Jersey, New York, and Connecticut, ranked disappointingly low on the list. Specifically, New Jersey and New York placed 31st and 32nd, respectively, with only 2.45 and 2.14 wins per 100,000 residents. This underwhelming performance indicates that residents in this region may not possess favorable odds in the lottery game that allows various ways to win, ranging from matching just the Powerball number to securing the jackpot by matching all six numbers.
In contrast, Rhode Island emerged as the most promising state for Powerball enthusiasts, boasting an impressive 38.39 wins per 100,000 residents. Over the past 33 years, Little Rhody has recorded a total of 427 Powerball wins, making it the top contender. West Virginia followed closely in second place, with 27.29 wins per 100,000 residents, accumulating over 483 total wins. Delaware ranked third with more than 285 wins, while New Hampshire was noted for its estimated 21.15 wins per 100,000 residents. Indiana rounded out the top five, achieving 18.41 wins per 100,000 residents.
Conversely, there are states where winning the lottery seems like a distant dream, as demonstrated by a list of the five unluckiest states for Powerball participants. California, despite having a recorded total of 357 wins, has a slim 0.91 wins per 100,000 residents, reflecting poor odds for the average player. Texas displayed a similar pattern, with 275 total wins and only 0.88 wins per 100,000 residents. Wyoming and Washington were slightly better, with odds of 0.85 and 0.78 wins per 100,000 residents, respectively.
The most challenging state for lottery enthusiasts is Mississippi. Having joined the Powerball only in early 2020, it has recorded a mere two wins over the past five years, resulting in an estimated 0.07 wins per 100,000 locals. This stark statistic illustrates how significantly each state’s participation history affects overall winning chances and underscores the unfortunate realities for residents hoping to strike it rich.
Commenting on the findings, Corey Sims, Head of Content at CSDB.gg, highlighted disparities in Powerball wins across regions, pointing out that smaller northeastern states tend to outperform larger states when it comes to wins per capita. Sims emphasized that the results do not indicate any rigging in the lottery system; rather, they reflect variations in ticket-buying habits and the historical context of each state’s participation in the game.
While lottery dreams remain a common aspiration for many, this study offers a sobering perspective on where residents may have better odds of winning. For those who find themselves in less favorable states, the reality may be less about luck and more about the statistical probability of winning. Ultimately, understanding these dynamics can guide potential players in making informed decisions about where to purchase their Powerball tickets.
