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ATM machine sign in front of a casino

How Profitable Is Casino ATM Placement?

September 22, 2025 | by Mirela Gunawan

Casinos run on cash. Whether it’s slot machines, blackjack tables, or tipping dealers, cash access keeps players engaged and revenue flowing. That’s why casino ATM placement is one of the most profitable moves for both casino operators and independent ATM owners. With hundreds (or even thousands) of cash transactions happening daily, installing ATMs in casinos generate enormous profits while benefiting both the establishment and its patrons.

Why are casino ATMs such effective profit-makers, and how do they operate exactly? Let us investigate.

Why Do Casinos Need ATMs?

Unlike many businesses that rely on cards, casinos are still cash-only environments for gaming. Players need bills in hand to buy chips, feed slot machines, or cash out winnings. That means casino ATM machines must be operating at all times. If a guest runs low on funds and can’t find an ATM, they may leave the property and take their spending power with them.

While larger casinos install sophisticated machines that handle bill breaking and winning redemption, some casinos use basic ATMs that disburse cash. ATMs in casinos, regardless of size, guarantee that patrons remain present and involved.

Additionally, ATMs improve customer satisfaction, minimize disruptions, and boost total spending for casino owners. Every transaction generates surcharge revenue for ATM operators, and casinos produce some of the highest volumes worldwide.

How Profitable Is ATM Placement in a Casino?

Tl;dr : extremely profitable. Depending on the size and traffic of the casino, an average casino ATM can handle hundreds to thousands of transactions each month.

For example:

  • Average surcharge fee: $3–$5 per withdrawal
  • Transactions per month: 1,000+ in mid-size casinos
  • Potential revenue: $3,000–$5,000+ per ATM, per month

In order to avoid long lines and maximize transaction volume, many operators decide to place multiple ATMs throughout the gaming floor. The potential for profit is even greater with this configuration.

Where Should ATMs Be Placed Inside a Casino?

Location strategy makes or breaks your results. The best ATM placement in casinos focuses on:

  • Entrances and exits, so players can grab cash right away.
  • Slot machine areas, where quick and impulsive withdrawals are common.
  • Bars, restaurants, and entertainment areas, where guests want spending money on hand.
  • Redemption counters, so players can reload their cash after winnings.

Multiple machines across the casino floor ensure constant accessibility and minimize wait times, which directly boosts transaction volume.

What Are the Costs of Operating Casino ATMs?

Even though ATM ownership in a casino can be very profitable, you should take these expenses into account:

  • Leasing or buying an ATM: $2,000–$8,000
  • Cash loading: due to volume, each machine frequently has a float of $10,000+.
  • Processing and connectivity: $20–$50/month; wireless is preferred by most owners due to dependability.
  • Cleaning and maintenance: regular upkeep, decal replacements, service calls.
  • Insurance: the inexpensive liability protection that many casinos need.
  • Revenue share: In return for hosting, casinos may keep a portion of surcharge fees.

The majority of casino ATMs pay for themselves in three to six months, even with these costs.

What Regulations Apply to Casino ATM Machines?

Both casinos and the ATMs located within them are subject to strict regulations. Depending on your state or area, you might have to abide by:

  • Licensing requirements, varies by state.
  • Compliance with Anti-Money Laundering (AML).
  • Security requirements (tamper detection, encryption, fraud prevention).
  • Partnership agreements with the casino owners.

It’s important to work with a trusted ATM provider who understands compliance in gaming environments.

Should You Own or Partner for Casino ATMs?

Casino operators and ATM entrepreneurs both have options:

  • Full Ownership: Buy your own ATM, stock it with vault cash, and keep 100% of surcharge revenue.
  • Free Placement: NationalLink installs, manages, and stocks the machine at no cost, and you earn a revenue share.
  • Partnership Model: NationalLink supplies the machine, you supply the vault cash, and profits are split (often 50/50).

Choosing the right model depends on your budget and goals, but in every case, ATMs in casino provide strong ROI.

Is Casino ATM Placement a Good Business Opportunity?

Absolutely. If you’re looking for high-volume, high-profit ATM locations, casinos are one of the best industries to target. With:

  • Constant demand for cash
  • High transaction fees
  • Large customer base
  • Scalable opportunities with multiple machines

casino ATM ownership offers one of the strongest returns in the ATM business.

How Do I Get a Casino ATM Placement?

The best way to start is by:

  1. Work with a reputable ATM supplier for processing and equipment.
  2. Presenting a transparent revenue-sharing plan to casino owners.
  3. Selecting locations with lots of traffic will increase visibility.
  4. Ensuring compliance with all local regulations.

When operated properly, casino ATMs are convenient and produce consistent passive income that grows rapidly.


Contact NationalLink today to explore casino ATM placement options that boost profits, keep players on-site, and deliver nonstop cash access.

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