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Massive $965 Million Mega Millions Jackpot Sparks Ticket Sales

11/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Mega Millions jackpot has reached $965 million, eighth-largest in the game's history.
This Friday's drawing will be the 40th consecutive without a jackpot.
Odds are 1 in 290.5 million for the jackpot and 1 in 23 for any prize.
Ticket price rose to $5 in April, adding multipliers for non-jackpot prizes.
Lottery revenues support education; Georgia has contributed over $29.8 billion since inception, and sales rise across 45 states.

History

Historical Context

Mega Millions, launched as The Big Game in 1996, expanded significantly in 2010 when 23 Powerball states began selling its tickets, increasing participation to 35 jurisdictions. By 2021, Georgia alone contributed over $29.8 billion to education from lottery revenues. The current $965 million jackpot reflects the game's popularity, raising ongoing discussions about the sustainability and social implications of lottery funding for public services.

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Story summary

The Mega Millions jackpot has reached $965 million, eighth-largest in the game's history.
This Friday's drawing will be the 40th consecutive without a jackpot.
Odds are 1 in 290.5 million for the jackpot and 1 in 23 for any prize.
Ticket price rose to $5 in April, adding multipliers for non-jackpot prizes.
Lottery revenues support education; Georgia has contributed over $29.8 billion since inception, and sales rise across 45 states.

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