A revamp is coming to the Mega Millions lottery with ticket prices rising from $2 to $5, effective April 2025.
Mark your calendars for Tuesday, April 8, when the upgraded Mega Millions makes its debut. The new ticket will be priced at $5, reflecting the increased starting jackpot of $50 million, up from the current $20 million.
The Mega Millions is gearing up for a significant transformation. This new phase will see higher ticket costs, better odds of winning, bigger starting jackpots, and a built-in multiplier available in all participating states. Although hints were dropped back in October 2024, complete details have now emerged, with the launch set for April 8.
“Beyond just the jackpots, our players told us they want larger non-jackpot prizes, and we’re delivering on that with this new version,” stated Joshua Johnston, head director of the Mega Millions Consortium, in a press announcement. “Look forward to non-jackpot prizes increasing anywhere from double to 10 times their previous amounts. This new Mega Millions experience promises exceptional value for players with every single drawing.”
Everything you need to know about these exciting Mega Millions changes:
When is the last draw under the current game? The current format will have its final draw on Friday, April 4. If the jackpot remains unwon, it carries over. Tickets purchased for drawings before the transition must be claimed by their respective deadlines, and winnings will be honored based on the existing game rules, not the new conditions.
When is the first draw in the revamped format? The inaugural draw of the new game format will take place at 11 p.m. ET on Tuesday, April 8.
What’s the cost of the new Mega Millions tickets? The overhaul brings the price of the tickets to $5 per play, marking just the second price increase since the tickets rose from $1 to $2 in 2017.
Introduction of ‘Multiplier’: Alongside the new ticket cost, the updated Mega Millions will feature a built-in ‘Multiplier’ to boost non-jackpot prizes by two to 10 times the amount, eliminating the need for additional costs previously associated with the “Megaplier”. The current “Just the Jackpot” feature will be discontinued.
Enhanced starting jackpot and non-jackpot prizes: With a starting jackpot of $50 million, up from $20 million, the non-jackpot prizes will also rise significantly, ranging from $10 to an impressive $10 million, compared to the $2 to $1 million range of today.
Improved chances of winning: Expect better odds in the overhauled game. The overall odds will improve to 1 in 23 from the current 1 in 24, while jackpot odds will slightly increase to 1 in 290,472,336, a change from the current 1 in 302,575,350.