• Mega Millions will increase ticket prices from $2 to $5 starting April 4, 2025.
• The minimum jackpot will jump from $20 million to $50 million, aiming for an average prize of $800 million.
• The odds of winning any prize will now be 1 in 23, improved from 1 in 24.

The popular lottery game Mega Millions is set to roll out significant changes next month, which includes an increase in ticket prices, improvements in prize odds, and a boost to jackpot amounts. Beginning on April 4, 2025, players will need to invest $5 per ticket instead of the current $2 to participate in the game.

Following the final drawing of the current jackpot on April 4, the first drawing under the new structure will occur on April 8. These changes aim to enhance the gaming experience and increase the average jackpot size significantly, from approximately $450 million to over $800 million, according to a statement from Mega Millions.

Among the notable modifications, the minimum jackpot will now reset to $50 million, up from $20 million, resulting in pots that are expected to grow faster and reach higher amounts more frequently. The lottery is also changing the odds of winning; while the likelihood of winning any prize will improve from 1 in 24 to 1 in 23, the odds of winning the jackpot will shift from 1 in 302,575,350 to 1 in 290,472,336. This adjustment comes from the removal of one gold Mega Ball from the drawing.

The game will also introduce a new structure for non-jackpot prizes, significantly increasing their value. Players can expect winnings to be multiplied from a minimum of $2 to potential payouts ranging from $10 to $10 million. For example, players previously earning $500 will now receive amounts between $1,000 and $5,000 based on the new prize setup according to Forbes.

The changes will also phase out the existing $1 “Megaplier” add-on feature while introducing a built-in multiplier for prize enhancements.

With tickets now being sold in 45 states, Washington D.C., and the U.S. Virgin Islands, Mega Millions continues to attract millions of players, with hopes of one day striking it rich. The game remains to be a significant source of excitement across the nation, promising larger jackpots and better odds than ever before, enhancing the overall anticipation around each drawing per ABC News.