Behind the flashing lights and slot machines lies a different, harsher, reality for many of Reno‘s casino employees, one defined by financial strain, difficult working conditions and longer and longer commutes.
Despite their vital role in keeping this money making industry thriving, current casino workers have their own stories not of big gains but of low wages, long hours, and sacrifices needed to make ends meet.
As Reno’s cost of living continues to climb, long gone are the days when a hard worker could come to Reno, find a job at a downtown casino and live comfortably nearby, getting their own piece of the American Dream,
“I wouldn’t call it a livable wage. A lot of workers are barely making ends meet,” Haley, a rewards associate for a local casino explained. “Casinos bring in so much money, but a lot of us are still living paycheck to paycheck.”
She shares an apartment with a roommate to manage expenses, a situation echoed by other employees. Jesse, a former fine dining server, host, and busser described relying heavily on tips to cover basic needs. He said tips make up about 80%, if not more, of his overall income.
Others in customer facing roles, like bartending voiced similar concerns. “If I make enough in tips, I’m pretty steady but as a student, I’m lucky that scholarships cover my tuition. Otherwise I probably wouldn’t be a student right now,” one bartender said of trying to balance work at a casino while trying to get a college degree.
Another downtown casino employee, a single mother, said she needs other jobs or side gigs to keep her family afloat.
“In 2024, I made less money than ever, just absolutely terrible,” she said.
Casinos light up Virginia Street behind Reno’s arch.
Downtown casino employees say the emotional and physical toll of their jobs can be draining, from managing unruly guests, to working all hours during holidays and constantly shifting schedules.
Jesse noted that while some departments offer incentives like gift cards and holiday giveaways, these perks often feel insufficient when compared to the overall demand of the job.
“We've got a $30 Walmart gift card, one for Thanksgiving and one for Christmas, but no extra pay for working the holidays,” one bartender at a high end restaurant in a downtown casino said.
“Higher ups get more perks, like free dining, vouchers, and bigger bonuses while we’re just trying to scrape by,” another employee said.
All those interviewed for this report said a livable wage shouldn’t be too much to ask for, with all they provide.
Reporting by Genevy Machuca shared with Our Town Reno