Mega Millions Jackpot Surpasses $500 Million for the First Time in 2025

Mega Millions fever is heating up again as the jackpot for Friday, October 3, 2025, officially topped $500 million, offering a cash option of $240.1 million. This milestone marks the first time the Mega Millions prize has crossed the half-billion mark in 2025, and only four jackpots have been claimed this year so far—making this run unusually lucky for non-jackpot players.

The Numbers Behind the Jackpot

The current Mega Millions jackpot has been rolling over since the last grand prize winner on July 29, 2025, when a lucky ticket holder in Illinois claimed a $1.13 billion prize. Since then, the jackpot has steadily climbed through 14 consecutive drawings without a winner, building anticipation across the country.

While no one has matched all six numbers to claim the grand prize, thousands of players have won smaller prizes. In the most recent drawing alone, over 2.3 million tickets won prizes ranging from $2 to $1 million.

How to Play

Mega Millions tickets cost $2 per play. Players select five numbers from 1 to 70 for the white balls and one number from 1 to 25 for the gold Mega Ball. Alternatively, players can opt for a Quick Pick and let the computer randomly select their numbers.

For an additional $1 per play, players can add the Megaplier option, which can multiply non-jackpot prizes by 2, 3, 4, or 5 times. The Megaplier number is drawn before the main numbers.

Odds and Prizes

The odds of winning the Mega Millions jackpot are approximately 1 in 302.6 million. However, there are nine ways to win prizes, with overall odds of winning any prize at 1 in 24.

The second-tier prize of $1 million is awarded to players who match all five white balls but not the Mega Ball. With the Megaplier option, this prize can be multiplied up to $5 million.

What's Next?

The next Mega Millions drawing is scheduled for Friday, October 3, 2025, at 11:00 PM ET. Tickets can be purchased until 10:45 PM ET on the day of the drawing in most states, though cutoff times may vary by jurisdiction.

If there's no winner in Friday's drawing, the jackpot will continue to grow, potentially reaching even more impressive heights. Lottery officials remind players to play responsibly and within their means.