Millions have paid close attention to lottery jackpots, some of which have been staggering high. Together, Powerball and Mega Millions unleashed record-breaking jackpots throughout the years. These are the 10 largest jackpots of all time.
1. Powerball (November 8, 2022): $2.04 Billion
One ticket from California hit the largest jackpot ever, the first time the jackpot had crossed the $2 billion mark. The winner opted for a lump sum payout of roughly $997.6 million after taxes, a new high for lottery winnings.
2. Powerball (October 11, 2023): $1.765 Billion
Just a few months later, a one-ticket Powerball jackpot commanded headlines again at $1.765 billion, also from a California ticket. That said, this victory demonstrated the enduring appeal of Powerball as players flocked to pursue life-changing sums.
3. Mega Millions (August 8, 2023): $1.602 Billion
This massive Mega Millions jackpot was won when a Florida ticket holder matched all six numbers. This victory was significant not just for its size, but because it showcased the growing competitiveness between Mega Millions and Powerball for the biggest jackpots.
4. Powerball (January 13, 2016): $1.586 Billion
Unlike most Powerball jackpots, this one was shared by three winning tickets sold in California, Florida and Tennessee. This was the jackpot that crossed the $1 billion mark for the first time in lottery history.
5. Mega Millions (October 23, 2018): $1.537 Billion
This winning ticket was purchased anonymously by someone from South Carolina who claimed one of the largest Mega Millions jackpots ever recorded. Her choice to remain anonymous is not unusual for winners, who often want to conceal themselves after a transformative experience.
6. Mega Millions (January 13, 2023): $1.348 Billion
Another major prize happened in Maine, where a ticketholder matched all the numbers to win this massive jackpot. The winner has not been identified, part of the growing trend of lottery winners remaining anonymous.
7. Mega Millions (July 29, 2022): $1.337 Billion
A resident of the state of Illinois won this jackpot, extending the recent trend of giant prizes on both major lotteries.
8. Powerball (July 19, 2023): $1.08 Billion
One California ticket holder won this impressive amount, and Powerball is known for making these massive jackpots a regularity.
9. Mega Millions (January 22, 2021): $1.05 Billion
A Michigan player claimed this jackpot, which marked yet another highlight in Mega Millions history.
10. Powerball (January 1, 2024): $842.4 Million
The last entry to the top ten also happened on New Year’s Day, when a Michigan player took home this big jackpot, proving that even at the beginning of the year, everything can change.
Mega Millions and Powerball jackpots are a reflection of the potentially life-changing wealth. These record-breaking wins force us to remember what’s possible, even when we think (or in reality know) we have a low chance of winning, as players continue to dream big and buy tickets, hoping they’ll be the next person to hit the jackpot.
Santosh Kumar is a Professional SEO and Blogger, With the help of this blog he is trying to share top 10 lists, facts, entertainment news from India and all around the world.