Lottery Expected Value

The expected value (EV) of a lottery ticket is the average return per ticket purchase, calculated as the jackpot divided by the odds of winning, minus the ticket cost. Almost all lottery tickets have negative expected value — they are, mathematically, a losing proposition

The calculator uses the standard published formula for lottery expected value. Results are accurate to the precision of the inputs you provide. For financial, medical, or legal decisions, always verify with a qualified professional.

This calculator works with inches, percentages. You can enter values in the units shown — the calculator handles all conversions internally.

The core formula is: EV = (Jackpot × Probability of winning) − Ticket cost. Each step in the calculation is shown so you can verify the result manually.