Last Updated: April 25, 2026
MGM Resorts and Caesars Entertainment are the two largest casino-hotel employers in North America. MGM offers more properties and benefits, while Caesars provides competitive compensation and a focused resort portfolio.
MGM Resorts vs Caesars Entertainment: Which Is Better to Work For?
MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment are the dominant casino-hotel operators in Las Vegas and across North America. Both companies operate luxurious resorts with gaming, hospitality, entertainment, and dining operations. MGM is the larger employer with over 175,000 team members globally and operates flagship properties like the Bellagio, Mandalay Bay, and ARIA. Caesars Entertainment operates iconic properties including the Caesars Palace, Linq, Planet Hollywood, and Paris Las Vegas. Choosing between these employers depends on location preference, desired property type, and career ambitions. Both companies offer competitive hourly wages, excellent gaming positions, and strong advancement opportunities. MGM typically pays slightly higher entry-level wages and offers more comprehensive benefits. Caesars emphasizes guest experience and has equally strong career development programs. The hospitality and gaming experience at both companies is world-class, making either a strong employer choice.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | MGM Resorts | Caesars Entertainment |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Properties | 175+ properties worldwide; largest operator | 50+ properties; primarily US-focused |
| Largest Locations | Las Vegas, Atlantic City, Detroit, MGM Rewards concentrated | Las Vegas, Atlantic City, regional properties across US |
| Entry-Level Hourly Pay | $14–$18/hr for housekeeping, food service, dealers | $13–$17/hr for similar roles |
| Dealer Pay (with Tips) | $12–$16/hr base + substantial tips; union-supported | $12–$15/hr base + tips; union presence |
| Benefits Package | Comprehensive: health, dental, vision, 401(k), tuition aid | Solid benefits; health, dental, 401(k) |
| Employee Discounts | Discounts at MGM properties; strong travel discounts | Discounts at Caesars properties; competitive offerings |
| Career Advancement | Clear pathways; strong internal promotion; training programs | Good advancement; mentorship available |
| Unionization | Strong union presence, especially for dealers and housekeeping | Union representation at many properties |
| Workplace Culture | Corporate-structured; emphasis on service excellence | Entrepreneurial culture; focus on guest satisfaction |
| International Opportunities | Yes, MGM operates properties in Macau, Dubai, Japan | Limited international presence; primarily US |
Working at MGM Resorts
MGM Resorts International is the largest casino resort operator in the world. The company operates luxury properties across multiple continents, with Las Vegas as the primary concentration. MGM is known for its professional corporate structure and commitment to employee development. Working at MGM offers exposure to luxury hospitality and gaming operations at the highest level. Employees benefit from excellent union representation in many positions, particularly dealing and housekeeping roles. MGM properties are typically well-staffed and maintain high operational standards. The company offers comprehensive training programs through the MGM Resorts University, supporting career growth into management. Compensation includes competitive hourly wages plus benefits and, for dealers and service staff, substantial tip opportunities. Employees appreciate MGM’s commitment to workplace safety and professional development. The work environment is formal and structured, with clear hierarchies and defined pathways for advancement. Many MGM employees enjoy the prestige of working for a world-class operator and the opportunities to specialize in casino operations, hospitality, entertainment, or food and beverage management. The larger corporate structure provides stability and consistent policies across properties.
Working at Caesars Entertainment
Caesars Entertainment operates some of the most iconic casino resorts in Las Vegas and regionally across the United States. The company is known for fostering a customer-first culture and employee engagement. Caesars properties are smaller on average than MGM’s flagship resorts, sometimes creating a more intimate work environment. Employees report that Caesars emphasizes guest experience and empowers team members to make decisions that enhance customer satisfaction. The company offers competitive compensation and benefits, with union representation at many properties. Working at Caesars provides solid career development opportunities and pathways to management. Caesars employees appreciate the entrepreneurial atmosphere and the company’s investment in employee wellness and development programs. The gaming environment is dynamic and fast-paced, particularly for dealers and pit staff. Caesars properties tend to have good team camaraderie and supportive management. The company is slightly smaller than MGM, which some employees find offers a more collaborative, less bureaucratic work environment. Caesars’ focus on creating a strong employee culture and work-life balance initiatives distinguishes it in the competitive casino industry.
Which Should You Choose?
Choose MGM Resorts if you want to work for the world’s largest and most prestigious casino operator with maximum career opportunities and international possibilities. MGM is ideal if you seek comprehensive benefits, strong training programs, and advancement into senior leadership roles. The larger corporate structure and extensive resources support career development. Choose Caesars Entertainment if you prefer a more collaborative, customer-focused culture and value direct involvement in guest experience decisions. Caesars is excellent if you want strong union representation, competitive compensation, and a tighter-knit workplace environment. Choose Caesars if you prefer working in mid-to-large properties without the corporate hierarchy of a mega-company. Both companies are unionized and offer dealers excellent earning potential through tips. Your choice may depend on which properties are in your geographic area and which company culture appeals to you. Both are strong employers in the gaming hospitality industry with solid compensation and career pathways.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do dealers make good money at MGM and Caesars?
Yes. Dealers earn $12–$16/hr base pay plus substantial tips that often double or triple hourly earnings. Union representation protects dealer compensation at both companies.
Which company has better benefits for full-time employees?
MGM typically offers slightly more comprehensive benefits including tuition assistance. Both offer health, dental, vision, and 401(k) plans. Compare specific properties for exact benefit details.
Can I work in multiple properties at MGM or Caesars?
Yes. Both companies support internal transfers between properties. Some employees work different shifts at different locations to maximize earnings.
What union represents workers at these companies?
The Culinary Union Local 226 and Bartenders Union Local 165 represent most casino workers in Las Vegas at both MGM and Caesars properties.
Are there advancement opportunities from hourly to management roles?
Yes. Both companies promote from within and offer clear pathways to supervisor, pit boss, manager, and executive positions. Training and mentorship support advancement.