Lottery Odds Calculator
Calculate the exact probability of winning any lottery game
Understanding Lottery Odds
How Lottery Odds Are Calculated
Lottery odds are calculated using combinatorial mathematics, specifically combinations (nCr). The formula is:
Odds = 1 in (Total possible combinations)
For a standard lottery where you pick k numbers from a pool of n numbers:
Total combinations = n! / (k! × (n-k)!)
For example, in a 6/49 lottery (picking 6 numbers from 49):
Total combinations = 49! / (6! × (49-6)!) = 13,983,816
If there's a bonus ball/powerball drawn from a separate pool, the odds are multiplied by the number of possibilities for that ball.
Popular Lottery Odds
| Lottery | Format | Jackpot Odds |
|---|---|---|
| Powerball (US) | 5/69 + 1/26 Powerball | 1 in 292,201,338 |
| Mega Millions (US) | 5/70 + 1/25 Mega Ball | 1 in 302,575,350 |
| EuroMillions | 5/50 + 2/12 Lucky Stars | 1 in 139,838,160 |
| UK National Lottery | 6/59 | 1 in 45,057,474 |
| Oz Lotto (Australia) | 7/45 | 1 in 45,379,620 |
| Lotto 6/49 (Canada) | 6/49 | 1 in 13,983,816 |
Putting Lottery Odds in Perspective
To put lottery odds in perspective, here are some comparisons:
- Being struck by lightning in your lifetime: about 1 in 15,300
- Being dealt a royal flush in poker on the first hand: 1 in 649,740
- Becoming a movie star: about 1 in 1,505,000
- Becoming president of the United States: about 1 in 10,000,000
- Winning the Powerball jackpot: 1 in 292,201,338
This doesn't mean you shouldn't play the lottery — many people enjoy the entertainment value and dream of winning. Just be aware of the true odds when you play.