Are you ready to take another shot at winning the Mega Millions lottery? It's a long shot – 1 in 302.6 million odds to be exact. But for $2 a drawing, maybe it's worth another try?

You can let a computer make a quick pick. But you also could take advantage of the trends we've collected here and make a slightly more educated guess at a store or online in two dozen states (complete list here).

Mega Millions jackpot for Dec. 27, 2024

No ticket had all six Mega Millions winning numbers on Tuesday, so Friday's estimated jackpot rises to at least $1.15 billion (with a cash option of $516.1 million). The jackpot grows until it is won. 

Mega Millions winning numbers for Dec. 24, 2024

You can often exclude from your picks the five, white numbers picked in the previous drawing. On average, there's a back-to-back winner every three games. Nos. 56 and 67 rolled out on Dec. 17 and 20, so the odds are in your favor to leave out 11, 14, 38, 45 and 46 when you make your picks for Dec. 27.

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How long since one of the five Mega Millions numbers won?

Every white ball has rolled out in the 100-plus drawings during the past 12 months. These 10 numbers haven't rolled out in the longest time.

How long since these were winning Mega Millions numbers?

The 10 Mega Balls with the longest stretch of days since they rolled out.

The most frequently drawn Mega Millions white numbers

These next two charts combine the results of the past year. In addition to their last appearance, they show you which numbers hit at above- or below-average rates. 

The most frequently drawn Mega Millions numbers

When is Mega Millions next drawing?

Friday, Dec. 27: The Mega Millions drawings are held every Tuesday and Friday at 11 p.m. ET. You pick five numbers between 1-70 for the white balls and select one number between 1-25 for the yellow Mega Ball. Match all five white balls in any order and pick the correct yellow ball, and you're a jackpot winner.

Mega Millions tickets online?These are the states that allow you to purchase tickets online

Where to purchase tickets

Tickets can be purchased in person at gas stations, convenience stores and grocery stores. Some airport terminals may also sell lottery tickets.

You can also order tickets online through Jackpocket, the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network, in these U.S. states and territories: Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Idaho, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Puerto Rico, Texas, Washington D.C. and West Virginia. The Jackpocket app allows you to pick your lottery game and numbers, place your order, see your ticket and collect your winnings all using your phone or home computer.

Jackpocket is the official digital lottery courier of the USA TODAY Network. Gannett may earn revenue for audience referrals to Jackpocket services. Must be 18+, 21+ in AZ and 19+ in NE. Not affiliated with any State Lottery. Gambling Problem? Call 1-877-8-HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY); 1-800-327-5050(MA); 1-877-MYLIMIT (OR); 1-800-981-0023 (PR); 1-800-GAMBLER (all others). Visit jackpocket.com/tos for full terms.