The Most Common Mega Millions Numbers
Written by Jackpot Staff
Updated: March 20, 2026
Mega Millions is one of the largest lottery games in the United States, captivating millions with its enormous jackpots and the dream of overnight wealth. With draws that can reach into the billions, it's a game of chance that generates widespread excitement and speculation.
From the most commonly drawn numbers to the statistical rarities, with Jackpot.com, discover the intricacies of Mega Millions numbers and their draw frequencies over the years.
Most Commonly Drawn Mega Millions Numbers: Quick View*
Information about the most frequently drawn Mega Millions numbers is shown below, but in case you need a quick look for your next Mega Millions pick, here is a table showing the most frequently drawn main numbers and Mega Ball numbers.
| Type | Ball Number | Frequency (Draws) | Last Seen |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Number | 31 | 287 | Dec 6, 2025 |
| Main Number | 17 | 284 | Dec 2, 2025 |
| Main Number | 10 | 281 | Dec 12, 2025 |
| Main Number | 20 | 273 | Jan 27, 2026 |
| Main Number | 46 | 272 | Dec 16, 2025 |
| Mega Ball | 3 | 117 | Feb 13, 2026 |
| Mega Ball | 3 | 117 | July 18, 2025 |
| Mega Ball | 9 | 116 | Mar 10, 2026 |
| Mega Ball | 7 | 112 | Mar 10, 2026 |
| Mega Ball | 10 | 109 | Nov 18, 2025 |
Least Commonly Drawn Mega Millions Numbers*
Discover the least frequently drawn numbers below:
| Type | Ball Number | Frequency Rank | Last Updated |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Number | 72 | Least Frequent | Mar 1, 2026 |
| Main Number | 71 | Least Frequent | Mar 1, 2026 |
| Main Number | 75 | Least Frequent | Mar 1, 2026 |
| Main Number | 74 | Least Frequent | Mar 1, 2026 |
| Main Number | 74 | Least Frequent | Mar 1, 2026 |
| Mega Ball | 5 | Least Frequent | Mar 1, 2026 |
| Mega Ball | 4 | Least Frequent | March 1, 2026 |
| Mega Ball | 50 | Least Frequent | Mar 1, 2026 |
| Mega Ball | 49 | Least Frequent | Mar 1, 2026 |
| Mega Ball | 47 | Least Frequent | Mar 1, 2026 |
How many numbers are selected for the Mega Millions lottery?
In the Mega Millions lottery game, players select five main numbers from a set of 1 to 70 and one Mega Ball from a set of 1 to 25. Drawings are held twice a week, on Tuesday and Friday nights, making it an eagerly anticipated event across participating states.
Are certain Mega Millions numbers more common?
While some numbers have historically appeared more frequently in draws, it's essential to understand that each draw is a unique event, and previous results do not influence future draws. Lottery games like Mega Millions are designed to be completely random, ensuring equal chances for each number to be drawn.
What are the most commonly drawn Mega Millions numbers?
For the most commonly drawn Mega Millions numbers, the data reveals specific numbers that have appeared frequently in past draws. Below is a detailed list of these numbers based on the draws up to the date mentioned:
Most Common Main Numbers*:
Number 31: Drawn 287 times, last seen on December 6, 2025.
Number 17: Appeared 284 times, with its latest appearance on December 2, 2025.
Number 10: Has been drawn 281 times, last appearing on December 12, 2025.
Number 20: Came up 273 times, last drawn on January 27, 2026.
Number 46: Seen 272 times in draws, with the most recent on December 16, 2025.
These numbers are followed closely by other frequently drawn numbers, including 38, 14, 11, 29, and 24, all showcasing notable frequencies in the draws.
Most Common Mega Ball Numbers*:
Number 1: Drawn 117 times, with the last draw on February 13, 2026.
Number 3: Also appeared 117 times, last seen on July 18, 2025.
Number 9: Came up 116 times, with its most recent appearance on March 10, 2026.
Number 7: Drawn 112 times, last seen on March 10, 2026.
Number 10: Appeared 109 times, with the last draw on November 18, 2025.
*Updated as of March 2026.
These numbers indicate trends in the Mega Ball draws, yet, similar to the main numbers, each draw is an independent event, making future outcomes unpredictable.
What numbers are the rarest?
Numbers like 72, 71, 75, and 74 have been among the least frequently drawn for the main balls, and for the Mega Ball, numbers 51, 48, 50, 49, and 47 are less common. Again, it's important to note that rarity does not increase the likelihood of these numbers being drawn in the future.
Strategies for Picking Your Mega Millions Numbers
Since every single combination has the same probability, no strategy can increase your actual odds of winning Mega Millions. But it can make the experience more exciting. Here are some strategies you can use to boost your Mega Millions excitement:
1. The Balanced Approach
Many players use a "hybrid" strategy. Selecting a mix of both "hot" numbers and "cold" numbers to cover the spectrum of historical data.
2. Look Beyond the Calendar
The Mega Millions white ball pool goes all the way up to 70. If you only play birthdays, anniversaries, or lucky days of the month, you are restricted to numbers 1 through 31 and miss out on more than half the available numbers. This actually includes high-frequency picks like 46, 64, or 70.
3. Use Quick Picks
Don't feel pressured to hand-pick every digit. Quick Pick (randomly generated) tickets account for roughly 70–80% of Mega Millions jackpot winners. While this is largely because the vast majority of tickets purchased are Quick Picks, it shows that random luck is just as effective as a curated strategy.
4. Consistency is Key
If you decide to move away from Quick Picks and choose your own numbers, consider sticking with them for the long haul. It doesn't improve your odds but does protect you from seeing your long-time numbers hit the jackpot on a night you chose different numbers.
How many numbers do you need to win Mega Millions?
To win the Mega Millions jackpot, you must match all five main numbers and the Mega Ball. There are also nine ways to win, with prizes starting from matching just the Mega Ball. The odds of winning any prize are about 1 in 24, offering multiple opportunities for participants to win smaller prizes.
Can you win Mega Millions with just one number?
Yes, matching the Mega Ball alone will win you a prize. This makes it possible for players to win something even if they match only one of the numbers drawn during the lottery, providing a lower-tier prize but still offering a reward for participation.
Enhancing your lottery strategy
While statistical analyses of past draws can provide interesting insights, it's essential to remember that each Mega Millions draw is an independent event. The odds of winning vary by prize tier, from 1 in 37 for matching just the Mega Ball to 1 in 302,575,350 for hitting the jackpot. Including options like the Megaplier can multiply non-jackpot prizes, offering a strategic choice for players looking to increase potential winnings. As with all forms of gambling, it's important to play responsibly and understand the odds involved.
* The most and least commonly drawn Mega Millions numbers referenced in this article are based on drawing data available through March 2026. Lottery results can vary, and past performance does not guarantee future outcomes. Always play responsibly.
