Ohio Sports Betting Guide: Best Ohio Sportsbooks 2025
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Last Updated: 20 June, 2025
Ohio officially launched legal online sports betting on January 1, 2023, and quickly became one of the largest markets in the industry.
Today, bettors can choose from 15 top online betting sites and 19 online Ohio sportsbooks offering fun and secure options.
If you’re looking to get in on the action, we’ve got you covered.
This guide shares everything you need to know to start sports betting in Ohio, from the best Ohio sports betting sites to exclusive Ohio promos for events like the NBA Finals.
Follow along as we track one of the most significant legal U.S. sports betting markets.
Top Ohio sports betting sites & promos
Ohio sports betting legal status
Yes, both online and retail sports betting are fully legal in Ohio.
The market launched on January 1, 2023, allowing residents to place bets through licensed sportsbooks and at in-person locations statewide.
List of Ohio sportsbooks in June 2025
Below is a list of all sports betting sites in Ohio currently licensed by the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC).
Best Ohio sportsbooks reviewed
When it comes to legal sports betting in Ohio, there are plenty of options available for bettors.
We have reviewed the best Ohio sportsbooks, and rated them on the following key rating criteria: customer support, deposits + payouts, usability, mobile betting, bonuses + promos, and live play.
Our OH sportsbooks rankings are:
DraftKings Sportsbook Ohio - Best for beginners
Caesars Sportsbook Ohio - Best for sports selection
BetMGM Sportsbook Ohio - Best for mobile betting
bet365 Sportsbook Ohio - Best for market selection
FanDuel Sportsbook Ohio - Best for promos and bonuses
Fanatics Sportsbook Ohio - Best for rewards program
BetRivers Sportsbook Ohio - Best for live betting
ESPN Bet Sportsbook Ohio - Best for cashback rewards
Below are the full reviews.
1. DraftKings Sportsbook Ohio - Best for beginners
DraftKings overview
DraftKings sportsbook video review
Summary
DraftKings Sportsbook is one of the best options for Ohio sports bettors, with a slick mobile app and a wide range of different betting markets to appeal to sports fans in Ohio.
New users can claim the Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets welcome offer and once they place a qualifying wager, these new customers will get six $25 bonus bets.
Pretty good, right?
These bonus bets are eligible for up to 7 days, so these new players will have plenty of time to check out the platform.
The sportsbook offers markets on every major sport from NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB, to NCAA football and NCAA basketball, as well as having plenty of options for tennis, soccer, and golf markets too.
Live betting features prominently, offering current odds as the action unfolds and limited live streaming to enhance “in-the-game” wagering.
DraftKings also features competitive odds, robust prop markets, and Flash Bets, which allow you to place a fast wager on an individual game event.
Casual bettors like DraftKings’ promotions and interface, but the sportsbook is known to limit accounts that are consistently profitable, so high-limit bettors beware.
Read our expert DraftKings review.
I turned to DraftKings for their NFL betting and was impressed by the instant payouts—much faster than any other platform I’ve used. The integration with my bank account was seamless, making the process hassle-free. DraftKings excels with its fast withdrawals and extensive betting markets. Their odds boosts and loyalty rewards are some of the best in the industry, offering real value for regular users. While they could improve the speed of applying promotions, DraftKings’ overall reliability and strong customer service make it a top choice for serious bettors.
DraftKings pros and cons
Pros
- ✅Offers detailed player and team props across major sports for enhanced betting strategies.
- ✅Supports Flash Bets, allowing rapid wagers during live events for dynamic gameplay.
- ✅Integration with DraftKings DFS accounts enables seamless transitions between fantasy and sportsbook.
Cons
- ❌Bonus bets must be used within seven days, limiting flexibility for casual bettors.
- ❌No dedicated customer service phone line, relying on live chat and email support.
2. Caesars Sportsbook Ohio - Best for sports selection
Caesars Sportsbook overview
Caesars Sportsbook video review
Summary
Caesars Sportsbook provides an all-around sports betting experience in Ohio and is historically one of the biggest brands in all of gambling.
New users get a welcome gift of their own: Deposit $10 and make a $1 wager to automatically receive 10 profit boosts, each of which doubles potential winnings, good for a combined bonus value of up to $25,000.
A standout feature is the live streaming of NFL events.
Bettors are able to stream both regular season and playoff NFL games right from the app, a rare feature among sportsbooks.
Another big draw is the Caesars Rewards program, which lets you earn redeemable points for gift cards, electronics, and VIP perks at 50-plus Caesars Entertainment properties in the U.S.
With wide-ranging banking options available, from Venmo and PayPal to Play+, deposits and withdrawals begin at just $10, with the vast majority of transactions processed within 24 hours.
Bettors can choose from 25+ betting markets, with live betting and same-game parlays to wager on, great selection for those playing.
Caesars’ odds and market availability sometimes lag behind those of top competitors, but its first-class customer service, unique features, and highly-rated mobile app (4.6/5 iOS, 4.2/5 Android) make it a top option for Ohio sports bettors.
Read our expert Caesars Sportsbook review.
As someone who has tested numerous betting platforms, I was intrigued by Caesars Sportsbook’s sign-up bonus—matching my deposit immediately was a strong start. However, I quickly noticed that losing parlays lingered in the active bets section far too long, which cluttered the interface and made managing my bets less efficient. Caesars stands out in the competitive sportsbook market with its top-tier promotions and odds boosts, which are consistently among the most attractive I've encountered. These perks provide real value and make the platform worth considering, especially for serious bettors. While Caesars excels in promotions, the app’s interface and functionality lag behind some of its competitors. Issues like the delayed removal of settled bets and occasional technical glitches can hinder the betting experience.
Caesars Sportsbook pros and cons
Pros
- ✅NFL live streaming is available in-app, providing exclusive access to regular season and playoff games.
- ✅Microbetting options allow users to wager on individual plays, passes, or possessions for dynamic engagement.
- ✅The user-friendly bet slip enables customization of spreads and totals directly within the slip.
- ✅Caesars Rewards integrates with over 50 destinations, offering personalized redemption options like hotel stays and gift cards.
Cons
- ❌Caesars' odds are often less competitive, especially for futures and golf markets.
- ❌Betting markets are frequently removed quickly, limiting opportunities for sharp bettors.
- ❌Odds are displayed in a disorganized layout, making navigation challenging for some users.
3. BetMGM Sportsbook Ohio - Best for mobile betting
BetMGM overview
BetMGM sportsbook video review
Summary
BetMGM Sportsbook is an elite option for Ohio sports bettors.
With over 130 betting options available per NFL game—among them, point spreads, moneylines, and totals, and more than 30 alternate half-point spreads to choose from, bettors are certain to appreciate the variety of offerings.
New users can claim a welcome bonus worth up to $1,500 in bonus bets if their first wager loses, while existing bettors can take advantage of ongoing promotions such as parlay boosts, bet insurance, and exclusive Vegas discounts.
Boasting a roster of 75-plus betting markets for every MLB game and a robust overall focus on live or in-game betting, BetMGM is great for real-time wagering.
This includes a steady offer of in-game player props and competitive baseball odds.
A highly rated mobile app (4.8/5 iOS, 4.3/5 Android) makes it easy to place bets on the move, with live feeds, game alerts, and easy navigation.
BetMGM has an excellent array of gaming options, including access to its online casino and poker platforms, interesting golf, UFC, and entertainment events lines.
While sharp bettors occasionally find accounts limited, casual bettors will find that BetMGM Rewards Points allow for the accumulation of loyalty points to be earned and redeemed in multiple states.
Supported by MGM Resorts International, BetMGM offers the combo of trusted industry experience and a premium sports betting experience, which makes it a top option for Ohio bettors.
Read our expert BetMGM review.
I signed up for BetMGM, attracted by their generous deposit bonus which matched my $500 deposit with another $500. I was initially cautious after reading some negative reviews, but my experience turned out to be smooth. BetMGM’s daily odds boosts add significant value, making them a strong contender despite their standard sports odds. Their casino games are particularly robust, offering a great variety for those who like to mix up their betting. The app is user-friendly and reliable, with quick deposit and withdrawal processes. However, the absence of horse racing is a minor drawback.
BetMGM pros and cons
Pros
- ✅Offers betting markets for unique events, including entertainment and cross-sport parlays.
- ✅BetMGM Rewards Points can be redeemed across multiple jurisdictions, supporting frequent travelers.
- ✅Comprehensive racebook covers over 200 tracks worldwide, making it ideal for horse racing enthusiasts.
- ✅Wide range of sports covered, including niche options like badminton, snooker, and water polo.
Cons
- ❌Website layout can feel cluttered and cramped due to redundant navigation menus and persistent sidebars.
- ❌Customer support lacks phone assistance and has state-specific email addresses, complicating communication.
- ❌Some users report slower performance compared to rivals like DraftKings and FanDuel.
4. bet365 Sportsbook Ohio - Best for market selection
bet365 overview
bet365 sportsbook video review
Summary
bet365 Sportsbook Ohio provides one of the best betting experiences for users, offering over 30 sports markets to bet on, including major sports such as the NFL, NBA, and MLB, as well as cricket and virtual sports.
New users in Ohio can get a $150 bonus from a $5 wager or first-bet insurance worth up to $1,000.
All bonus bets are applied to accounts within 1 hour of meeting the qualifying criteria, so no need to worry about deposits.
Live betting and streaming are particularly noteworthy, with real-time updates, as well as high-definition streaming for major events like the Super Bowl and World Series.
Featuring competitive betting odds across MLB, UFC, horse racing, and numerous additional sports, bet365 guarantees Ohio bettors excellent value for money, while there’s strong flexibility in bet limits with the minimum stake priced from just $0.10.
Secure payment options are provided, such as via PayPal, Visa, and Skrill.
No fees are required for a withdrawal and the minimum deposit is $10.
Transactions are fast and fee-free, ideal for any players.
For Ohio bettors looking for first-class live betting, quality promotions, and top-notch odds, bet365 is a great sportsbook option.
Read our expert bet365 review.
bet365 quickly stood out to me, particularly during an NFL game where their early payout feature allowed me to secure my winnings before the final whistle. The speed at which the funds were deposited into my account was unparalleled—minutes after the game ended, I had full access to my money. bet365 may not boast the most visually appealing interface, but its extensive market options and the flexibility in crafting Same Game Parlays (SGPs) are what truly set it apart. Unlike other platforms that impose limitations, bet365 gives bettors the freedom to build customized bets that align perfectly with their strategies. Though the user interface could benefit from some refinement, bet365 excels where it matters most—payment speed, market depth, and promotional value. Instant withdrawals, particularly to e-wallets like Skrill, provide a seamless experience, and their no-strings-attached free bets are a rarity in the industry.
bet365 pros and cons
Pros
- ✅Offers odds boosts for major events like the Super Bowl and FIFA World Cup.
- ✅Refer-a-Friend program rewards users with $50 bonus bets per referral.
- ✅Wide range of payment options, including PayNearMe and Paysafe Card for deposits.
- ✅Live chat support connects users with a representative in under 5 minutes.
Cons
- ❌No loyalty program or long-term rewards system available for sportsbook users.
- ❌Maximum win limits vary significantly between sports and lack transparency.
5. FanDuel Sportsbook Ohio - Best for promos and bonuses
FanDuel overview
FanDuel sportsbook video review
Summary
FanDuel Sportsbook Ohio boasts a wide range of competitive odds and markets, which is why it makes it onto our list.
Players can wager on 20+ sports and are granted access to hundreds of daily markets across some of the most popular domestic leagues, like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and more.
New Ohio users can earn $150 in bonus bets by placing a $5 wager, with bonus funds credited to their accounts 72 hours after a winning bet has been determined.
The FanDuel app boasts a big 4.8 out of 5 stars on iOS and a 4.7 experience on Android devices.
It's easy to navigate, offers up-to-the-second updates, and features prebuilt same-game parlays in addition to options to customize and build your own, so it's unsurprising it ranks so highly.
FanDuel leads the way in live betting with quick-changing odds and has exclusive live streaming rights with Major League Baseball for their “Free Game of the Day” which is also available on FanDuel+ in-app.
Ohio bettors also benefit from advanced responsible gaming tools, such as “My Spend” tracking.
Read our expert FanDuel review.
I was immediately impressed by FanDuel’s odds, especially when I placed a 6-leg NFL parlay. The difference in potential payout compared to other platforms was staggering—FanDuel offered nearly five times the return, which confirmed its value for maximizing profits. FanDuel’s higher payouts on parlays and the flexibility in adjusting spreads make it an essential tool for serious bettors. Their early cash-out feature is particularly useful for managing risk, allowing more strategic control over wagers. Despite its strengths in odds and market variety, FanDuel could enhance its offering by improving customer loyalty promotions and streamlining the app’s interface. However, the platform’s fast withdrawals and consistent market fairness position it as a top contender in the betting industry.
FanDuel pros and cons
Pros
- ✅Verified withdrawals process within 12-24 hours via PayPal and other secure methods.
- ✅Customer support is available 24/7 with live chat for quick issue resolution.
- ✅Same-game parlays offer both prebuilt options and customizable tools for greater flexibility.
- ✅Its daily fantasy sports platform enhances crossover appeal for DFS users.
Cons
- ❌DFS and sportsbook accounts require separate wallets, reducing convenience.
- ❌FanDuel lacks a loyalty program that so many other sportsbooks offer to their customers.
6. Fanatics Sportsbook Ohio - Best for rewards program
Fanatics overview
Summary
Fanatics Sportsbook Ohio has wasted little time making a dent in the state.
It boasts NFL live streaming and a mobile app with an app store rating of 4.7/5 on iOS and 4.5/5 on Android.
New users can get up to $1,000 in "No Sweat Bets," distributed over 10 days, for a minimum bet of $1.
Bettors can earn FanCash rewards up to 10% on every wager, which can be used to redeem Fanatics merchandise and other benefits.
The platform’s live betting system leverages Amelco software to provide constantly updating odds in real-time to facilitate seamless in-game wagering.
This is a particularly good aspect in our opinion!
A highlight is Fanatics’ withdrawal tracker, which provides transparency on payout processing in as little as 24 hours.
With solid live streaming, evolving betting markets, and unique rewards to top it all off, Fanatics Sportsbook Ohio should excite casual and hardcore bettors alike (it definitely did for us).
Read our expert Fanatics sportsbook review.
I was intrigued by their generous refer-a-friend bonus—$50 each, plus 500 free spins just for signing up. I decided to dive in during an NFL weekend and found the variety of props and live betting options impressive. I did encounter a minor glitch while setting up a parlay, but it didn’t affect my overall experience. Fanatics Sportsbook has quickly become one of my favorites, especially because of their tailored daily bonuses. The $10 daily bonus to play on any game is a standout feature, far surpassing what other platforms offer. The quick and hassle-free withdrawals further cemented my confidence in this site. While the platform offers a great range of sports and props, there are occasional interface glitches when creating parlays. However, their customer support is responsive and resolves issues swiftly.
Fanatics pros and cons
Pros
- ✅Users can redeem FanCash rewards for merchandise and other items.
- ✅Unique withdrawal tracker provides real-time updates on payout status.
- ✅Offers early cash-out options for maximizing profits or minimizing losses.
- ✅Comprehensive 24/7 customer support includes live chat, email, and phone options.
Cons
- ❌The sportsbook is relatively new and unproven compared to established competitors.
- ❌Live streaming availability is limited to select sports and events.
7. BetRivers Sportsbook Ohio - Best for live betting
BetRivers overview
BetRivers sportsbook video review
Summary
BetRivers is a trusted name in betting and offers a great sportsbook with live betting, same-game parlays, and a second-chance bet welcome offer of up to $100 for new users.
Ohio bettors have access to 300+ NHL betting options and a variety of NFL and NBA futures, including playoff odds, division winners, and awards for best players.
So, already new players are winning without spending a dime.
The BetRivers mobile app (iOS and Android) has streaming availability for select events and a smooth interface, though some users may say it's a bit cluttered.
BetRivers offers all the major sports you’re looking for, fueled by Kambi’s odds.
There are also exotic markets, including first-period moneylines in hockey and first-inning results in MLB.
Promos come in the form of parlay insurance or profit boosts, though some offers have restrictive terms.
The aforementioned bonus bets come with a -200 minimum odds requirement, which is something we're telling you now to be aware.
With live chat 24/7, secure deposit transactions, and Ohio-specific regulation, BetRivers is a well-rounded option for casual bettors looking for a good variety of betting markets and dependable customer service.
Read our expert BetRivers sportsbook review.
As an experienced bettor, I decided to give BetRivers a try, lured by their competitive sign-up bonus. I placed a wager on an NBA game, and what really stood out was how quickly I could withdraw my winnings—by the next morning, the funds were already in my account, which isn’t something you see with every platform. BetRivers may not have the flashiest interface, but their customer service and fast payouts are top-tier. For seasoned bettors, these factors are far more important than a polished design, making BetRivers a reliable choice in the betting landscape. Despite its strengths, BetRivers does have room for improvement, particularly with its user interface, which feels outdated and cumbersome, especially with the need for separate apps by state. However, the platform’s efficiency in withdrawals, strong promotions, and responsive customer support outweigh these drawbacks.
BetRivers pros and cons
Pros
- ✅BetRivers offers over 300 betting opportunities per NHL game, including period-specific and multi-goalscorer markets.
- ✅Features robust futures markets for NFL and NBA, including in-season bets like playoff qualifications and win totals.
- ✅Same-game parlays and player prop options are extensive across all major sports, catering to experienced bettors.
- ✅Live betting integrates real-time updates, ensuring accurate odds and markets for ongoing games.
- ✅Sportsbook promotions include parlay insurance and profit boost offers tailored for frequent sports bettors.
Cons
- ❌Odds pricing is uncompetitive, leading to lower payouts compared to top-tier sportsbooks.
- ❌Withdrawals via bank transfer can take up to seven days, slower than industry norms.
8. ESPN Bet Sportsbook Ohio - Best for cashback rewards
ESPN Bet overview
ESPN Bet sportsbook video review
Summary
ESPN Bet takes ESPN’s in-depth sports expertise and combines it with a sleek, easy-to-use sports betting experience that has the potential to become a formidable new player in the Ohio sportsbook landscape.
New users get two welcome offers: Up to $1,000 First Bet Reset (Where losing bets are refunded as bonus bets in 20% increments) and a 200% deposit match up to $500 for deposits of $10 or more.
Both of these are very good.
ESPN Bet comes equipped with 19 sports for bettors to choose from, including offerings like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and college football, with hundreds of betting markets per game that meet the needs of both casual and seasoned bettors.
The mobile app, rated 4.8/5 from iOS and 4.3/5 on Android, had a smooth experience when testing, with cashing out early as an option and strong live betting features as standouts.
While live streaming hasn't quite started, ESPN’s long-established dominance in the sports media market would suggest it could launch down the line.
Offering 24/7 customer support through live chat and email, ESPN Bet is set to be a compelling choice for Ohio sports bettors.
Read our expert ESPN Bet sportsbook review.
ESPN Bet pros and cons
Pros
- ✅The platform provides niche sports betting options, including CFL, NCAA hockey, and cycling, catering to diverse interests.
- ✅With 24/7 live chat, a callback option, and a dedicated Twitter support account, customer service is highly responsive.
- ✅Cashback rewards allow users to unlock 10% on sportsbook bets and 1% on casino bets, adding value to wagers.
Cons
- ❌ESPN BET lacks live streaming capabilities despite its strong sports media connections.
- ❌Cashback rewards must be unlocked and used within 30 days, limiting long-term value.
- ❌The platform offers fewer advanced features compared to competitors like FanDuel and DraftKings.
Tired of reading the same ‘top Ohio sportsbooks’ list over and over?
We built something better—a smart, personalized tool that matches you with the best Ohio sportsbooks based on how you actually like to bet.
Just answer a few quick questions. We’ll show you the top legal sportsbooks in Ohio that fit your style—whether you bet casually, chase promos, or go all-in on live betting.
Get matched with the best Ohio sportsbook for you
With over 15 legal sportsbooks in Ohio, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Our tool helps you cut through the noise.
Pick ‘Ohio’ as the state you live in, answer a few questions, and we’ll match you with the best options.
We only recommend reputable, safe, and regulated Ohio sportsbooks.
What state do you live in?
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How we rate & rank Ohio betting sites
Our intention is to provide factual, impartial reviews of legal Ohio sports betting sites that make it simple to comprehend their pros and cons.
We use a uniform set of nine criteria to judge each platform, so you know you’re comparing them in a fair, apples-to-apples way:
Safety: We check whether the sportsbook is licensed to operate in Ohio. We also take a full look through their history, whether it’s new or well established, so that we’re certain your money is safe there. Further safety features are added whenever necessary.
Mobile betting app: We analyze the layout, functionality, user experience, distinct features and how easy it is to place a real money wager.
Web betting site: We put everything you need to know to the test, including pros, cons, and how to customize the site and place a bet.
Deposits & withdrawals: We check out what payment methods you can use, how easy it is to make transactions, fees and processing times for both deposits and withdrawals.
Markets: We look at the range of sports you can bet on and compare the quality and breadth of markets on offer across US sportsbooks.
Pre-match betting: We evaluate the convenience and flexibility of the pre-match betting functionality.
In-play betting: We assess your options for betting live on sports. Our focus is on how good the live markets are and how easy they are to use.
Welcome incentive: We outline the current sign-up bonus and compare it to what other sports betting sites are offering.
Customer service: We assess the quality of customer service, including live chat responsiveness and the efficacy of the support supplied.
We download and use each betting site ourselves with our own money to ensure the quality of the site is good enough for our readers to use.
Scoring & overall rating
Each criterion is scored on a points system, which is then converted into a star rating.
We average these scores to provide an overall rating for each legal sportsbook, making it easier for you to decide which one best meets your needs.
With our thorough and clear reviews, you can trust that you are getting an honest assessment, free from personal bias.
You can view our dedicated page for more information on how we test and review sportsbooks.
Additionally, you can view all of our sportsbook reviews.
New Ohio sportsbooks
The Ohio sports betting market growth shows no signs of slowing down, as ESPN BET is the latest operator to join.
Below are more new Ohio sportsbooks along with their notable features.
What is the best Ohio sports betting app for iPhone?
What is the best Ohio sports betting app for Android?
Land-based Ohio sportsbooks
Ohio sports betting guide
Is sports betting legal in Ohio?
Yes, sports betting is legal in Ohio.
On December 22, 2021, Governor Mike DeWine signed House Bill 29 into law, legalizing and regulating sports betting.
The Ohio sports betting bill was officially signed into law on March 23, 2022, with betting launching on January 1, 2023.
The Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) oversees all sports betting, including Ohio online sportsbooks, brick-and-mortar locations, and apps.
Players can bet at licensed retail sportsbooks, via mobile apps, and at kiosks in select bars and venues.
How to start betting in Ohio
Whether you're new to betting or just new to Ohio's market, getting started is simple.
Here’s how to sign up, claim a bonus, and place your first bet with a legal Ohio sportsbook.
1. Choose a legal Ohio sportsbook
Start by picking a sportsbook that’s licensed by the Ohio Casino Control Commission.
You’ll find trusted names like FanDuel, DraftKings, bet365, Caesars, and BetMGM on our recommended list.
What to look for:
Strong mobile app ratings (4.5+)
Fast payouts and low minimum deposits
Welcome bonuses that match your style
2. Register for an account
Sign up online or through the app. You’ll need to provide:
Name, date of birth, and address
Last 4 digits of your SSN for identity verification
Location services enabled (you must be in Ohio to place a bet)
It takes just a few minutes to complete.
3. Make your first deposit
Use any of the safe, common methods available in Ohio:
PayPal, Venmo, and online banking
Visa, Mastercard, or Play+ prepaid cards
Most sportsbooks have a $10 minimum deposit, but some allow as low as $5.
4. Claim a welcome bonus
Each sportsbook offers a new customer promotion—usually in the form of bonus bets, deposit matches, or second-chance bets.
Tip: You can claim welcome offers from multiple sportsbooks, but only one per site.
5. Place your first bet
Browse betting markets like NFL, NBA, MLB, college sports, or live in-play bets. Choose your bet type:
Moneyline – Pick the winner
Point Spread – Bet on the margin
Over/Under – Wager on total points
Parlays – Combine multiple picks into one bet
Enter your stake, confirm your selection, and place your bet.
6. Withdraw winnings
When you're ready to cash out, most sportsbooks offer:
PayPal or online banking (1–3 days)
eChecks or paper checks (3–7 days)
Make sure to verify your identity to avoid delays.
Ohio sports betting revenue (2025)
Ohio sportsbooks to avoid
While Ohio offers a wide range of safe and legal sportsbooks, there are some betting sites you should avoid.
These platforms operate offshore or without proper licenses, putting your money, data, and winnings at risk.
Here’s what to watch out for:
Why you should stick to legal sportsbooks
Licensing: All legal Ohio sportsbooks are licensed by the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC).
Security: Legal sites encrypt your data, offer responsible gambling tools, and have transparent terms.
Payouts: Regulated books have verified payment processes with clear timelines and support.
Support: If you have an issue, licensed operators offer 24/7 customer support—and you have legal recourse.
Pro tip: Only place bets on sportsbooks that appear on the OCCC’s list of licensed operators. All sites we recommend on this page are fully legal and tested.
How is Ohio sports betting changing in 2025
The sports betting market in Ohio is changing fast in 2025, with some key changes and trends emerging:
Recent statistics
Ohio’s sports-betting handle surpassed $1 billion in January 2025. Marking the third time it’s reached that milestone since sports betting was legalized in the state in January 2023.
Online platforms accounted for $992.2 million of January’s $1 billion handle, the Ohio Casino Control Commission revealed Friday.
January’s revenue slid 21% year-over-year to $87.7 million even as the handle jumped.
Retail operators didn’t manage to turn a profit in the month, underscoring the growing dominance of online outlets.
Sources: Business Insider
Sporting Post insights
The fact that revenue is falling, even as handle increases, is another indicator that Ohio bettors are becoming more savvy...the market is maturing and bettors are becoming more experienced in sports betting.
The explosion of live betting, as well as same-game parlays, is also impacting the market, as both types of bets tend to offer better odds for bettors.
It’s significant that no retail operator turned a profit in January. This could hasten the evolution to online betting and perhaps encourage retail consolidation.
Ohio sportsbooks may need to find ways to reinvent their brick-and-mortar presence going forward.
Sporting Post predictions based on current trends
Tax rate increase: Governor Mike DeWine's proposal to double the tax rate on sports betting operators from 20% to 40% is likely to be a major topic of discussion. If implemented, this could lead to changes in promotional strategies and potentially impact the competitiveness of smaller operators.
Live betting expansion: The rapid growth of live betting, especially same-game parlays and live player props, is likely to continue in 2025. This trend may also further exacerbate the chasm between the online-betting experience and the retail-betting.
Consolidation: With 15 licensed sportsbooks in Ohio and the potential for 25, the market could see some consolidation. Smaller operators could struggle to compete with leading competitors FanDuel and DraftKings and could decide to either merge or exit the market altogether.
Innovation in user experience: As the market becomes more competitive, sportsbooks are likely to focus on improving their user interfaces and offering more personalized experiences to attract and retain customers.
Expansion of betting options: There's potential for Ohio to allow wagering on college player props, something other states allow.
Sources: Axios
These changes indicate that the Ohio sports betting market is evolving quickly, with a trend towards online betting, more complex wagering options, and possibly higher taxes. Operators must adapt to these changes swiftly to stay competitive in this evolving market.
How to gamble responsibly in Ohio
Before we bring this to a close, a reminder to bet responsibly.
To make sure you’re staying aware, betting sites have a variety of different responsible gambling practices in place to help you keep your betting habits in check.
Limits: Sportsbooks allow you to set betting limits, i.e. limit how much you can bet in a day, a week, or a month.
Cashouts: You can easily withdraw your funds from any sportsbook you use. This stops you from spending all of your funds at the sportsbook. There’s also the option for early cashout, so you can still get paid if the bet is starting to go sideways.
Help & resources: Betting sites provide access to resources for problem gamblers and point them to organizations that can help with gambling addiction.
To help, we created a 'how to bet on sports' guide that helps new sports bettors understand the sports betting industry better, to play safer and more securely.
Responsible gambling organizations and charities in the US
Frequently asked questions
Editorial policy
Our editorial policy has been crafted by top sports betting experts and seasoned news editors to ensure quality.
Our betting content is thoroughly researched, properly sourced, and reviewed to guarantee its accuracy and impartiality.
This ensures that our content remains accurate, up to date and valuable to our readers.
References
To test legal online sportsbooks accurately, in-depth analysis and an understanding of the industry are required to fully understand what features are most beneficial to you.
The references we consulted include the following:
https://wsb.wharton.upenn.edu/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Beggy_2023__Betting_Kelly.pdf
https://sc.edu/uofsc/posts/2024/01/stephen-shapiro-sports-gambling.php
Contributors
Bradley Gibbs
Author
With over 12 years of experience, Bradley Gibbs is a seasoned sports betting writer and analyst specializing in uncovering value bets across football, horse racing, tennis, and golf. His extensive coverage of these sports has been featured on numerous websites and in The Racing & Football Outlook, a renowned UK betting publication. Bradley's expertise lies in identifying betting edges and delivering insightful, data-driven content for informed wagering.
Josh Miller
Editor
Josh Miller, Sporting Post’s Sports & Casino Editor, brings over five years of experience in feature writing, blogging, and SEO. With a strong background in football coverage and sports betting, his work has been featured in VAVEL. Josh also writes extensively about online casinos, providing expert insights into games, bonuses, and gambling trends. His engaging and informative content makes him a reliable resource for Sporting Post readers.