Ohio Sports Betting - Best Legal Sportsbooks in Ohio October 2026
On Jan. 1, 2023, online sports betting was launched in Ohio. Presently, 15 sportsbooks are available in the Buckeye State. We have covered everything you need to know to kickstart your sports betting journey in Ohio, including the best sign-up promos available now.
🥇Our best Ohio sportsbook in October 2026 is DraftKings🥇
Sports betting is legal in Ohio
Best Legal Betting Sites in Ohio
Closer Look at the Best Online Sportsbooks in Ohio
With a highly competitive market featuring over a dozen licensed operators, finding the top US sportsbooks in the Buckeye State has never been easier for local fans. We have thoroughly reviewed the leading platforms to help you navigate the standout features, competitive odds, and overall user experience each app provides. Whether you are looking for deep local betting markets or the best Ohio betting bonuses, our comprehensive breakdown will help you find the perfect sportsbook to match your betting style.

1. DraftKings Sportsbook
🏅 Best for: Low deposit limits
DraftKings is a close competitor to FanDuel, with the two platforms constantly vying for the title of the best in the industry. If you are looking for a site that excels in terms of betting markets, promotions, and mobile compatibility, then DraftKings is a fantastic option to consider.
After signing up, new users in Ohio can bet $5 and get $150 in bonus bets (issued as an initial 2x$25 bonus bet instantly, plus $100 distributed over 14 days, each valid for 7 days, with stakes removed from winning payouts).
The bonuses do not stop there, with regular daily and weekly promotions up for grabs. A recent addition to the site is ‘DraftKings Dynasty,' which is an exciting loyalty scheme where you have the chance to claim generous rewards. As you progress through the tiers, you are eligible for promotions such as priority customer support, dedicated VIP hosts, and special events.
The platform itself is intuitive and logically designed, ensuring that your sports betting process is straightforward. Here, you will find not only a sportsbook but also an online casino, poker room (in legal states), daily fantasy sports, and pool services. Deposits and withdrawals are also a breeze at DraftKings, with an extensive range of 13 payment methods catering to any preference. In comparison to other platforms, it has a particularly low minimum deposit of $5.
» Find out more in our in-depth DraftKings Sportsbook review.
💰Sign-up Offer: Spend $5 Get $150 In Bonuses ($50 in Bonus Bets every 7 days for 14 days)
🤩 Promo Code: None required
DraftKings Sportsbook Ratings
⭐ WSN Rating: 4.6/5
⭐ Apple App Store: 4.8/5
⭐ Google Play Store: 4.8/5
⭐ Trustpilot: 1.3/5
DraftKings Sportsbook Pros and Cons
2. FanDuel Sportsbook
🏅 Best for: Mobile app experience
FanDuel was the most popular sportsbook in the US by revenue in 2022 and has maintained its dominance as the market leader through 2026. If you want a tried and trusted sportsbook chosen by millions nationwide, it’s a perfect fit.
As a leading operator, FanDuel naturally secures the top spot on our list of the best sports betting apps. New players are welcomed with a generous offer: Get $250 in bonus bets when you bet $5 for 5 days.
With this current offer, you get $250 in bonus bets when you bet $5 every day for 5 days. You will receive $50 in bonus bets each day you place your daily $5 wager, completely removing any "win-to-get" requirements, and any bonus bets awarded must be used within seven days. Aside from this welcome bonus, FanDuel offers an array of ongoing promotions - like profit boosts and parlay insurance - that are updated daily.
The platform is bright, well-organized, and incredibly user-friendly. You’ll find a fantastic spectrum of sports and events, which is exactly what you’d expect from a premium provider. When it comes to payments, the standout feature is the withdrawal speed; it is consistently ranked among the fastest payout sportsbooks in the US.
All of this is best enjoyed through the mobile app, which holds an impressive 4.8/5 rating on the App Store and 4.5/5 on Google Play. It is widely regarded as one of the best sportsbook apps in the US.
» Read our complete FanDuel sportsbook review.
💰Sign-up Offer: Get $250 in Bonus Bets When You Bet $5 for 5 Days
🤩 Promo Code: None required
FanDuel Sportsbook Ratings
⭐ WSN Rating: 4.7/5
⭐ Apple App Store: 4.8/5
⭐ Google Play Store: 4.5/5
⭐ Trustpilot: 1.3/5
FanDuel Sportsbook Pros and Cons
3. Fanatics Sportsbook
🏅 Best for: FanCash Rewards program
Fanatics Sportsbook has quickly established itself as a top-tier option for Ohio bettors by combining a highly polished, mobile-first interface with an industry-leading loyalty program. New users in the Buckeye State can sign up with our Fanatics Sportsbook promo code WSNFAN to take advantage of a unique welcome offer: Get up to $1,000 matched in FanCash.
Rather than a one-time lump sum, the sportsbook matches your first daily qualifying wager (up to $100) for ten consecutive days, regardless of whether those daily bets win or lose. This staggered approach promotes responsible, sustained engagement while giving bettors ample time to explore the app's extensive local markets, ranging from the Cleveland Browns to the Ohio State Buckeyes.
The true differentiator for Fanatics Sportsbook Ohio is its FanCash rewards ecosystem, which seamlessly bridges the gap between sports betting and sports fandom. Every wager placed on the platform - ranging from 1% back on standard straight bets to up to 5% back on same-game parlays - earns a percentage of FanCash. This proprietary currency can be easily converted into standard bonus bets to continue wagering, or uniquely, spent as real dollars at the Fanatics retail store on official team jerseys, hats, and apparel.
Backed by excellent live-streaming capabilities directly within the app and reliable instant payout options, Fanatics provides a compelling, feature-rich experience that caters equally well to casual fans and daily bettors alike.
» Get more info with our detailed Fanatics Sportsbook review.
💰Sign-up Offer: Get up to $1,000 Matched in FanCash
🤩 Promo Code: WSNFAN
Fanatics Sportsbook Ratings
⭐ WSN Rating: 4.3/5
⭐ Apple App Store: 4.9/5
⭐ Google Play Store: 4.7/5
⭐ Trustpilot: 3.2/5 (covers the wider Fanatics brand)
Fanatics Sportsbook Pros and Cons
4. BetMGM Sportsbook
🏅 Best for: Integration with MGM Rewards
BetMGM Sportsbook has firmly established itself as a premier destination for Ohio bettors, blending an extensive array of local sports markets with one of the most lucrative welcome offers in the state. New users in the Buckeye State can currently take advantage of a massive First Bet Offer that provides up to $1,500 back in bonus bets back if their initial wager doesn't win.
If your first bet falls short, BetMGM returns the entire stake (distributed as five equal bonus bet tokens for wagers over $50) to give you a true second chance. This high-ceiling safety net makes the platform an incredibly appealing choice for both casual fans backing the Cincinnati Bengals and high-stakes bettors looking to maximize their opening bankroll.
Beyond the generous sign-up bonus, BetMGM Ohio stands out for its sophisticated, feature-rich mobile app and deep integration with the acclaimed MGM Rewards program.
The platform excels in providing comprehensive betting options, including a seamless Same Game Parlay builder, robust live betting markets, and daily "Lion’s Boosts" that offer uniquely enhanced odds on marquee matchups. What truly separates BetMGM from the competition, however, is its loyalty ecosystem; every wager placed on the app earns tier credits that can be redeemed not just for online sports betting bonuses, but for real-world perks like hotel stays, premier dining, and entertainment at physical MGM Resorts properties across the country.
» Find more insights in our complete BetMGM Sportsbook review.
💰Sign-up Offer: Get up to $1,500 Back in Bonus Bets
🤩 Promo Code: WSNSPORTS
BetMGM Sportsbook Ratings
⭐ WSN Rating: 4.5/5
⭐ Apple App Store: 4.8/5
⭐ Google Play Store: 4.0/5
⭐ Trustpilot: 1.2/5
BetMGM Sportsbook Pros and Cons
Full List of Legal Sportsbooks in Ohio
The full list of all 15 legal online sportsbooks that are available in Ohio:
Bally Bet
bet365
betJACK
BetMGM
betPARX
Betr
BetRivers
Caesars Sportsbook
DraftKings
Fanatics Sportsbook
FanDuel
Hard Rock Bet
MVGBet (Betly)
Prime Sportsbook
theScore Bet (formerly ESPN Bet)
Ohio Online Sports Betting Sites
| Online Sportsbook | Retail Partner | Mobile App | Online Casino | Launch Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bally Bet | Cleveland Browns | ✅ | ❌ | August 2023 |
| bet365 | Cleveland Guardians | ✅ | ❌ | January 2023 |
| betJACK | JACK Cleveland Casino | ✅ | ❌ | January 2023 |
| BetMGM | MGM Northfield Park | ✅ | ❌ | January 2023 |
| betPARX | Muirfield Village Golf Club | ✅ | ❌ | February 2023 |
| Betr | Hall of Fame Village | ✅ | ❌ | January 2023 |
| BetRivers | Hollywood Gaming Dayton Raceway | ✅ | ❌ | January 2023 |
| Caesars Sportsbook | Scioto Downs | ✅ | ❌ | January 2023 |
| DraftKings | Hollywood Casino Toledo | ✅ | ❌ | January 2023 |
| Fanatics Sportsbook | Columbus Blue Jackets & Cleveland Guardians | ✅ | ❌ | May 2023 |
| FanDuel | Belterra Park | ✅ | ❌ | January 2023 |
| Hard Rock Bet | Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati | ✅ | ❌ | January 2023 |
| MVGBet (Betly) | Miami Valley Gaming and Racing | ✅ | ❌ | January 2023 |
| Prime Sportsbook | Geneva Sports | ✅ | ❌ | September 2023 |
| theScore Bet | Hollywood Casino Columbus | ✅ | ❌ | November 2023 |
Ohio Retail Sportsbooks
| Sportsbook | Retail Location | Address | Phone Number | Launch Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| theScore Bet | Hollywood Casino Columbus | 200 Georgesville Rd, Columbus, OH 43228 | (614) 308-3333 | January 2023 |
| theScore Bet | Hollywood Casino Toledo | 1968 Miami St, Toledo, OH 43605 | (419) 661-5454 | January 2023 |
| theScore Bet | Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway | 777 Hollywood Blvd, Dayton, OH 45414 | (937) 235-7808 | January 2023 |
| theScore Bet | Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley | 655 N Canfield Niles Rd, Youngstown, OH 44515 | (877) 788-3777 | January 2023 |
| betJACK | JACK Cleveland Casino | 100 Public Square, Cleveland, OH 44113 | (216) 297-4777 | January 2023 |
| betJACK | JACK Thistledown Racino | 21501 Emery Rd, North Randall, OH 44128 | (216) 662-8600 | January 2023 |
| BetMGM | MGM Northfield Park | 10777 Northfield Rd, Northfield, OH 44067 | (330) 908-7625 | January 2023 |
| BetMGM | Great American Ball Park | 100 Joe Nuxhall Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202 | (513) 765-7400 | January 2023 |
| Caesars Sportsbook | Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse | 1 Center Court, Cleveland, OH 44115 | (216) 420-2000 | January 2023 |
| Caesars Sportsbook | Scioto Downs | 6000 S High St, Columbus, OH 43207 | (614) 295-4700 | January 2023 |
| Fanatics Sportsbook | Nationwide Arena (Arena District) | 401 N. Front St, Columbus, OH 43215 | (614) 857-2330 | May 2023 |
| Fanatics Sportsbook | Progressive Field | 2401 Ontario Street, Cleveland, OH 44115 | (216) 420-4487 | May 2023 |
| FanDuel | Belterra Park Cincinnati | 6301 Kellogg Rd, Cincinnati, OH 45230 | (513) 232-8000 | January 2023 |
| Hard Rock Bet | Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati | 1000 Broadway, Cincinnati, OH 45202 | (513) 250-3150 | January 2023 |
| Prime Sportsbook | Geneva-on-the-Lake Restaurant | Geneva-on-the-Lake, Ohio 44041 | (440) 275-3203 | September 2023 |
Ohio Sports Betting News
Ohio Sends Cease & Desist Letters to 10 Prediction Platforms
3 days ago | Michael Savio
Ohio Lawmakers Consider Major Crackdown on Sports Betting
3 months ago | Michael Savio
Ohio Lawmakers to Consider Major Crackdown on Sports Betting
6 months ago | Michael SavioIs Sports Betting Legal in Ohio?
Yes, sports betting is legal in Ohio as of Jan. 1, 2023. You can find the list of 21 online sportsbooks that are available in the state above. 16 sportsbooks debuted on the first day of the year, while several others joined in the following months.
How to Get Started
It is a simple process to register and make a bet at an Ohio sportsbook. We have summed it up into six straightforward steps, which is especially helpful if you are a newcomer to the betting world.
Choose a reputable sportsbook: Like the sites that we recommend, ensure that the platform is licensed and regulated. It is essential to select a sportsbook that is fully legal in Ohio to protect your personal and financial information.
Sign up for the sportsbook: Simply visit the website or app and register for your chosen platform. You will need to provide obligatory information such as your name, email, address, phone number, etc.
Verify your identity: Some platforms may ask you to verify your identity for security reasons by submitting a photo of your ID or other documents.
Claim your bonus: Sportsbooks will have a welcome bonus for new players, which massively benefits you when signing up for the first time. You can claim these offers by simply signing up and making a deposit, or sometimes by using a promo code. Explore our site to find the latest sportsbook promo codes and bonuses for the top online sportsbooks. Be aware of the terms and conditions of these bonuses. If you decide on one of our recommended platforms, look at our reviews for the specifics of how to claim.
Deposit funds: You’ll need to make a deposit so you have some money to bet with or to activate your bonus. Choose your preferred payment option, follow the simple instructions, and be aware that this sometimes acts as the same method for withdrawals.
Make your first bet: You can then find your preferred sport and game that you wish to bet on. Then, choose the type of bet and the amount that you want to wager. Finally, you can add it to your betslip to place it.
Keep in mind that sportsbooks change their deals often. If you're not finding something you like right now, don't worry - it's likely to change soon. Keep an eye out for promotions, especially during holidays, and catch seasonal deals, like sportsbook promos for Black Friday, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and others. Sportsbooks tend to have great deals for both new and existing players during these times.
Ohio Sportsbook Promos
Below, we have clearly laid out for you the welcome bonuses of our recommended sportsbooks. This ensures it is easy for you to compare and choose the promotion that is best suited to your preferences and betting style.
| Sportsbook | Sign Up Offer | Promo Code |
|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | Spend $5 Get $150 In Bonuses ($50 in Bonus Bets every 7 days for 14 days) | Click to claim |
| FanDuel | Get $250 in Bonus Bets When You Bet $5 for 5 Days | Click to claim |
| Fanatics | Get up to $1,000 Matched in FanCash | WSNFAN |
| BetMGM | Get up to $1,500 Back as Bonus Bets | WSNSPORTS |
Sportsbooks tend to have many different types of promotions and bonuses. We have listed a few of the most common that you will encounter.
Bonus Bet
A bonus bet is a type of offer that can be received after registering, making a deposit of a certain amount, and making a qualifying bet. It is basically a form of bonus credit.
Second Chance Bet
A second chance bet allows you the opportunity to recover some or all of the wager if you lose your initial bet. The recovered amount will be in credits for the site or bonus bets, which you cannot simply withdraw without using to bet first. Caesars and DraftKings both have this type of bonus for new players.
Deposit Match Bonuses
With this bonus, a sportsbook will match the amount that you deposit up to a certain limit. Therefore, the more that you deposit, the greater the amount you will receive. Again, the matched portion of your deposit will be in the form of site credit or bonus bets.
No Deposit Bonuses
A no-deposit bonus is as simple as its name. You do not need to deposit any funds or spend any money to receive this kind of bonus, which the sportsbook gives you in exchange for just creating an account. They are often small bonus bets of $10 or $20.
What Mobile Sportsbooks Are Available in Ohio?
Every legal sportsbook in Ohio has a mobile app available. It is crucial that modern online sportsbooks are optimized to work on a phone, and the convenience of accessing sites on the go from anywhere and at any time really adds to the experience. When selecting our best Ohio sportsbooks, we choose those that deliver an unbeatable mobile experience.
Here is a list of our top mobile sports betting apps that are available in the Buckeye State.
DraftKings - 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.9/5 (Android)
FanDuel - 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.5/5 (Android)
Fanatics - 4.9/5 (iOS); 4.7/5 (Android)
BetMGM- 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.0/5 (Android)
theScore Bet - 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.3/5 (Android)
What Betting Markets Are Available in Ohio?
Moneyline
A moneyline bet is a straightforward wager on which team or athlete will win a game outright, regardless of the point spread or margin of victory. The odds dictate your potential payout based on whether your pick is the favorite (indicated by a minus sign) or the underdog (indicated by a plus sign).
Moneyline Betting GuidePoint Spreads
A point spread bet is a wager on the margin of victory in a game, where the sportsbook creates a balanced handicap between two teams. To win your bet, the favorite must win by more than the set number of points, while the underdog must either win the game outright or lose by fewer points than the spread.
Point Spread Betting GuideTotals
A total bet, commonly known as an over/under, is a wager on the combined final score of both teams in a game rather than on who wins or loses. To win, you must correctly predict whether the actual cumulative points, goals, or runs scored will be higher or lower than the benchmark set by the sportsbook.
Over/Under Betting GuideFutures
A future bet is as the name suggests, where you guess the outcome of an event or championship at some point in the future. Normally, we think about futures in terms of the overall winners of competitions. Let’s suppose you are a fan of the Cleveland Browns and are confident that they can win the Super Bowl this year. You can place a future bet that they will win before the season begins for premium odds.
Futures Betting GuideProp Bets
This type of bet is unique in that it is based on specific actions, events, or performances of players or teams, including things that could have nothing to do with the game's outcome. For example, you can bet on the number of assists or rebounds in basketball or, in football, the number of passing yards or touchdowns. You can normally place prop bets on both teams as a whole and individual players.
Prop Betting GuideParlays
Parlays are a type of bet that allows you to combine various individual bets into a single ticket. All the bets must be correct to win a parlay. As such, there is a greater risk when making this kind of bet, but better odds.
Parlay Betting GuideTeaser Bet
Teaser bets are a kind of modified parlay bet, in which you can choose to adjust the point spread in favor of you winning, but the sportsbook will then reduce the payout. The most common teaser is a two-team, six-point football one.
Teaser Betting GuideLive Betting
Live betting occurs when wagers are placed while the game is happening and developing in the moment. The odds change in real-time depending on the score, game events, and other factors. All Ohio sportsbooks have a dedicated live section to see live updates for various events.
Live Betting GuideWhat Can’t You Bet On in Ohio?
While Ohio offers a robust sports betting market, state regulators have established several strict betting prohibitions to protect athletes and the integrity of the games:
College Player Props: As of March 2024, the Ohio Casino Control Commission officially banned all player-specific proposition bets on collegiate sports following a direct request from the NCAA. Bettors can still wager on team outcomes for college games, but individual player stats are prohibited.
High School Sports: You cannot wager on any events where more than 50% of the participating athletes are under the age of 18.
Random Outcomes & Injuries: Bets on entirely random determinations (such as the opening coin flip) and negative outcomes (such as player injuries) are not allowed.
Officiating Actions: Making wagers on the statistical actions, penalty counts, or specific decisions of referees and officials is banned.
Non-Sporting Events: All wagers on entertainment award ceremonies (like the Oscars) and political events (like elections) are strictly prohibited.
Betting on College Sports in Ohio
Yes, Ohio has legalized betting on college sports, allowing you to wager on games involving in-state teams. However, there is one major restriction to be aware of: regulators officially banned all player-specific prop bets on collegiate athletes. Bettors can still wager on team outcomes and game lines, but individual player stats are prohibited.
Here is the full list of Ohio programs in the NCAA Division 1:
Akron Zips
Bowling Green Falcons
Cincinnati Bearcats
Cleveland State Vikings
Dayton Flyers
Kent State Golden Flashes
Miami RedHawks
Ohio Bobcats
Ohio State Buckeyes
Toledo Rockets
Wright State Raiders
Xavier Musketeers
Youngstown State Penguins
Ohio Sports Betting Facts
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Online Launch Date | Jan. 1, 2023 |
| Legal Betting Age | 21 |
| Retail Tax Rate | 20% |
| Online Tax Rate | 20% |
| Retail Sportsbook Locations | 13 |
| Online Sportsbooks | 13 |
| Betting on College Sports | ✅ (Team outcomes only; player props banned) |
| Online Casino | ❌ |
| Online Poker | ❌ |
Ohio accounts for approximately 8% of the total US sports betting handle (based on the trailing 12 months).
The most popular sportsbook brand in Ohio remains FanDuel, which commands an estimated 40% share of the state's Gross Gaming Revenue (GGR).
Following recent industry consolidations and market exits, Ohio currently features a total of 13 active online sportsbook brands.
How Does Ohio Online Sports Betting Compare to Other States?
In the first month of legalization in January 2023, Ohio reported more than $1 billion in wagers and $208 million in revenue. This surpassed every other legal state, other than New York, in that month. It is difficult to compare Ohio in detail to other more established sports betting states over the years, since it was only legalized in the state at the start of 2023. But it is clear that Buckeye State is heading towards becoming a major player in the industry.
Ohio has quite a high tax rate of 20% for sports betting in comparison to other states. For example, the Arizona sports betting market has a rate of 10%, and New Jersey has 13%.
College sports and esports are legal (aside from player props) to bet on in Ohio, which are popular options. Many other legal states do not allow betting in these areas, like Massachusetts, for instance, where esports betting is not legal. However, Ohio does have a few notable restrictions, such as high school sports, politics, and entertainment events.
Ohio Sports Betting Updates
Here are the latest sports betting updates from Ohio:
Aug. 1, 2025 - Ohio Governor Mike DeWine calls for a statewide ban on prop bets, especially micro bets, citing growing integrity concerns following an MLB investigation involving Guardians players and emphasizing the risks to athlete safety and the credibility of sports competitions.
Aug. 1, 2025 - Ohio's sports betting revenue rises 46% year-over-year in June 2025 to $74.95 million, driven by a record 12.8% hold and strong online performance, as FanDuel and DraftKings led the market while operators scaled back promotions to focus on profitability.
Jul. 24, 2025 - Ohio Governor Mike DeWine reaffirms his strong opposition to legalising iGaming, warning it would put "a casino in everybody’s hands, 24/7," and increase gambling addiction, despite legislative proposals touting major tax benefits and support from industry advocates.
Jul. 1, 2025 - Ohio’s sports betting market surges in May 2025 with $741.2 million in wagers, driven by the NBA and NHL playoffs, as well as MLB games, while online sportsbooks accounted for the majority of the handle and revenue, with FanDuel and DraftKings leading the market.
Jun. 3, 2025 - Ohio's sports betting market sees a significant boost in April 2025, with $807.2 million in wagers, marking a 19.7% increase from the previous year, though revenue slightly declined to $73.7 million compared to April 2024, with FanDuel and DraftKings leading the market.
Jun. 2, 2025 - Ohio's Type-C sports betting kiosks, which launched in 2023, will be mostly offline by June 22, 2025, after proving unsuccessful, with small businesses now pushing for the legalization of video lottery terminals (VLTs) as an alternative revenue source.
May 21, 2025 - Ohio's House Bill 298 proposes legalizing and regulating iGaming with restrictions, including a $50 million initial license fee, a 28% tax on receipts, and a ban on credit card funding for wagers, while limiting licenses to current casino operators and racetrack owners.
May 14, 2025 - Ohio's new iGaming bill, introduced by Sen. Nathan Manning, proposes a $50 million licensing fee and a tax rate of 36% to 40%, potentially making Ohio one of the highest-taxed states for iGaming, while also legalizing online lottery and horse racing betting.
Apr. 2, 2025 - In February 2025, Ohio's sports betting handle reached $760.9 million, marking a 13.2% year-over-year increase, while generating $75.3 million in revenue, with online platforms contributing the majority of the handle and DraftKings and FanDuel leading operator performance.
Mar. 31, 2025 - Ohio becomes the latest state to send a cease-and-desist letter to prediction market platforms Kalshi and Robinhood.
Mar. 13, 2025 - Ohio House Republicans remove Governor Mike DeWine's proposed tax increases on cigarettes, marijuana, and gambling from the state budget, expressing concerns over the impact of these hikes on taxpayers and economic growth.
Feb. 7, 2025 - Reports indicate that Ohioans wagered nearly $8.9 billion on sports in 2024, generating over $1.8 billion in taxable revenue since the legalization of sports betting in January 2023.
Feb. 4, 2025 - Governor Mike DeWine proposes doubling the state's sports betting tax rate from 20% to 40% as part of his two-year operating budget plan. The additional revenue will fund a new Sports Facilities Construction and Sports Education Fund, supporting stadium projects and youth sports initiatives.
Jan. 13, 2025 - PENN Entertainment announces plans to rebrand 10 retail sportsbooks across six states under the ESPN BET brand, including Ohio's Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway and Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course.
Dec. 2, 2024 - The Ohio Casino Control Commission announces that the state's sports betting handle reached $901.4 million in October, marking the second-highest monthly total since the market's launch in January 2023.
Oct. 2, 2024 - Reports highlight a surge in harassment and abuse towards college athletes attributed to the expansion of online gambling and proposition bets involving student-athletes. In response, Ohio, among other states, bans prop bets on collegiate athletes to protect their well-being.
Sept. 6, 2024 - State Senator Niraj Antani introduces Senate Bill 312, proposing the legalization and regulation of online casino gambling in Ohio. The bill suggests a 15% tax rate on online table games and slots, lower than the existing 20% tax on sports betting.
Aug. 22, 2024 - Bovada exits Ohio as the nationwide crackdown on unlicensed and illegal online gaming products continues.
Aug. 13, 2024 - Ohio sports betting handle was $525.6 million in June, down 19% from May but up 32% year over year.
July 31, 2024 - Betway is no longer accepting bets in Ohio.
July 31, 2024 - Betfred is no longer accepting deposits in Ohio.
July 22, 2024 - SuperBook and Betfred announced they are both exiting Ohio.
July 4, 2024 - According to PlayOhio, the Ohio Casino Control Commission is reportedly discussing how to implement new sports betting advertising rules.
June 4, 2024 - Ohio's lifetime sports betting handle hits $10 billion, making it the fastest U.S. market to reach that mark.
May 22, 2024 - According to PlayOhio, Ohio was the only state to collect more than $100 million in tax revenue in 2023.
May 16, 2024 - Ohio sports betting handle rose to $802.6 million in March, up 20.3% from February and 9.5% year over year.
May 7, 2024 - According to PlayOhio, two Ohio lawmakers submitted a resolution hoping to end retired baseball player Pete Rose’s lifetime ban from Major League Baseball. Rose was permanently banned in 1989 for betting on baseball.
May 6, 2024 - Ohio regulators propose a "use it or lose it" amendment for all sports betting operators.
May 2, 2024 - Ohio sees a huge jump in handle, but loses revenue in March. The Buckeye State took in $808.1 million in wagers but made only $63.8 million in revenue.
May 1, 2024 — DraftKings is opening a new retail sportsbook, DraftKings Sports & Social, in Columbus on May 9.
April 9, 2024 - According to PlayOhio, sportsbooks in the state have voided more than $82.5 million in bets in the 14 months post-launch.
April 2, 2024 - Ohio sports betting handle fell to $671.1 million in February, down 17.2% from January but up 5% year-over-year.
March 20, 2024 - MGM is considering selling Northfield Park, according to Bloomberg. The Northfield racino has a 2,200-square-foot sportsbook.
March 14, 2024 - The Covelli Centre in Youngstown could be the location for Ohio’s next retail sportsbook. Plans for the three-story, 25,000-square-foot-addition were discussed recently by Phantom Fireworks and the city council.
March 13, 2024 - The OCCC is proposing a new rule to the Common Sense Initiative (CSI) office. The rule would require sports betting operators in Ohio to use multi-factor authentication on user betting accounts.
March 1, 2024 - Ohio sports betting revenue tops $113 million in January while the total monthly handle reached $810 million.
Feb. 6, 2024 - NCAA requests that Ohio ban betting on college players after reported harassment of athletes and several wagering-related incidents.
Jan. 26, 2024 - bet365 launches a free-to-play fantasy contest in Ohio and four other states. The prize pool for each game is $25,000.
Jan. 17, 2024 - ESPN Bet had the third-highest handle during its first live month in Ohio. FanDuel and DraftKings were first and second, respectively.
Jan. 10, 2023 - Sports betting handle in Ohio reached $846.2 million in November 2023. This is the highest total for the state since it started operating in the state. This was a 15% month-over-month increase.
Dec. 14, 2023 - Ohio residents can now use Gamban’s website blocking service and app for free for a year. The service is the latest in the state's arsenal of tools aimed at promoting responsible gaming.
Dec. 13, 2023 - Ohio sports betting regulators are reported to have given sports betting operators in the state until the end of June 2024 to launch. There are 15 licenses that haven't found a sportsbook to partner with yet.
Nov. 29, 2023 - PENN Entertainment started construction on a new hotel at their Hollywood Casino Columbus location.
Nov. 22, 2023 - The Ohio Casino Control Commission proposed changes to the state's regulations concerning the types of promotions that sports betting operators can offer.
Nov. 20, 2023 - Ohio's regulators banned Brad Bohannon - former UA baseball coach - and his associate, Bert Neff Jr., from sports betting. This action was taken following allegations that Neff attempted to place bets using insider information provided by Bohannon.
Nov. 14, 2023 - ESPN BET launches in Ohio.
Sept. 13, 2023 - Prime Sportsbook becomes the 20th online sportsbook.
Sept. 1, 2023 - Sports betting in Ohio reaches $4 billion in wagers.
Aug. 30, 2023 - Bally Bet launches in Ohio.
July 2023 - New legislation is passed that increases the tax rate on sports betting from 10% to 20%.
May 1, 2023 - Fanatics goes live in Ohio
Feb. 14, 2023 - BetParx becomes the 17th sportsbook platform.
Jan. 1, 2023 - Legal online sports betting is officially launched with 16 mobile sportsbooks.
Dec. 14, 2022 - The OCCC meets and approves Bally Bet, Betway, Out the Gate, and Underdog.
Nov. 16, 2022 - Next, BetPARK, Betr, Fanatics, and MVGBet are approved.
Nov. 2, 2022 - BetMGM, BetRivers, HArd Rock Sportsbook, and Tipico are also accepted.
Oct. 5, 2022 - The OCCC approves Bet365, Betfred, Caesars, PointsBet, and Superbook.
Sept. 21, 2023 - 10 Ohio sports betting proprietor licenses are approved, including the Cincinnati Bengals, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Cleveland Guardians.
Aug. 17, 2022 - Ohio accepts 200 Type-C sports betting licenses.
Aug. 3, 2022 - For self-service sports betting kiosks, around 1,000 restaurants and bars have submitted applications for Type-C licenses.
July 21, 2022 - The Cincinnati Bengals become the first Ohio sports franchise to apply for its own license. FanDuel and Fanatics also apply for licenses.
June 22, 2022 - DraftKings applies for a mobile management provider license.
June 20, 2022 - BetMGM is the next operator.
June 16, 2022 - PointsBet is the first operator to apply.
June 15, 2022 - The Ohio sports betting application window opens.
June 2022 - It is confirmed that the first day of sports betting in Ohio will be on January 1st 2023.
May 2022 - The OCCC announces that it will begin to accept license applications for sports betting.
January 2022 - The Ohio Casino Control Commision releases the first set of sports betting rules.
December 2021 - The House and Senate pass HB 29 with amendments to allow for sports betting. Schuring confirms that licenses will be handed out by Jan. 1, 2023.
June 2021 - The Senate passes SB 176 but is stalled when it reaches the House. Schuring realizes this and pushes it onto an unrelated bill, HB 29, that has better opportunity to progress.
May 2021 - Senator Kirk Schuring presents SB 176, this proposed bill is the most recent sports betting legislation that proposes 20 mobile licenses and 20 retail licenses.
May 2018 - US Supreme Court lifted the federal ban on sports betting by overturning the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act.
January 2018 - Daily Fantasy Sports was legalized in the state.
Is Daily Fantasy Sports Legal in Ohio?
Yes, Daily Fantasy Sports is legal in the state of Ohio. You can find DFS on DraftKings and FanDuel, which are available for Ohio players, along with other top DFS apps.
Sports Teams in Ohio
Ohio has professional teams in all four of the major US leagues, demonstrating its strong sports culture. Aside from the most popular franchises listed below, notable teams include the MLS soccer clubs Columbus Crew (who won their third MLS Cup in 2023) and FC Cincinnati.
Cleveland Browns: The Browns have a dedicated fan base and a deep history, making them one of the most beloved teams in Ohio. They boast four NFL Championships under their belt from the 1950s and 60s.
Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals are Ohio’s other NFL team. They have managed several playoff appearances and reached the Super Bowl three times, though they are still seeking their first championship win.
Cincinnati Reds: The Reds have won five World Series Championships, making them the most historically successful Ohio team. However, their most recent championship was in 1990.
Cleveland Guardians: Ohio's other MLB team, the Cleveland Guardians, have won two World Series back in 1920 and 1948.
Columbus Blue Jackets: The Blue Jackets are Ohio’s only NHL team. Established in 2000, they have never won the Stanley Cup.
Cleveland Cavaliers: The only NBA team in the state, the Cavaliers won their first NBA Championship in 2016. This historic success was anchored by the leadership and talents of NBA legend LeBron James, who played for the Cavaliers from 2003 to 2010, and again from 2014 to 2018.
Ohio Sportsbook Partnerships
Ohio is home to eight major league franchises, many of which established thriving partnerships with sports betting operators upon the state's market launch. However, due to recent market consolidation and stadium naming changes, some of these initial agreements have significantly evolved:
Cincinnati Reds: In 2022, the Reds announced BetMGM as their official partner, which led to the opening of a retail sportsbook directly at Great American Ball Park.
Cleveland Guardians: Ohio’s other MLB team maintains a multiyear partnership with bet365 as its exclusive mobile betting partner, while Fanatics Sportsbook operates their retail location at Progressive Field.
Columbus Blue Jackets: Fanatics Sportsbook also holds a retail sportsbook partnership with Ohio's sole NHL franchise, located adjacent to Nationwide Arena.
Cleveland Cavaliers: Caesars Sportsbook serves as the official betting partner of the Cavaliers, operating a retail sportsbook inside Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse.
Cleveland Browns: The Browns joined forces with Bally Bet to establish a branded sports lounge at Huntington Bank Field, the newly renamed stadium formerly known as FirstEnergy Stadium.
Cincinnati Bengals: The Bengals originally teamed up with Betfred; however, the partnership dissolved after Betfred officially ceased its Ohio sports betting operations in 2024.
MLS Franchises: The Columbus Crew initially partnered with Tipico, while FC Cincinnati signed with SuperBook. Following major industry shifts, both of these operators have since exited the Ohio market, leaving the soccer clubs without active, local sportsbook platforms.
How We Rated the Top Ohio Sports Betting Sites
At WSN, we understand the significance of thorough and hands-on testing when it comes to evaluating sportsbooks. As such, we invest considerable time and effort into trying out each platform ourselves before constructing our reviews. Personal testing is the only way to truly understand the ins and outs of a sportsbook, and relaying our experience is the most genuine way of informing our readers.
Before our experts begin writing their reviews, we require them to commit a minimum of 2 hours to properly explore each of the following six areas:
User Experience - We look for sportsbooks that provide a smooth and enjoyable experience. They must be easy to navigate, making it a breeze to explore the different features and sections. Additionally, they should look visually pleasing, as a well-designed and attractive platform contributes to your overall enjoyment. For both phones and desktops, we ensure to test this on different devices for a uniform experience.
Features - We dedicate time to thoroughly explore the features of a sportsbook, looking at the variety of sports and betting markets available, in addition to the live betting options, extra features like pick ‘em services or tips, and anything else.
Promotions - We personally opt into and try out the different promotions that are on offer, whether welcome bonuses, free bets, ongoing promotions, or loyalty schemes. We gain first-hand experience with how they work and explore all the terms and conditions.
Deposits and Withdrawals - We consider a variety of convenient and secure payment methods. This goes for traditional options such as debit cards and bank transfers or more modern methods like e-wallets and cryptocurrency. We access each payment method for deposits and withdrawals, evaluating factors such as processing time, limits, and fees.
Customer Support - We understand the value of excellent customer service, so we dedicate time to test out how responsive and fast each customer support channel is. This includes sending emails to the team, evaluating the efficiency of the live chat, and even directly calling an agent.
Responsible Gaming - We place a strong emphasis on the practice of responsible gaming ourselves. Therefore, we hold a sportsbook to the highest regard when they clearly advocate responsible gaming. This includes featuring links to helpful sites, hotlines, or specific features like deposit/wager limits, time-outs, and self-exclusion.
Our team of post-publication editors ensures that our reviews are continually updated to ensure that the information is current and accurately reflects what is shown on the respective site. We allocate a total of five hours to this process monthly. Get more info on our BetEdge rating methodology here.
Why You Should Trust Us
Our trustworthiness comes from the fact that our primary goal is to relay our experience to you, in order to improve your betting experience for the better. We have been part of the industry since the beginning, and as it has grown, so has our expertise.
Our team carries out hands-on testing for sports betting sites, where we personally test, access, and compare multiple platforms to provide you with accurate information. Each piece is thoroughly researched and detailed, maintaining clarity and impartiality and receiving regular updates.
At the end of the day, we want to help simplify and improve your betting experience. The main driving force behind our work is to provide you with a reliable and authentic source of information.
Getting Help: Responsible Gambling in Ohio
The Ohio Casino Control Commission is the regulatory authority that oversees sports betting in the state and is strongly committed to promoting responsible gambling. The OCCC offers a range of resources for individuals who are seeking support or information about the matter
First, consider consulting the Ohio Responsible Gaming website, where you can read warning signs, tips, and other resources. If you are looking to speak directly to someone, you can call 1-800-589-9966 or use the live chat. They also have initiatives such as Change the Game Ohio, Get Set Before You Bet, Keep It Fun Ohio, and Voluntary Exclusion Program which are very helpful.
Ohio sportsbooks also have certain tools to manage your gambling behavior
Deposit Limits/Wager Limits - You can set limits on how much you deposit and wager on your betting account as a part of your bankroll management strategy.
Time-Outs - This gives you the option of having a break from betting for a specific period.
Self-Exclusion - You are excluded from betting for a set period or indefinitely.
Get more resources in our Responsible Gambling Center.
Ohio Sports Betting FAQ
Is Sports Betting Legal in Ohio?
What Can You Bet on in Ohio?
How Old Do You Have to Be to Bet on Sports in OH?
Is Daily Fantasy Sports legal in Ohio?
Do I need to be inside the state of Ohio to place a bet?
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