In January 2023, new sports betting laws made Ohio betting sites legal, with over a dozen platforms now available to local sports fans. With so many options, choosing where to bet can be challenging. Our top-rated offshore sites offer a variety of bonuses, sharp lines and tons of markets.
This guide covers leading Ohio sports betting sites, highlighting their bonuses, competitive odds and more. Discover the top places for sports bettors in Ohio today.
Top OH Sportsbooks Reviewed
| SPORTSBOOK | TRUST SCORE | ONLINE SINCE | Expert Review | BONUS | Bet Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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2001
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20% Cash Bonus
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2005
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55% Cash Bonus
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1994
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30% Cash Bonus
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2001
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$250 Free Bet
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1985
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$500 Cash Bonus
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1983
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$500 Cash Bonus
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Ohio lawmakers aim to legalize mobile lotteries and online casinos to modernize gambling and tap into the mobile gaming boom. Meanwhile, SuperBook is pulling out of eight states, including Ohio, while Betfred is exiting Ohio after its Maryland departure. Despite these changes, Ohio’s sports betting industry is booming, with over $4.1 billion wagered in the first half of 2024.
Is sports betting legal in Ohio?
In January 2023, sports betting became legal in Ohio. Retail sports betting is still in its infancy in the state, and compliance with new sports betting laws is an ongoing process, which is why many bettors still prefer to use offshore sportsbooks.
These legal sportsbooks are not under the jurisdiction of the Ohio state government or U.S. federal law, unlike retail locations. That means they can offer legal sports betting, casino games, online poker and even betting markets on entertainment, politics and esports.
While the thousands of Buckeye State sportsbook operators are learning the ropes of the new in-state industry, sports betting sites located internationally will continue to operate the same as they ever have.
Ohio State Sports Betting Timeline
Sports betting changes in Ohio are marked by a wide range of legislative developments, regulatory advancements and a gradual shift in the state’s approach to gambling:
Ohio lawmakers aim to legalize mobile lotteries and online casinos to modernize gambling and tap into the mobile gaming boom. Meanwhile, SuperBook is pulling out of eight states, including Ohio, while Betfred is exiting Ohio after its Maryland departure. Despite these changes, Ohio’s sports betting industry is booming, with over $4.1 billion wagered in the first half of 2024.
The Ohio Casino Control Commission proposes a new rule (Ohio Adm.Code Chapter 3775-16-09) following Fanatics’ violations. Ohio’s casino revenue soars in May, marking the second-best month of 2024, as online gaming potential rises.
Ohio’s casino revenue soars in May, marking the second-best month of 2024, as online gaming potential rises.
In an effort to ensure active participation in sports betting, the Ohio Casino Control Commission proposes an amendment to revoke the licenses of sports betting operators that have been inactive for a year.
The Study Commission on the Future of Gaming in Ohio holds its first meeting to discuss online casinos.
Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and the NCAA voice support to ban college prop bets in the state.
Kroger, Ohio’s largest supermarket chain, adds betting kiosks to 20 locations across Greater Cincinnati and Dayton.
Ohio’s first year of legalized sports betting generates nearly $800 million in revenue.
Sports betting revenue goes up 14.6% compared to July 2023.
As of July 1st, the tax for online sportsbooks doubles, from 10% to 20%.
Legislators voice support for raising online sportsbooks’ tax from 10 to 20%.
During Q1 of 2023, the sports betting handle in Ohio exceeds $3 billion.
The Ohio Casino Control Commission has ruled that gift cards will be allowed to be used as currency for Ohio sports betting, both mobile and retail.
Ohio successfully launches its sports betting market on January 1, with several retail sportsbooks and online betting platforms going live. During the first month, the handle tops $1 billion.
In October, the Ohio Casino Control Commission finalizes the regulatory framework for sports betting, setting the stage for the industry’s launch in the state.
Cincinnati proved to be a strong candidate for the state’s most prolific city as reports indicated the biggest Super Bowl betting activity in Ohio.
The state legislature closes its final session of the year without voting on SB111, essentially leaving it to die without approval.
HB29 is passed after negotiation. The state senate approved one bill, which was then amended and replaced. The law was approved on December 8 and signed by the governor, Mike DeWine, on December 22. Now, companies could begin to apply for sports betting licenses.
In Murphy vs. NCAA, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that PASPA was unconstitutional, opening the door for states to decide their own sports betting laws.
State senator John Eklund proposes SB111, which would regulate Ohio sports betting.
Ohio opens its first casinos, marking a shift in the state’s stance towards gambling and setting a foundation for future discussions about sports betting.
A bill to legalize and regulate daily fantasy sports (DFS) in Ohio is introduced, reflecting a growing interest in sports-related betting activities.
Ohio lawmakers begin initial discussions about legalizing sports betting, acknowledging the potential revenue and interest in the state following national trends.
Ohio voters approve a constitutional amendment to allow a state lottery, indicating growing acceptance of regulated gambling in the state.
The Ohio legislature passes a bill to allow slot machines at racetracks, expanding the state’s gambling options and reflecting a more open approach to gambling regulation.
PASPA (Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act), a federal law banning all types of sports betting in every state except Nevada, is passed.
The first racetrack with video lottery terminals opens in Ohio, introducing a new form of gambling to the state and laying the groundwork for future expansion of gaming options.
The Buckeye State keeps growing with the U.S. sports betting industry, and this timeline shows how it’s pursuing a stable, well-regulated system that aligns with national trends and meets local needs.
Best Ohio Betting Sites
Our experts rated the top online sports betting sites on several different factors and came up with the following rankings.
The sites on our list all offer a secure, stable platform for legally betting on your favorite teams and a wide range of sports markets for your bets on popular sports. These sportsbooks offer all types of sports betting including game parlays, teasers, prop bets, live betting, point spreads and moneyline betting.
Sports fans and bettors can find competitive betting odds, generous bonus offers and a wide range of legal sports betting markets and options at each of these online sports betting sites.
- BetOnline – Offers the quickest payouts in Ohio
- Heritage Sports – Provides an excellent live betting platform in Ohio
- BetAnySports – Provides reduced juice for bettors
- Everygame – Features games and matches outside the U.S.
- WagerWeb – Offers same-day payouts for Bitcoin users
- SportsBetting.ag – Provides a great mobile racebook
- BetUS – Offers generous bonuses for new customers and VIPs
- JustBet – Features some of the earliest betting lines in the industry
- BookMaker – Caters to experienced gamblers and first-timers alike
Reviews of the Best Ohio Betting Sites
Ohio’s sports betting options cater to fans of both college sports betting and professional sports teams, like the Buckeye State’s Cincinnati Reds. With sports betting legal in the state, bettors can explore online sportsbooks that deliver competitive odds, flexible payment methods and extensive betting markets.
When choosing a particular online sports betting platform to use as an alternative to gambling at a retail location, there are many aspects to consider. So, to supplement our top 10 rankings, we put together an in-depth list of mobile sportsbook reviews.
Some of the factors we considered ideal for sports bettors include user-friendly interfaces, the size of limits offered, betting odds, offering plenty of payment methods, 24/7 customer service and bonuses for new users. You can learn more about each of the options available in the Buckeye State with the in-depth sportsbook reviews below:
1. BetOnline: Best Opinionated Lines
Key Features:
- Opinionated lines
- 24/7 customer service with short waiting times
BetOnline is a top choice for bettors in the Buckeye State, and covers popular sports and niche events alike. With plenty of options for wagering, including college sports betting, it provides diverse opportunities for fans to bet on their favorite teams.
This platform is one of the few legal sportsbooks where you can find opinionated lines. Most Ohio sports betting sites offer the same odds on both sides of a spread for example, but opinionated lines will be set at -112/-108 or even -113/-107, which gives you a profit boost if you pick correctly. BetOnline promo codes are also very easy to find and offer many great sports betting bonuses and player rewards.
In addition to its sportsbook promos and betting options, BetOnline supports a diverse range of online options for deposits and payments including cryptocurrencies, credit cards, wire transfers and money orders, catering to the preferences of different bettors.
2. Heritage Sports: Our Top Choice for Live Betting in OH
Key Features:
- Offers reduced juice
- The best live betting interface in Ohio
Heritage Sports is a great sportsbook that caters to bettors interested in both professional sports teams and college sports betting. It offers access to a wide variety of sports and bet types, so users have plenty of options to place real money wagers on their preferred events.
It was even one of the first sites to offer a live betting platform and it still is one of the best interfaces for betting on games. The live betting function has an extensive selection of events, quick odds updates and a platform that makes placing bets during games both easy and exciting for bettors.
The sportsbook offers reduced juice of -108, which translates to a 20% discount over time. It also offers great promos like cashback rebates and fast payouts with professional customer service.
Whether focusing on local or national teams, bettors can choose their preferred type of bet, including moneylines, props and parlays.
3. BetAnySports: Best Reduced Juice
Key Features:
- Reduced juice is the most generous in Ohio
- Multiple live betting platforms for in-progress games and matches
BetAnySports is the low-price leader among Ohio sportsbooks with its reduced juice model. Instead of offering odds of -110 on either side of a spread or point total, BetAnySports sets its odds at -105. Over time, this helps your profit margin grow to make you more money.
The site caters to a wide array of sports fans, offering a comprehensive selection of betting options across major sports like football, basketball, baseball and soccer, as well as niche markets including esports and international events.
BetAnySports offers a dynamic live betting experience with multiple platforms, ensuring bettors have a wide range of options for in-game wagering. The site is also known for its fast payouts, ensuring that winners can access their funds quickly and without hassle.
4. Everygame: Best Online Casino Gaming
Key Features:
- Wide range of betting options
- Covers more games from around the world than anyone else
Everygame stands out as a top choice for sports bettors with its user-friendly platform and extensive options. Bettors in the Buckeye State and beyond can access a broad range of sports, including popular options like football and basketball, as well as niche sports like esports, darts, snooker and table tennis.
In addition to sports betting, Everygame provides a comprehensive casino and poker experience. The mobile-friendly platform ensures convenient access to diverse betting markets, casino games and poker tournaments, catering to all skill levels and preferences.
How We Rank the Best Ohio Sportsbooks
When we set out to find Ohio’s top 10 online betting sites, we looked at a bunch of different factors. We compared dozens of sportsbooks side by side to see how they stacked up. After that, we made a final tweak to our rankings based on the features that matter most to bettors. Here are a few of the key things we took into account:
Betting Experience
An online sports betting platform should be easy to use. The best online sportsbooks in the Buckeye State are easy to navigate, user-friendly and load quickly. They had clearly labeled sections and filters making it easy to find the sport you wanted, the market you were trying to bet on or the individual game you were looking for without clicking too many times.
Sports Betting Apps
Performance and quality are equally important on a mobile site or sports betting app. Users on a phone or tablet should have a similar experience to the full-blown site on a laptop or desktop. Our top-ranked sports betting apps are safe and legal and they offer a wide menu of sports, banking methods and bonuses.
Bonus Codes & Promos
There are a number of different types of sign-up bonuses for new customers. We evaluated welcome bonuses at online sportsbooks based on the amount offered and the type of bonus — is it a straight dollar amount, a risk-free bet, free plays or something else? Are there strings attached, especially when it comes to withdrawing the money?
We also consider other factors that could cloud the picture like minimum deposits, bonus percentages, max wagers, wagering requirements, rollovers and expiration dates.
Live Betting & Streaming
In-play betting is no longer new — it’s a requirement for any online sports betting site and sports betting app. We want an interface that makes it easy and fast to find and place live bets. Odds are constantly changing, so delays in loading pages or filling out the bet slip could cost real money.
Whether on a desktop site or a sports betting app, the platform should provide access to a wide range of sports and markets. Live streaming is another standout feature, offering an enhanced experience for bettors who want to follow the action in real time.
Banking Options
Whether you’re collecting your winnings or just pulling out some of your initial deposit, it should be fast and easy to get back your own money and your preferred method should be supported. Top-rated sites should have a simple, secure process that doesn’t keep you waiting too long.
Does the site charge fees or have frustrating requirements when you try to withdraw money from your account? What payment options are available both to fund your account and to receive money? These are some of the questions we ask.
Customer Service
Top-rated online sports betting sites will offer customer service in multiple languages and have professional support available without long wait times. Customer service should ideally be available 24/7 and there should be several ways to get help, including live chat, email and telephone.
Licensing & Security
Any sites that had issues with security or licensing status were not included in our rankings. Our top 10 sites all have long histories of safe, secure online gambling. So you can be sure your money and personal information will be safe.
How to Sign up for an Online Sportsbook Account
Joining an online sportsbook in the Buckeye State is fast and easy. It only takes a few minutes to get signed up to bet on your favorite professional sports teams. Here’s a step-by-step guide for the registration process at a typical online sports betting platform:
- Open a Sports Betting Account: Pick the online sportsbook. In this case, we’re going with BetOnline, our top-ranked sports betting site in Ohio. On the site’s homepage, you’ll see a “Join” button. Click that button to go to the registration page and fill out all the required information.
- Choose a Payment Method: After your account is created, you need to fund it. Go to the Cashier section and choose the deposit method you’ll be using from the list provided (including debit cards, credit cards, bank transfers or crypto like Bitcoin or Bitcoin Cash). Then, enter the amount you want to deposit.
- Select a Welcome Bonus: New customers usually qualify for one of the site’s welcome bonuses. You could get a deposit bonus, where you’re eligible for a deposit match up to a certain amount. Review the different traditional and crypto bonuses available and pick the offer that suits you best. Be sure to enter any required promo codes.
- Choose a Sport to Wager on: Now that you’ve got an account with money available, it’s time to make some bets! Pick the sport or sports you’re interested in, review the schedule of games or matches and bet types and decide which game or match you want to bet on and how.
Completed all the steps? All that’s left is to place your bets by adding your selections to the bet slip and waiting to see if your wager wins.
Betting Options in Ohio
You’re not limited to just simple wagers on your favorite sports teams like the Cincinnati Reds or even college sports teams like the Ohio State Buckeyes in the Buckeye State.
In fact, you’ve got plenty of options for betting on your favorite sports. Knowing the different types of bets can help you make smarter decisions and potentially boost your chances of winning. Here’s a look at some of the most popular bets to place on your favorite sports:
- Moneyline Bets: Simply pick the team or player you believe will win. It’s straightforward and perfect for beginners looking to get started.
- Point Spread Bets: Bet on the favorite to win by more than a set number of points or on the underdog to lose by less or win outright. This levels the playing field and adds excitement to the game.
- Over/Under Bets (Totals): Wager on whether the total combined score of a game will be over or under a number set by the sportsbook. It’s all about predicting the game’s offensive and defensive performance.
- Parlays: Combine two or more bets into one for a higher potential payout. All selections must win for the parlay to cash, making it a high-risk, high-reward option.
- Futures: Bet on the outcome of future events, such as who will win the championship or specific season-long achievements. These bets are typically placed well in advance of the events.
- Prop Bets: Place wagers on specific events within a game that don’t directly affect the final outcome, like which player will score first or the number of strikeouts a pitcher will have.
Exploring these different betting types can boost your sports bets in Ohio, allowing you to diversify your strategies and potentially increase your winnings. Whether you’re new to betting or a seasoned pro, understanding these options is key to making informed wagers.
Sportsbook Promos & Bonuses Available in Ohio
If you’re planning to begin betting on sports betting websites, you’re about to become very popular with sportsbook operators. The online sports betting market is fierce, and sites will offer you plenty of ongoing promotions to lure you into signing up with them. Then, they’ll offer a variety of loyalty programs to keep you betting with them.
But you’ll typically want to choose an online sportsbook over a brick-and-mortar sportsbook simply because of their offers. That’s because along with a variety of sports to bet on, you’ll have a ton more bonuses. However, know that not all bonuses are the same. We’ll go through some of the most common types you can use on your favorite sports.
Welcome Bonuses
Just about every online sportsbook offers a sign-up bonus to attract new users. It’s the most common type of bonus awarded in the industry.
In most cases, a sportsbook will give you a welcome bonus with your first deposit. The bonus could range from a 50% match, meaning that if you deposit $500, they’ll give you an additional $250, all the way up to a 200% match, which would mean your $500 is matched with an additional $1,000. They’re usually capped at a specific amount and sometimes require the use of an eligible promo code.
Existing Customer Promotions
Sites also want to retain their current customers, and they do so with loyalty bonuses. The best online sports betting sites value loyalty and offer a variety of promotions to keep you on board, including reload bonuses, enhanced odds or odds boosts and insurance bets.
No Deposit Bonuses
No deposit bonuses are rare, but you may see one on occasion. These sports betting bonuses basically give you money before you make a deposit. Essentially, they’re funding your first few bets for free.
You don’t have to deposit money into your account to claim a no deposit bonus. Depending on the online sportsbook, these offers can be in the form of additional bonus money or free bet tokens.
Free Bets & Bonus Bets
Free bets are a popular promotional item. You basically get a chance to win with no risk with this type of bet. Different sites may market them as risk-free bets or bet insurance. You usually have to bet money from your account.
If you win, you get to keep whatever you earned, but if you lose, you get the money you wagered back in the form of a free bet credit. However, it’s not completely free because the money will now likely have rollover requirements and an expiration date, making it tougher to withdraw from your account.
Ohio Sports Betting Teams
Here’s a look at the most beloved professional and college sports teams across Ohio. We highlighted the top professional franchises and top collegiate programs that define the Buckeye State’s spirit. You’ve got plenty of options for betting on popular sports:
- Cleveland Browns (NFL): A well-known franchise in NFL football, the Cleveland Browns boast a loyal and passionate fan base. Despite a rollercoaster history, their resilience and moments of brilliance keep fans and bettors on the edge of their seats, especially during the AFC North matchups.
- Cincinnati Bengals (NFL): Another NFL mainstay, the Bengals have seen a resurgence in recent years, capturing the hearts of fans across the state. Their journey to the Super Bowl in the 2021 season has rekindled enthusiasm and betting interest in the team’s prospects.
- Cleveland Cavaliers (NBA): In the NBA, the Cleveland Cavaliers have etched their name into the history books, particularly with their 2016 championship win.
- Ohio State University Buckeyes (NCAA): A powerhouse in NCAA Division I, this major college team is synonymous with athletic excellence, particularly in football and basketball. Their football program, in particular, is a national titan in college sports, attracting fervent support and significant betting action with its tradition of excellence and championship contention.
- Cleveland Guardians (MLB): The Cleveland Guardians are a well-known franchise within the MLB, with a history that dates back to the early 20th century. The Cleveland Guardians compete in the American League Central Division and they play their home games throughout the MLB season at Progressive Field in downtown Cleveland.
- Cincinnati Reds (MLB): Known as the oldest professional baseball team, the Cincinnati Reds have an astounding history that includes five World Series championships and numerous National League pennants. The Cincinnati Reds play in the National League Central Division and have a dedicated fan base that spans generations.
- Columbus Blue Jackets (NHL): Representing Ohio in the NHL, the Blue Jackets have carved out a niche in the state’s sports scene. Their games in Columbus are a hotspot for hockey fans, providing fast-paced action and passionate displays of team spirit.
Love the Cincinnati Reds, Cleveland Browns or the Cincinnati Bengals? The Buckeye State stands out for its passionate fans, historic team achievements and diverse sports action, making it a prime destination for anyone interested in sports betting. Whether it’s wagering on college teams or professional teams, there’s something for everyone in Ohio.
Online Sports Betting Banking Methods in Ohio
At the top sportsbooks in the Buckeye State, you’ll find a wide variety of banking options to meet your needs. The best sportsbook operators accept:
- Credit Cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express)
- Debit or Prepaid Cards
- Checks (via online banking)
- Bank Wire Transfers
- P2P Payment Services like PayPal
- Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Ethereum or Litecoin
By offering a wide range of deposit and payment options, Ohio sportsbooks ensure that every bettor can choose the option that best fits their preferences—whether they value speed, security or convenience. There’s a perfect banking solution waiting for anyone in the Buckeye State.
Responsible Gambling in Ohio
Gambling should be an entertaining and enjoyable experience. However, if it becomes a concern for you or someone you care about, help is available. When gambling starts to impact family, work or personal life, seeking support can make a meaningful difference.
- Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline: Call 1-800-589-9966 for 24/7 confidential assistance and resources on responsible gambling.
- National Problem Gambling Helpline: Call 1-800-GAMBLER for nationwide support and referrals to local resources.
Conclusion
Ohio’s sports betting market continues to thrive, offering both in-state options and the added convenience of trusted offshore sites. While local platforms are expanding, many Ohio bettors turn to established international sportsbooks like BetOnline, Heritage Sports and BetAnySports for their diverse betting markets, high betting limits and exclusive bonuses. Whether betting on professional sports or college teams in the Buckeye State, there’s something for everyone.
Offshore sportsbooks offer unique perks like reduced juice, live betting interfaces and crypto-friendly transactions, making them a preferred choice for bettors seeking flexibility and value. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or new to the scene, these platforms provide a no-nonsense, rewarding betting experience.
Ohio Betting Sites FAQs
Can you do online betting in Ohio?
Yes. Many bettors in the Buckeye State enjoy internationally licensed sportsbooks for added perks. These sites provide high betting limits, unique promotions and flexible crypto payments, offering an unmatched experience with a broader selection of popular sports markets.
Where can I place a sports bet in Ohio?
Ohio residents have access to multiple options, including regulated sports betting apps and retail sportsbooks. Many also prefer trusted international sportsbooks, which provide unique prop bets, high-limit wagers and early lines on popular matchups, offering unmatched flexibility and control.
Can I use Bet365 in Ohio?
Yes, you can use Bet365, a popular platform for daily fantasy sports. However, many players turn to established international sportsbooks for higher limits, competitive odds and extensive live betting options. International sportsbooks also offer generous bonuses and more payment options, like cryptocurrency.
Can you bet on Bovada in Ohio?
No, Bovada isn’t accessible in Ohio. However, bettors in the Buckeye State can use top-rated offshore sportsbooks like BetOnline and BookMaker. These sites have huge betting markets, generous payouts and the flexibility of crypto-friendly payment options. These sites are great if you want to explore beyond playing daily fantasy sports.
Is FanDuel Sportsbook legal in Ohio?
Yes, FanDuel, a popular sportsbook and daily fantasy sports platform, is available in Ohio. However, many Ohio players stick to offshore sportsbooks for a greater variety of sports markets, exclusive prop options and higher payout limits for betting on their favorite sports teams.
How do you bet on NFL games in Ohio?
You can place NFL sports bets through top offshore sportsbooks like BetOnline, Heritage Sports and Everygame. Compared to retail sportsbooks, these platforms offer competitive odds, high betting limits and generous bonuses.
Ohio Betting Guides
For bettors in Ohio who are looking for more ways to enjoy online gambling markets, we have a number of other betting guides to check out:
