Is Sports Betting Legal in Ohio?
Yes, betting on sports is legal in Ohio.
Yes, most offshore sportsbooks accept players from Ohio.
What sports betting apps are legal in Ohio?
Ohio bettors have access to apps such as FanDuel and DraftKings, as well as trusted offshore sportsbooks such as Heritage Sports and BetAnySports which both have 20+ year track records.
Trusted sports betting apps for players in Ohio
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What sports betting apps are legal in Ohio?
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:
- Competitive reduced juice odds at -108
- Comprehensive live betting options
- Best reduced juice lines at -105
- Quick and reliable payouts
- Robust live betting platform
- Opinionated Lines
- Broad range of bonus offers
- High betting limits
- Renowned loyalty program
- Variety of promotions
- Excellent customer service department
How to Bet on Sports in Ohio
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1 Pick Your SportsbooksChoose an offshore sportsbook available in you prefer. Register by clicking “Join” and complete the simple form.
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2 Claim a BonusSelect from available promotions and deposit match offers. It’s recommended to use crypto if available since generally speaking welcome bonuses are larger if using crypto.
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3 Deposit FundsFind the cashier, pick your payment method—credit cards, wire transfers, or crypto—and confirm your deposit.
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4 Place a BetPick your sport—NFL, NBA, NHL, or more—and add bets to your slip. Enter your stake, then confirm your wager.
Ohio Sports Betting Updates
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.
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.
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:
Ohio Betting News
Ohio Slaps DraftKings With $425,000 Penalty for Regulatory Violations
The Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) announced a settlement agreement with DraftKings for college player prop and account funding violations earlier this week.
Ohio Sports Betting Continues To Surge
Ohio’s sports betting industry is surging, with $4.1 billion wagered in early 2024. Online betting leads the way, with FanDuel and DraftKings dominating. Football season
Multiple Lawmakers Lobbying for Online Casinos and Lottery in Ohio
Ohio lawmakers are pushing to legalize mobile lottery sales and online casino games to modernize the state’s gambling landscape and tap into the mobile gaming
Ohio Casino Revenue Tops $84 Million in May
Ohio’s casinos and racinos celebrate a successful May with combined revenue hitting $204 million. Hollywood Columbus leads with $24 million. The state’s robust gambling scene
