Ohio sports betting
Legal Ohio sports betting launched on January 1st, 2023, and players can now register with 15 different OH sportsbooks. We provide you with the latest Ohio sports betting news, reviews of sports betting sites, and exclusive bonus offers.
- Legal Ohio sportsbooks
- Latest news
- Best Ohio sportsbooks
- Other OH betting sites
- List of Ohio sportsbooks
- Is online sports betting legal in Ohio?
- Latest events in Ohio sports betting
- A snapshot of Ohio sports betting
- Sports to bet on in Ohio
- Popular Ohio teams to wager on
- Different types of bets you can place online
- What bets are not allowed in Ohio?
- What are betting odds and how do they work?
- How to bet on sports online in Ohio
- Taxes on sports betting winnings in Ohio explained
- Tips when betting on sports online
- Retail sports betting locations in Ohio
- Ohio sports wagering laws and regulations
- History of Ohio sports betting
- Legalization of Ohio online sportsbooks
- FAQ
Legal Ohio sportsbooks
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Best Ohio sportsbooks
- Bet365 Ohio: Best for Cleveland Guardians fans
- Caesars Ohio: Best for Cleveland Cavaliers fans
- DraftKings Ohio: Best for promos & rewards
- BetRivers Ohio: Best for live betting
- FanDuel Ohio: Best for NHL betting
- BetMGM Ohio: Best for MLB betting
1. Bet365 Ohio
- Welcome bonus: Bet $5 Get $150 in Bonus Bets
- Partner in OH: Cleveland Guardians
- Launch in Ohio: January 2023
Bet365 has a nice sports betting menu, and they make it easy to initiate withdrawals after you win a bet. This is a secure and stable platform with best-in-class customer support, and the site is feature-rich with innovative promotions and interesting live betting options.
Bet365 Ohio started taking bets in January of 2023 after their July 14, 2022 application submission was approved.
Best feature: As the official online partner of the Cleveland Guardians, bet365 offers special promos and ongoing benefits for Guardians fans.
2. Caesars Ohio
- Welcome bonus: Second Chance Bet Up To $1000
- Partner in OH: Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs
- Launch in Ohio: January 2023
Caesars offers numerous betting markets along with fast payouts over a wide range of payment methods. On top of the standout promotions, this Ohio sportsbook scores high on trust and security, and the customer service is top-notch. Like most of the others, Caesars Ohio launched in the state on January 1st, 2023.
They have a retail partnership with Scioto Downs, so they have a brick-and-mortar presence as well. Caesars applied for their license with the Ohio Casino Control Commission on July 11, 2022.
Best feature: Caesars is the official partner of the Cleveland Cavaliers, so this is the sportsbook for you if you are a Cavs fan.
3. Fanatics Ohio
- Welcome bonus: Bet & Get Up To $1000 in No Sweat Bets
- Partner in OH: Columbus Blue Jackets
- Launch in Ohio: May 2023
Fanatics Sportsbook, an extension of the Fanatics brand renowned for its sports team and player merchandise, made a significant move in July 2023 by acquiring PointsBet Sportsbook for a staggering $225 million. This acquisition granted Fanatics control over PointsBet’s online presence across potentially 15 states.
Following a successful round of beta testing, Fanatics officially launched in OH on May 1, 2023.
Along with their generous welcome bonus, Fanatics offers several daily and weekly promos, as well as plenty of banking options when depositing and withdrawing money.
Best Feature: Fanatics sleek-looking interface and easy-to-use navigation help to make this betting site an easy choice for all bettors.
4. DraftKings Ohio
- Welcome bonus: Bet $5 Get $150 in Bonus Bets
- Partner in OH: Hollywood Casino Toledo
- Launch in Ohio: January 2023
DraftKings launched in Ohio on New Year’s Day in 2023. This operator was originally established in 2012 as a daily fantasy sports site. In recent years, it has grown to be one of the largest online sportsbook in the United States. DraftKings has partnered with Hollywood Casino Toledo in Ohio for licensing purposes.
With live betting features, great odds, and secure funding and withdrawal options, they provide a high-quality player experience. In addition to the website, you can also enjoy wagering on the go using their Ohio betting app.
Best feature: DraftKings is known for its juicy sign-up promotions for new players. They also have a rewards program for existing players called “Dynasty Rewards” that unlocks great benefits and bonuses each month.
5. BetRivers Ohio
- Welcome bonus: Second Chance Bet Up To $100
- Partner in OH: Pro Football Hall of Fame
- Launch in Ohio: January 2023
BetRivers launched in Ohio in January of 2023. Established in 2016, BetRivers by Rush Street Interactive offers a solid betting experience with a website and mobile application that are easy to use, even for people that are new to wagering.
They give new players an instant advantage with their generous sign-up rewards. Plus, they emphasize rapid payouts when you’re ready to collect your winnings. BetRivers has partnered with the Pro Football Hall of Fame for licensing purposes to offer online sports betting in Ohio.
Best feature: The advanced live betting feature is impressive, and there are ample betting markets. They also provide access to HD streaming of live sporting events.
6. FanDuel Ohio
- Welcome bonus: Bet $5 Get $150 in Bonus Bets & 3 Month Trial of NBA League Pass
- Partner in OH: Belterra Park Cincinnati
- Launch in Ohio: January 2023
FanDuel launched in Ohio on January 1, 2023. This OH sportsbook also started as a DFS site, so they had a strong foundation to build on.
The company has partnered with Belterra Park Racino to offer retail sports betting in the Buckeye State. This means that you can bet through FanDuel’s platform both online and in person.
Best feature: FanDuel is a great option if you plan on betting on the NHL since you can use the app to live stream games in HD quality. They also run ongoing promotions that sweeten the pot for hockey fans.
7. BetMGM Ohio
- Welcome bonus: Second Chance Bet Up To $1500
- Partner in OH: MGM Northfield Park
- Launch in Ohio: January 2023
BetMGM has developed an intuitive betting app, delivers ongoing bonuses, and offers live-streaming options. BetMGM Sportsbook Ohio went live on January 1, 2023. The online sportsbook has partnered with MGM Northfield Park for its retail location in the state.
BetMGM submitted its license application to the OCCC in July of 2022, so they were one of the first operators to express interest. Given their strong reputation, their approval was a foregone conclusion.
Best feature: BetMGM is the official sports betting partner of the Cincinnati Reds, which makes it a good fit for fans of the team. In addition to the website and sports betting app, they operate a retail wagering outlet at the Great American Ball Park.
Other OH betting sites
The Ohio betting sites that we listed above are the elite operators that you should consider first. At the same time, there are other options, and all of them provide a high-quality player experience. Give these second-tier sites some consideration, and remember, you get a fresh bonus every time you sign up on another site.
List of Ohio sportsbooks
Ohio is set to see a shift in its lineup of sports betting operators, given that up to 20 sports betting licenses are available (Source: Bettor In Green’s guide to Ohio sports betting). Below is the complete list of Ohio sportsbooks that are currently operational:
Is online sports betting legal in Ohio?
Online sports betting is legal in Ohio, and it launched on January 1st, 2023. This became possible after the Ohio House and Senate passed HB 29. The legalization measure was signed into law by Gov. Mike DeWine in December of 2021.
Anyone over the age of 21 can now register at an online sportsbook that has been approved by the Ohio Casino Control Commission and place bets legally.
Latest events in Ohio sports betting
A snapshot of Ohio sports betting
| Sports betting legal since: | 2023 |
| Number of online sportsbooks: | 15 |
| Number of retail sportsbooks: | 13 |
| Legal betting age: | 21 |
| Governing body: | Ohio Casino Control Commission |
Sports to bet on in Ohio
There is at least one Ohio team in every major sports league in the United States, and there are some premier college programs as well. We have listed some of the most popular sports for Ohio bettors below.
Basketball
Football
Baseball
MMA
Soccer
Popular Ohio teams to wager on
Let’s take a closer look at the Ohio NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLS teams. If you like to bet with your heart, there will always be plenty of opportunities at the Ohio sportsbooks.
Cleveland Browns
The Cleveland Browns started out in the All-America Football Conference in 1944. They joined the NFL in 1950, and they won the league championship in their first year. Fast forwarding to the present, Browns games at FirstEnergy Stadium are always exciting, high-octane events. Bally’s Interactive is the official partner of betting on the Cleveland Browns to make a good thing better.
Cleveland Guardians
The Cleveland Guardians have been an MLB fixture since 1901, and like all teams, they have had their ups and downs. To many Ohioans that take pride in the Guardians, they represent a deep-rooted tradition of hard work and perseverance. Fans can now bet on the Cleveland Guardians games to add another layer of intrigue, and bet365 is the Guardians’ sportsbook partner.
Cincinnati Reds
The Cincinnati Reds have fielded some extraordinary teams over the years, and there are countless fans that have passed their love for the team down from generation to generation. They play their home games at Great American Ball Park, and there is now a retail BetMGM Sportsbook at the venue to add a dimension to the excitement of betting on the Cincinnati Reds.
Columbus Blue Jackets
The Columbus Blue Jackets joined the NHL in 2000 as an expansion team, and they have developed a loyal fan base over the years. Nationwide Arena is electric on game days, and you can bet on the Colombus Blue Jackets through any licensed sports betting site in Ohio.
Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavaliers joined the NBA as an expansion club back in 1970. They play their home games at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse in Cleveland, which is part of the Gateway Sports and Entertainment Complex. It is a fantastic place to see a game, and you can take part in Cleveland Cavaliers betting on-site at Caesars Sportsbook in the glass atrium.
Columbus Crew
The Columbus Crew was one of the 10 original Major League Soccer teams, and they hit the field for the first time in 1996. They play their home games at Lower.com Field, a beautiful facility that opened its doors in July of 2021. Fans can place bets on-site.
Different types of bets you can place online
Numerous types of bets are available at Ohio sportsbooks, and we provide a quick rundown below:
Moneyline or Straight Bets
The moneyline or straight bet is a wager on a team to win a game outright with no point spread. To account for the difference in the win probability between the two teams, you get a lower dollar-for-dollar payout on the favorite.
For example, this is what a moneyline matchup will look like at an online sportsbook:
This means that you have to bet $172 on the Reds to win $100, and you would win $144 if you bet $100 on the Marlins and they pull off the upset. The same ratio would apply to any betting increment that you choose.
Point Spread
The point spread bet is very commonly used for football and basketball. Sportsbooks use past performances to determine the favorite and the likely margin of victory. If you bet on a team that is a 7-point favorite, you collect on the bet if they win by more than 7 points.
On the other side of the coin, if you play the underdog, you are a winner if they win outright or lose by less than 7 points. If the game is decided by exactly 7 points, for betting purposes, it’s deemed a “push,” and bettors on both sides get full refunds.
Over/Under Total
With a total bet, the sportsbook posts an estimate of the number of total points, runs, or goals that will be scored in the game. If you think it is too low, you can bet the over, and you can bet the under if you think it’s too high.
Props
A prop or proposition bet is a wager on a particular event or outcome within a game. For example, you may see an over/under total on the number of rushing yards gained by a running back in a football game.
The propositions for the Super Bowl are always on another level, and they extend into strange areas. There are props on the duration of the national anthem performance, the color of the Gatorade that will be poured on the winning coach, and other oddities.
Futures
Futures bets are wagers that are placed on an outcome that will be determined at some point in the future. They are posted for teams to win their leagues, divisions, conferences, and overall championships. There are also futures markets for player awards like MVP, the Heisman Trophy winner, etc.
Parlays
A parlay is a bet that includes multiple different entries or legs on a single wager. You can combine different types of bets on a parlay, and many sportsbooks offer multi-sport parlays.
Same game parlays have become quite common as well. This is a parlay that combines bets that are offered on the same game.
In-game betting
In-game or live betting markets are offered during the game. As events unfold, the odds are adjusted accordingly. With this market, you can always get in on the action, even if you miss the start of the game. Plus, some people use live betting to hedge their original bets.
What bets are not allowed in Ohio?
The following wagers are prohibited by the Ohio Casino Control Commission:
What are betting odds and how do they work?
The sportsbook sets the original odds based on their expectations for the game in light of the relative strength of the opponents. After the opening line is posted, it can be adjusted to “balance the action.”
Online sportsbooks don’t like to gamble – they want guaranteed profits. Their objective is to take the same amount of action on each side. This is why they adjust the line if one side is getting more play than the other. They want to entice people to start going the other way to balance out the action.
They make their money through the vigorish or “vig.” This is a commission that is built into the betting structure. If they take equal action, they will always turn a profit.
How to bet on sports online in Ohio
To get started betting sports online, register an account with any of the Ohio betting sites listed at the top of this page. Joining is a straightforward process that takes just a couple of minutes. To get into the action as a new player, just follow these steps:
- Pick a legal sportsbook operating in Ohio – Have a look at our list of all the legal Ohio sportsbooks at the top of this page. After deciding where you want to start, click the “Get Bonus” button to claim your welcome offer and create an account.
- Use a sports betting promo code if necessary – When you reach the registration page through the path we provide, the promo code should be applied automatically. If it is not, enter the code manually to claim your bonus.
- Register your account – You will be prompted to provide your basic personal information to establish your account.
- Deposit funds – Funding is the next step in the process. It’s easy to make a deposit because all of the typical methods are accepted.
- Bet on sports – After the funds are there, you can proceed to the sports section and place your first bet.
Taxes on sports betting winnings in Ohio explained
Betting winnings are fully taxed just like any ordinary income by the State of Ohio, the four major cities in the state, and the IRS. For state taxes, the betting sites withhold 4% of your winnings. These are the winnings ranging from $600-$5,000. Then they pay them to the state on a quarterly basis which will be reported as deducted and withheld on Form W-2G.
Regarding the local city taxes, Columbus deducts 2.5% of winnings as taxes for both residents and non-residents. Cleveland applies 2% only to the residents. Cincinnati charges 2.1% on your wins whether or not you are a resident of the city. Toledo deducts 2.25% for both residents and non-residents with a $2,500 exemption claimed through filing a Toledo City return.
Also, the federal government applies taxes to both winnings and losses. Here, the gaming establishment has to issue Form W-2G with the title “Certain Gambling Winnings.” This is a form for reporting profits, but you can only claim losses if they offset a profit. You are required to claim gambling income even if the operator did not give you the W-2G form.
To learn more, check out our dedicated page about Ohio gambling taxes.
Tips when betting on sports online
Betting on sports online will enhance your enjoyment of the games you love. It’s fun to have money riding on your favorite team, but you don’t really need monetary action to have an interest. However, a bet can make a game between two teams you don’t care about much more exciting.
Only bet on sports you know
Research teams
Bet small & build a bankroll
Take advantage of sports betting promos
Do not use offshore betting sites
Retail sports betting locations in Ohio
There are 13 Ohio sports betting locations in partnership with online platforms, providing a diverse betting experience on sports and horse races. These venues, including Belterra Park, Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs, and Great American Ball Park, are strategically located across major cities like Cincinnati, Columbus, and Cleveland.
| Caesars: | Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs & Rocket Mortgage Fieldhouse |
| BetMGM: | MGM Northfield Park & Great American Ball Park |
| ESPN Bet: | Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway, Hollywood Casino Toledo, Hollywood Casino Columbus & Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley |
| FanDuel: | Belterra Park |
| MVGBet (Betly): | Miami Valley Gaming |
| BetJack: | Jack Cleveland Casino & Jack Thistledown Racino |
| Hard Rock Bet: | Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati |
| Fanatics: | Nationwide Arena & Progressive Field |
Ohio sports wagering laws and regulations
Before January 1, 2023, sports betting was prohibited in Ohio. However, the General Assembly recognized the potential benefits of legalizing wagering in the state. It passed House Bill 29 on December 8, 2021, and it because law when it got Senate approval and it was signed by the governor.
One of the bill’s key elements is the empowerment of the Ohio Casino Control Commission as the regulatory body. This commission is responsible for overseeing the sports wagering industry in Ohio. It is also in charge of issuing licenses to betting operators. After licensing, the OCCC provides ongoing oversight to ensure compliance.
Ohio sports betting licenses
Sportsbooks in Ohio can apply for and obtain different types of licenses. The Ohio Casino Control Commission is the entity that provides them, and all operators who want to obtain one need to get approval from the OCCC.
Below are the different types of sports betting licenses operators in Ohio can obtain. There are three types: Type A license, Type B license, and Type C license.
Type A License
Ohio Type A licenses are issued to online betting providers. The legislation allows for a maximum of 20 mobile betting sites to operate in the state at full maturity. They can be obtained by designated pro teams in the state, casinos, racinos, and other qualified entities. Customers can bet on their mobile devices through a Type A licensed provider.
Type B License
Ohio Type B licenses are explicitly designed for brick-and-mortar venues with betting windows and terminals. They are also available to professional sports teams, casinos, and racinos. County populations and economic activity will be factored into the application approval process.
This license grants these entities the legal authority to offer sports betting options to customers on-site. It provides them with a new form of entertainment and a valuable source of revenue.
Type C License
The Type C license allows restaurants, bars, and grocery stores with D-class liquor licenses to offer sports gambling. Qualified entities receive this license from the OCCC, but they are contracted with the Ohio Lottery Commission. Bets are limited to point spreads, moneyline, over/under bets, and parlays with no more than four legs.
History of Ohio sports betting
The legalization of sports betting in Ohio is a relatively new development. Before 2019, sports wagering was considered a criminal offense in the state. The following are noteworthy events in Ohio’s sports betting history:
Legalization of Ohio online sportsbooks
The journey toward the legalization of Ohio online sportsbooks began right after the Supreme Court’s 2018 decision that PASPA, the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act, was unconstitutional. This gave Ohio the freedom to legalize and regulate the activity on the state level.
In 2019 and 2020, there were several attempts toward legalizing online gambling sites in Ohio and sports betting in general. However, the different parties could not come to a compromise.
In 2021, three lawmakers led by Senator Kirk Schuring introduced another bill. After many discussions and negotiations, Governor DeWine signed HB 29 in December of 2021. This meant that legal sports betting in Ohio officially went live on January 1, 2023.
FAQ
Who regulates online sports betting in Ohio?
The Ohio Casino Commission (OCCC) and the Ohio Lottery regulate online sports betting. Thus, the operators who want to accept wagers from Ohio players must apply for a gambling license from one of these two regulatory bodies. Notably, the licenses last for only 5 years before renewal. The OCCC offers three types of licenses: Type-C for bars and restaurants, Type-B for brick-and-mortar locations, and Type-A for mobile sports betting
What is the legal age in Ohio to bet on sports online?
21 years old is the legal age in Ohio to bet on sports online. To bet on horses, lottery games, and keno, you must be at least 18 years old.
Are there any sports betting apps in Ohio?
Yes, there are 15 legal Ohio sports betting apps. These apps are available for download from the App Store, Google Play, or directly from the operator's website.
Who can apply for an Ohio sports betting license?
Organizations that want to offer sports gaming can apply for an Ohio sports betting license. As we have stated, three types of licenses are available: Type-A, Type-B, and Type-C. Priority for the A & B licenses will be given to professional sports organizations or casino operators.
Can I bet online in Ohio?
Yes, you can bet online in Ohio. As of January 1, 2023, sports betting has become legal in Ohio. The new law allows players from the Buckeye State to wager on all major sports including in-state college teams and e-sports.
Where can I bet on sports in Ohio?
You can bet on sports in Ohio using an online betting site or by visiting a retail betting venue. Examples of legal online betting sites in Ohio are DraftKings, Caesars, BetRivers, and FanDuel. Retail locations in the state include JACK Thistledown Racino, Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs, and Belterra Park.
What is a pick in sports betting?
Sports betting picks is when professional bettor or company is giving you predictions, based on which you can place bets. If you are willing to pay for sports betting picks, better read our article first: Should I pay for sports betting picks?
What are the benefits of legalizing sports betting in Ohio?
The legalization of sports betting in Ohio will bring several benefits to the state. For one, it will generate additional revenue through taxes. This revenue can be used to fund essential state programs and services. Additionally, it will create jobs in the sports betting industry. As a result, it will be a boost to the economy in Buckeye State.
Are the odds in Ohio betting sites the same as in Las Vegas?
The odds offered by online betting sites in Ohio may differ from those provided by physical casinos in Las Vegas. Different bookmakers’ odds can vary depending on several factors. However, they are going to be very similar.
Is it legal to bet on college sports in OH?
Yes, betting on college sports is completely legal in Ohio, including in-state teams. This means you can place wagers on the Toledo Rockets, Ohio State Buckeyes, or the Ohio Bobcats.
Is it legal to bet on horse races in Ohio?
Yes, Ohio horse race betting is fully legal. The Ohio State Racing Commission oversees the sport on the track along with horse race betting. You can place wagers online or in person at JACK Thistledown Raceway, Belterra Park, or one of the other tracks.
Can I bet on local Ohio teams at the online sportsbooks?
Yes, you can bet on local Ohio teams. In fact, many of them have partnerships with specific sportsbooks.
How do I check if an online sportsbook in Ohio is legit?
To see if an online sportsbook in Ohio is legit, see if it has been licensed by the Ohio Casino Control Commission. If it doesn't, it is probably an offshore sportsbook that is operating with no oversight.
Are sportsbooks in Ohio safe?
Yes, legal sportsbooks in Ohio are completely safe because the Ohio Casino Control Commission regulates them. The Commission ensures that sportsbooks operate fairly and transparently.