Best Ohio Betting Sites for 2025 – Compare Ohio Sportsbooks

With a rich history of sports excellence, both on the professional and collegiate levels, bettors can now take advantage of legalized Ohio sports betting in person and online. As if Ohio sports bettors needed another reason to cheer for their favorite college and professional sports teams.

The introduction of legal sports betting in the Buckeye State saw 2023 revenues soar to nearly $3.5 billion dollars and put Ohio as the sixth biggest state for sports betting revenue.

Our ReadWrite team has taken the challenge to find the sportsbooks that offer the best odds, bonuses, and user experience in Ohio. We have examined all of Ohio’s online sports betting options to help determine the top sports betting operators.

The Top Ohio Sports Betting Sites

  • All
  • Crypto Sportsbook
  • Telegram Betting
  • Racebook
  • Live streaming
  • Odds boost
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$250 in Free Bets and 100 Free Spins

$250 in Free Bets and 100 Free Spins

  • Official betting partner of La Liga, Golden Boy, and the LFA, offering Pick'em and Survivor
  • The earliest moneylines, with access to odds before events commence
  • Cutting-edge live in-play sportsbook, with multi-view options
9.8
5 Stars BetOnline Sports US
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125% Deposit Bonus - Up to $1,250 to Bet on Sports

125% Deposit Bonus - Up to $1,250 to Bet on Sports

  • Esports from CS:GO to FIFA to NBA2K to Call of Duty with Twitch video feeds
  • 50% bonus on your sportsbook wagers once a day with Winstreak
  • Various markets, including parlays, player props, futures and spreads
9.4
5 Stars BetWhale Sports US
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100% Welcome Bonus Up To $1,000

100% Welcome Bonus Up To $1,000

  • Up to 25% in re-up bonuses when adding funds
  • Bitcoin and Bitcoin cash payment require a minimum deposit of $10
  • 2% rebate on sportbook losses, 10% rebate on racebooks
9.6
5 Stars BetNow Sports US
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50% Welcome Deposit Bonus Up To $1000

50% Welcome Deposit Bonus Up To $1000

  • Reload bonuses & 8% racebook rebates + risk-free bets & odds boosts via VIP+
  • Contests for NFL/NBA/NCAAF betting, including Survivor and Squares
  • MyBookie VIP treatment with 24/7 support, top bonuses, and bigger bets
9.6
5 Stars MyBookie Sports US
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Get 200% Welcome Bonus Up to $30,000 + 50 Super Spins

Get 200% Welcome Bonus Up to $30,000 + 50 Super Spins

  • Brand new sportsbook with iOS and Android apps
  • Extensive coverage of US sports
  • Competitive odds and excellent in-play offering
9.8
5 Stars CoinCasino Sports US
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100% Welcome Bonus up to $500

100% Welcome Bonus up to $500

  • Improved live betting with multiscreen technology, multiview and halftime betting
  • Promotions exclusive to parlay betting, like Parlay Prince and Parlay Free Bets
  • Direct SMS delivery of exclusive sports offers to bettors
9.8
5 Stars Everygame Sports US
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125% Sign Up Bonus + Up to 30 Risk Free Bets

125% Sign Up Bonus + Up to 30 Risk Free Bets

  • Nearly 30 years of experience in the North American market
  • Exclusive sports blogs, picks and previews from The Locker Room and BetUS-TV
  • Sports contests with free entries like Ironman, 12th Man and Gridiron Guru
9.6
5 Stars BetUS Sports US
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Double Your Money Up to $500 on Your First 2 Deposits

Double Your Money Up to $500 on Your First 2 Deposits

  • High betting limits and seamless re-bet options, perfect for high rollers
  • Access to the earliest lines with top-tier odds
  • Sports reload bonus of 25% and ongoing promotions for registered bettors
9.7
5 Stars Sportsbetting US
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First Deposit Bonus Up to $500 + $10 Casino Chip

First Deposit Bonus Up to $500 + $10 Casino Chip

  • 25% sports reload bonus and a 7% daily rebate on horse racing wagers
  • Betting with low minimum crypto deposit of $20 + free picks and tips from pros
  • The best horse racing markets for bettors
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5 Stars Xbet Sports US
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  • Exclusively on Telegram Messenger, offering fully anonymous betting with no KYC
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List of the Best Online Sportsbooks in Ohio

Our sports betting experts have put together the following list of the top offshore Ohio sports betting sites. Each of these Ohio sportsbooks offers specific advantages to bettors, which can help determine the perfect online sportsbook for your wagering needs.

  1. BetOnline – One of the oldest most trusted sportsbooks with no bonus wagering requirements
  2. BetWhale – Enjoy in-game wagering via an easy-to-use betting interface 
  3. Bovada – Best sports betting site for cross-sport parlay boosted odds every day
  4. BetNow – Home of the $25,000 per week MLB Grand Slam contest
  5. Everygame – Great NFL money line odds and a chance to win a seat at Super Bowl 59
  6. TG Casino – Telegram sportsbook with 30+ sports markets
  7. BetUS – Don’t miss out on a huge $6,000 sports referral bonus
  8. MyBookie – Early cashout options on all big Premier League soccer games
  9. Sportsbetting.ag – Ohio online sportsbook with best futures odds and a top prop builder
  10. Lucky Block – Ohio bookie that uses AI-powered predictive analytics

Quick Ohio Facts

State Ohio
Gambling age 21
Top Ohio Sportsbook BetOnline, BetWhale, Bovada
Retail Sportsbooks 15
Retail Betting Yes
Lottery Yes

Is Sports Betting Legal in Ohio?

Sports betting is legal in Ohio as of January 1, 2023, for online sports betting sites and land-based retail sportsbooks. After years of legislative attempts, Governor Mike DeWine signed HB 29 into law, giving the Ohio Casino Control Commission the task of formulating rules and regulations for Ohio sports betting. In the first year of Ohio sports betting, the state took in over $3 billion in taxable revenue.

With a 33% tax on gaming revenue to businesses, this generated just short of a billion dollars which was distributed to schools, state scholarships, and local community projects.

Ohio Sports Betting Updates

Although sports betting was made legal in Ohio in 2023, it is still illegal for anybody connected with an NCAA collegiate team to gamble or be associated with any kind of betting on any sport, whether collegiate or professional.

However, general sports fans can now enjoy wagering on their favorite teams and sports.

  • January 2023 – Retail and online sportsbooks open for business by taking their first legal wagers.
  • October 2022 – Ohio Casino Control Commission approves Caesars, PointsBet, Bet365, Betfred, and SuperBook for the Jan. 1 launch.
  • June 2022 – Ohio’s sports betting application window opens.
  • December 2021 – House Bill 29 passes through the House and Senate, establishing a go-live date no later than January 1st, 2023. It was later signed into law by Gov. DeWine.

Ohio Sports Betting Taxes

Currently, Ohio taxes sports betting winnings at a rate of 20% on winnings totaling over $5,000. Initially, Ohio set its tax rate at a modest 10% but doubled that benchmark in the summer of 2023.

If you have questions about the taxes on your winnings, the ReadWrite team always recommends speaking with a licensed tax professional. Addressing your financial decisions with someone who understands the ever-changing tax code is paramount.

Top 5 Ohio Online Sportsbooks Reviewed

As Ohio continues to cement itself as a major player in the world of sports, online sportsbooks are beginning to offer their services to OH bettors. Thus, the roster of operators offering sports betting in Ohio is full of big-time names. However, not all Ohio sportsbooks are the same, so our team of experts has taken a long, hard look at each Ohio sports betting site to help Buckeye bettors find the perfect Ohio sportsbook for their sports betting needs.

Below, our team of experts lays out their findings for each of our top five, along with the pros and cons of each

1. BetOnline – Best Ohio sports betting site for early odds and lines on NFL

ohio sports betting

  • Website: betonline.ag
  • Established: 2001
  • Deposit methods: 16 cryptocurrencies (including Bitcoin), debit/credit cards, wire transfer, person-to-person, money order
  • Top Feature: $250 in free bet credits

With a vast menu of sports betting markets spanning over 20 different sports, BetOnline continues its reign as one of the top online sportsbooks in the US. With odds offered on the NFL, NHL, MLB, NBA, NCAA, and other major leagues, BetOnline has built a one-stop shop for Ohio sports bettors looking for moneylines, spread bets, point totals, and more. BetOnline also offers numerous prop bets and futures bets on several available sports.

New users looking to begin sports betting in Ohio can now receive a welcome bonus of up to $250 on their first deposit with BetOnline as free bet credits, all by using the FREE250 promo code. Unlike other Ohio sportsbooks, BetOnline doesn’t stop the promotions at the first deposit. Existing customers can take advantage of numerous ongoing promos and bonuses, such as parlay bonuses, bonus bets, odds boosts, and even matched deposit bonuses!

With both fiat and cryptocurrencies accepted by BetOnlline, bettors have many choices when it comes to funding their accounts and receiving their winnings. Backed by their Panama gaming license, BetOnline has created a safe and secure deposit and withdrawal process with almost instantaneous processing times.

Having been founded in 2001, BetOnline has continued to offer a premier sports betting experience for over 20 years. With a long legacy of customer satisfaction in the online sportsbook world, it’s clear to see why BetOnline has once again claimed our top spot.

Our Verdict: 4.8/5

BetOnline is one of the most impressive sportsbooks operating in Ohio. You’ll find competitive odds for all markets, along with early betting lines available before many other online sportsbooks. This makes it an ideal betting site for future wagers. With over 30 sports listed, along with markets for eSports, politics, and entertainment, BetOnline is peerless when it comes to coverage.

Pros:

  • Lucrative welcome bonus of up to $250 in free bet credits for new users
  • Impressive range of 30+ sports betting markets
  • Fast deposit & withdrawal times for fiat and cryptocurrencies
  • Live betting interface with live streaming

Cons:

  • High 9.75% processing fee on debit/credit card deposits
  • The lack of withdrawal options for debit/credit cards may frustrate some bettors
BetOnline Sports US
9.8

2. BetWhale – Enjoy In-Game Wagering Via a Top-Class Live Betting Interface

ohio sports betting

  • Website: https://betwhale.ag/
  • Established: 2023
  • Deposit methods: Credit/debit cards, Bitcoin, eWallets
  • Top Feature: Racebook coverage from US, UK, Canada, Australia, Ireland, France and South Africa

BetWhale is a user-friendly sportsbook with extensive coverage of over 20 sports from around the globe. This relatively new sports betting platform caters to both new and experienced bettors, with new bettors able to place straight win bets and same game parlays. More experienced bettors will enjoy the option of placing teaser and prop bets.

One of the best features at BetWhale is the live betting section, which offers in-game statistics, enabling you to place more informed live bets. It’s also a site great for outrights and futures betting, which can be accessed by clicking the rosette icon at the bottom of the left-hand side menu.

Payment options are varied, with both fiat and crypto payments accepted. BetWhale utilizes advanced security protocols like SSL, along with other security measures.

Our Verdict: 4.7/5

If you are a fan of in-game betting, BetWhale is a must for your portfolio of sportsbooks. The 125% welcome bonus is worth up to $1,250, which is an ideal way to boost your bank ahead of the big game. Here are our main pros and cons for BetWhale:

Pros:

  • Top-class live betting with up-to-date odds
  • Simple and easy-to-use bet slip
  • 50% daily boost for sports bets
  • Accepts crypto and fiat

Cons:

  • Lacks a loyalty program
BetWhale Sports US
9.4

3. Bovada – Best Sports Betting Site for Real-Time Odds and Statistics

ohio sports betting

  • Website: bovada.lv
  • Established: 2011
  • Deposit methods: Credit/debit cards, Bitcoin, person-to-person
  • Top Feature: Reward points for every $1 wagered

If name recognition was our only ranking metric for this list, Bovada would be at the top. With more than 20 sports available to wager on, Bovada has become one of the biggest names in the sports betting world. Headlining Bovada’s sports markets are the usual suspects: football, basketball, baseball, hockey, and soccer. However, the fun doesn’t stop there. Bovada also offers markets for niche sports like darts, cycling, and virtual sports.

Bovada also knows that bettors in Ohio aren’t just looking for the same old moneylines and spread bets. To combat that betting monotony, Bovada’s prop builder service helps bettors create the ultimate bet slip in the hopes of cashing in big.

While their current welcome bonus may not catch the eye at first glance, Bovada’s 75% deposit match crypto bonus up to $750 comes with a massively lucrative asterisk. While this bonus comes with a $750 ceiling, it also contains a 5x rollover, one of the lowest wagering requirements we have found. So, while this bonus may not provide as much bang for your buck as others, you’ll receive your bonus funds much faster.

In order to receive that bonus, however, you will need to fund your account. Bovada offers users multiple payment options, such as credit/debit cards, cryptocurrencies, person-to-person, bank wire, and MatchPay. For withdrawing your winnings, bettors must utilize cryptocurrencies, MatchPay, vouchers, or a check by courier.

Our Verdict: 4.7/5

For Ohio bettors looking for betting markets outside of the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Cavaliers, Bovada is an excellent choice. On top of their low bonus wagering requirement, Bovada offers an unparalleled user experience that lives up to the hype that their name comes with.

Pros:

  • Extensive range of sports markets, including more niche sections
  • Only 5x rollover on welcome bonus
  • No Bitcoin withdrawal limits
  • Every dollar wagered earns you points toward rewards

Cons:

  • Lower welcome bonus amount than other competitors
  • Limited withdrawal options may turn away some Ohio bettors
Bovada Sports US
9.6

 

4. Everygame – Get Competitive Overnight Odds Across All Pro Sports

ohio sports betting

  • Website: everygame.eu
  • Established: 1996
  • Deposit methods: Credit/debit cards, 4 cryptocurrencies (including Bitcoin), Payz, EZeeWallet
  • Top Feature: Up to 4 x $100 Free NFL Bets during the season

Licensed in Curacao, Everygame earns the second spot on our list despite the limited number of sports markets offered. Currently, Everygame offers betting markets for baseball, basketball, football, ice hockey, soccer, and golf. For new bettors looking for an entry point into sports betting in Ohio, Everygame offers a nonsense betting experience, with simple moneyline and spread bets front and center on their homepage. Prop bets and futures are also available for bettors looking to go beyond their bet slips.

New sports bettors can snag one of Everygame’s two welcome bonus packages. Crypto users can take advantage of a 50% deposit bonus up to $1,000, while players using credit/debit cards can grab 100% up to $500. This will no doubt give Ohio sports fans a little more firepower to start off their sports betting activities. Beyond the welcome bonus, the promo party continues with cash prizes, free bets, and other ongoing promotions.

When making that first deposit, a range of payment options are available to those betting in Ohio. No fee options include credit/debit cards, cryptocurrencies, and eWallet payments. But, those looking to withdraw their Ohio sports betting winnings fast may need to look for a different online sports betting site, as Everygame only offers 48-hour withdrawals for Bitcoin and Altcoin. Other withdrawal options, such as card, e-wallet, wire transfer and check payments can take up to five days depending on the method.

Our Verdict: 4.7/5

One of the oldest online sportsbooks in operation, Everygame has everything for bettors looking to wager on the Cleveland Guardians, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Cleveland Browns. While their betting markets could be expanded and their welcome bonus is a touch on the small side, this online sportsbook has been tried and tested long before setting up shop within the Ohio sports betting industry. With an easy-to-navigate user interface and appetizing special offers, Everygame meets the level of excellence Ohio sports fans expect from their college and professional sports teams.

Pros:

  • Well-respected sportsbook in the industry
  • Easy-to-use interface
  • Lightning-fast deposit times with no deposit fees
  • 24/7 customer service

Cons:

  • No withdrawal for debit/credit card users
Everygame Sports US
9.8

5. TG Casino –  Telegram Sportsbook With 30+ Sports Markets

ohio sports betting

  • Website: www.tg.casino/en
  • Established: 2023
  • Deposit methods: BTC, ETH, USDT, DOGE, LTC, BNB, SHIB & more
  • Top Feature: 200% rakeback bonus

The TG casino and sportsbook is a Telegram-based operation with more than 30 sports to wager on. The sportsbook element of the site is well designed, with sports easy to find from a very simple top menu navigation which uses sports icons to mark out each sport.

The live betting interface uses tabs to show all events taking place in a particular sport, and by clicking a tab, it will open up all markets to place a live bet. Soccer fans will love the fact that at TG, you can livestream all major soccer tournaments. They also offer some great competitions at these major events as they did for Euro.

TG’s thirty-second anonymous sign-up process is a real bonus for crypto players, although a lack of fiat payment options is one of the downsides of this sports betting platform. Fiat users can, however, buy crypto from within the app using a credit/debit card.

Our Verdict: 4.7/5

With over 30 sports betting markets and competitive odds that are often higher than traditional sportsbooks, TG is a great addition to the sports betting market. New crypto players will find the 200% welcome bonus worth up to 10ETH, which is one of the most generous in the industry, although you’ll need to work hard to turn that into withdrawable funds given the total 60x rollover.

Pros:

  • Bet anonymously using crypto deposits
  • Option to buy and stake the $TGC token for a 40% APY return
  • Easy-to-use sports betting interface with live events sections
  • Over 30 sports and 2,000+ markets to place bets on

Cons:

  • No TG Casino loyalty program
  • No fiat payment options
TG Casino Sports US
9.9

Ohio Online Sportsbooks Compared

In this section, we break down some of the key features of our top 5 Ohio online sportsbooks.

Rank Sportsbook Sign-Up Bonus Bonus Code No. of Sports Markets Top deposit options
#1 BetOnline Up to $250 in Free Bet Credits FREE250 30+ Crypto, credit cards, bank wire
#2 Bovada 75% up to $750 BTCSWB750 25+ Crypto, credit cards, MatchPay
#3 BetWhale 125% up to $1,250 WHALECOME 25+ Crypto, credit cards, bank wire
#4 Everygame 100% Up to $500 WELCOME500 20+ Credit cards, Payz, Neosurf, crypto
#5 TG Casino 200% up to 10ETH N/A 30+ Crypto, credit cards, bank wire

How We Rate Sportsbooks in Ohio

Following Ohio’s sports betting launch in early 2023, bettors were immediately inundated with many welcome bonuses, free bets, and other promotions. While a welcome bonus may seem enticing, most bettors will find that occasionally, a great promotion isn’t always matched with a great online sportsbook.

At ReadWrite, we dive deep into what makes an online sportsbook stand out, rating them on everything from the variety of bets and gaming security to how quickly they pay out and how helpful their support team is—ensuring you get the real scoop on where to place your bets. You can read more about our methodology on our ‘How We Rate’ page.

How to Sign Up and Bet at Ohio Sportsbooks

Signing up with an Ohio sports betting site has never been easier. The most difficult part of this process is picking from the wide variety of online operators. Here's a step-by-step guide to signing up and creating an account to begin sports betting in Ohio.

  1. Step 1: Choose a Sports Betting Site

    The first step in signing up with an online sportsbook is to head to the home page and find the “Join” button. At our top-ranked sports betting site, BetOnline, that button is in the top right-hand corner. Click that button, and you’ll be taken to the next step in the signup process.
  2. ohio sports betting

  3. Step 2: Create a Betting Account

    Before placing your first sports bet, you must create an account with the Ohio sports betting site of your choice. Most online sportsbooks will require new users to provide information such as your name, zip code, e-mail, secure password, and, in some cases, a verifiable phone number. This step, often known as the KYC process, is important in ensuring your account remains safe and secure. Once this information is provided and verified via e-mail, you’ll be on your way to the next step.
  4. ohio sports betting

  5. Step 3: Fund Your Account & Enter a Promo Code

    The most important aspect of placing any bet is having funds to wager. That being said, to take part in legal sports betting in Ohio, you’ll need to fund your account. By this point, you should have chosen an online sports betting operator that accepts your preferred payment method. At the cashier page, make your initial deposit and use a promo code if necessary. Remember, some Ohio sports betting welcome bonuses do not require a promo code, so ensure you meet the deposit requirements.
  6. ohio sports betting

  7. Step 4: Start Playing

    With your account verified and properly funded, you’re ready to place your first bet! Choose from the vast menu of betting markets and make your first selection.
  8. ohio sports betting

Ohio Sportsbook Apps and Mobile Sites

Many offshore Ohio sports betting sites have dedicated Android and iOS apps. Some don’t, but these are all fully optimized for mobile devices. Bovada’s mobile web browser is a great example because it has a well functioning footer menu that allows you to change gambling verticals. On Everygame’s mobile app, you can hide/unhide the bet slip with a single tap, giving you a broader view of the betting lobby.

Bonuses Available at Online Sportsbooks in Ohio

Now, let’s look at what bonuses are available at offshore sportsbooks and what to expect from this market:

Bonus Type Info Perfect for
Welcome bonus Your deposit is matched by a certain percentage and up to a ceiling amount (eg, $1,000) New bettors making their initial deposit
Crypto bonus A match deposit claimed by depositing crypto New bettors who want to start their journey with a crypto deposit
Reload bonuses Can be claimed repeatedly and are usually in the form of match offers Loyal bettors looking for extra betting funds
Free bets A fixed amount you need to wager under specific circumstances (eg, a live NFL game) Bettors looking for good deals who are ready to respect the minimum odd requirements
Odds boosters The sportsbook increases the odds of specific markets on which you can place a regular bet. Experienced bettors and those willing to experiment
Rebates You recuperate a percentage of your lost funds, usually every week Active bettors who wager specific amounts every week

Comparing Bonuses at Ohio Betting Sites

Welcome bonuses are a huge part of the online sportsbook experience, so we’ve broken down the key features of sports bonuses from our top sites.

Sportsbook Bonus Bonus Code Rollover Minimum Deposit Crypto accepted? Bonus expiry
BetOnline Up to $250 in Free Bet Credits FREE250 10x $55 Yes 30 days
Bovada 75% Up to $750 BTCSWB750 5x $20 Yes 30 days
BetWhale 125% up to $1,250 WHALECOME 10x $50 Yes 30 days
EveryGame 50% Up to $1,000 CRYPTO1K 8x $10 Yes 30 days
TG Casino 200% up to 10ETH N/A 60% (6x deposit releases 10% of bonus) $25 Yes 14 days

Best Sports to Bet on in Ohio

In 2023, Ohio returned to an old tourism slogan that really nails the state’s importance to the US sports landscape. “The Heart of It All” is 100% correct, especially when you consider how much the Ohio sports landscape has truly shaped the way Americans watch and engage with sports.

From the Cincinnati Bengals to the Dayton Flyers to the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Columbus Blue Jackets, Ohio is a hotbed for sports action, which is why Ohio sports betting is poised to break records. Here’s a look at the best sports to bet on in Ohio. If you are new to betting on sports, then you might want to read our guide “How to Bet on Sports” to give you a head start.

Football

Football, both in the NFL and the NCAA, makes up a large portion of Ohio’s sports landscape. From the Toledo Rockets, Cincinnati Bearcats, and Ohio State Buckeyes thrilling fans on Saturdays to the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns providing Sunday’s gridiron action, football is king in Ohio. But then again, that’s expected from the state that’s home to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in Canton, OH. Ohio sports betting was built for football.

Basketball

When he was drafted first overall, LeBron James promised to bring an NBA championship to Ohio. The Akron native made good on that promise 13 years later as the Cleveland Cavaliers took down the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Finals. In college sports, it’s been over 60 years since an Ohio school won the NCAA Tournament. That said, you can never count out an Ohio team from any NCAA competition. However, with Donovan Mitchell and the Cleveland Cavaliers heated up in a diminished Eastern Conference, a parade in Cleveland could be held in the near future. It’s important to keep abreast of player rosters and make this part of your sports betting strategy.

Baseball

Home of baseball’s oldest franchise, Ohio has a long history of prominence in America’s pastime. The Cincinnati Reds and the Cleveland Guardians have been staples of the American and National Leagues for years and are only continuing their divisional dominance in the 21st Century. In fact, it was Reds legend Pete Rose who placed the first legal sports bet in the state. While that may seem unsavory to some, as Rose has been kept out of the Baseball Hall of Fame for betting on baseball, most fans loved the move.

Ice Hockey

In 2000, the NHL arrived in Ohio thanks to the league’s newest expansion franchise: the Columbus Blue Jackets. Although it hasn’t been the easiest first two decades of existence, the Columbus Blue Jackets have been able to create a rabid and loyal fanbase that fills the Nationwide Arena at every home game. Now, thanks to the new Ohio sports betting law, those fans can place bets on Blue Jackets puck line bets and props from their seats.

Soccer

While the Cincinnati Bengals and Cleveland Browns are mainstays in the world of American Football, the football known to the rest of the world also has a place in Ohio. The Columbus Crew, one of the oldest MLS franchises, and FC Cincinnati, who moved into the league more recently from the USL.

Other Legal Betting Options in Ohio

Ohio bettors who are looking to bet on sports have a plethora of options to choose from, but what about those looking for something a little different? Legal Ohio sports betting doesn’t just cover the more traditional fare, in fact, some classic options and new ways to wager now exist.

Horse Racing

Sharing a border with Kentucky means Ohio simply had to compete in the horse racing circuit. Currently, there are eight racetracks in Ohio, all of which are governed by the Ohio State Racing Commission. Thoroughbred and harness races are run daily, giving horse racing bettors something to sink their teeth into.

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) Contests

If you’re looking for a substitute for online sports betting in Ohio, you can always use DFS sites, which are legal in the Buckeye State. There is no shortage of DFS leagues in the state, including NFL, NB, MLB, NHL, and UFC.

Lottery

Lottery games have been played in Ohio since 1974. Games include scratch tickets, Pick 3, Pick 4, Pick 5, Rolling Cash 5, Classic Lotto, Keno, Lucky for Life, Mega Millions, and Powerball. You need to be 18 years old to play any lottery game in Ohio.

Payment Options for Ohio Sportsbooks

Three main payment options exist at the best offshore Ohio sports betting sites. Here, we take a look at them and their pros and cons.

Payment Method Info Pros Cons Popular examples
Crypto Decentralized digital currencies and payment methods Faster than others

Highly secure

Highly volatile

Requires a wallet

Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, USDT, Bitcoin Cash
Traditional Established fiat payment methods used every day Very trustworthy

Fast deposits

Deposit and withdraw directly to your bank account

Cards only for deposits

Bank transfers are usually only for cashouts

Card transactions might be blocked

Bank wire transfers, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover
eWallets Electronic wallets for storing funds and online transactions Fast transactions

Easy to use

Highly secure

Not offered in many sportsbooks

Can come with hidden fees

Might be unavailable for some welcome bonuses

Payz, Neosurf, Neteller, Skrill, eZeeWallet

How Ohio Sports Betting Compares to Neighboring States

State Legal Status
Michigan Legal since Jan, 2021. Both retail and online sports betting are allowed.
Pennsylvania Legal since 2017. Both retail and online sports betting are allowed.
West Virginia Legal since 2018. With retail and online sports betting allowed
Kentucky Legal since 2023. Allowing retail and online sports betting
Indiana Legal since 2019. Both retail and online sports betting allowed

Responsible Gambling

Sports betting will also require bettors to have an appetite for risk; there’s no way around it. Ohio sports betting is no different. If you feel that your sports betting activities are becoming overwhelming and are affecting your daily life, please do not feel embarrassed by asking for help.

Many of the online operators featured on this page do have responsible gambling tools that can help curb problem gambling. If those tools aren’t enough, we recommend many problem gambling resources on our responsible gambling page.

National resources and organizations are available, and interestingly, there are several local resources in Ohio that can certainly help. Here are just a few:

Final Thoughts on Betting Sites in Ohio

As legal online sports betting takes root in the Buckeye State, more and more operators will come to understand the importance of sports to Ohio citizens. From college sports rivalries to the bright spotlight of the pros, Ohioans know that they deserve top-notch sports betting apps and online sportsbooks at their fingertips.

In our opinion, BetOnline offers Ohio sports betting at a level that meets the needs of a state with fierce fandoms. With a history of delivering big promotions and ensuring their sportsbook maintains its reputation for success, BetOnline is the best online sports betting site currently operating in Ohio.

Editors' Choice

Sign up To Claim 50% Welcome Bonus Up To $250 + 100 Free Spins

  • Official betting partner of La Liga, Golden Boy, and the LFA, offering Pick'em and Survivor
  • The earliest moneylines, with access to odds before events commence
  • Cutting-edge live in-play sportsbook, with multi-view options

Improve Your Betting

We have provided a set of guides to help you with your sports betting. Of course, bankroll management is a key to successful betting, but the other guides below can also help you in honing a solid betting strategy.

Related State Betting Guides

Ohio Sports Betting FAQs

Is mobile sports betting legal in Ohio?

What is the legal gambling age in Ohio

What betting apps can I use in Ohio?

What is the Ohio tax rate on gambling winnings?

References

About ReadWrite’s Editorial Process

The ReadWrite Editorial policy involves closely monitoring the tech, gambling and blockchain industries for major developments, new product and brand launches, AI breakthroughs, game releases and other newsworthy events. Editors assign relevant stories to in-house staff writers with expertise in each particular topic area. Before publication, articles go through a rigorous round of editing for accuracy, clarity, and to ensure adherence to ReadWrite's style guidelines.

Lewis Humphries
Sports Betting Expert

Lewis is a seasoned sports writer and betting expert at ReadWrite. He has been written about sports, remote betting and sportsbooks for more than 10 years, with his work featuring in publications such as The Boot Room, Yahoo Sports and 90min. He writes most extensively about soccer, basketball, American football and boxing, but retains an interest in a huge range of sports.

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