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Is Sports Betting Legal in Ohio?
Ohio has passed a sports betting law allowing them to license both retail sportsbooks and online betting sites and apps. This is good news for state coffers, as they will likely receive a decent influx of tax revenue every year. However, consumers can and should continue to use the offshore sportsbooks we recommend here, as they tend to have lower operating costs, and they pass those benefits on to their players.
Of all the states in the USA, Ohio is one of the latest to act upon the changing landscape of online wagering. Many US-based bookmakers are popping up and the old tradition of traveling the country to gamble seems to be fading out.
The Top Five Bookmakers In Ohio
With the sports betting landscape in Ohio recently changing, there is a lot to discuss regarding online betting in the state. The team here is dedicated to ensuring we keep our readers from the Buckeye State up-to-date with the latest and greatest Ohio betting mobile apps and platforms.
To be sure we’re covering the full range of betting lines available to Ohio residents, we’ve done a thorough review of the betting odds available across the top online bookmakers. Not only that, but our expectations will give you pointers on how to find value in the odds and make the best bets possible. From the moneyline to point spreads, we’ll delve deep into what’s being offered to sports fans in the birthplace of aviation.
While we’ve done reviews for all the states from Wisconsin to Florida, this time we’ll take a look at how citizens residing in Ohio can benefit from the top five online sports betting operators around. With a huge collegiate sports presence in the state, we’ll discuss bookmakers that offer great college football betting for the NCAAF, including bookmakers that care about Championship game specials.
BetUS
BetUS is one of the fastest growing sportsbooks in recent years, offering a broad range of great odds to Ohio residents, which include Ohio State Buckeyes content. You will find a range of other sports betting markets, aside from the NCAA Football, offering odds on for major American leagues like the NBA, NHL, and NFL. A top-rated bookmaker with years of experience behind it and a dedicated staff that has driven things forward. When we looked at the bookmaker and highlighted its top aspects, we came up with this shortlist: longevity in the industry, a great loyalty program, regular updates to promotions and bonus offerings, and great live/In-play betting markets.
BetUS offers a broad range of deposit methods to bettors in Ohio
BetUS is a popular online sports betting platform that provides a diverse range of deposit methods to users in the state of Ohio. Whether you prefer credit cards, bank transfers, or cryptocurrency transactions, BetUS has got you covered. By offering multiple deposit options, BetUS aims to make the process of betting as hassle-free as possible for its users. Whether you are a seasoned sports bettor or just getting started, BetUS makes it easy for you to get started and start placing your bets.
BetUS has the best mobile betting app in Ohio
BetUS, one of the most trusted and reliable sports betting sites, has come up with its mobile betting app that has taken the online betting industry by storm. The betting app offers several features and options that make it stand out from its competitors in Ohio. The app offers a user-friendly platform that is easy to navigate, and it offers real-time updates on the latest odds, scores, and upcoming events. The app also offers a range of exclusive bonuses and promotions to its users, which makes it an attractive option for sports betting enthusiasts. If you are looking for an incredible mobile betting experience, then BetUS has got you covered.
Pros
- Odds are competitive
- Great mobile interface
- Varied betting markets
Bovada
A world-renowned online gambling platform. Bovada has a global presence and has continually lived up to expectations. Whether it’s touchdowns or 3-pointers, this bookmaker covers it all. For Ohio residents, you’ll find a broad range of college football playoff odds and extensive markets for the major leagues. In terms of promotions and bonuses, there are a wealth of opportunities to maximize your profits. Having gone in-depth about the details of Bovada, we put together a list of its top features: an excellent site and mobile app user interface, comprehensive betting platform, sportsbook, casino, racebook, poker rooms, and easy sign-up process.
Bovada offers the leading NFL betting lines in Ohio
If you are an NFL fan based in Ohio, you can get the best betting lines through Bovada. They offer the latest and most comprehensive NFL betting lines in the state. With Bovada, you can be sure that you’re getting the most up-to-date and accurate information so that you can make informed decisions when placing your bets. They provide a range of betting options such as moneyline, spread, and over-under, among others. No matter what type of bet you’re looking to place on the NFL, Bovada has the resources and experience to help you make the right choice. So, if you’re looking to bet on the NFL in Ohio, Bovada should be your go-to destination.
Bovada is the number one bookmaker in Ohio
Bovada is the premier bookmaker in Ohio. With its comprehensive range of sports betting options, state-of-the-art software platform and easy to use interface, Bovada has become the go-to choice for bettors all over Ohio. The site provides great value odds, a wide selection of sports from across the globe and fantastic promotions. As such, it isn’t hard to see why Bovada is considered to be the number one bookmaker in Ohio.
Pros
- Great industry rep
- Rotating basketball and football specials
- Huge selection of daily markets
XBet
An experienced bookmaker, XBet has been operating in the online gambling industry since 2007. It now stands as one of the premium online sports betting providers available to US players. Operating in states across the US like Arizona, Texas, Michigan, and many others, XBet has cemented itself as one of the go-to sports betting platforms. A simplistic platform that makes navigating through the endless betting lines, including some unique prop bets. We carried out a comprehensive review of the XBet platform and have detailed some of the best aspects of the sportsbook here: bonuses for new and returning players, a fully-stocked casino that complements the sportsbook, a modern look and feel across the site.
XBet is the best NBA oddsmaker in Ohio
This heading is a statement that might be challenged by other NBA oddsmakers in Ohio, so it’s important to back it up with evidence. One way to do this would be to list the reasons why XBet is the best, such as their accuracy in predicting game outcomes, their competitive odds, their user-friendly website, and their excellent customer service. Another approach would be to cite customer reviews and ratings that support the claim. Ultimately, the proof of XBet’s status as the best NBA oddsmaker in Ohio will depend on a variety of factors, including market trends, industry standards, and the preferences of individual bettors.
XBet is the best bookmaker for beginners in Ohio
If you are new to the world of sports betting and reside in Ohio, XBet could be the best bookmaker to start with. The website offers an easy-to-use interface and a wide variety of sports to bet on. The signup process is hassle-free, and you can start placing your bets within a few minutes. XBet also offers attractive bonuses and promotions to new customers. They have a customer support team available 24/7 to help you with any queries or issues. Overall, if you are looking for a user-friendly and reliable bookmaker to begin your sports betting journey in Ohio, XBet may be the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- Professional payment options
- Fun betting markets
- Lots of sports available
BetOnline
Another excellent bookmaker, and one built on a solid foundation of first-rate odds and betting lines. BetOnline first went online in 2004 and has become a globally recognized name in the sports betting industry. If it’s the NCAA you like, you’ll find a depth of odds markets for the National Championship and even less popular lines like the Heisman trophy. The Championship odds are available throughout the year, with things really heating up around when the bowl games get underway. BetOnline recognizes the importance of college sports and caters to it. Here are some of the best offerings at BetOnline: tons of great bonus offerings and deals, reliable and legitimate sportsbooks, and first-rate customer service. Modern website and mobile betting platform.
BetOnline has an extensive range of crypto-betting options in Ohio
BetOnline is a popular online betting platform that offers a wide variety of options for cryptocurrency bettors in the state of Ohio. With the increasing popularity of cryptocurrencies, BetOnline has recognized the need to incorporate them into their betting options. This provides an excellent opportunity for crypto enthusiasts in Ohio who want to participate in various betting activities using their digital assets. BetOnline’s extensive range of crypto betting options ensures that bettors can find something that suits their preferences while taking advantage of the benefits that come with using cryptocurrencies. Whether you are a seasoned bettor or new to the crypto betting scene, BetOnline has got you covered.
BetOnline provides the smartest mobile betting app in Ohio
BetOnline offers the ideal mobile betting app in Ohio, providing an efficient and user-friendly experience to its users. The application ensures that gamblers have access to the latest odds, scores, and other features related to sports betting on the go. With this app, you can bet on your favorite sports teams and events from any location, enabling you to follow them and place bets in real-time. The mobile betting app is simple to use and provides players with a seamless betting experience, making it an excellent choice for bettors in Ohio.
Pros
- Crypto bonuses
- Excellent betting markets
- Lots of banking options
MyBookie
In the rankings of top-tier providers, MyBookie is hovering around the top. A bookmaker that is diverse, but has a focus on ensuring it provides the most competitive odds for US-based sports betting markets. A solid odds provider, with a huge presence in the global betting community. Young blood, founded in 2014, MyBookie was long seen as the underdog. But, in recent years, focusing on state-based markets, like the NCAA football lines for the Crimson Tide in Ohio, has ensured they are here to stay. Check out some of the top features here: fast deposits and payouts, swift and reliable customer service team, range of odds, broad-reaching community, and great retention through bonuses.
MyBookie is the platform for veteran bettors in Ohio
MyBookie is a platform that caters specifically to veteran bettors in Ohio. With years of experience in the betting industry, these bettors require a platform that offers the reliability and functionality they need to make informed bets. MyBookie provides just that with advanced features such as live betting, mobile betting, and a variety of options for sports and events. It also offers attractive bonuses and rewards programs to keep veteran bettors coming back for more. If you are a seasoned bettor in Ohio, MyBookie is the platform you need to take your betting game to the next level.
MyBookie offers great bonuses for UFC and MMA fans in Ohio
MyBookie, a popular online sports betting platform, is going the extra mile to cater to the needs of UFC and MMA fans in Ohio. The platform offers great bonuses to its users who are interested in placing bets on these sporting events, allowing them to make the most out of their gambling experience. From sign-up bonuses to cash backs and risk-free bets, MyBookie has something for everyone. Whether you are a seasoned bettor or just starting, this platform offers a user-friendly interface and reliable customer support, making it the go-to choice for UFC and MMA fans in Ohio who are looking to place their bets online.
Pros
- Varied betting markets
- Always up to date
- Great rotating promotions
Sportsbook Comparison Table
To make the most of your sports betting, it’s crucial to look beyond the odds. Our table below compares leading sportsbooks by their bonuses, including first-time offers, regular promotions, loyalty schemes, and crypto rewards. These extras can give your bankroll an immediate lift.
| Bookie | Welcome Bonus | Ongoing Promotions | Loyalty Program | Payment Bonuses |
 | 100% up to $1000 | 125% crypto bonus + Free Bet Offers | Yes | Crypto bonuses |
 | 50% up to $1000 | 100% crypto bonus + Free Bet Offers | Yes | Crypto bonuses |
 | 100% up to $500 | 150% crypto bonus + Free Bet Offers | Limited | Crypto bonuses |
 | 50% up to $1000 | 75% crypto bonus + Free Bet Offers | Yes | Bitcoin bonuses |
 | 15% up to $600 | 20% crypto bonus | Yes | Crypto bonuses |
 | 125% up to $2500 | 150% crypto bonus + Free Bet Offers | Rewards program | Crypto bonuses |
 | 50% up to $500 | 100% crypto bonus + Limited Free Bets | Yes | Crypto bonuses |
 | 100% up to $500 | Crypto accepted + Free Bet Offers | Limited | Crypto bonuses |
Legal Online Sportsbooks in Ohio
As of June 17th, sports betting in Ohio has been legalized. If everything goes ahead as planned, Ohioans were able to enjoy legal sports betting in Ohio as of January 1, 2023. Bettors already have access to a variety of top-tier online bookmakers, but the legalization of sports betting will be huge for Ohio. With sports betting just about to get underway, there is much to look forward to in 2024 for Ohio players.
| Sportsbook | Available in Ohio |
| FanDuel | ✅ |
| DraftKings | ✅ |
| Caesars | ✅ |
| FoxBet | ❌ |
| BetRivers | ✅ |
| BetMGM | ❌ |
| PointsBet | ✅ |
| Unibet | ❌ |
Ohio Quick Facts?
Ohio offers numerous sports betting options since legalizing in December 2022. While state-licensed platforms provide local oversight, many bettors prefer offshore sites for better odds, bonuses, and market variety. Understanding your options helps ensure the best betting experience in the Buckeye State.
| State | Ohio |
| Sports Betting Law Passed | Yes ✔️ |
| Launch date | N/A |
| Minimum Gambling Age | 16 |
| Online Sports Betting | Yes ✔️ |
| Retail Sports Betting | Yes ✔️ |
| Retail Casinos | Yes ✔️ |
Why It’s Better To Use Offshore Betting Sites Over the Legal Ones in Ohio
While Ohio has legalized online sports betting, many savvy bettors are choosing offshore sportsbooks for a more rewarding and flexible experience. The offshore betting sites we recommend often outperform Ohio’s state-regulated platforms in terms of value, freedom, and features.
Here’s why more Ohio bettors are going offshore:
- Better Odds and Higher Payouts
Offshore sportsbooks typically offer more competitive odds and lower juice—meaning you get more value on every bet you place. - No State Restrictions – Nationwide Access
Ohio’s legal sportsbooks are geofenced. You must be physically in Ohio to place a bet. Offshore platforms let you bet from anywhere, without borders or blocks. - No Mandatory Personal Data Sharing with U.S. Regulators
With offshore books, your personal information stays private. You’re not required to share your data with state databases or regulatory bodies. - Access to a Wider Variety of Betting Markets
From international sports to politics, entertainment, and niche events, offshore sportsbooks open up a broader world of betting compared to the limited markets in Ohio’s legal platforms. - Crypto-Friendly Deposits & Withdrawals
Many offshore sites accept Bitcoin, Ethereum, and other cryptos—allowing for faster, more secure, and more private transactions. - Lower Betting Limits & More Flexibility for Small Bettors
Ohio sportsbooks often impose higher minimums. Offshore platforms cater to bettors of all levels, including low-stakes players. - No Arbitrary Limits or Account Restrictions
State-licensed sportsbooks may limit sharp bettors or winners. Offshore sportsbooks let you win freely without fear of account restrictions. - Bigger Bonuses and Better Promotions
Offshore betting sites offer generous welcome bonuses, reload promos, and loyalty rewards that go beyond what’s available on Ohio’s licensed platforms. - Less Strict Verification & Faster Account Approvals
Forget the long ID checks and frustrating geolocation failures. Offshore sportsbooks get you signed up and betting fast. - No Withholding of Winnings for Tax Purposes
Offshore sportsbooks don’t automatically report your winnings to the IRS or withhold funds for taxes—giving you more control over your money.
What Can’t You Bet On in Ohio?
Despite legalized betting in Ohio, state regulations still restrict certain types of wagers. Offshore sportsbooks break down those barriers and let you enjoy full betting freedom.
With our offshore partners, you can legally place bets on:
- Political Events – U.S. elections, international elections, and political prop bets.
- Entertainment Markets – Bet on the Oscars, reality TV, and other pop culture outcomes.
- Esports – Certain esports events may be limited or unavailable on Ohio-regulated apps.
- College Player Props – These are restricted in Ohio but fully available offshore.
- Novelty & Special Bets – Wager on global events, celebrity gossip, UFO sightings, or even the weather!
Who Can Legally Bet in Ohio?
To place a sports bet legally in Ohio using state-licensed sportsbooks, you must meet specific legal requirements:
Age Requirement
You must be at least 21 years old to legally bet in Ohio.
Location Requirement
You must be physically located within Ohio at the time of placing a bet—verified through geolocation technology.
Eligible Participants
You do not need to be a resident of Ohio, but you do have to be in the state to legally place bets.
Who is Restricted from Betting?
The following individuals cannot legally place bets in Ohio:
- Athletes, coaches, and referees involved in the sports or events being wagered on.
- Employees of sportsbooks or companies with influence over betting outcomes.
- Executives, directors, or decision-makers in sports organizations or governing bodies.
- Anyone listed on Ohio’s self-exclusion list or flagged for problem gambling behavior.
Retail Betting Restriction
Retail betting is allowed at licensed physical sportsbooks across Ohio, but if you’re not near one—or simply prefer betting from home—your legal online options are limited. Offshore sportsbooks offer a broader, unrestricted betting experience from anywhere, anytime.
With Offshore Sportsbooks:
- Age requirement is generally 18+
- No geolocation tracking
- No state residency or location restrictions
- Fewer verification delays
- Bet from anywhere, whenever you want
Ohio Sports Betting – Recent Updates
- June 2, 2025 – Florida Panthers center Sam Bennett has emerged from longshot status to become the betting favorite for the Conn Smythe Trophy as Stanley Cup Playoffs MVP, surpassing defending winner Connor McDavid and veteran Brad Marchand at most sportsbooks.
- May 1, 2025 – The Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) reported that nearly $1 billion in wagers were placed in March, marking the state’s fourth-highest monthly betting handle to date.
- March 14, 2025 – Rep. Brian Stewart, chair of the House Finance Committee, indicated that the proposed tax hike on Ohio sports betting operators will likely be reduced in the House.
- February 6, 2025 – Ohio sportsbooks saw an increased handle in December, reaching $964.4 million, but revenue dropped to $55.5 million—a 36% decline year-over-year.
- February 4, 2025 – Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has proposed doubling the state’s sports betting tax rate, citing potential increases in state revenue.
Six Reasons to Bet on These Offshore Betting Sites In Ohio
Although the recent change is a sign of change, we still must wait almost a year to see this change implemented. With one of the state’s major cities, Cleveland boasting the Browns, Indians, and the NBA’s Cavaliers, there is certainly a high demand for online gambling in Ohio.
Many of our readers ask “is sports betting legal in Ohio?”, to which the answer is no—but it doesn’t mean bettors can’t partake in sports gambling in Ohio. With a wealth of offshore online sports betting providers, sports fans can begin wagering today.
Until legalized sports betting in Ohio arrives, we’ll give you a basic guide on how to make the most of the facilities available now. Here are six important qualities to look out for when searching for online betting sites.
Availability of the bookmaker in Ohio
This may seem fairly obvious, but is something we often see bettors slipping up on often. It’s imperative that the sportsbook is available within Ohio gambling law and provides its betting service to those residing in the state. The gambling age in Ohio is something bettors must pay attention to as well, which may be a problem for certain online bookmakers.
First-Rate Customer Service
Something bettors must pay attention to is the quality of the service beyond the sportsbook itself. While some online gambling sites offer a range of services, including casinos, poker rooms, and more. However, it’s the quality of service outside of betting that we’re interested in here. Whenever money is involved it’s really important to know that you’re in safe hands. When working with offshore online sports betting in Ohio, we advise looking out for a bookmaker with email and phone contact, as well as live chat, forums, and a range of FAQs.
Mobile Betting in Ohio
One of the best advantages of having access to online sportsbooks in Ohio is the availability of mobile betting. Mobile betting is great for those of us who access the internet mainly through our smartphones or tablets.
More and more bettors are accessing their sports betting accounts via mobile devices. This is why so many sportsbooks design their websites thinking first of mobile devices. In order to be one of the best Ohio sportsbooks, it is important that they have a great mobile layout.
Unmatched Reputation
Much like the quality of the customer service, we’d advise bettors to look for a sportsbook that’s well-reviewed and has a long history of quality betting services. There are many independent reviews of online bookmakers, including the ones that we provide here at MyTopSportsbooks.
The Most Competitive Odds
One of the most important things about online wagering can be finding the perfect odds, as each bookmaker battles it out to provide the best odds customers can be left frustrated. Sportsbooks often focus on one particular betting market, which is something bettors should be aware of when depositing. Find the right sportsbook based on the odds you prefer.
Look for Promotions and Bonuses
For those that are new to online bookmaking, you may not be aware of the added value of promotions and bonuses. All online bookmakers provide customers with a broad range of betting promotions and bonuses, aimed at enticing customers to deposit. These are normally quite lucrative, meaning there is ample opportunity for bettors to profit from these deals.
Potential legal sports betting sites in Ohio
As Ohio sports betting expands and settles, you can expect a lot of new names to be popping up. You may have heard these names in the advertisements they are buying up like crazy. Big companies such as BetRivers, FanDuel, DratKings, Unibet, and BetMGM will be spending loads of cash trying to persuade Ohio bettors to sign up.
Don’t be fooled! They suffer under the burden of high operating costs and pass this on to customers. So they have difficult odds and stingy bonuses. Use, instead, the ones we have tested and recommended on this page.
Ohio Sports Betting Timeline
The sports betting industry is constantly changing and adapting to ever-changing state laws. To make this clear for you, we’ve pulled together a list of movements in the last few years.
2023
Gambling Support Partnership
Ohio took steps to address gambling-related behavioral issues by partnering with GamFin, a financial counseling company. Additionally, the state experienced strong sports betting activity, with Ohioans wagering $1.2 million in November, marking the fourth-highest monthly total in 2023.
2022
Sports Betting Bill Passed
Ohio has passed a sports betting law, allowing for the potential licensing of local sportsbooks in 2023. Of course, we won’t know if and when this will happen until it does, though all signs point to 2023.
2021
State forms Selection Committee on Gaming
A Select Committee on Gaming is being formed at the request of Senate President Matt Huffman, which will be made up of seven members, from both the red and blue sides.
2020
HB 194 comes to the capital
HB 194 comes to the Ohio State capital, Columbus, with a conversation regarding the bill starting straight away.
2019
Scholar Pushes for Sports Betting Regulation
Judicial scholar Robert Porter argued in an article published in the Cleveland St. Law Review that Ohio should begin regulating sports betting. Because so much of the sports betting is currently through online betting sites based offshore, this scholar argues there is a lot of tax revenue to be made for Ohio, according to Porter.
2018
The Supreme Court discussed a betting bill
The Supreme Court calls PASPA unconstitutional, resulting in Ohio representatives discussing the sports betting bill.
Ohio sports teams to bet on
NHL Betting in Ohio
- Columbus Blue Jackets – Based out of Columbus, the Blue Jackets play in the Metropolitan Division in the Eastern Conference. They entered the NHL in 2000
NBA Betting in Ohio
- Cleveland Cavaliers – The Cavaliers are also known as the Cavs and compete in the Eastern Conference Central Division. They began playing as an expansion team in 1970.
NFL Betting in Ohio
- Cincinnati Bengals – The Bengals play in American Football Conference’s (AFC) North division. They began playing in 1968.
- Cleveland Browns – The Browns are named after their original co-founder Paul Brown. They are the only NFL team without a logo on their helmet.
MLB Betting in Ohio
- Cleveland Guardians – The Guardians play in the American League (AL) Central division. They have been playing for a long time and originated in 1894 as the Grand Rapids Rippers.
- Cincinnati Reds – The Reds have been playing professional baseball for even longer. They originated in 1882 as the Cincinnati Red Stockings.
Ohio and Daily Fantasy Sports
Daily Fantasy Sports is very clear in Ohio. You can sign up and play DFS in the state without a problem. They are fully legal – all you have to do is sign up, create an account and get started. Some of your options include DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM. Daily fantasy sports is a unique type of betting where you build your own team from your favorite star players.
Is Horse Racing Legal in Ohio?
It is! Ohioans have been able to legally bet on horse racing for more than a century! You can find on-track and pari-mutuel betting across the state. You can also sign up at. any number of online racebooks that are legally available in Ohio right now.
For example, the online betting sites we recommend on this page also have great racebooks. You can find bets for both the big and small horse races throughout the year.
Nearest states with legal betting
Ohio has a total of five direct neighbors. Of these, four have licensed sportsbooks up and running. Indiana, Michigan, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia are all collecting tax revenue from their sports betting offerings. Only Kentucky has yet to begin licensing sportsbooks.
But Ohio bettors do not have to travel or go to a retail sportsbooks to place sports bets. They can log on to a number of great online sportsbooks today!
Ohio Sports Betting Resources
Explore these resources for valuable information about the legal sports betting landscape in Ohio:
- Ohio Casino Control Commission: Oversees and regulates sports betting in Ohio.
- Ohio Sports Betting Law: Details of House Bill 29, which legalized sports wagering in Ohio.
- Ohio Sports Gaming Applicants: A comprehensive list of submitted and approved sports betting applications.
- Ohio for Responsible Gambling: Promotes responsible gambling and provides resources for problem gamblers.
Best Betting Sites 
