Ohio Sports Betting: Best OH Sportsbooks August 2025

Welcome to ohiobettinghub.com, your go-to source for Ohio sports betting. Whether you passionately support the Browns, Cavaliers, Blue Jackets, or other local teams, you’ll have something to bet on in a highly competitive market filled with multiple licensed operators.

This page will cover some of the premium sportsbooks in the state and show you how to register with them, claim promotions, bet legally, and all the other things you should consider when enjoying sports betting in Ohio.

Ohio Sports Betting – Key Facts 2025

Online betting in Ohio has been legal for just more than two years, and it’s already witnessed a massive growth thanks to a professional regulatory environment, and a passionate base of local sports fans and bettors.

Here are some of the most important details about the Ohio sportsbooks market:

Best Ohio Sportsbooks Ranked 2025

With 15 licensed online sportsbooks in Ohio, the competition for bettors’ attention is fierce. These sites try to make themselves stand out by making you attractive offers, whether you’re supporting and betting on the Browns, Cavs, or any other sports franchise.

We’ve tested every single legal Ohio sportsbook and ranked the best of them based on how well they operate. Our evaluation includes mobile app performance, promotions value, market variety, and odds competitiveness – especially for Ohio teams.

FanDuel – Top Overall Ohio Sportsbook

If you’re looking for the best all-around sportsbook experience in Ohio, FanDuel is your top choice. It consistently hits the sweet spot between usability, speed, market depth, and local relevance, and that matters in a sports-passionate state like Ohio.

The FanDuel app is fluid, easy to navigate, and rarely lags, even on NFL Sundays. Browns and Bengals fans will appreciate how quickly big matchups and player props populate on game week.

Same goes for Cavs games, where FanDuel’s live betting tools give you a serious edge during tight quarters.

FanDuel frequently offers better-than-market odds on game lines and totals, especially during high-interest matchups. Their Same Game Parlay+ feature is especially popular in Ohio, allowing users to combine multiple bets across multiple games, which is something most other sportsbooks still don’t do as smoothly.

As for promotions, the welcome bonus is solid, and FanDuel does a good job rewarding regular players with boosts and bet provision tied to Ohio’s pro and college teams.

DraftKings – Best OH Sportsbook for Mobile Betting

The DraftKings mobile app stands out as the most responsive and feature-rich platform available, which is especially important for Ohio mobile betting fans who constantly flipping between the Browns’ injury reports, Cavs game lines, and live Blue Jackets props.

Everything on DraftKings feels immediate. The moment an injury breaks or a line shifts, it’s reflected in the app. Navigation is smooth even during peak NFL weekends, and markets are laid out in a way that makes picking your next bet easy.

DraftKings also goes deep on markets. Want to bet on the Buckeyes to win the Big Ten, but also predict Michigan futures? You’ll find those options in seconds. For same-game parlays, the builder tool is flexible, intuitive, and faster than most. Plus, their “Flash Bet” feature is a favorite because it allows placing fast in-game wagers during live play.

Promotions-wise, the DraftKings welcome offer is generous and comes with realistic terms, especially for bettors who stick to Ohio’s most popular sports. Ongoing promos tied to local teams (especially NFL and NCAA football) also show that DraftKings gets its Ohio audience.

bet365 – Best Sportsbook for Ohio College Sports

In Ohio’s competitive market, bet365 sets itself apart with its deep college sports coverage, especially for fans of the Buckeyes, Bearcats, and beyond. If your betting habits revolve around Saturdays in the fall or March Madness brackets, bet365 sportsbook is the site you want in your corner.

Where many OH sportsbooks limit props or restrict betting options on college teams, bet365 offers extensive pregame and in-game markets on NCAA football and basketball. These include team totals, alternate spreads, player stats (where permitted), and even combo parlays across multiple games.

The interface isn’t as flashy as some other sportsbooks, but bet365 makes up for it in reliability and speed. Lines are posted early, and odds updates happen frequently, which is especially important for sharp college bettors looking to get value before game-day swings.

One underrated strength of bet365 is its live streaming and real-time stat tracking, which are especially handy during the chaotic pace of college basketball season. You’ll often find mid-major games and early conference matchups available to follow live alongside your bet.

Caesars – Best Sportsbook for Competitive NFL & NBA Odds

When it comes to getting more value on game lines, Caesars Sportsbook regularly edges out the competition, especially in two of Ohio’s most bet-on leagues: the NFL and the NBA. If you’re serious about maximizing returns on your Browns, Bengals, or Cavs wagers, Caesars is a must-have in your rotation.

What gives Caesars the advantage is its strong pricing on spreads and totals, particularly in high-interest matchups. You’ll often see half-point advantages or better moneyline prices here versus other major betting sites in Ohio.

For example, if the Browns are -2.5 across most sportsbooks, Caesars might offer them at -2. It’s a small difference that can make a big difference over the long run.

Caesars also runs “Odds Boosts” tied to marquee NFL and NBA games almost daily, and many of them center around Ohio teams. These aren’t throwaway boosts either – they’re often well-structured and worth taking, particularly when they include player performance combos or rivalries like Bengals vs. Ravens or Cavs vs. Bucks.

The mobile app has improved significantly in recent months, now offering a more practical parlay builder and better game-day data integration. While the user interface may still trail behind FanDuel and DraftKings in sleekness, Caesars keeps up where it counts: in odds and bet variety.

BetMGM – Best OH Sportsbook for Rewards Program

BetMGM sets itself apart in Ohio’s sportsbook market with its loyalty program tied with MGM Resorts properties, giving bettors more than one reason to keep coming back.

Every bet you place at BetMGM sportsbook earns MGM Rewards points, which can be redeemed for hotel stays, dining, and experiences at MGM destinations, including nearby options like MGM Northfield Park just outside Cleveland.

BetMGM’s interface is clean and professional, and their odds hold up well compared to other sportsbooks. You’ll find a wide mix of betting markets across NFL, NBA, MLB, and NCAA, along with specialty props and regular “Edit My Bet” features that let you tweak wagers midstream.

Ohio users also benefit from a steady stream of team-focused promos. Bet safety nets on Browns losses, bonus bets for Cavs covers, and baseball parlay boosts during Guardians season are just some examples we’ve seen this year.

Ohio Sports Betting Updates – August 2025

How to Start Betting Online in Ohio

Getting started with OH online sports betting is simple. As long as you’re 21 or older and physically located within state lines, you can legally place bets.

All sportsbooks featured on this page are licensed by the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC), which means Ohio State betting environment is completely safe due to customer protection regulations that fully apply.

Let’s explain in detail what you need to do to start betting with online sportsbooks in Ohio:

Step 1: Register Your OH Sports Betting Account

Signing up with a legal Ohio sportsbook takes about less than two minutes. You’ll be required to provide:

• Full name

• Date of birth (must be 21+)

• Address (you don’t need to be an Ohio resident, just physically in the state)

• Last four digits of your Social Security Number

Each sportsbook uses identity verification software to confirm your eligibility and comply with OCCC rules and Ohio sports betting laws. Be sure to use accurate information, since errors may delay your ability to deposit or withdraw.

Step 2: Depositing Funds into Your Ohio Account

Once verified, you’ll need to add funds to place your first bet. Most Ohio sportsbooks offer a wide range of fast and secure payment methods:

Step 3: Placing Your First Bet on an Ohio Betting Site

When your account is funded, you’re ready to place your first bet. Every legal Ohio sportsbook has a slightly different layout, but the process of placing a bet follows the same basic steps:

1. Browse or search for a sport/event: Navigate to the league or team you want to bet on. Most sportsbooks highlight Ohio favorites like the Browns, Bengals, Cavs, and Ohio State right on the home screen during the season.

• Select your bet: Click the odds for the bet you want – spread, moneyline, total, or prop. This sends it to your bet slip.

• Enter your stake: In the bet slip, enter how much you want to wager. The slip will show potential payout automatically.

• Confirm your bet: Review everything, hit “Place Bet,” and you’re locked in. You’ll receive a confirmation once it’s accepted.

Most sportsbooks also allow live betting, meaning you can wager on events as they unfold, which is perfect for scenarios like Cavs fourth-quarter comebacks or Buckeyes second-half surges.

Step 4: Withdrawing Winnings from Ohio Sportsbooks

When it’s time to cash out, Ohio sportsbooks make it easy for you to enjoy your winnings. Some methods are faster than others, so make sure to check them out before choosing them as your withdrawal option.

It’s for the best you always withdraw to the same method you deposited with, to avoid delays or verification requests. Some sportsbooks may require a one-time identity re-verification before your first withdrawal, which is usually done by uploading a driver’s license or utility bill.

Bet on Ohio Teams: Browns, Bengals, Cavaliers, Blue Jackets & More

Ohio is one of the most passionate sports states in the country, and its betting markets reflect that. Whether you’re supporting the Cavs, Browns, or Blue Jackets, sportsbooks in Ohio give you plenty of options for staying invested in your favorite teams all year long.

Below are the most popular local teams Ohio bettors are wagering on, along with the betting options that matter most for each.

Cleveland Browns Betting (NFL)

The Browns may be unpredictable on the field, but that doesn’t stop them from being one of the most popular teams in the state. Ohio sportsbooks offer full NFL coverage, including moneylines, spreads, player props, and Same Game Parlays for every Browns game.

Popular Browns betting options are:

• Game Lines: Especially key matchups vs. Steelers and Ravens in the AFC North

• Player Props: Rushing yards for Nick Chubb, passing TDs for Deshaun Watson

• Season Futures: Win totals, playoff odds, AFC North champion bets

Some sportsbooks like FanDuel and DraftKings also run boosted odds promos tied to Browns games throughout the season, so make sure to not miss out on those.

Cincinnati Bengals Betting (NFL)

Having players like Joe Burrow on the roster makes it easy for Bengals to be one of the most bet-on teams in the state. Most Ohio sportsbooks push weekly specials on Bengals matchups, including first TD scorer bets, alternate spreads, and team points totals.

Popular Bengals betting angles:

• Player Props: Joe Burrow passing yards, Ja’Marr Chase receptions

• Futures: AFC champion, Super Bowl odds

• Live Bets: In-game lines during high-scoring matchups

When it comes to particular deals, you can expect BetMGM and Caesars to offer deep Bengals prop menus and fan-focused promos during rivalry games.

Cleveland Cavaliers Betting (NBA)

With a young and exciting core, the Cavs have become a go-to NBA team for Ohio bettors. The sportsbooks feature a wide range of NBA player props, quarter-by-quarter betting, and Eastern Conference futures for every Cavaliers game.

How bettors are backing the Cavs:

• Point Spreads & Totals: Especially during close home games at Rocket Mortgage FieldHouse

• Props: Donovan Mitchell points, Darius Garland assists

• Parlay Specials: Multi-leg NBA parlays featuring Cavs legs with other East teams

DraftKings offers in-depth Cavs coverage with odds boosts and live betting tools during big matchups – this is their version of saying: “Cleveland, this is for you!”

Columbus Blue Jackets Betting (NHL)

While hockey may not lead in handle compared to football or basketball, Blue Jackets betting has a loyal following in Ohio, especially among in-state bettors who understand the team’s streaky nature and divisional rivalries.

Popular Blue Jackets betting markets:

• Puck Line & Totals: Especially during Metropolitan Division matchups

• Player Props: Anytime goal scorer, total points, shots on goal

• Season Futures: Division standings, playoff appearance odds

Live betting is a favorite among NHL fans, and FanDuel’s in-game interface handles fast-paced hockey lines better than most, which is important since you can expect increased activity during rivalry games against the Penguins and Hurricanes.

Cleveland Guardians Betting (MLB)

Baseball seasons are long, and for many Ohio bettors, that means consistent opportunities to wager on the Guardians. Whether you’re betting a weekday series or chasing futures in August, sportsbooks cover every angle of Guardians action.

Common Guardians bets include:

• Moneyline & Run Line: Especially vs. AL Central rivals

• Totals: First five innings and full game

• Player Props: José Ramírez RBIs, strikeout totals for starting pitchers

• Futures: AL Central winner, pennant, and World Series odds

Caesars and bet365 often post early lines and stat-focused props, giving Guardians fans solid options for analytical betting.

Ohio State Buckeyes Betting (NCAA Football & Basketball)

No college team gets more attention in the state than the Buckeyes. Whether it’s football Saturdays or March Madness runs, Ohio State is a core part of the sportsbook ecosystem:

Popular Buckeyes betting options:

• College Football Lines: Including rivalry matchups vs. Michigan and Penn State

• Futures: Big Ten Champion, College Football Playoff winner

• Basketball Markets: Spread, totals, and team performance during tournament season

Out of all licensed sportsbooks in Ohio, bet365 offers particularly strong college lines and futures for NCAA bettors, including props when permitted under Ohio law.

Cincinnati Bearcats & Other Ohio College Teams

While the Buckeyes dominate headlines, Ohio has several other college teams worth watching in the betting market, especially during bowl season or March Madness.

• Cincinnati Bearcats: Now in the Big 12, the Bearcats generate solid football and basketball action, particularly in conference games.

Other notable programs:

• Toledo & Ohio University (MAC): popular for under-the-radar football lines

• Xavier & Dayton: strong option in March and often favored in early-round matchups

Most Ohio sportsbooks offer lines on these teams, though player props for college athletes are limited by OCCC rules. DraftKings and bet365 typically offer the widest market coverage for NCAA games in the state.

How We Rate & Review Ohio Sportsbooks

Our review process is built to help you confidently enjoy legal sports betting in Ohio, and choose a sportsbook that fits your preferences. We’ve tested each platform hands-on, from mobile performance to withdrawal times, using the same standards any serious Ohio bettor would care about.

Here’s how we evaluate sportsbooks licensed by the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC), and how the options compare:

Online vs. Retail Sports Betting in Ohio

Both online and in-person betting are fully legal in Ohio, but the experience is very different depending on how and where you place your bets.

If you’re looking for flexibility, deeper markets, and regular Ohio sportsbook promos, online is the better option for most bettors. On the other hand, retail sportsbooks offer a more social experience and are great for real cash betting, especially during live games or events.

Benefits of Ohio Sports Betting Apps & Websites

Ohio sportsbook apps are designed to do one thing really well – make it easy to get your bets in, whether you’re watching the game live, scrolling odds on your lunch break, or building a parlay in bed.

Here’s what you get by using mobile or desktop sportsbooks:

• Speed & Convenience: Bet from anywhere inside Ohio without visiting a casino.

• Live Betting Access: Place bets as the action unfolds, especially useful for NFL Sundays and March Madness.

• More Promotions: Odds boosts, parlay provision, bonus bets, and team-specific offers are standard on apps.

• Line Shopping: Quickly compare odds across multiple sportsbooks for better value.

• Custom Experience: Apps like FanDuel and DraftKings tailor markets based on your preferences or past activity.

• Built-In Responsible Gaming Tools: Set deposit limits, take cool-off periods, or self-exclude when needed.

Some apps even include livestreams, stat tracking, and cash-out features, giving Ohio bettors a full-service experience that retail locations simply can’t match.

Retail Sportsbooks in Ohio: Casino & Other Locations

If you enjoy the atmosphere of a casino or watching the game with other fans, Ohio has more than a dozen licensed retail sportsbooks you can visit for in-person wagering.

Here are some of the most active retail sportsbook locations in the state:

At these venues, you’ll find betting kiosks, staffed counters, and in some cases, full-service sports lounges with food, drinks, and dozens of TVs.

It’s good to know that cash payouts are usually available instantly, while betting market depth is often limited compared to online sportsbooks. Also, operating hours can vary, so always make sure to check before visiting

Ohio Sports Betting Laws – Key Details for OH Bettors

Before you dive into betting, it’s a good idea to know how everything works legally in Ohio. Luckily, the rules are clear – if you’re 21 or older and located inside state lines, you’re already off to a good start.

Let’s walk through the key laws and what they mean for you:

Betting Within Ohio State Lines

Here’s the most important thing: you have to be physically in Ohio to place a bet online. You don’t need to live here, as tourists and out-of-state visitors are totally fine. However, your phone or computer needs to confirm you’re inside Ohio when you hit “place bet.”

All legal sportsbooks use geolocation tech to check your location. If your bet isn’t going through, it’s usually because:

• You’re using a VPN (turn it off)

• You haven’t allowed location access

• You’re too close to the state border with a weak signal

Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) – The Regulatory Authority

Every legal betting site in Ohio is overseen by the OCCC, as they make sure the sportsbooks follow and apply all the regulations related to the industry.

Some of the things Ohio Casino Control Commission does include:

• Licensing and regulating sportsbooks

• Making sure your data and funds are protected

• Cracking down on shady operators

• Providing support and tools for responsible gambling

If a sportsbook doesn’t show its OCCC license, the best advice is to skip it, since it’s probably not legal. You can always double-check a site’s license on the official OCCC website.

Licensed Operators in Ohio – Betting with Approved Sites

Ohio’s got a solid lineup of legal sportsbooks, including FanDuel, DraftKings, bet365, Caesars, BetMGM, and more. When you bet with these operators, you’re fully protected by the US federal and state laws.

The thing to avoid are offshore sites. They might look legit, but they’re not regulated in the US, they don’t answer to the OCCC, and if they disappear with your winnings, there’s not much you can do about it.

Tax Implications on Winnings in Ohio

Your sports betting winnings are taxable in Ohio. Here’s the quick breakdown of how much you own to “Uncle Sam” after hitting a winning bet:

• Federal taxes: Winnings over $600 must be reported. Sportsbooks may issue a W-2G form if you hit big.

• Ohio state tax: Applies at a 4% income tax rate, and sportsbooks are taxed 20% on gross gaming revenue.

It’s smart to keep records of your bets, especially if you’re cashing out frequently or chasing big parlays.

Permitted & Prohibited Bets in Ohio

Ohio gives you a lot of flexibility when it comes to online sports betting, but there are a few clear limits no sportsbook in the state is allowed to cross.

You can bet on:

• Pro sports (NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, UFC, etc.)

• NCAA games, including Ohio teams like OSU and Cincinnati

• Player props, game lines, parlays, and live bets

You can’t bet on:

• High school sports

• Individual college player props (e.g., how many yards Marvin Harrison Jr. will get)

• Non-sports stuff like elections, reality TV, or Oscars

Other Legal Gambling Options in Ohio

Ohio isn’t just about sports betting. If you’re looking for other ways to gamble legally in the state, there are plenty of fully regulated options to choose from. Whether you prefer spinning slots, playing the lottery, or wagering on horse racing, Ohio has you covered.

Let’s take a quick look at the main legal forms of gambling you can enjoy in the Buckeye state:

Ohio Casino Gaming

Ohio is home to four full-service casinos and several racinos (racetracks with slot machines). These properties are regulated by the Ohio Casino Control Commission and offer a wide range of games, from slots and table games to poker rooms and sportsbooks. They offer a full Vegas-style experience and are open to anyone 21 or older.

Major casino locations in Ohio include:

• JACK Cleveland Casino: Right downtown, with table games, slots, and betJACK Sportsbook

• Hollywood Casino Columbus: One of the largest in the state, also hosts ESPN BET sportsbook

• Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati: Table games, live music, and the Hard Rock Sportsbook

• Hollywood Casino Toledo: Another major venue with slots, tables, and sports betting

Ohio Lottery

The Ohio Lottery has been around since 1974 and remains one of the most popular gambling options in the state. You can buy tickets at retail locations statewide. While the state has a lottery app, online ticket purchases aren’t available yet.

Games available at Ohio Lottery include:

• Scratch-offs: Instant wins ranging from $1 to $30 per ticket

• Daily draw games: Pick 3, Pick 4, Rolling Cash 5, etc.

• Multi-state jackpots: Like Powerball and Mega Millions, which can climb into the hundreds of millions

Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) in Ohio

DFS is legal in Ohio and regulated under a separate licensing framework from OH sports betting. You must be 18 or older to play DFS in Ohio.

Unlike sportsbooks, DFS contests typically involve building lineups of real players and competing for points based on their performance, instead of betting on actual game outcomes.

Top DFS operators include:

• DraftKings

• FanDuel

• Underdog Fantasy

• PrizePicks

Horse Racing in Ohio

Horse racing has a long tradition in Ohio, and pari-mutuel betting is legal both at tracks and online. Online betting (ADW) is also legal via platforms like TVG, TwinSpires, and FanDuel Racing, where you can stream races and place bets directly from your device.

Where to bet on horse racing in-person:

• Thistledown Racino: Live thoroughbred races and slot machines (near Cleveland)

• Mahoning Valley Race Course: Also offers racing and slots (near Youngstown)

• Scioto Downs: Primarily harness racing, located in Columbus

Responsible Sports Betting in Ohio (Play Responsibly, 21+)

Ohio’s licensed sportsbooks are required by law to offer responsible gaming tools, and the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) actively supports education, prevention, and treatment programs. Sports betting is supposed to be a form of entertainment, and never treated as a source of income.

Here’s how to bet responsibly in Ohio:

Tips for Gambling Responsibly in Ohio

Responsible betting is about self-control and placing limits on your betting habits that make it easier to maintain discipline. Here are a few practical tips Ohio bettors can follow to always stay ahead:

• Set a budget before you place a single bet, and stick to it

• Use a separate bankroll for betting that doesn’t touch rent, bills, or savings

• Treat betting as entertainment, not as a way to make money

• Don’t chase losses: trying to “win it back” usually leads to losing more

• Take breaks if you find yourself betting emotionally or out of habit

• Avoid betting under the influence of alcohol, drugs, or stress

• Most importantly, know when to walk away. It’s perfectly okay to stop, even if you’re ahead.

Utilizing Responsible Gaming Tools on OH Betting Sites

All OCCC-licensed sportsbooks in Ohio are required to offer built-in responsible gaming tools. These can help you stay in control of your habits, or take a break when needed. They can usually be activated from your account settings or by contacting customer support.

Here are the most common responsible gambling tools available at Ohio online betting sites:

• Deposit Limits: Cap how much you can add to your account daily, weekly, or monthly

• Wager Limits: Limit how much you can bet per day or per game

• Time Limits: Set session timers to avoid getting stuck in endless scroll

• Cool-Off Periods: Temporarily lock yourself out of the sportsbook for a set number of days

• Self-Exclusion: Ban yourself from all Ohio betting sites for 1 year, 5 years, or for life

Ohio Problem Gambling Resources & Helplines

If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, Ohio offers several support channels, most of which are free, confidential, and available 24/7:

• Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline: 1-800-589-9966

• Ohio Casino Control Commission – Ohio Casino Control Commission

• National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG): 1-800-522-4700

• Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

Always remember that you’re never alone when it comes to gambling habits. Whether you just need advice or serious support, help is always available, and just one phone call away.

Ohio Sports Betting FAQs

When did online sports betting launch in Ohio?

Ohio launched legal online and retail sports betting on January 1, 2023.

What is the legal age for sports betting in OH?

You must be 21 or older to bet on sports legally in Ohio, whether online or in person.

Can I bet on sports online anywhere in Ohio?

Yes, as long as you’re physically located within Ohio’s borders and using a licensed sportsbook. Residency is not required.

What are the best OH sports betting apps?

Top-rated Ohio apps include FanDuel, DraftKings, bet365, Caesars, and BetMGM.

Do I have to live in Ohio to bet on sports there?

No. You just need to be inside the state when placing a bet. Geolocation software will verify your location.

Can I bet on Ohio State and other Ohio college teams?

Yes. College betting is legal in Ohio, including on teams like the Buckeyes and Bearcats, though player prop bets on college athletes are restricted.

How many online sportsbooks are legal in Ohio?

There are currently 15 licensed online sportsbooks in Ohio, regulated by the OCCC.

 

Are my sports betting winnings taxed in Ohio?

Yes. Winnings are subject to federal and Ohio state income tax. You may receive a W-2G form if your win exceeds reporting thresholds.

Who regulates sports betting in Ohio?

The Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) regulates and licenses all legal sports betting operators in the state.

Can I bet on the Browns, Bengals, Cavaliers, Blue Jackets, and Guardians in Ohio?

Absolutely. All major pro teams in Ohio are available for legal betting on licensed platforms.

What payment methods can I use for OH sports betting?

Most sportsbooks accept credit/debit cards, PayPal, ACH/eCheck, Play+, PayNearMe, and cash at partner locations.

Is there a limit on how much I can bet in Ohio?

Each sportsbook sets its own betting limits. However, responsible gaming tools allow you to set personal limits on deposits, wagers, or time spent.