The sports betting industry in Ohio has been booming since January 1, 2023, when the state legalized the market, and 2025 looks likely to be a record year, too. With a tech-savvy profile and serious excitement in the competitive sportsbook market, Ohio is emerging as one of the top U.S. sports betting states on the backs of mobile platforms.
Record-Setting Numbers
Ohio gamblers had wagered nearly $8.9 billion on sports betting by the end of 2024, a new record and an impressive 15.9% increase from the $7.7 billion wagered in 2023. The momentum is reflected in early 2025 figures, with January bringing a new state record for the betting handle of $1.01 billion. By a staggering margin, digital wagering accounts for the majority of that total, with online and mobile sportsbooks providing an unmistakable $992.2 million of that total handle, showing just how dominant such options have become in Ohio.
Despite the seasonal slowdown we expect after every Super Bowl, Ohio came in with a solid $760.9 million in wagers for February 2025, up nearly 13% from February 2024. Significantly, though, revenue also increased to $75.3 million for the month. They underscore a maturing marketplace where bettors place smaller (but smarter) bets and sportsbooks are increasingly tailoring their promotions and selection.
The well-established bookmakers such as DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, and Caesars are winning the lion’s share of business, but local platforms are also gaining a foothold by virtue of Ohio’s broad licensing criteria. Convenient Ohio sportsbook applications via mobile, heavy advertising, and live-betting options have made the sites the choice of Ohio bettors.
Tax Structure and Regulation Status
The OCCC administers and enforces the sports betting market within the Buckeye State while focusing on transparency and safeguarding players. Gross gaming revenue is taxed at 20%, with the tax revenue reserved for education, local government, and problem gambling programs.
While previously considering overhauling the state’s sports betting scene, Ohio lawmakers joked earlier about the market’s results, even as they held the door open for additional changes, including modifications to advertising regulations and bonus taxation rules. Competition is still fierce, with 20+ licensed online sportsbooks operating in the state, giving consumers access to great odds, various opportunities, and innovative app features.
Is it Time for Online Platforms?
Fast-forward to today, and there is increasing chatter about Ohio’s possible legalization of online casinos. An online report conducted for a state study group in 2025 indicated that the state adding online casino games — slots, blackjack, and poker — would net the state hundreds of millions in additional revenues.
Advocates contend that connecting online casinos with existing sportsbook platforms could create a frictionless experience for users familiar with digital betting. However, policymakers have only moved slowly, citing concerns over appropriate responsible gambling protections and brick-and-mortar casinos that represent a significant economic engine for the state of Ohio.
Responsible Gaming Focus
Attention for responsible gaming is growing right along with the expanding market. Ohio has spent millions on awareness campaigns, treatment programs, and voluntary exclusion lists. Operators must provide deposit limits, time-out, and self-exclusion tools. The state is nationally prominent for its responsible wagering policies, according to the American Gaming Association — and that’s something stakeholders wish to keep intact as even more betting avenues perhaps come online.
