Ohio sports betting entered a new era in 2023 with the launch of regulated mobile sportsbooks statewide. The industry has grown rapidly, thanks in part to legislation like HB 29, which authorized both retail and online sportsbooks. Residents can now wager on sports from their phones or in person at casinos, stadiums, and licensed betting lounges.
Still, many Ohio bettors look beyond state-regulated operators to access better odds, more flexible platforms, and faster crypto payouts. Here, we explore the legal status of sports betting in Ohio, highlight what betting sites are legal in Ohio (including overseas options), and rank the best Ohio sportsbooks for 2025, each with a distinct competitive advantage:
- BetWhale – Best for Fast-Action Bettors Seeking Ultra-Low Latency
- BetOnline – Best for Sharp Line Movement and Market Reactions
- Everygame – Best for Multilingual Interface and Global Payment Flexibility
- BetUS – Best for In-House Analysts and Real-Time Betting Insights
- CoinCasino – Best for Lightning-Speed Wallet Sync and Payout Confirmation
- MyBookie – Best for Weekly Survivor Pools and Bracket Tournaments
- BetNow – Best for Streamlined Betting Experience with Minimal Distractions
- Sportsbetting.ag – Best for Limit Testing and High-Stakes Live Action
- BUSR – Best for Race Props and Custom Futures Creation
- Jazz Sports – Best for One-on-One Account Support and Direct Bet Setup
Is Sports Betting Legal in Ohio?
Yes, sports betting in Ohio is fully legal both online and in person. Ohio Governor Mike DeWine signed HB 29 into law in December 2021, and legal wagering officially began on January 1, 2023. The law allows for up to 25 online sportsbook licenses and more than 40 retail locations across the state.
Ohio betting apps like FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, and Caesars now operate with state licenses. However, these platforms often offer limited bonus value, fewer crypto options, and slower payouts compared to overseas competitors. Because of this, many experienced users continue using offshore Ohio betting sites for added flexibility and better promotions.
While Ohio online sportsbooks are expanding quickly, the regulatory model is still new. As such, market competition, tax structure, and licensing rules are likely to evolve in the coming years.
Legal Availability Table:
| Betting Type | Legal in Ohio |
|---|---|
| Retail Sportsbooks | Yes |
| Online Sportsbooks | Yes (state-regulated) |
| Online via Offshore Sites | Yes |
| Daily Fantasy Sports | Yes |
| Horse Racing | Yes |
| Esports Betting | Yes |
| Political Betting | No (offshore only) |
Current Legal Standing
Ohio is one of the most robust legal betting states in the country. With the passing of HB 29 in late 2021, the state created a framework that allows for both online and in-person wagering.
By January 2023, apps like DraftKings, BetMGM, and FanDuel launched statewide. The Ohio Casino Control Commission issues licenses and oversees regulatory compliance.
However, not all bettors are satisfied with the in-state offerings. Many Ohio residents continue to use offshore sportsbooks, which are legal to access and not restricted by state boundaries.
These platforms offer greater bonus value, higher limits, faster payouts—especially in crypto—and access to niche markets like politics, international esports, and smaller global sports leagues. There is no Ohio law prohibiting residents from placing bets with licensed offshore operators.
Recent Legislation Changes
Since the launch of legal sports betting in Ohio, the regulatory framework has remained largely stable. The most significant change came in 2024 when lawmakers increased the tax rate on sportsbook revenue from 10% to 20%, aiming to boost state funding for education and public health. While this change was unpopular with operators, it has not disrupted service for consumers.
No new comprehensive sports betting bills have been introduced in 2025. However, the Ohio Casino Control Commission is currently reviewing proposals aimed at enhancing transparency around promotional credit and refining the tax reporting process for users. Minor regulatory adjustments are expected in the future, but the foundation of the law remains intact and favorable to bettors.
Will Ohio Ever Legalize Online Sports Betting?
Ohio already has legal online sports betting through licensed operators, so in that sense, the question has been answered. However, there remains a segment of the market that relies on offshore sportsbooks, and these platforms will likely remain relevant for years to come. The primary reason is simple: offshore sites offer features that state-regulated platforms cannot, such as full crypto support, political betting, and no restrictions on promotional structure.
It is unlikely that Ohio will attempt to criminalize the use of offshore sportsbooks. Enforcement would be difficult, and there is no current political appetite to pursue such regulation. Instead, we expect Ohio to continue refining its local market while allowing consumer choice for those who prefer international platforms.
Can You Play at Online Sportsbooks in Ohio?
Yes. In addition to using licensed local apps like FanDuel and Caesars, Ohio residents can legally access offshore sportsbooks that are licensed and regulated in their own countries. These platforms operate outside of U.S. jurisdiction and legally serve American users, including those in Ohio.
Trusted offshore sportsbooks such as BetWhale, BetOnline, and Bovada have been active for decades and are known for fast payouts, strong privacy protections, and competitive odds. Many Ohio bettors choose these platforms for crypto access, wider betting options, and larger promotions. As long as you stick to reputable sites, betting online from Ohio—both locally and offshore—is safe and fully legal
Expert Reviews of the Best Ohio Sports Betting Sites
1. BetWhale – Best for Fast-Action Bettors Seeking Ultra-Low Latency
BetWhale is uniquely optimized for bettors who prioritize instant execution. Whether you’re firing on in-play odds or scalping fast market movement, BetWhale’s ultra-low latency architecture delivers one of the smoothest wagering experiences on the market. There’s zero lag during odds updates, which is rare even among top-tier sportsbooks.
All popular leagues are covered—from the Cleveland Browns to global UFC cards—and the user interface is built for speed. The mobile platform feels like a trading terminal, with fast bet slips, push notifications, and minimal graphic load. That gives serious Ohio sports betting users an edge during high-pressure betting moments.
The crypto-only nature of BetWhale means payouts are lightning fast and secure, but it won’t be right for users wanting to pay with credit cards or ACH. Still, if your style is quick decisions and high-volume action, this is easily one of the best Ohio sportsbooks for 2025.
Pros:
- Ultra-fast in-play betting execution
- Clean and rapid-fire mobile design
- Supports large-scale crypto transactions
Cons:
- No fiat payment options
- No traditional promotions or loyalty system
Conclusion: BetWhale is undoubtedly one of the best crypto betting sites around.
2. BetOnline – Best for Sharp Line Movement and Market Reactions
BetOnline has carved a niche as the sportsbook where professional bettors track early movement. Ohio players who want to see where the money is going—before the books adjust—will appreciate how quickly BetOnline reflects market trends. It’s ideal for users who understand the importance of timing and line value.
Beyond line movement, BetOnline gives you the tools to exploit it when online sports betting in Ohio. Their alternative spreads, pricing transparency, and flexible prop builders make it easy to capitalize on inefficient markets. Bettors following Ohio State or the Cincinnati Bengals will find a variety of markets updated in real time.
The interface hasn’t changed much in years, but under the hood, it’s a reliable workhorse. Crypto and traditional banking options are both supported, and their 24/7 support is among the best in the offshore market. If you’re betting based on market signals, BetOnline belongs in your rotation.
Pros:
- Fast reaction to market sharp money
- Deep prop and alternate line coverage
- Reliable payouts and support for all banking types
Cons:
- Visual layout feels outdated
- Bonus rollover rules require attention
Conclusion: For sharp OH sports betting, BetOnline is certainly among the best betting sites in Ohio.
3. Everygame – Best for Multilingual Interface and Global Payment Flexibility
Everygame is the only Ohio sportsbook on this list that supports multiple languages across its full site and mobile interface, including Spanish, German, and French. That makes it an excellent choice for international users based in Ohio or for those who prefer non-English navigation. The support team is also multilingual, which is rare.
From Premier League soccer to tennis tournaments in Asia, Everygame has markets that most U.S.-focused sportsbooks don’t touch. Their live betting system is particularly smooth, with straightforward bet slips and responsive odds updates.
Payment flexibility is another standout. In addition to major cards and Bitcoin, they accept less common methods like ecoPayz, Flexepin, and bank wire from multiple regions. If you’re an Ohio bettor who travels or has international banking needs, Everygame is a logical choice.
Pros:
- Full multilingual site and support
- Accepts a wide range of global payment methods
- Covers international sports better than most
Cons:
- Not ideal for U.S.-only bettors
- Bonus programs are conservative
Conclusion: We’d highly recommend Everygame for those seeking multilingual support and payment flexibility.
4. BetUS – Best for In-House Analysts and Real-Time Betting Insights
BetUS delivers more than just odds—it gives you live information designed to shape your wagers. The platform publishes regular analyst videos, expert commentary, and even segment-specific betting previews for Ohio teams like the Cavaliers or Buckeyes. It’s a built-in betting network that informs your decision-making.
Live betting on BetUS is fast and data-rich. You can bet quarters, drives, player stats, and alternative lines with real-time access to context that other sportsbooks bury behind paywalls or in separate apps. That makes it one of the best Ohio sports betting sites for strategic wagering.
Crypto and card payments are accepted, and BetUS frequently runs big match bonuses. While the rollovers can be steep, the bonus values are among the largest in the business. If you want deeper context without switching between a sportsbook and ESPN, BetUS bridges that gap.
Pros:
- In-house content tailored to betting markets
- High-value bonuses for crypto users
- Wide variety of live and in-game bet types
Cons:
- Rollovers may be high on promotions
- Visual layout can feel crowded on mobile
Conclusion: You can’t beat the additional information resources available at BetUS, as you simply won’t find these at most OH online sportsbooks.
5. CoinCasino – Best for Lightning-Speed Wallet Sync and Payout Confirmation
CoinCasino is designed to make the crypto process as painless as possible. The platform offers automatic wallet syncing, immediate balance recognition, and instant payout initiation once you win. Ohio bettors tired of copy-pasting wallet addresses or refreshing confirmation screens will love how seamless this system is.
Beyond tech, CoinCasino is a functional sportsbook with markets across the NFL, NBA, combat sports, and global soccer. You can create fast parlays, check live trends, and filter bets based on volatility. The in-play betting is especially strong when it comes to odds refresh.
While there are no fiat options and fewer promotions, the speed and transparency of crypto handling set CoinCasino apart. For Ohio users who already bank in crypto and want a frictionless experience, it’s one of the most practical platforms available.
Pros:
- Seamless crypto setup and syncing
- Instant payout initiation
- Clean, no-nonsense UI
Cons:
- No fiat or card payment options
- Minimal bonus availability
Conclusion: If you are a more advanced crypto user, Coin Casino may be ideal for you.
How We Choose the Best Online Ohio Sportsbooks
Our rankings for Ohio sportsbooks are based on detailed research, testing, and evaluation across multiple performance areas. We prioritize OH sportsbooks that deliver strong value and consistent performance for both casual and advanced bettors.
Welcome Bonus
The size of the bonus matters, but so do the terms. We assess each site’s new user offers based on match percentage, rollover requirements, and overall ease of use. Ohio sports betting sites that reward crypto users with enhanced offers or offer multi-stage bonuses score highest here.
Safety & Security
Every sportsbook listed is licensed in a respected jurisdiction, uses SSL encryption, and has a proven record of secure user data handling. For Ohio bettors, especially those betting offshore, security is essential, and we don’t recommend sites without strong trust signals and responsible practices.
Payment Options
Ohio sports bettors deserve flexibility. We favor sportsbooks offering both fiat (credit cards, bank transfer) and crypto (Bitcoin, Ethereum, USDT, etc.), along with fast withdrawal processing and low minimums. Ease of deposit and payout is one of the top concerns for real users.
Range of Sports
Whether it’s Bengals football or UFC fights, we look for sportsbooks that offer deep market coverage. Top Ohio betting apps should cover all U.S. leagues, major college sports, and international events—plus props, futures, live lines, and alternate spreads.
Competitive Odds
The best sportsbooks consistently offer sharp pricing, early lines, and competitive juice. We compare odds across platforms to see which deliver more value over time, especially for common bets like NFL sides and NBA totals.
Customer Support
We test each Ohio sports betting site’s responsiveness via live chat and email. Good support should be fast, helpful, and available around the clock. Sites with multilingual support or VIP reps score even higher.
Mobile Compatibility
Ohio sports betting apps must function well on both Android and iOS. We only recommend sportsbooks with stable, user-friendly mobile sites or native apps that make betting easy on the go.
Ohio Betting Sites vs. Ohio Retail Sportsbooks
Retail sportsbooks are available for online betting in Ohio, but online betting sites continue to offer greater flexibility, speed, and user experience. Here’s how the two compare:
Online Ohio Sportsbooks
- Full mobile access from anywhere in the state
- Broader market options and niche sports coverage
- Fast banking options, including crypto
- Better bonuses and ongoing promotions
- Advanced live betting features and analytics
Retail Sportsbooks in Ohio
- Must be physically present at a licensed location
- Limited market selection and promo availability
- No crypto or altcoin banking
- Less convenient for daily or casual betting
- Slower lines and less real-time data integration
Online sportsbooks are simply more accessible and better suited to modern bettors. That’s why even with dozens of retail venues available, most Ohio bettors still choose online or mobile platforms.
Bonuses at Ohio Sports Betting Sites
Ohio sports betting sites offer a range of bonuses to attract and retain users. These promotions add real value when used strategically.
Welcome Bonus
The most popular bonus is a deposit match—usually 50% to 150% on your first deposit, up to $1,000 or more. Some Ohio betting sites offer different tiers depending on payment method. Crypto users may get higher match percentages and faster unlock speeds.
This bonus is ideal for new users building a starting bankroll for Ohio sports betting. Just make sure to check the rollover terms. Bonuses with low playthrough requirements are generally more useful than inflated ones with 20x+ conditions.
Reload Bonus
These are available to existing users and activate with follow-up deposits. Often smaller than welcome bonuses, reloads can range from 20% to 50% and are sometimes tied to specific events, like NFL Sundays or March Madness.
They’re best for regular Ohio bettors looking to extend their bankroll week after week. Reloads also help offset losing streaks and keep user retention high.
Risk-Free Bets
Some sportsbooks offer your first wager back as a free bet if it loses. These are often capped at a specific amount (e.g., $250) and are credited as site credit. Risk-free bets are perfect for new users trying out unfamiliar bet types or live wagers.
Odds Boosts
These temporary promos enhance payout odds on selected events. You might see a standard +150 line boosted to +200 on a big matchup or player prop. Odds boosts for Ohio sports betting let you squeeze more value from your favorite teams and are a regular fixture on Ohio betting apps.
Bet Insurance
This refund-based promotion returns your wager (fully or partially) if a multi-leg bet fails by one selection or meets other conditions. It’s commonly used on parlays, allowing you to swing bigger without risking total loss. If you love betting on same-game parlays with the Browns or Buckeyes, bet insurance can be a smart cushion.
Popular Ohio Sports Teams to Bet On
Ohio is home to several major teams across pro and college sports, and local fans wager heavily on hometown favorites. Top sportsbooks reflect this with targeted props, odds boosts, and regional promotions.
NFL – Cleveland Browns and Cincinnati Bengals
Both teams attract heavy action in the fall. Top bet types include point spreads, anytime TD scorers, team totals, and division futures. Same-game parlays are popular for Sunday games, and sportsbooks often feature odds boosts when these teams face rivals like Pittsburgh or Baltimore.
NBA – Cleveland Cavaliers
The Cavs are a popular pick for spreads, quarter lines, and player props like over/unders on points and assists. Bettors also place futures on playoff positioning and individual awards. Live betting is especially active during close contests.
MLB – Cincinnati Reds and Cleveland Guardians
Baseball bettors in Ohio focus on run lines, team totals, and home run props. Top sportsbooks also offer multi-inning bets, strikeout totals, and game-start parlays. Expect volume to rise during divisional matchups and postseason pushes.
NHL – Columbus Blue Jackets
Though less popular than the NFL or NBA, the Blue Jackets attract a solid betting base for online sports betting in Ohio. Moneylines, puck lines, and totals are standard, and prop bets on shots, power plays, and goal scorers add more depth.
NCAA – Ohio State Buckeyes
The Buckeyes are one of the most bet-on college teams in the U.S. During football season, sportsbooks offer detailed markets for first halves, alternate spreads, player props, and Big Ten title futures. Basketball betting is also robust, especially in March.
Responsible Betting in Ohio
It is apparent, based on Ohio gambling statistics, that a lot of money is being spent in the state. With that said, responsible gambling is essential for maintaining a healthy relationship with sports betting. Whether you’re using state-licensed apps or offshore Ohio sportsbooks, make sure to set personal limits and stay within them.
Practical steps include setting deposit caps, taking breaks after losses, and never betting while emotional. Most sportsbooks offer responsible gaming tools, such as time-outs or self-exclusion features.
If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, contact one of these resources:
Conclusion: The Best Ohio Sportsbook
Ohio has access to a growing number of regulated betting apps—but they’re not your only option. For bettors who value fast execution, crypto support, or sharp pricing, offshore sportsbooks remain a top alternative.
Among all options in 2025, BetWhale stands out. It offers lightning-fast crypto betting, zero-lag performance, and an interface designed for speed. High-volume players and fast-action bettors will feel right at home.
BetOnline, Everygame, BetUS, and CoinCasino round out the top 5, each excelling in their own category—whether that’s custom props, multilingual support, stat integration, or advanced wallet features. No matter your betting style, there’s an Ohio sportsbook built for it.
Ohio Sports Betting FAQs
Is sports betting legal in Ohio?
Yes. Ohio legalized sports betting statewide in 2023 through HB29. Both online and in-person betting are legal and regulated, and offshore sites accept bettors in Ohio.
Can I use offshore sportsbooks in Ohio?
Yes. While not state-regulated, offshore sportsbooks legally accept players from Ohio. These platforms offer full-featured betting, fast crypto payouts, and broader market access.
What betting sites are legal in Ohio?
State-licensed sites include DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM. However, popular offshore options like BetWhale, BetOnline, and Bovada are also legally accessible to Ohio residents.
Can I bet with crypto in Ohio?
Yes—at offshore sportsbooks. Most Ohio betting apps regulated by the state do not accept crypto, but platforms like BetWhale and CoinCasino do.
Do I have to report sports betting winnings in Ohio?
Yes. All gambling winnings are taxable in Ohio. Offshore sportsbooks do not report winnings to tax agencies, so it’s up to you to track and declare them on your taxes.