David spent 25 years as both a writer and editor within the betting/casino industries - including at The Guardian, Racing Post, 888Casino and Sky Sports Racing - prior to joining BBI. He has a diploma in sub-editing and law, is the author of four books, and remains a successful sports tipster.
All posts by David MyersAs a Senior Gambling Journalist, I bring a rich tapestry of expertise to the forefront of the gambling scene in the US. My extensive experience not only encompasses content curation but also extends into the realm of leadership within content marketing teams. Beyond the technical nuances, I specialize in crafting compelling brand identities that truly resonate within the ever-evolving online gambling landscape.
All posts by Sacha KinserAfter years of coming up short, Ohio sports betting has arrived in the Buckeye State. Since the beginning of 2023, retail and online sports betting has been regulated in Ohio. Ohioans can bet on their favorite teams through inland regulated sites and offshore sportsbooks today.
Offshore sportsbooks give you the opportunity to redeem bigger bonuses and explore a wider range of markets. Our Ohio sports betting guide covers professional and college sports betting at the offshore sportsbooks listed. In addition, we’ll cover what types of betting are permitted, sports promotions, and how to set up your account.
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Ohio Sports Betting at a Glance
Regulated sports betting in Ohio was launched in 2023 with both retail and online betting permitted on January 1st. The current state of the sports betting market in the state is outlined below.
- Legal Sports Betting: All Forms of Sports Betting are Regulated
- Minimum Sports Betting Age in Ohio: 21 (inland), 18 (through offshore sites)
- Offline Betting in Person: Yes (casinos, racetracks, and sports stadiums are eligible to take sports bets)
- Online Sportsbooks: Inland and offshore
- Live/In-Play Betting: Online only (Inland and offshore)
- College Sports Betting: Inland and offshore
- Horse racing: Inland and Offshore
- Estimated Sports Betting Revenue: Over $2 million
- Permitted Sports Betting Operators: 42 retail and up to 25 online
- Licensing Fee: Type A license $3 million initial fee plus $3 million annually. Type B $50,000/$100,000 initial fee and $10,000 annually. Type C license $1,000.
- Tax Rate: 10%
- Tax Funded: To be determined
Latest News on Sports Betting Legislation in Ohio
The push to allow regulated sports betting in Ohio began in 2018 when the US Supreme Court struck down a law banning sports betting throughout the US. While many of the states around Ohio were quick to introduce sports wagering, the activity didn’t start in Ohio until January 2023.
- Jan, 2023: Ohio’s official launch weekend sees over 11.3m geolocation transactions recorded, more than any other state over the same time period.
- Jan 1, 2023: Ohio online sports betting officially launches with former Cleveland Browns QB Bernie Kosar placing the first legal bet with Tipico sportsbook. He is subsequently removed from the show for breaching NFL betting rules.
- Oct 6, 2022: The gaming regulator for Ohio has approved the inaugural group of five online sports betting operators who will soon be able to offer their services to residents in the state.
- May 24, 2022: The regulaton of sports betting in Ohio is delayed until January 2023.
- December 22, 2021: Governor Mike DeWine signs bill HB29, officially sanctioning sports gambling in Ohio.
- October 2021: Senator Kirk Schuring mentions that sports betting in Ohio could get voted in by Halloween.
- August 2021: The Ohio sports betting bill makes its way into the House but lawmakers push back on it.
- June 2021: The House failed to bring the Ohio sports betting legislation to a vote before the end of the summer legislative session.
- June 2021: Senator Schuring, who introduced the sports betting bill, amended it so that existing racinos and casinos would be allowed to operate sportsbooks. It also increased the number of licenses from 40 to 53. The amendment was passed 31-0.
- June 2021: The Ohio State Senate passed SB176 with a 31-2 vote, the day after the bill was approved by its committee.
- May 2021: State Senator Kirk Schuring introduces SB176, a bill that would create 40 sports betting licenses to be split between online and brick-and-mortar sportsbooks.
The Best Ohio Online Sports Betting Sites 2024
Looking for the best sports betting Ohio has to offer? We’ve put together a list of the top 10 Ohio sportsbook sites for 2024:
- BetOnline – Overall best Ohio sports betting site 2024
- Bovada – Best NBA sports betting Ohio has to offer
- MyBookie – Best Ohio online sports betting for mobile
- Everygame – Top Ohio betting site for new players
- XBet – Best sportsbook Ohio odds for games
- Lucky Block – Best Ohio sports betting site for European sports
- BetNow – Big on basketball betting
- BetUS – Best Ohio sports betting site for crypto bonus
- BUSR – Best Ohio betting site for horse racing
- Jazz – Great cash bonuses on offer
Best Ohio Online Sports Betting Sites
Although you can use many sportsbooks with licenses from Ohio regulators, offshore betting sites offer a much better alternative. They have more markets, NCAA betting, and great bonuses to redeem. Let’s take a closer look at the best Ohio sports betting sites for 2024:
1. BetOnline – Overall Best Ohio Sports Betting Site 2024
BetOnline is one of our favorite Ohio sports betting sites for wagering on the NBA. With this platform, you have the opportunity to wager on specific matches, the NBA draft, and the upcoming championship. Furthermore, it offers a wide variety of proposition bets, which can create interesting combinations during the peak of the NBA season.
BetOnline has similarly strong coverage for the NFL, MLB, and NHL, plus offers wagers on golf, tennis, and more. In addition, the site has a built-in casino and racebook, so it’s something of a one-stop shop for betting in Ohio.
When it comes to big sporting events like the Super Bowl, the NBA finals, or March Madness, BetOnline goes all out and offers extra promos and contests with big prizes. For example for Super Bowl 57 in 2023, they have a prop predictor competition with a top prize of $100,000 dollars and a reload bonus worth up to $1,000 dollars.
A competitive welcome bonus offer, a 25% reload bonus up to $250, and even BetOnline bonus codes you can use while claiming your bonus are all available here. You can fund your betting account with Bitcoin, but BetOnline doesn’t accept other cryptocurrencies at this time.
What we like:
- Place bets on the NBA draft and future NBA events
- A diverse selection of props bets
- Enjoy an integrated casino and racebook
- $1,000 welcome bonus available
- Live streaming available for MLB, NFL, and many other American favorites
What we don’t:
- Bitcoin is the only crypto accepted
2. BetNow – Ohio Football Betting Specialist
BetNow is a top sports betting brand, with a focus on North American sports like the NFL, NBA, and MLB. The bookie is also a great pick for golf betting enthusiasts and covers major golf tournaments weekly. It’s also a good sportsbook for esports, allowing you to wager on games like Dota 2 and League of Legends. You can place a wide range of bets, including parlays, which are also easy to set up.
BetNow is a solid sportsbook with substantial bonuses, like the 100% welcome offer it uses to attract new players. Rebates and referral programs are also part of the experience to keep your wagering funds flowing.
BetNow makes funding your gambling account quick and easy by availing of numerous crypto options. It takes around 15 minutes for funds to reflect so Ohio players can get on with their betting. Plus, crypto deposits are free. Withdrawals are equally fast and conclude in 30 minutes.
If you’re caught in a pickle, a live help option is available, and response times are quick. An email and toll-free number are also available.
What we like:
- Competitive odds
- Covers popular American leagues
- Fast deposits and withdrawals
- Responsive customer support
What we don’t:
- Poor web design
3. Bovada – Best NBA Sports Betting Ohio Has to Offer
Bovada is the best Ohio sportsbook sites if you’re looking for a place to watch matches as well as bet on them. This Ohio sports betting site offers HD-quality streaming for a variety of sports, plus allows you to make live in-game bets to keep things exciting. Bovada offers a prop builder feature, simplifying the process of creating personalized bets. Additionally, Bovada boasts an extensive range of sports to wager on, making it a compelling choice. You can bet on the NBA, NFL, MLB, and NHL, plus college sports, golf, and soccer.
The platform also offers betting on lesser-watched winter sports and competitions like snooker and handball.
Bovada offers a great welcome bonus, which you can claim using the Bovada promo code, and there is also BTC bonus for those who make a deposit with Bitcoin, which is great for cryptocurrency users. The site offers a match on your Bitcoin deposit up to $750. You can also fund your account with Bitcoin Cash or Litecoin, and payments in these digital currencies are processed in hours rather than days.
What we like:
- Live streaming in HD
- Custom bet prop builder
- Wide selection of sports available for betting
- Bitcoin deposits receive a generous welcome bonus
What we don’t:
- Limited welcome bonus for credit or debit payments
4. BetUS – Best Ohio Sports Betting in 2024 for Crypto Bonus
BetUS is one of our favorite Ohio sports betting apps for players who want to wager on the go. The best sports betting apps Ohio has don’t quite seem up to scratch, but the BetUS app is incredibly easy to use and puts your bet slip at the tips of your fingers. Even better, BetUS offers live in-game betting as an Ohio sportsbook, so you can place bets as a game unfolds even if you don’t have your computer in front of you.
Another thing we like about BetUS is that it offers outstanding customer support. The customer service team of the company is accessible round the clock and can be contacted via telephone and live messaging. Importantly, live chat is directly available from inside the BetUS app.
BetUS offers the most generous welcome bonus of any of our top 5 Ohio sportsbook sites. When you sign up, you can claim a 125% match for both casino and sports betting in Ohio using the BetUS promo code. Just note that there’s no reload bonus, so you do give up some future cash in exchange for a bigger sign-up bonus.
What we like:
- Very user-friendly mobile app
- Supports live in-game betting on mobile
- 24/7 customer support team
- Very large $1,250 welcome bonus
What we don’t:
- No account reload bonuses
5. Everygame – Top Ohio Betting Site for New Players
Besides allowing players to wager using a wide range of cryptocurrencies, several things stood out for us with Everygame. For one, it offers two different casino sections with different styles and game offerings. There’s Casino Classic with games from WGS and Casino Red powered by Real Time Gaming. Whichever route you take leads you to a rich selection of slots, table games, and poker.
A poker room is also available, where you’ll find several low-stakes tournaments, which is great for the casual poker gamer. Withdrawals are pretty fast, and you’ll enjoy higher withdrawal limits than what some casinos are offering.
Everygame has a great sign-up deal for new entrants, comprising a 100% bonus up to $500. We also found an interesting mobile award available to players who play games using their handheld devices. Each week, you stand a chance to win $100, an initiative not found in most casinos.
What we like:
- Mobile promo
- Large welcome bonus
- Two casino sections
- Fast withdrawals
What we don’t:
- No mobile app
More on Gambling in Ohio…
Learn about all types of online gambling in Ohio in our expert guides below:
Ohio Sportsbooks Compared
Now that you know more about the best Ohio sports betting sites, let’s see how they stack up on bonuses and key features:
Sportsbook Sign-Up Bonus Bonus Code Sports to bet on Live Betting Live Streaming BetOnline 50% up to $1,000 INSIDERS 40+ ✅ ✅ BetNow 3x $250 up to $750 INSIDERS 12+ ✅ ❌ Bovada 75% 3x up to $750 N/A 40 ✅ ✅ BetUS 125% up to $2,500 INSIDERS 25+ ✅ ✅ Everygame 50% up to $1,000 INSIDERS 25+ ✅ ❌ MyBookie 50% up to $1,000 INSIDERS 25+ ✅ ❌ BUSR 100% up to $1,000 INSIDERS 20+ ✅ ❌ Sportsbetting.ag Up to $1,000 first 2 deposits N/A 25+ ✅ ❌ XBet 50% up to $500 INSIDERS 25+ ✅ ❌ Mega Dice 200% Bonus Up To 1BTC N/A 35+ ✅ ❌ Discover Our Top Betting Guides
Who Can Bet on Sports in Ohio?
Until the first state sports betting retailers begin accepting wagers in 2023, Ohioans can easily turn to offshore sportsbooks. Most sports betting sites require their members to be at least 21 to register an account. Once your account is approved, you are free to gamble on a bevy of sports, including tennis, boxing, International baseball, and hockey leagues.
How to Bet on Sports in Ohio
Setting up your account at your preferred sportsbook isn’t complex at all. In these short steps, we walk you through creating your account and placing your bet.
1. Fill out the Registration Form
If you feel sure about the rules and terms of your chosen sportsbook, then it’s time to fill out the registration form. It only takes a few moments to fill this out, and you will have to prove your identity for security purposes. You can find the registration or join link at the top of the screen or in the footer area.
2. Verify Your Account Information
Sports betting sites take the security of their member’s accounts seriously. Before finalizing the registration, you are sent a confirmation asking you to approve the details. Then, you are asked to submit further information to prove your identity if necessary.
3. Make the Deposit
Now that your account is up and running head to the cashier and make your deposit. Offshore bookies like those listed in this account offer a variety of payment gateways. If you plan to use credit cards, you might have to submit a credit authorization form to the cashier. We recommend doing so immediately, for it may take time to approve.
4. Check for any Relevant Promotions
Offshore bookies have various sports promotions. Generally, new members have access to a sports welcome like Bovada’s $750 sports starter. BetOnline has a 50% matching sports welcome package worth up to $1,000. After making your deposit, enter any applicable codes to unlock it and use it.
5. Fill Out the Bet Slip
Sports betting sites offer a combination of live betting, parlays, futures, odds, Moneyline bets, player props, and more. We recommend checking out the particular sports glossaries and the odds for your particular sport. When you are ready, define your bet and the amount on the bet slip.
Is Sports Betting Legal in Ohio?
Ohio sports betting was slated for introduction in December 2022, however, retail sportsbooks and mobile apps didn’t begin accepting bets until January 2023. Since January 1, 2023, Ohioans have been able to gamble on their beloved professional teams, horse racing, and more.
HB29, the bill that led to the regulation of sports betting, called for 25 mobile Type A licenses. It also allowed for 40 retail Type B licenses that prohibit a sportsbook in a county with less than 50,000 residents. HB29 also calls for a Type C license where liquor stores classified as Class D can only operate kiosks. Ohioans can register at our listed offshore sportsbooks and start placing sports wagers today.
December 2021 Ballot HB29 Legalized Sports Betting in Ohio
Governor DeWine signed bill HB29 three days before Christmas in 2021. HB29 is a comprehensive sports bill for Buckeye State, which breaks down the number of mobile and retail licenses and the different license classes. We highlight the key supporters and opponents of bill HB29.
Supporters
Both Ohio’s House and Senate overwhelmingly approved bill HB29. Governor DeWine is also a strong supporter and advocate of HB29.
Opponents
Many academic professionals were against the permitting of in-state college sports gambling. According to Bruce Johnson of the University Council of Ohio “If wagering on collegiate sports is permitted, it would not take a great leap of logic to conclude the risk of student-athletes soliciting and accepting payments to influence the outcome of games may increase.”
Previous Sports Betting Bills in Ohio
While HB29 was the bill that ultimately led to regulated Ohio sports betting, it wasn’t the first to attempt the introduction. We highlight some of the notable Ohio sports betting bills that were previously put forward in the Houses.
2021
2019
Tax on Sports Betting Winnings in Ohio
Retailers and mobile sports operators are subject to a 10% tax on their revenues. Furthermore, every casino and racetrack in Ohio must pay a 33% tax on their total revenue. Also, individuals betting at a licensed casino or racino in Ohio will have the casino withhold 4% of their winnings for tax purposes.
On the plus side, you are allowed to deduct your gambling losses from your winnings when figuring out your taxes. However, you cannot remove more than you made from gambling for the year, even if you lose money while gambling.
If you’re using an offshore betting site, don’t expect the site to withhold any of your winnings for tax purposes. Even though offshore betting sites and casinos are outside Ohio’s jurisdiction, Ohio still requires its residents to report any net earnings.
Read Our Sportsbook Payment Guides
Payment Methods Available at Ohio Online Sports Betting Sites
Legitimate sports betting sites offer a variety of payment gateways for their members to swiftly get into the virtual lobby and begin placing bets. We walk you through the essential payment gateways at offshore sportsbooks.
Crypto Betting Options
Bitcoin continues to surge in popularity, and it has a legion of dedicated Bitcoin Casinos. Offshore sports bookies like the ones in this list all offer Bitcoin and other alternate currencies. BetOnline, for example, has Ethereum, Litecoin, Dogecoin, and more. It is strongly advised for you to familiarize yourself with the different crypto options. Establishing a crypto wallet is straightforward and free to do.
eWallet Betting Options
More sports betting sites like Bovada have eWallet payment gateways. It is free to set up an eWallet. You need a valid email and some ways to finance them.
Traditional Payment Methods at Ohio Betting Sites
Visa and MasterCard continue to be the bedrock and traditional banking method for offshore sportsbooks. Most sites also let you use the debit versions of the credit cards. But before you can use them, you must have the cashier’s authorization. Some sites like BetOnline and Bovada also have American Express and Discover Card as additional credit card options.
Bonuses Available at Ohio Online Sports Betting Sites
There’s no shortage of elite sports promotions awaiting Ohioans at sports betting sites. We highlight the essential sports promotions that you can use to your advantage at an offshore sportsbook.
The Sports Welcome
The sports welcome bonus is generally the first sports bonus that Ohioans and new members will use once they register. The sites listed in this article offer competitive and rewarding sports starter prizes. After making your initial deposit, enter the bonus code associated with the matching welcome sports bonus. For example, BetUS offers a 125% matching bonus of up to $2,500.
Sports Reload Bonus
No matter how keen your sports strategy is, if you make enough bets, sometimes you’re going to lose. To help keep its members inspired and placing sports bets, offshore sportsbooks have sports rebate and reload bonuses. This type of lucrative bonus is designed to reimburse a percentage of previous losses, usually from the week before. BetOnline offers a 25% reload for its members.
Live Bet Promotions
Because live bets are a major fixture in online sports betting, our partner sports bookies feature advantageous live bets. This is designed to encourage new members to make their first bet, risk-free. BetOnline leads the charge with a $25 risk-free live bet.
Horse Racing Promotions
Ohioans can spend all day placing lucrative horse racing bets. To help you set that winning bet, sites like BetOnline and XBet offer daily horse rebates. These distinguished sports bookies in our top ten also provide a risk-free bet for horse racing.
Sports Contents
Seasonal sports promotions are vastly popular throughout our offshore sportsbooks. Ohioans can expect March Madness Tournament prizes, the NFL Playoffs contests, odd for the next Kentucky Derby winner, and more.
Grab The Best Promo Codes With Our Reviews
Popular Sports to Bet on in Ohio
The Buckeye State features competitive and storied professional sports teams on every level and historic college programs. Unlike other sports States like New Jersey sportsbooks, Ohioans can bet on in-state-college teams. We break down the elite professional and college sports for Ohioans to gamble on.
Complete the Pass with NFL Betting
The Buckeye State features two NFL teams that are rich in sports history. Our partner sportsbooks all offer compelling NFL betting options. We feel that BetOnline’s risk-free bet for live player props puts this betting site over the finish line.
We break down Ohio’s rich NFL history and teams.
- Cleveland Browns – This current Browns team is the second incarnation in the city of Cleveland. The Original Cleveland Browns left in 1996 and became the Baltimore Ravens, taking over for the departed Baltimore Colts. Legendary running back, Jim Brown played for The Original Cleveland Browns.
- Cincinnati Bengals – Narrowly lost Super Bowl LVI to the Los Angeles Rams. The Bengals have lost all three Super Bowl appearances.
Shoot to Win with NBA Sports Betting
The Cleveland Cavaliers is the centerpiece for NBA betting in The Buckeye State. Ohioans can do well placing their bets at any of our top listed sportsbooks, but we strongly suggest BetOnline manage these bets. BetOnline’s intricate NBA futures wagering, like NBA live betting, separates itself from the pack.
We highlight Ohio’s sole NBA team.
- Cleveland Cavaliers – The Cavs entered the NBA as an expansion team in 1970. NBA Hall Of Famer Lenny Wilkens played and coached for The Cavs. Future NBA Hall Of Famer, Lebron James led his Cavs to an improbable 3-1 comeback win in the 2016 NBA Finals.
While Cincinnati doesn’t currently have an NBA team, it was once home to the Cincinnati Royals from 1957 to 1972. The Royals had NBA legends Oscar Robertson and Jerry Lucas. Then, the Royals would relocate and become the Kansas City-Omaha Kings. In 1985, the Kings would relocate again and become the modern-day Sacramento Kings.
Get on Base with Elite MLB Betting
The Buckeye State is also home to prestigious and storied Major League Baseball teams. Both BetOnline and XBet provide terrific player props and baseball futures, including Cy Young Winners, etc.
Ohio also has a rich tradition for baseball. We spotlight Ohio’s two Major League Baseball teams.
- Cleveland Guardians – Formerly known as the “Indians,” The Guardians compete in the American League.
- Cincinnati Reds – Have won five World Series. The Reds have some of baseball’s greatest teams, including “The Big Red Hitting Machine” offenses from the 1970s.
Score the Puck with NHL Betting
Ohioans are free to bet on their beloved Blue Jackets at our offshore sportsbooks. BetOnline and BetUS have detailed hockey futures, including AHL and over a dozen International hockey leagues.
We highlight Ohio’s lone NHL team.
- Columbus Blue Jackets – Started as an expansion team in 2000.
Sink the Free Throw with NCAA Basketball Betting
The Buckeye State, come January 2023, is going to offer its residents rewarding college basketball betting. Ohio offers many competitive NCAA Division One teams. BetOnline provides an in-depth college basketball futures and excellent live odds.
We highlight Ohio’s illustrious college basketball teams from division one.
- University of Akron – The Zips have two NCAA Tournament appearances.
- Bowling Green State University – The Falcons compete in the Mid-American Conference.
- University of Cincinnati – The Bearcats are a perennial March Madness team.
- Cleveland State University – The Vikings play in the Horizon Conference.
- University of Dayton – The Flyers play in the Atlantic 10 Conference.
- Kent State University – The Golden Flashes first took the court in 1913.
- University of Miami at Ohio – The Redhawks is the Alma mater for former NBA standouts, Wayne Embry and Ron Harper.
- Ohio University – The Bobcats have 15 NCAA Tournaments to their credit.
- Ohio State – The Buckeyes are winners of the 1960 championship game and runners-up to the Final Four ten times.
- University of Toledo – The Rockets are in-state rivals of The Falcons.
- Wright State University – The Raiders play out of The Horizon League.
- Xavier University – The Musketeers have been to the NCAA Tournament 28 times and have sent many alumni to the NBA.
- Youngstown State University – The Penguins program started in 1927.
Pound the Football with Winning College Football Bets
The Buckeye State is home to many FBS bowl championship teams. When it comes to college football gambling, we feel that BetOnline is the number one place on our list. Ohioans can place bets on the next Heisman Trophy Winner and a bevy of conference champions.
We break down the prestigious college football teams from division one in Ohio.
- University of Akron – The Zips are in-state rivals with Kent State.
- Bowling Green State University – The Falcons play in the Mid-American Conference.
- University of Cincinnati – The Bearcats will be moving to the Big 12 Conference in 2023.
- Dayton Flyers – The Alma mater of former NFL coach Jon Gruden.
- Kent State University – The Golden Flashes first took the field in 1920.
- University of Miami at Ohio – The Alma Mater of future NFL Hall Of Famer Ben Roethlisberger.
- Ohio University – The Bobcats have sent many players from its program into the NFL.
- Ohio State – The Buckeyes have won eight national championships.
- University of Toledo – The Rockets are the chief rivals of Bowling Green State.
- Youngstown State University – The Penguins have produced former NFL standouts Ron Jaworski and Jeff Wilkins.
Sink the Winning Putt with Golf Bets
Ohioans are free to place golf wagers at our distinguished sportsbooks. In our opinion, BetOnline’s player props, which extend to elite golf tournaments, put this offshore sportsbook over the top.
We list some of the golf tournaments in The Buckeye State.
- Ohio Amateur Qualifier
- Ohio Junior Championship
Stride to the Finish Line with Horse Racing Bets
Ohioans can already bet on horse races. The Buckeye State has eight racetracks with an abundance of off-track sites to place wagers in the state. Bovada, BetOnline, and XBet have thorough horse racing glossaries and detailed tracks. BetOnline has a 9% daily horse rebate and a $25 risk-free bet for your first live bet.
We highlight Ohio’s racetracks.
- Beulah Park
- River Downs
- Thistledown
- Delaware Ohio Fair, Little Brown Jug Harness Racing
- Lebanon Raceway
- Northfield Park Racetrack Harness Horse Track
- Raceway Park
- SCIOTO DOWNS
Ohio Betting Apps & Mobile Sites for iPhone & Android
When it comes to technological advancement, the best Ohio sports betting apps go hand in hand. Today, bettors can place a bet on their favorite sports with their mobile devices. But, there are two major operating systems with different compatibility.
Ohio Mobile Sports Betting on Android
A wide range of platforms is available on Android, which includes BetOnline, MyBookie, and Bovanda. Additionally, you can download the APK files from online gambling sites and download them on your Android phone.
Ohio Mobile Sports Betting on iPhone
Most, if not all Ohio mobile sports betting apps are available via iPhones. Moreover, sportsbooks make it easier than ever to access their site via mobile web and iOS (and Android, for that matter).
Mobile Site vs App for Betting in Ohio
There are many top sports betting apps in Ohio. All of the sportsbooks we highlighted here have separate mobile experiences for their users. The mobile site is a mobile version of the desktop site. You can open the platform with your mobile’s browsers.
Sports Betting Mobile Site
Below, we highlight the pros and cons of using a mobile site to sports bet.
What we like:
- Similar experience as the desktop version
- No need to download the app
- Customer support is still available
- Convenience
What we don’t:
- Navigating the mobile site can be more difficult for new bettors
- Less detail is readily accessibly and viewable
- Design limitations
Sports Betting Mobile App
Apps for OH mobile sports betting are usually harder to set up. You have to download and install the application, then update it when needed. It can however come with extra features, like Touch ID for signing in with your fingerprint.
What we like:
- User-friendly interface
- Quick access via applications on your home screen
- Suitable for new bettors
- Conveniant
What we don’t:
- Traditional apps may have bugs from time to time
- Requires storage space on your device
How to Create a Betting App for an Ohio Sportsbook
Do you want to create sports betting app in Ohio on iPhone or Android? If yes, then you should check this step-by-step guide, below.
Step 1: Go to the Site from your Mobile Device
Open your browser app on the phone and go to an online sportsbook. If you are using an iPhone, you probably have Safari.
Step 2: Open the Browser Menu
You can find the menu button at the bottom of the app. Note that we are not referring to the sportsbook menu here, but the web browser menu.
Step 3: Select Add to Home Screen
The menu will show a list of options. Simply tap on the Add to Home Screen button. This will add a shortcut to the mobile sports betting site on the smartphone screen.
Step 4: Rename and Move the App
This step is optional and it allows you to better organize the new web app on your phone. You can rename it and move it to where it is more easily accessible.
Step 5: Start the App with One Tap
Now all you have to do is tap on the icon to open the OH mobile sports betting app. It will instantly load the mobile site and have you read to bet within seconds.
Live Betting with Ohio Sportsbooks
Even when the first state retailers and sportsbook apps open in 2023, Ohioans can place live bets with our listed partners. Depending on your preferred sport, you might choose certain sportsbooks to place live bets. We’re high on BetOnline as the most comprehensive site for live bets. They also offer risk-free bets for horse racing and team sports.
Learn More About Betting With BBI Guides
Bets That are Illegal in Ohio
There are no sports bets that are not regulated at Ohio sportsbooks. You can bet on professional and NCAA sports teams from around the globe. Retail, online, and mobile sports bets are all regulated in the state of Ohio.
How Ohio Sports Betting Ranks Against Its Neighbors
Sports betting has been available in the surrounding states for many years. Michigan sportsbooks have been regulated since 2021, and they permit full sports betting. Pennsylvania borders Ohio to the East. Ohioans have full access to Pennsylvania’s sportsbooks to gamble on their favorite teams.
Buckeye State residents also have the option to venture to nearby Indiana where Indiana sportsbooks accept sports bets except for high school teams. Depending on where you live in Ohio, you can use West Virginia sportsbooks for the winning action.
And even though there was tremendous promise and hope for sports betting in Kentucky, there won’t be any Kentucky sportsbooks this year. The state legislature closed for the year on April 14th, without passing a sports betting bill.
Casinos with Sports Betting in Ohio
2023 is the earliest that Ohio Casinos can accept sports bets. Bill HB29 allows for 25 retail sportsbook licenses. Here are some of the casinos that might offer sports betting by then.
- Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati Cincinnati (land-based casino; Hamilton, OH)
- Hollywood Casino Columbus Columbus (land-based casino; Franklin, OH)
- Hollywood Casino Toledo (land-based casino; Toledo, OH)
- Jack Cleveland Casino (land-based casino; Cleveland, OH)
- Belterra Park Cincinnati (racino; Anderson, OH)
- Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs (racino; Columbus, OH)
- Hollywood Gaming at Dayton Raceway (racino; Dayton, OH)
- Hollywood Gaming at Mahoning Valley Race Course (racino; Austintown, OH)
- Jack Thistledown Racino (racino; North Randall, OH)
- MGM Northfield Park (racino; Northfield, OH)
- Miami Valley Gaming (racino; Turtlecreek, OH)
OH Legislative Resources
For residents of Ohio interested in finding out more information on current legislation to do with sports betting and online gambling in Ohio or would like to contact local and state representatives to express their opinions or concerns on the subject they can use the links below.
OH Gambling Resources
If you believe that you or someone you know has a gambling problem, then we encourage you to get in contact with the NCPG Ohio or the Ohio Casino Control Commission found at the link below, they can provide advice and local information, and treatment services in your area.
Best Online Ohio Sportsbook
BetOnline is our number one sportsbook choice in Ohio. BetOnline provides quality customer service, deep sports betting markets, and live streaming of the matches you wager on. They have amazing promotions including their 50% sports welcome bonus worth up to $1,000 and a range of free bets and bet insurance offers for different sports. Click the link below and register an account today.
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Play Now Ohio Online Sports Betting FAQs
How close is Ohio to legalizing sports betting?
Sports bettors were able to start betting in Ohio as soon as 2023 started.
Why don’t the Ohio gaming tribes have sports betting?
Ohio Native American tribes currently do not operate casinos or sportsbooks in the state. While they are allowed to as sovereign entities, the tribes have decided not to allow gambling on their land.
Where can I place bets in Ohio?
You can bet on horse racing at any of the state’s seven racinos or its additional off-track betting site. You can also bet on table games like blackjack and poker at any of Ohio’s 4 casinos. To bet on sports in Ohio, you have a choice of domestic sports book as well as multiple offshore sportsbooks like BetOnline.
When will sports betting be legal in Ohio?
It is legal now and domestic sportsbooks and retail sites went live in January 2023.
Is online sports betting legal in Ohio?
Online sports betting is completely regulated in Ohio. The state started accepting sports wagers in 2023.
David spent 25 years as both a writer and editor within the betting/casino industries - including at The Guardian, Racing Post, 888Casino and Sky Sports Racing - prior to joining BBI. He has a diploma in sub-editing and law, is the author of four books, and remains a successful sports tipster.
All posts by David MyersDavid spent 25 years as both a writer and editor within the betting/casino industries - including at The Guardian, Racing Post, 888Casino and Sky Sports Racing - prior to joining BBI. He has a diploma in sub-editing and law, is the author of four books, and remains a successful sports tipster.
All posts by David Myers