One of the clearest ways to measure the performance of any market, including Ohio’s gaming industry, is through revenue. Every month, the state’s regulators release a report detailing how casinos have performed financially and how much has been paid in taxes into the state’s coffers.
Since gambling became legal in 2009 and sports betting in 2023, Ohio has grown into one of the biggest gambling markets in the country. But online casinos are still not legal. This means many players use offshore platforms or out-of-state sites to play. Some of these sites, reviewed by CardPlayer.com, are known for safe payments, large game libraries, and mobile gaming options, giving Ohio players a way to enjoy casino games until the state legislature allows local operators to launch their own legal platforms.
Although many states have adopted online gambling and are reaping dividends from it, the revenue reports from the American Gaming Association (AGA) and the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC) show that it is still competing with some of the top industries in the nation.
Recent Revenue Reports
In a 2023 report from the AGA, Ohio ranked sixth in the nation for casino revenue, as it generated $3.3 billion. This figure was partly helped by the sports betting program, which was newly launched within the same timeframe. For sports betting revenue in 2023, Ohio also ranked fourth on the list as it posted a revenue of $936.6 million.
Following these reports, Ohio’s casinos have shown no signs of slowing down. In the recent figures released by the OCCC for July 2025, casino revenue in Ohio grew by 8.4% year-over-year to reach $88.9 million. The report showed that despite competition from neighboring states, all four casinos grew significantly to top the $82 million posted in July 2024.
Once again, slots are the backbone of the casino industry, as they contribute the most. Slot machines generated $65.2 million in July 2025, which is around three-quarters of the total monthly revenue, as opposed to $60.1 million in July 2024. In contrast, table games brought in $23.7 million, which is more than the $21.8 million reported in July 2024.
Dividing the report per land-based casinos, Hollywood Columbus maintained its position as the top casino in the state, as it accounted for $24.7 million of the total revenue, with $20 million coming from slots and the rest from table games. Hard Rock Cincinnati finished in second with $22 million. It was followed by Jack Cleveland Casino with $21.5 million and Hollywood Toledo with $20.7 million.
What’s Driving the Trends
There are a few underlying factors responsible for the trend in Ohio casinos revenue. One of the most significant factors is player behavior. Operators are working to satisfy the demands of consumers, meaning the consumer’s taste controls the market. Slot machines dominate table games in the gambling market because they appeal to a broader age range, are easier to play, and are sometimes linked with loyalty programs, which keep users coming back.
Launching sports betting also changed the gambling landscape. In states like New Jersey and Massachusetts, casino operators rely on the sports calendar to drive profit, and the same thing is happening in Ohio. When sports betting was initially introduced, lawmakers feared it would negatively impact casino play; however, that hasn’t been the case. Just like the data shows, many customers who visit retail casinos end up placing bets on sports events and staying longer on casino floors. Cross-promotions have also helped operators easily integrate sports betting into casinos.
Another factor that contributed to Ohio’s casino industry is tourism. Tourists and residents from nearby states are drawn to cities like Cincinnati and Cleveland. These cities draw large crowds when they host conventions, sporting events, and concerts. While in town, these tourists may end up going to racinos and casinos for entertainment, bringing in revenue for the operators.
What This Means for Players
More revenue could have a direct effect on the casino experience of the everyday player. If operators can sustain a substantial inflow of revenue, they could adjust Return to Player (RTP) percentages, which could mean better payouts for players. There could be an increase in promotions and bonuses as operators would want to reward and incentivize customers for spending more.
As the year winds down, operators will be hoping that revenue continues to grow upward. This won’t just bring more into their pockets, but it could also improve the gaming experience of consumers. The U.S. gambling industry is expected to make more than the $72 billion generated in 2024, and Ohio’s growth shows it can grab a bigger piece of that market. If this growth continues, more investors might put money into Ohio’s casinos, helping the state become one of the top casino markets in the country.
- SCCG Management. The Gambling Industry’s Global Connector. Access Here.
- Source: https://www.americancasinoguidebook.com/blog/casino-revenue-trends-in-ohio-what-the-latest-numbers-tell-us.html