Ohio Residents Among America’s Biggest Gamblers
Published: September 15, 2025
According to a new report, Ohio is one of the top five gambling states in the country. A 2025 study by a poker review platform looked at all the states in the nation examining four different factors and the report concluded that Ohio ranks fourth in the nation for gambling. Ohio also had the second-highest number of searches for gambling terms.
Nevada, home of Las Vegas, placed first. Pennsylvania and New York came in second and third. Illinois rounded out the top five states in fifth place. The rankings were created by looking at search volume for gambling terms, the total number of casinos, the average amount each person spends on gambling, and the average percent of income spent on gambling.
The report highlights the rising popularity of all forms of gambling in Ohio. Casinos have been open in the state since 2012, and the recent introduction of legal sports betting in 2023 has driven the popularity of gambling to new heights. More and more people are engaging, including people who haven’t before, like college-age Ohioans and people who exclusively enjoy sports betting.
In this new environment, responsible play is even more important. With more Ohioans exposed to and engaging with gambling, promoting a responsible approach and access to gambling disorder treatment ensures that this popular entertainment can remain fun for everyone who plays.
Make a Responsible Play Game Plan
Wondering how to make responsible play the new normal in Ohio? Here’s how you can help, both by following responsible play practices yourself and promoting them in your community.
- Play With a Plan: If you choose to engage in gambling, always make sure to do so with a plan. Set limits on the amounts you bet and the time you spend gambling, recognize that all games of chance come with real risks, and know when to stop playing. By making your game plan ahead of time, you are not only keeping yourself responsible. You’re being a good role model for others. Learn more about how to make your game plan by watching our PSA.
- Promote Responsible Play: Pause Before You Play offers many toolkits and resources to help you promote responsible play in your social circles and community. The two-minute Rate Your Risk quiz is an easy resource for anyone who might be wondering if their gambling could be putting them at risk, and our community toolkits can help organizations and individuals educate others on a responsible approach.
- Ensure Access to Recovery: When people need help, Ohio is making sure it’s available. The Ohio Problem Gambling Helpline can assist anyone. It’s free, confidential, and available 24/7. Call 1-800-589-9966 or text HOME to 741741. Trained and understanding specialists are standing by. Additionally, the Ohio Gambling Telehealth Network now offers virtual telehealth services at no cost.
Stay up to date on more changes in Ohio’s gambling landscape by subscribing to the Pause Before You Play newsletter. Select the Problem Gambling Newsletter List to join. Additionally, you can follow @Pausebeforeyouplay_oh on Instagram, @PBYP_OH on X, and Pause Before You Play on Facebook.