Ohio’s sports betting industry exploded in November 2025, smashing previous handle records and widening the gap between online powerhouses and struggling retail sportsbooks. FanDuel and DraftKings surged ahead, while brick‑and‑mortar locations continued their slide into irrelevance.
Revenue Soars 35.5%
The Buckeye State posted $133 million in sports betting revenue, a massive 35.5% jump from October, making November the second‑biggest month since legal wagering launched in January 2023.
Bettors wagered more than $1.15 billion, edging past October’s previous record of $1.13 billion. Online platforms generated $131.2 million of that revenue, leaving retail sportsbooks with a meager $1.8 million—a staggering illustration of the widening digital divide.
FanDuel and DraftKings Pull Away
FanDuel dominated November with $55.4 million in online revenue, while DraftKings followed with $39.3 million. BetMGM lagged far behind at $9 million.
For 2025 overall, FanDuel controlled 43.4% of Ohio’s online revenue, with DraftKings at 28.4%, leaving smaller operators fighting for scraps.
Retail sportsbooks continued their downward spiral, generating just $11.7 million in the first 11 months of the year compared to $890.1 million online. Several retail locations posted repeated losses.
Regulatory Pressure Mounts
November’s surge aligned with peak NFL and NBA action and $33 million in promotional spending, but not everyone is celebrating.
Governor Mike DeWine has voiced regret over legalizing sports betting, citing aggressive marketing and integrity concerns after two investigations into suspicious wagers involving Cleveland Guardians pitchers.
Regulators have since tightened rules on certain player props and warned operators against offering prediction‑market‑style products.
What’s Next
Operators are preparing for changes to promotional credit tax rules, which will become partially deductible in 2027 and gradually increase to 20% by 2032—an advantage likely to favor deep‑pocketed online leaders.
With NFL playoffs and college football bowl season driving heavy action, December is poised to keep Ohio’s momentum rolling, solidifying the state as one of the fastest‑growing sports betting markets in the country.
