Ohio casinos hit the jackpot
$5,000 Welcome Bonus
Ohioans felt especially risky last year, and they're not alone.
Driving the news: Ohio's four casinos and seven racinos set another new record for revenue in 2021 by bringing in a combined $2.3 billion, according to Ohio's Casino Control and Lottery commissions data.
Why it matters:tax proceeds funneled toward local governments, public education, law enforcement training and problem gambling services.
The big picture: Gambling revenue shot up across the U.S. last year amid a rapid expansion of legal casinos and sports betting, Axios' Mike Allen writes.
- Ohio was among 23 states that set new records for gambling revenue.
Zoom in: Hollywood Columbus also set a new record of $260 million in revenue last year — more than the other major casinos in Cleveland, Toledo and Cincinnati.
- Strictly for comparison's sake, that's a full $110 million than George Clooney and company stole from Las Vegas casinos in the "Ocean's Eleven" heist.
Meanwhile, nearby Eldorado Gaming Scioto Downs racino came close to Hollywood's total with $230 million in 2021 revenue.
- This figure (and the statewide racino total) does not include revenue associated with horse race wagering, which is separately overseen by a state racing commission.
What Ohioans played: The vast majority of state gambling revenue comes from slot machines, including nearly 90% at Hollywood Columbus.
- Hollywood boasts 2,106 slot machines, compared to just 90 "pit area" games like craps, blackjack and roulette.
Yes, but: That will change starting next year when Ohioans can begin wagering on sporting events.
- Casinos are expected to secure licenses to offer in-person betting as well as through online apps.
- Ohio's sports betting operators will be taxed at 10%, with nearly all proceeds going towards educational purposes.
�� Tyler's thought bubble: As a longtime regular in the Hollywood poker room, I've definitely noticed the casino is busier now than when it first opened in 2012.
- The Saturday of Super Bowl weekend featured a line out the door waiting to get in, which I've never seen before.
- It's going to be a zoo when the sports betting kiosks finally open in 2023.
��
Support local journalism by becoming a member.
Learn more
No stories could be found
Get a free daily digest of the most important news in your backyard with Axios Columbus.
��
Support local journalism by becoming a member.
