Key Moments:
- Ohio casino revenue reached $88.9 million in July, representing an 8.4% increase year-on-year
- Slot machines generated $65.2 million, continuing to contribute nearly three-quarters of all casino revenue
- The Ohio Casino Control Commission reiterated its warning regarding prediction markets beyond license scope
July Yields Growth for Ohio’s Casino Market
Ohio’s casinos delivered an impressive performance in July, with total revenue climbing to $88.9 million, representing an 8.4% jump over the $82 million posted during the same month last year. The latest data, released by the Ohio Casino Control Commission (OCCC), reflect a period of sustained growth for both slot play and table gaming.
Slots Remain Dominant Revenue Stream
Slot machines once again led the way for Ohio casinos, bringing in $65.2 million compared to $60.1 million during July 2024. Slots accounted for roughly three-quarters of overall revenue, affirming their status as the main driver for the industry. Table games also demonstrated growth, rising from $21.8 million last year to $23.7 million in July. This balanced increase highlights Ohio casinos’ ability to attract a variety of player segments.
Revenue by Property
| Casino | Total Revenue (July) | Slot Revenue | Table Game Revenue |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hollywood Columbus | $24.7 million | $20 million | $5.1 million |
| Hard Rock Cincinnati | $22 million | $14.7 million | $7.3 million |
| Jack Cleveland Casino | $21.5 million | Data not specified | |
| Hollywood Toledo | $20.7 million | Data not specified | |
All four properties saw stability or growth in July, with none reporting a decline versus expectations or the prior year’s results. Hollywood Columbus held its position as the market leader, while Hard Rock Cincinnati recorded notable year-on-year gains.
Regulatory Oversight Remains in Focus
Alongside revenue disclosures, the OCCC leveraged its summer communication to caution operators on noncompliant prediction market activities. In a letter from executive director Matthew Schuler, the Commission warned sportsbooks against offering contracts outside their licensure authority. Schuler stated:
“The Commission understands that sports gaming licensees may be considering entering the prediction market landscape. Well-known sportsbooks have apparently explored making sporting event contracts available outside of the ambit of their licensure with the Commission.”
According to the OCCC, any engagement in unlicensed prediction market activities could negatively impact suitability reviews for licensees, underscoring the regulator’s commitment to a tightly controlled environment even as market revenues advance.
Industry Outlook
July’s figures reinforce the ongoing recovery of Ohio’s gaming sector, powered largely by robust slot activity and steady improvements in table games. As summer draws to a close and anticipation grows for increased sports betting in the autumn months, the state’s casinos remain on a trajectory of cautious yet persistent growth. Meanwhile, the OCCC continues to emphasize adherence to regulatory mandates, signaling that while expansion is encouraged, compliance is strictly enforced.
- Author
Daniel Williams
