(The Center Square) – Ohio’s sports betting numbers grew in November but not as much as other states.
The state’s gambling dips over most of the first year were also not as much as others.
According to figures released by the Ohio Lottery Commission, November’s betting handle jumped 15.7% from October to $865.5 million, with the most significant increase coming from mobile betting apps.
Despite the increase, industry analysts say it’s not as strong as other states that set records in November.
“Compared to other state markets, Ohio has wavered slightly,” BetOhio.com Analyst Dru James said. “Where similar states have seen all-time handle records broken in November, the Buckeye State experienced more measured growth. Similarly, while other markets saw dramatic drops in revenue and taxes in some states upwards of 50%, Ohio’s month-over-month difference is closer to -16%.”
Retail betting also rose in November, but kiosk handle dipped 8.8% as the number of kiosks around the state continued to fall. The number of kiosks dropped from 873 in October to 852 in November.
Total November sports betting revenue also fell 15.6% from October to November.
“Ohio sports betting will end its first full year strong, but without the theatrics of a record month,” James said. “January’s $1.1 billion opening will be very difficult to beat, and it is typical for the sports betting market to dip slightly in December. However, it should not be discounted that the Ohio market has shown itself to be formidable compared to its peers, and in the coming months will reach a steady maturity.”
