What does a casino game really cost?
Every casino game has a house edge: the share of each bet the casino keeps on average, over time. Here it is for the main games, and what it means for your budget.
Your cost per hour
Total wagered per hour$300.00
Average cost per hour$8.10
An average over many hours: a single session can end up or down. The house edge does not change.
| Game | Bet | House edge | Return to player | Average cost per $100 wagered |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Blackjack | Basic strategy, Atlantic City rules | 0.43% | 99.57% | $0.43 |
| Video poker | Jacks or Better, full pay, perfect play | 0.46% | 99.54% | $0.46 |
| Baccarat | Banker | 1.06% | 98.94% | $1.06 |
| Baccarat | Player | 1.24% | 98.76% | $1.24 |
| Craps | Pass line | 1.41% | 98.59% | $1.41 |
| Roulette | Single zero (European) | 2.70% | 97.30% | $2.70 |
| Roulette | Double zero (American) | 5.26% | 94.74% | $5.26 |
| Baccarat | Tie | 14.36% | 85.64% | $14.36 |
| Slots | Varies by game | 2% – 15% | 85% – 98% | $2.00 – $15.00 |
Slot machines usually keep between 2% and 15% depending on the game, according to the same source. Licensed casinos publish each game's return to player: check it before you play. House edge figures: Wizard of Odds.