In this guide
Quick answer
- House edge is the share of each bet the casino expects to keep over time.
- House edge = 100% − RTP.
- Expected cost = total amount bet × house edge.
The definition
House edge is the casino’s built-in advantage, expressed as a percentage of each bet. A 2.70% edge means that, on average, the casino keeps $2.70 of every $100 wagered.
For slots, it is the mirror of RTP: house edge = 100% − RTP. A 96% RTP slot has a 4% edge.
Comparing games
| Game | Typical house edge |
|---|---|
| Blackjack (basic strategy) | about 0.5% |
| Baccarat (banker bet) | 1.06% |
| European roulette | 2.70% |
| Online slots | 2% to 6% |
| American roulette | 5.26% |
Why speed matters
The cost of playing is your total amount wagered multiplied by the edge. A slot spinning 600 times an hour at $1 per spin puts $600 through in an hour. At a 4% edge, that is $24 an hour on average. A slower table game with a lower edge can cost far less, even at bigger stakes.
Average expected loss:
This is a long-run average. Any single session can end well above or below it.Gamble responsibly21+ (18+ in some states). If gambling stops being fun, call or text 1-800-GAMBLER for free, confidential help, 24/7. Every state-licensed casino lets you set deposit limits or self-exclude from your account.More support