House edge explained
Every casino game keeps a share of what is staked. That share is the house edge.
By Ryan Jessop. Last checked .
Key takeaways
- House edge = 100% − RTP.
- From about 0.5% to 15% by game.
- Cost = stakes × edge.
- A long-run average.
AnswerHouse edge is the casino's long-run share of every bet. At 2.70%, £100 of roulette stakes costs £2.70 on average.
By game
| Game | House edge | Cost of £100 staked |
|---|---|---|
| Video poker | About 0.5% on full-pay Jacks or Better | £0.46 |
| Blackjack | Around 0.5% | £0.5 |
| Baccarat | About 1.06% on banker | £1.06 |
| Craps | 1.41% on the pass line | £1.41 |
| Casino poker games | About 2% to 3.5% on the main bet | £2.2 |
| Roulette | 2.70% on a single-zero wheel | £2.7 |
| Sic Bo | 2.78% on small or big | £2.78 |
| Slots | Around 4%; from about 2% to 10% | £4 |
| Live game shows | Often 3% to 5% or more, by bet | £4 |
| Slingo | About 4% to 5% | £5 |
| Scratch cards | About 5% to 15% | £10 |
Into pounds
Multiply what you stake by the edge. Stakes are stake × rounds, so pace matters: see cheapest games per hour.
Where it comes from
Payouts set slightly below true odds. Roulette pays 35 to 1 on a 1-in-37 chance. Baccarat charges commission. A slot's maths is designed to a target.
One session
The edge describes millions of rounds. On one evening, luck dominates; over a year, the edge does.
Try it: house edge calculator.
More guides: RTP explained, Fairness and RNG and UK casino game rules.
Games and casinos: Video poker UK, Live casino games UK, 10bet Casino games review and Best live casino games.
Go further: Jacks or Better UK, Roulette vs baccarat and Easiest casino games to win.
House edges and RTPs are standard published figures for common rules, and are long-run averages. Offer terms dated 5 October 2026. How we check. 18+. Free help: 0808 8020 133 or safer gambling.
Frequently asked questions
What is house edge?
The casino's long-run share of stakes.
Which game has the lowest?
Blackjack and full-pay video poker.
Is house edge the same as RTP?
They add up to 100%.
Can I avoid it?
No.