What is House Edge in Casino Games?
House Edge is the mathematical advantage that the casino or bookmaker has over players in any gambling game, expressed as a percentage of each wager. It represents the average amount the house expects to keep from every dollar bet over the long term. For example, a game with a 5% house edge means the casino keeps $5 on average for every $100 wagered. Players use this figure to assess game fairness and long-term value when choosing what to play.
How House Edge Works in Games
House edge is the inverse of return to player (RTP) percentage. A 95% RTP equals a 5% house edge. This advantage is built into game rules and random number generators, ensuring casino profitability over millions of plays. Individual sessions vary due to luck and volatility, but the edge guarantees long-term house wins.
House Edge by Game Type
| Game Type | Typical House Edge | RTP Range |
|---|---|---|
| Video Slots | 4-6% | 94-96% |
| Blackjack | 0.5-2% | 98-99.5% |
| European Roulette | 2.7% | 97.3% |
| Video Poker | 0.5-5% | 95-99.5% |
| Keno | 25-40% | 60-75% |
