Keno Odds & House Edge – Why Keno Is So Expensive
Keno looks simple and slow-paced, but from a math perspective it’s usually one of the worst games in the casino. This guide explains how the odds work, what typical house edges look like, and how to keep it purely low-stakes entertainment if you choose to play.
1. How Keno Works
Keno is a lottery-style game. You pick numbers, the game draws a set of winning numbers, and you get paid based on how many of your picks match.
Basic setup
- 80 numbers (1–80) on the card.
- You pick a certain number of spots (1–10 or more, depending on rules).
- The game draws 20 numbers at random.
- You are paid based on how many of your chosen spots “hit.”
2. House Edge in Keno vs Other Games
Exact house edge depends on the paytable and rules, but keno is almost always at the “expensive” end of the spectrum.
| Game | Typical House Edge | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Blackjack (good rules) | ~0.5%–1% | With basic strategy. |
| Baccarat (Banker bet) | ~1.06% | Low-edge if you stick to Banker/Player. |
| Roulette (European) | 2.70% | Single-zero wheels. |
| Average online slots | ~3%–6% | Depends on RTP. |
| Keno | ~20%–35% | Varies by paytable and number of spots. |
That means for every $100 wagered over time, keno might cost you $20–$35 in expected losses – versus $1–$3 on many table games.
3. Example Odds: Picking 3, 4 or 8 Numbers
The exact probabilities are messy, but a few examples show how hard keno hits are:
| Pick | Goal | Rough Chance* | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pick 3 | Hit all 3 | ~1 in 73 | Not insanely rare, but still infrequent. |
| Pick 4 | Hit all 4 | ~1 in 327 | More rare; paytables often look attractive here. |
| Pick 8 | Hit all 8 | Millions-to-one | Similar to lottery-level odds. |
*These are rough ballpark figures just to show scale. Exact odds depend on the combination math with 80 numbers and 20 draws.
4. If the Edge Is So High, Why Play Keno At All?
From a purely mathematical perspective, keno is a bad deal. But some players still enjoy it for specific reasons:
- Simple rules – pick numbers, watch the draw.
- Slow pace (for live keno) – you’re not firing bets every few seconds.
- Lottery-style dream – small stake, chance (however tiny) at a big payoff.
If you play, treat keno like buying a very expensive lottery ticket where the “price” is the house edge rather than the ticket cost alone.
5. Bankroll & Limit Setting for Keno
Because keno has such a high house edge, you should be especially conservative if you choose to play.
- Use very small stakes relative to your overall gambling budget.
- Decide in advance how many tickets/draws you’ll play.
- Don’t chase losses – each draw has the same odds as the last.
- Consider keno as a “fun tax” that you pay knowing the math is against you.
6. Keeping Keno in the “Fun Only” Category
With its lottery-style odds and high house edge, keno should never be treated as a way to fix money problems or chase big wins repeatedly.
- Keep stakes tiny and occasional, not daily and heavy.
- Stop if you’re tempted to spend “bill money” on keno tickets.
- Be honest if the game feels more like desperation than fun.
If you feel your gambling isn’t under control, stop and visit Responsible Gambling for support and helplines in your area.
Your Next Keno Steps
- Compare keno to other games in House Edge by Game.
- Read House Edge in Gambling to see how casinos price different games.
- Decide if keno fits your entertainment budget at all, or if lower-edge games are a better fit.