Roulette has been a staple of American casinos for decades, from the felt tables of Las Vegas to the bustling floors of Atlantic City. Now that online roulette is legal and regulated in states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan, players have more ways than ever to enjoy the spin. Among the many betting options, the high or low bet stands out as a straightforward, low-risk choice that appeals to both newcomers and seasoned players.
This outside bet, often called the 1-18 or 19-36 wager, covers half the wheel and pays even money. When you place a high or low bet online, you are essentially betting that the ball will land on a number in the lower half or the upper half of the roulette layout. It is a simple decision that removes the guesswork of individual numbers, yet it still carries the thrill of watching the wheel spin. For US players who want a balanced approach to bankroll management, this bet offers a direct path to consistent action.
What Is the High or Low Bet in Roulette?
The high or low bet is one of the most intuitive wagers in roulette. You choose either the low range (numbers 1 through 18) or the high range (19 through 36). If the ball lands on any number in your chosen half, you win even money. The bet loses only if the ball lands on zero (or double zero in American roulette) or on the opposite half of the wheel.
In American roulette, which features a 0 and 00, the house edge on this bet is 5.26%. European roulette, with a single zero, reduces the house edge to 2.70%. Many US online casinos offer both variants, so you can choose the version that gives you better odds. The high or low bet is classified as an outside bet, meaning it covers a large section of the wheel and offers frequent wins. It is a favorite among players who prefer steady, smaller payouts over the long odds of a straight-up number.
For players seeking the best odds, European roulette is the clear choice. To explore more strategies and tips, click here. Understanding the house edge is crucial for making informed betting decisions.
Why US Players Favor This Even-Money Bet
Across the United States, roulette players appreciate the high or low bet for its simplicity and predictability. In brick-and-mortar casinos in Las Vegas, you see recreational players placing chips on the “1-18” or “19-36” boxes while sipping cocktails. The same pattern holds online, where the bet is clearly marked on the digital layout. For US players, the appeal lies in the fact that you win almost half the time – not counting the zeros – which makes bankroll planning easier.
Many roulette fans also enjoy the simplicity of state-run lotteries. Colorado’s lottery provides a comparable experience with its pick-and-play games. The ease of these bets keeps casual players coming back.
Another reason this bet resonates with American players is the cultural familiarity with even-money gambling. Whether it’s betting on red or black in roulette or playing the pass line in craps, US gamblers are drawn to wagers that offer a near 50% chance of winning. The high or low bet fits perfectly into that mindset. It also avoids the confusion of other outside bets like columns or dozens, which cover different numbers but have different payout structures. With high or low, it’s simply a matter of up or down.
Comparing High/Low to Other Even-Money Bets
To help you decide which even-money bet suits your style, here is a side-by-side comparison of the most common outside wagers in American roulette.
| Bet Type | Numbers Covered | Payout | House Edge (American) | House Edge (European) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| High/Low (1-18 or 19-36) | 18 numbers | 1:1 | 5.26% | 2.70% |
| Red/Black | 18 numbers | 1:1 | 5.26% | 2.70% |
| Odd/Even | 18 numbers | 1:1 | 5.26% | 2.70% |
All three bets have identical odds and house edges in the same game variant. The difference is purely psychological. Some players prefer the visual association of colors, while others like the numeric logic of high or low. The high or low bet has an advantage: it feels more directly related to the wheel’s numerical spread. You are not relying on color or parity; you are betting on a physical half of the layout.
Strategies for Betting High or Low Online
When you play roulette high or low bet online, you can apply simple strategies to manage your session. One common approach is the Martingale system, where you double your bet after each loss, aiming to recover losses with a single win. Because the high or low bet pays even money, this system can work in theory, but it requires a large bankroll and table limits can stop you. A more conservative strategy is to set a fixed bet size and stick to it, walking away after a set number of spins or a target profit.
Another tactic is to combine the high or low bet with a small straight-up bet on a favorite number. For example, you might place $10 on low and $1 on 17. This way, you have a high chance of winning $10 on the low bet, and if 17 hits, you get a much larger payout. This hybrid approach adds excitement without abandoning the safety of the even-money wager. Many US players use this method in online casinos in New Jersey and Pennsylvania, where the game speed is fast and the interface is user-friendly.
Understanding the Odds and House Edge
The house edge is the primary factor that separates the high or low bet from a pure coin flip. In American roulette, the presence of the 0 and 00 means that 18 numbers win, 18 numbers lose, and 2 numbers (the zeros) cause the bet to lose. That gives the house a statistical advantage of 5.26%. In European roulette, with only one zero, the house edge drops to 2.70%, making it significantly more favorable for the player.
The house edge in American roulette is 5.26%, meaning the casino expects to keep $5.26 for every $100 wagered. For a comprehensive breakdown, see the house edge analysis.
For US players, the choice between American and European roulette is often dictated by the online casino’s game library. Many regulated sites offer both versions. If you are playing the roulette high or low bet online, you should always opt for the European wheel when available. The difference in house edge over hundreds of spins can be substantial. Also note that some US casinos offer “no zero” roulette in certain promotions, though these are rare. Always check the game rules before you spin.
Where to Play Online Roulette in the US
Legal online roulette is now available in a growing number of US states. New Jersey was the first to regulate online casinos, followed by Pennsylvania, Michigan, West Virginia, and Connecticut. Players in these states can access dozens of roulette games from top providers like Evolution Gaming, NetEnt, and IGT. The high or low bet is standard in all of these software suites, so you can find it easily.
When choosing an online casino, look for sites that offer live dealer roulette as well as RNG (random number generator) versions. Live dealer games, streamed from studios in New Jersey or Pennsylvania, feature real wheels and real croupiers. The high or low bet is placed on a digital overlay, but the outcome is determined by a physical spin. This adds a layer of trust for US players who prefer the authenticity of a land-based casino. For those who want speed, RNG roulette can be played at a faster pace, with results generated in seconds.
Key Considerations for High/Low Betting
- Choose European roulette whenever possible to reduce the house edge from 5.26% to 2.70%.
- Set a session budget before you start and stick to it; even-money bets can still lead to long losing streaks.
- Avoid progressive betting systems that require large bankrolls; table limits in online casinos often cap the maximum bet.
- Check the zero rules – some US online casinos offer “en prison” or “surrender” rules that lower the house edge on even-money bets.
- Use bonuses wisely – many online casinos offer deposit matches or free spins; read the wagering requirements before using bonus funds on roulette.
- Practice with free play – most regulated US casinos allow you to try roulette without risking real money, perfect for testing the high or low bet.
- Take advantage of live dealer games for a more immersive experience that mirrors the casino floor in Atlantic City or Las Vegas.
Ready to Place Your Bet on High or Low?
The high or low bet remains one of the most accessible and enjoyable wagers in online roulette for US players. Whether you are a casual player looking for a relaxed evening spin or a strategist aiming to minimize the house edge, this even-money option gives you control and clarity. With legal online casinos now operating in several states, you can access the game from your home, your phone, or your tablet. Sign up at a trusted, regulated US casino today, choose your half of the wheel, and let the ball decide your fate. The next spin could be your winning number.
