Unlike games like slots or roulette, where the casino always has the advantage, poker is different because players compete against each other—not the house. So how does the casino make money from poker? The answer is simple: the rake.
What Is Rake in Poker?
Rake is the negligible fee a casino takes from each game to cover costs and make a profit. Since the casino isn’t playing against you, this is how they ensure they still make money.
How Rake Works in Cash Games
In cash games, the rake is usually a percentage of the pot, often around 3% to 5%, but it’s capped at a certain amount. For example:
- In a $1/$2 No-Limit Hold’em game, the rake might be 5% with a $10 cap.
- If the pot is $200, the casino still only takes $10, even though 5% of $200 would be $10.
Some casinos use a different system where players pay a set hourly fee instead of a percentage of the pot.
How Rake Works in Tournaments
In tournaments, the casino makes money by charging an entry fee. If a tournament costs $100 + $10, $100 goes to the prize pool, while the casino keeps the $10. Online casinos usually charge lower fees than live casinos because they have fewer expenses.
Why Higher-Stakes Games Have Lower Rake
Casinos usually charge more rake in low-stakes games because the cost of running a table is the same, no matter the stakes. For example:
- A $1/$2 game might have a higher rake percentage.
- A $10/$20 game might have a lower rake percentage since the bigger pots still bring in enough money for the casino.
Other Ways Casinos Profit from Poker
Rake isn’t the only way casinos make money from poker. Poker rooms attract players who might also play slots, blackjack, or roulette—games where the house has the edge. Plus, live casinos make money from food, drinks, and hotel stays.
Why Understanding Rake Matters
If you play poker often, knowing how rake works is important. High rake can eat into your winnings, making it harder to profit, even if you’re a skilled player. If you have a choice, look for games with lower rake to keep more of your winnings.
Final Thoughts
Poker may not have a built-in house edge like other casino games, but casinos still have a system to make money. Whether you play cash games or tournaments, understanding rake can help you make better decisions at the table.
FAQ
How Much Do Casinos Make from Poker?
In cash games—no—limit Hold’em, PLO, or another poker variation—the casino takes a small fee called the rake from most pots before giving the rest to the winner. This rake is a fixed percentage in most casinos, usually between 2% and 10% of the total pot.
How Much Does the Casino Take in Poker?
The rake typically ranges from 2.5% to 10% per hand, but it’s usually capped at a set amount. Some casinos use other methods, like charging an hourly fee for players instead of taking a percentage of the pot.
Can You Make $100 a Day Playing Poker?
Yes, making $100 a day playing poker is possible, especially if you’re good at the game. Even playing just two tables at a time, you can find plenty of weak players to take advantage of. However, to win consistently, you need to sharpen your poker skills and manage your bankroll wisely.
Is Poker a Game of Skill or Luck?
Poker has an element of luck, but it’s mostly a game of skill. If it were all luck, the same top players wouldn’t keep winning big tournaments and cash games. While luck plays a role in short-term results, skill determines long-term success.
