Best $1 Scratch-Off Tickets
Cheap tickets have a reputation for being a bad deal, and on average that's fair. $1 and $2 games return less per dollar than any other price tier. What gets missed is the spread inside the tier: some pay back under 40 cents on the dollar while others clear 70. We rank every active $1 game in 36 states off prize data pulled daily, so if you're playing at this price you can at least play the right one.
Best $1 scratchers by state
How We Rank These Games
Every game is scored using our Serious Score algorithm, which factors in current return rate, remaining prize availability, prize pool health, and ticket velocity. Games with more unclaimed top prizes and better return rates rank higher. Scores update daily as lotteries publish new prize data.
Learn more about our methodologyFrequently Asked Questions
Are $1 scratch-off tickets worth buying?
It depends on the specific game. The best $1 scratch-offs return over 70 cents per dollar spent, while the worst return under 40 cents. By checking remaining prize data before buying, you can consistently pick the better games. Our rankings highlight which $1 tickets currently have the best odds and most prizes left.
Which $1 scratch-off has the best odds right now?
The top-ranked game changes as prizes are claimed, which is why we update our data daily. Check the table above for the current #1 ranked $1 game in your state. Games near the top of the list have the most remaining prize value relative to their cost.
Should I buy $1 or $2 scratch-off tickets?
Compare the current rate of the best $1 game vs. the best $2 game in your state. A $2 ticket with a 72-cent return rate gives you better value than a $1 ticket at 55 cents, even though it costs more upfront. Our rankings let you compare both side by side.
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