The US online sports betting scene is growing at an exponential rate. With so many online betting sites to choose from, one shouldn’t wonder why people are having problems picking out an online sports betting site that they can stick to long-term.
We are here with all the insight you need about the best sports betting sites that are currently available in the USA.
Check out our Top 5 Sports Betting recommendations. Plus, explore our Sports Betting State-by-State Guide to find all the information you need.
Best Sports Betting Sites in US
-
bet365 Sports
Bet $1+ on Any Market, Get $365 in Bonus Bets!New users only, 21+. Available in NJ, CO, IA, VA, OH only. Gambling Problem? Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER. Bet $1 and Get $365 in Bonus Bets at bet365. Deposit required. Bonus Bets winnings are added to Bonus Bets balance. Bonus Bet wager excluded from returns. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply. Visit site -
SI Sportsbook
Bet $20, Get $200 in Bonus Bets!New users only, 21+. Available in CO only. Full T&C apply. Visit site -
BetMGM Sports
Get up to $1,500 Paid Back in Bonus Bets If You Don't Win!T&C: 21+. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. CO, DC, IL, IN, LA, MD, MS, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY. Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY). Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA). 21+ to wager. Please Gamble Responsibly. Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (KS, NV), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-270-7117 for confidential help (MI). Visit BetMGM.com for Terms & Conditions. US promotional offers not available in DC, Kansas, Nevada, New York or Ontario. Visit site -
Caesars Sportsbook
Get up to $1,000 Back in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Loses!21+ only. New users and first $10+ wager only. Offer valid and must be physically present in AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, KS, LA, MA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, and WY only. Know When To Stop Before You Start.® Gambling Problem? IL, MD, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV: Call 1-800-GAMBLER. MA: CALL 1-800-327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org. NY: Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369). ©2023, Caesars Entertainment Visit site -
Unibet Sports
Bet $25, Get $100 in Bonus BetsNew users only, 21+. Full T&C apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Visit site -
Borgata Sports
Get $100 in Bonus Bets When You Bet $20New users only, 21+. Offer available in NJ only. Full T&C apply. Visit site -
FanDuel Sportsbook
Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets!Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Hope is here. Gamblinghelplinema.org or call (800)-327-5050 for 24/7 support (MA). Call 1-877-8HOPE-NY or Text HOPENY (467369) (NY). 21+ and present in AZ, CO, CT, IA, IL, IN, KS, LA (permitted parishes only), MA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, or WY. FanDuel is offering online sports wagering in Kansas under an agreement with Kansas Star Casino, LLC. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MI, NJ, OH, PA, IL, TN, VA), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), 1-800-522-4700 (WY), or visit www.1800gambler.net (WV). Visit site -
Resorts Sportsbook
Get up to $250 in Second Chance Bets!New Customers 21+. NJ only! Second Chance Bet will be awarded if users first ever settled cash sports bet is a loss. Amount of Second Chance Bet awarded is equal to 100% of first ever settled cash sports bet amount up to $250. Full T&C Apply. Visit site -
BetRivers Sportsbook
Get a 2nd Chance Bet up to $250!New players only, 21+. Gambling Problem? Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER. Available in CO, NJ only. In order to participate in this promotion, the player needs to make the first deposit (of at least $10) using code SPORTS. Full T&C apply. Visit site -
Golden Nugget Sportsbook
Get a Bonus Bet Up To $250!New players only. Must be 21 or older. To be eligible for this promotion you must be located in State of Michigan. Full T&C apply. Visit site
Where Can I Place Online Sports Bets Legally?
There are so many online sports betting sites available that we can say that players are truly spoilt for choice. Some sites offer betting options on their site, while others have an app for wagering. But the best sports betting sites combine the two to give their users a full online sportsbook experience.
Not to mention that besides the vast betting options, the best betting sites also have loyalty programs and online sportsbook bonuses. Moreover, best odds and lines, and even some bonus bets for the best sports betting experience.
But not all states are the same. You can check out the list below about which states offer legal sports betting currently.
State | Legalized Sports Betting | Online Sports Betting |
---|---|---|
Alabama | ||
Alaska | ||
Arizona | ||
Arkansas | ||
California | ||
Colorado | ||
Connecticut | ||
Delaware | ||
Florida | ||
Georgia | ||
Hawaii | ||
Idaho | ||
Illinois | ||
Indiana | ||
Iowa | ||
Kansas | ||
Kentucky | ||
Louisiana | ||
Maine | ||
Maryland | ||
Massachusetts | ||
Michigan | ||
Minnesota | ||
Mississippi | ||
Missouri | ||
Montana | ||
Nebraska | ||
Nevada | ||
New Hampshire | ||
New Jersey | ||
New Mexico | ||
New York | ||
North Carolina | ||
North Dakota | ||
Ohio | ||
Oklahoma | ||
Oregon | ||
Pennsylvania | ||
Puerto Rico | ||
Rhode Island | ||
South Carolina | ||
South Dakota | ||
Tennessee | ||
Texas | ||
Utah | ||
Vermont | ||
Virginia | ||
Washington | ||
West Virginia | ||
Wisconsin | ||
Wyoming | ||
Washington DC |
Alabama Sports Betting
Sports betting legalization has, unfortunately, not yet passed in Alabama. The Cotton State is also one of the few remaining states without a lottery. However, there have been some recent attempts to pass a bill that will allow for mobile legalized sports betting and lottery statewide.
Alabama is known for having strong aversions to online gambling, so this might be a tough cookie to crack. Either way, there are proponents that think that a bill might be passed by 2023 that will allow casino games.
The three land-based casinos operating at this moment are the Poarch Creek Bingo Palace in Atmore, the Tallapoosa Entertainment Center in Montgomery, and the Riverside Entertainment Center in Wetumpka.
Alaska Sports Betting
Alaska has never had nor is anywhere near legal sports betting. We don’t expect to see any movement anytime soon and the state might be the 49th to legalize sports betting websites.
There aren’t even any land-based casinos present, as the Native-American reservations found there do not fit into the definition and cannot tax independently.
Arizona Sports Betting
Arizona is on the cusp of releasing its sports betting websites as the nation’s first in-stadium sportsbooks. This was all made possible with a sweeping online sports betting bill. It is supposed to make everything available by fall for the start of the new NFL season.
Arizona has the most native land out of all US states, so it makes sense that they have the most land-based casinos. It is Harrah’s Ak-Chin Hotel and Casino, Blue Water Resort & Casino, and Spirit Mountain Casino being some of them.
Arkansas Sports Betting
Arkansas has not made sports betting legal, at least in terms of online betting. Sports betting did start in 2019 thanks to the Oaklawn Racing Casino Resort and Saracen Casino Resort. Lawmakers have tried to pass mobile legislation, but it provided to be a difficult ticket to sell.
The same ballot that made the two working casinos available did not pass in 2020, which prevents further development of land-based casinos and especially an online casino.
California Sports Betting
Unfortunately, online sportsbooks are not going to become a reality any time soon in the Golden State. However, a ballot measure was passed successfully by state tribes allowing sportsbooks and certain horse racing on tribal lands. Wagering is set to start no sooner than 2024, but in person, not online.
California is still miles away from legalizing online betting even with so much interest from the people within the state. Some of California’s land-based casinos can be found in Redwood Valley, San Jacinto, and Alpine.
Colorado Sports Betting
Only recently Colorado opened its online sports betting, but quickly evolved into a market with the largest number of sports bettors and online sportsbooks. In fact, things are so large that they become one of the states that boast a monthly betting handle that exceeds $200 million.
It is no wonder that some of the best online sportsbooks decided to open shop there. These include the likes of:
- PointsBet
- BetMGM Sports
- WynnBET
- BetRivers
- Caesars Sportsbook
- Fox Bet
- FanDuel
- theScore Bet
- Sportsbetting.com
- Betfred Sports
- DraftKings
Connecticut Sports Betting
There have been a lot of things happening in Connecticut that might eventually lead to making gambling available. Gov. Ned Lamont reached an agreement with the Mashantucket Pequot and Mohegan tribes which will supposedly allow them to open a statewide mobile sportsbook and lottery.
However, everything still depends on federal approval and sports bettors have high hopes that things will be put into motion a lot faster than expected. Connecticut is home to two of the most famous casino resorts in the US with Foxwoods Resort Casino and the Mohegan Sun Casino located there.
Delaware Sports Betting
Delaware had a quick start when they accepted a legal single-game sports bet immediately after the Supreme Court struck down the federal wagering ban. Unfortunately, things did not move an inch since then. The lottery-run sports betting market prohibits an online sports betting market from developing.
Currently, there are only three retail sportsbooks and the small size of the market. The state makes it difficult for any betting markets to develop here. The current land-based options include the Dover Downs Hotel & Casino, Delaware Park, and the Harrington Raceway & Casino.
Florida Sports Betting
The biggest obstacle towards making online sportsbooks legal has been cleared with the Florida officials striking a deal with the Seminole Tribe. However, federal regulation might still be a stepping stone for complete legalization.
At the time, online sports betting is not legal in the Sunshine State, but there are rumours that a DraftKings and FanDuel-backed ballot might sway voters to approve statewide mobile wagering sometime soon. Until then, casino players can enjoy visiting the Miccosukee Resort and Gaming Center, Seminole Casino Coconut Creek, or Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Tampa.
Georgia Sports Betting
Unfortunately for Georgian bettors the two most recent sports betting legislation from 2020 and 2021 failed. Even with immense support coming from various executives and people from the state, the anti-gambling sentiment is strong in the Peach State. But the good news is that another legislation ballot is on its way for 2023. This gives proponents of online betting a headstart to push this thing to the end.
The anti-gambling idea is so high, that there aren’t any land-based casinos in the state as well.
Hawaii Sports Betting
Hawaii is one of the few states that has absolutely no form of betting nor online gambling. You will be hard-pressed to find even land-based establishments as they absolutely do not exist. The Aloha State seems like it is never going to introduce any forms of betting or gambling any time soon.
Idaho Sports Betting
Idaho does not have an online sports betting destination and it seems it is not going to get it soon. Politicians are largely against any form of gambling and the state doesn’t even allow fantasy sites. Horse racing is the only thing remotely close to betting in the Gem State.
Currently, there are few Native-operated casinos in Idaho with Coeur d’Alene Casino, Fort Hall Casino, and Clearwater Casino leading the way.
Illinois Sports Betting
Illinois managed to lift off in 2020 by allowing betting on sports online in IL. It is one of the most populated states in the US and one with a large sports base overall. At first, you were required to register at a retail sportsbook before betting online. However, the requirements were abolished and placed on a month to month basis but were not renewed for 2023.
Nevertheless, Illinois remains a big player in the sports betting industry and is reported to have already been working on the Wrigley Field and the United Center opening their own sportsbooks online. The state already boasts a large number of active operators which include:
Indiana Sports Betting
Indiana is yet another state where you will find a lot of online sports betting opportunities. Indiana online sports betting was regulated in Fall 2019 and it took only a few months for them to break the barrier and rake in a $200 million handle, which also coincided with the football season.
It already attracts some of the best online sports betting brands with a tendency to add more. The ones that you can wager with currently include the likes of:
Iowa Sports Betting
Iowa is one of the most fruitful states when it comes to online sportsbooks. Iowa Sports Betting became regulated in 2019. It has subsequently grown into one of the heavens for online betting. They boast some of the lowest licensing fees. That makes owning an online sports betting site a lot cheaper than elsewhere.
You may think that a smallish population and an absence of any professional sports teams also means fewer sports bettors. Actually, Iowa is thriving in terms of online sportsbooks and has already welcomed a plethora of them. They include:
Kansas Sports Betting
Having an online sportsbook in Kansas seemed like an impossible task until both the House and the Senate introduced a bill to legalize online sportsbooks and wagering. Unfortunately, the bill introduced came up just close so they will have another chance in 2023. The idea of sports betting in Kansas has gained a lot of support, we just need to see if it is going to be politically palpable to do so.
For now, we are hoping that legal retail betting will come as easy as 2023, meaning that an online betting site could emerge at some point very soon in Kansas. The current land-based casinos found in the Sunflower State include Boot Hill Casino, Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway, Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel, and Kansas Star Casino.
Kentucky Sports Betting
Having online sports betting in Kentucky at this moment seems like a far cry. A legislative committee created a bill and tried to pass it in 2020, but faced immense opposition from anti-online gambling supporters. Due to Republican disapproval, talks didn’t continue in 2021 which left sports bettors hoping for online betting down in the dirt.
Now, it remains to be seen about what will happen in 2023, but there are hopes as the current Democratic Governor Andy Beshear is in favour of online sports betting, which might make the sports betting laws tip in the wagerers’ favour.
There are no traditional casinos in Kentucky, but they do have a lot of racetracks, with the Churchill Downs being the home of the famed Kentucky Derby as their most famous venue.
Louisiana Sports Betting
Interestingly enough, the fact that Luisana doesn’t have a single online betting site is due to the fact that sports betting has only been approved at a county or parish level. This is a unique situation among all betting markets as the Creole State still does not approve online sportsbooks.
Nevertheless, lawmakers have added taxation proposals that will allow online betting to become eligible in all parishes within the state.
This is one of the steps towards making the proposal valid, so we hope to see some online sports betting sites emerge as far as 2023 in Louisiana. For now, the few Native American-owned casinos include Coushatta Casino Resort, Cypress Bayou Casino, Jena Choctaw Pines Casino, and Paragon Casino Resort.
Maine Sports Betting
You can blame Gov. Janet Mills for the fact that Maine doesn’t already have a sports betting site. Gaining online sportsbook legislation seemed like a sure thing just minutes before Governor Mills vetoed the proposal, pushing it back for revisal in 2021.
Mills said that she was not convinced that the people of Maine truly wanted online sportsbooks in their state. But it seems that if things went the way everyone hoped they would, we would already have one of the most competitive betting markets in New England.
Currently, there are two operational casinos in Maine, the Hollywood Casino Bangor and Oxford Casino, that also double as race tracks.
Maryland Sports Betting
Maryland becomes the last remaining Mid-Atlantic state to legalize sports betting online in 2020. The results of the legislation say that 60 online sports betting sites and 30 retail options were going to open.
There is still a lot that needs to be done, as rules have to be clearly stated and imposed, which also needs to include licences to retail establishments and the use of sports betting apps.
We do expect the first official bet to be placed for the start of college football season marking the beginning of all things steaming right ahead. We are hopeful to see some of the best online sports betting sites like Pointsbet, Barstool, Caesars Sportsbook, FanDuel, BetMGM, Draftkings, and BetRivers coming to the Free State.
Some casinos found in Maryland include Hollywood Casino – Perryville, MGM National Harbor, Horseshoe Casino Baltimore, Ocean Downs Casino, and Rocky Gap Casino Resort.
Massachusetts Sports Betting
Strangely enough, Massachusetts does not have any political nor legal obstacles like other states do, and yet it still doesn’t have an online sports betting site. The problem lies within the officials who are yet to determine the rules set on some very important issues. Entities are split apart about whether an online sportsbook should allow wagering and include gambling within them.
Also, since MGM and Penn National already have casinos in the state, some legislators think that it would be a good idea to only allow them to open sports betting for all sports bettors in Massachusetts and are opposing a competitive market with more brands.
Until all those issues are resolved, we can’t hope to expect wagering or sports betting apps to appear. But we are hopeful that it might start within the next two years.
The current offering of land-based casinos within the Bay State includes the Encore Boston Harbor, MGM Springfield, and Plainridge Park Casino.
Michigan Sports Betting
Michigan was able to launch in-person wagering in March 2020 at the MGM Grand Detroit. Besides the MGM, other top sports betting sites are expected to join and expand this market further. In fact, the Great Lake State has the potential of becoming one of the grandest betting markets in the country.
Additionally, it is going to be one of the most competitive ones with the news of some of the best online betting sites coming.
Some of the best Michigan Sports Betting are already there and they include:
Minnesota Sports Betting
Currently, Minnesota doesn’t have an online sports betting site. Even though there have been some strides made by lawmakers in recent years, the state has not managed to work out a favourable agreement.
The biggest challenge is with regulating the Native American tribes in Minnesota. The lawmakers cannot seem to work it out among each other about which entities would be allowed to take bets.
Until all of this is settled, we cannot hope for a sports betting site to appear in the Land of 10,000 lakes. All of the land-based casinos in Minnesota are located on tribal land and none of them are in Minneapolis. The most notable ones are the Black Bear Casino Resort, the Canterbury Park, Fond-du-Luth Casino, and Grand Casino Hinckley.
Mississippi Sports Betting
Mississippi became the earliest state to open for business in 2018 and also become one of the few legal Southern betting states. However, they still haven’t worked out a way to open up an online sportsbook, so only land-based casinos operate in the Magnolia State.
Interestingly sports betting apps are allowed but can be used only while you are located on the casino ground. The initial retail sports betting legislation was also passed as a corollary to offer fantasy sports.
But we are still waiting on the results and chances are that we are not going to be seeing any of the best sports betting in Mississippi any time soon.
The current offering of land-based casinos includes the Bok Homa Casino, the Golden Moon Casino, and the Silver Star Casino.
Missouri Sports Betting
Even though there was a lot of movement happening in 2020 and 2021, both proposals fell short of legislation. The main reason why we are not seeing an online sportsbook in Missouri today is because of the legislator’s concerns about video gaming terminals.
However, they are feeling the pressure as all of the surrounding states have already welcomed a lot of the best sports betting sites on their soil.
More action with Missouri Sportsbooks is expected in 2023, but we still can’t hope for a resolution any time soon and any of the best online sportsbooks opening shop in the Show-Me State. Till then visitors can enjoy land-based options that include Ameristar Casino St. Charles, Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa, Century Casino Caruthersville, and Harrah’s North Kansas City.
Montana Sports Betting
Betting on sports was regulated in Montana in 2020, but it did not result in them launching a single sports betting site. They did start to accept sports bets but only via a sports betting app that also includes live betting thanks to the same company that runs the state lottery.
Additionally, the mentioned betting apps are available within licensed gaming properties.
Unfortunately, a government-run monopoly has tarnished the reputation of an already small market and kept all of the best online sportsbooks away. We are hopeful that things might turn around in late 2021 or by 2023 and see the best sports betting site in the country opening up shop in Montana.
The current land-based options in the Big Sky Country are the Charging Horse Casino, the Glacier Peaks Casino, the Gray Wolf Peak Casino, and the KwaTaqNuk Casino Resort.
Nebraska Sports Betting
Firstly, three constitutional amendments were approved to legalize games of chances at licensed horse tracks. Next, a regulatory bill was passed to permit retail sportsbooks, which allowed only for in-person betting.
However, the bill does not allow betting on college football. But bettors can still wager on any other major sports leagues worldwide.
The Cornhusker State, unfortunately, does not have a high potential to receive a betting site at this point, so we cannot expect big things coming from Nebraska. The casino establishments currently present in the state include the Iron Horse Bar & Casino, the Lucky 77 Casino, the Native Star Casino, and Ohiya Casino & Resort.
Nevada Sports Betting
Nevada is the best when it comes to in-person betting, but they can’t seem to muster betting online. Current laws dictate that players have to enter the casino grounds in order to register in person before they are able to place bets online. Unfortunately, not being able to handle these laws as they should have started hitting their businesses as more and more states have expanded their online betting options.
One of the advantages that other states enjoy is the inclusion of a statewide betting app which Nevada does not have. We shall see how long will Nevada manage to stave away all of the best betting sites and if they are going to make the needed changes.
There may not be any Nevada sports online betting options but is a haven when it comes to land-based casinos. The list is too long to mention every one of them, so to mention a few with the Alamo Casino and Travel Center, the Atlantis Casino Resort Spa, Bally’s Las Vegas, the Binion’s Gambling Hall and Hotel, Bonanza Inn & Casino, California Hotel & Casino, and tons more.
Out of the 13 apps available to sign up with at a casino, we recommend, Caesars Sportsbook, and BetMGM.
New Hampshire Sports Betting
New Hampshire has been able to do a great job up till now despite having a limited market and potential for attracting a good sports betting site offer. Online wagering began as early as 2019 in the Granite State. But only via betting apps and with DraftKings being the sole proprietor and the best online betting site in NH offering betting lines and live betting.
There are only a few retail betting locations that have opened and even fewer that intend to do so. Things could get much worse if the neighbouring state of Massachusetts launches mobile wagering with their own betting apps.
Interestingly, all land-based casinos are considered illegal in New Hampshire if they are not raising money for a charitable organization. Plus, there are no Tribal casinos. So some of the popular casinos that operate in NH are the Boston Billiard Club, the Draft Sports Bar & Grill, the Governor’s Inn, the Lebanon Poker Room & Casino, and the Ocean Gaming Casino.
New Jersey Sports Betting
Online sports betting in New Jersey has been completely regulated since the downfall of PASPA in May 2018. The third state to accept a legal bet was NJ and it was the one that brought the case of sports gambling to the Supreme Court. All of it resulted in it becoming the most prolific state that offers online betting and tons of bonuses and promotions to boot.
Even though there are many physical bookies present in the Garden State, around 80% of bets taken are online.
NJ brought revenue of up to $4.5 billion in 2019 and is on track to break the $5 billion mark in 2020 all made from sports online wagering.
Sports fans may decide to use online gambling in New York once approval of mobile wagering goes through in NY. But even with that, we think that the sports betting will prevail and continue to expand in New Jersey.
Being that there are so many operators present (you can also download mobile betting apps to easily bet on the go), you can create an online sportsbook account with these:
- BetMGM
- bet365
- Unibet
- PointsBet
- Caesars Sportsbook
- FOX Bet
- theScore Bet
- Borgata Sports
- WynnBET
- Sugar House
- Resorts
- FanDuel
- DraftKings
- Hard Rock
New Mexico Sports Betting
As far as the presence of sports betting in New Mexico, there have been no attempts to legalize it nor have there been any bills attempted to pass ever. However, Native American tribes have interpreted that sportsbook betting is legal on the grounds of tribal casinos, basing their claim on the existing state-tribal gaming laws.
New Mexico may become the first state to take a bet without establishing legalization. Even though there are a handful of retail sportsbooks present (the Apache Nugget Travel Center and Casino, the Fire Rock Navajo Casino, the Isleta Casino & Resort, or the Palace West Casino) the state of betting on sports online in the Land of Enchantment is still up in the air.
New York Sports Betting
Even with a large number of retail sportsbooks and a few commercial and tribal casinos present, New York does not generate enough revenue from gambling and betting as nearly as it should. The main cause of this is the lack of online sports betting.
The plan that runs sports betting through the state, signed by Gov. Andrew Cuomo, is a step towards legalization but currently does more harm than good and may prevent brands like DraftKings or FanDuel from entering the market.
Most sports bettors from New York go to New Jersey where they can safely bet on niche sports, college sports, and generally all major sports. Sports betting bonuses are also available as well as competitive odds. All in all, unless NY decides to do something about it, all of its bettors will continue to look for sports betting action within the Garden State.
Some of the land-based casinos found in NY include Seneca Niagara Casino, Turning Stone Resort & Casino, del Lago Resort & Casino, Saratoga Casino Hotel, Empire City Casino, Rivers Casino & Resort Schenectady.
North Carolina Sports Betting
North Carolina did legalize in-person wagering back in 2019 while the first bet was placed in March of 2021. The bill that made this possible did not permit users to bet on sports via mobile, but there are some considerations that may allow statewide mobile wagering very soon.
The tribal casinos present in North Carolina that do accept sports wagering are Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel in Murphy.
North Dakota Sports Betting
For now, North Dakota hasn’t made any substantial movements towards sportsbook legalization. Ceratin tribes in the state claim that a sportsbook could be opened under the current laws. However, it would mean retail only. It might just happen that North Dakota becomes one of the first states to open an online sportsbook without an official act of legalization.
Tribes are looking for a launch in 2021, so lawmakers could try their luck with a new bill in 2023. Some of the land-based casinos found in North Dakota include Dakota Magic Casino Resort, Four Bears Casino & Lodge, and Prairie Knights Casino & Resort.
Ohio Sports Betting
The people of Ohio would welcome online sports betting with open arms if not for the hiccup with the 2020 bill that got ruled out in its final moments. The Buckeye State may be feeling a bit left behind as most of its Midwest neighbors have ironed out their issues with online sportsbooks.
Lawmakers are still working on the details from the last bill and may decide to make a new push after hammering out some details with the previous one.
Land-based casinos found in Ohio include Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati, Hollywood Casino Columbus, Hollywood Casino Toledo, and Jack Cleveland Casino.
Oklahoma Sports Betting
Native American tribes are the ones that dominate Oklahoma gaming. Unfortunately, they do not want to agree on any sports betting possibilities without resolving some other key issues first.
Two tribes from Oklahoma managed to strike a deal in 2020 but the deal was later reworked due to the gaming interests between the government and the competition. It doesn’t seem that things are going to be resolved any time soon.
Some land-based casinos found in the Sooner State include Ada Gaming Center East, Artesian Hotel Casino Spa, Black Hawk Casino, Buffalo Run Casino, and Cherokee Casino & Hotel – Roland.
Oregon Sports Betting
Oregon sports betting has a single mobile sports betting option. A limited exemption in the federal sports betting ban allowed parlay cards. This allowed the state lottery to start taking bets without an act of legislation. A bet was placed using the state lottery app in 2019, but others have not been added and it wasn’t able to match the competition of other markets.
Also, in-state college betting is not allowed via the app, while there are a few Native-American retail casinos that have sportsbooks. The few land-based casinos found in Oregon are Chinook Winds Casino Resort, Indian Head Casino, The Mill Casino Hotel, and Spirit Mountain Casino-Oregon.
Pennsylvania Sports Betting
Pennsylvania is one of the largest markets in the country. The first legal retail sports bet was taken in 2018, while a digital launch followed in 2019. The Coal State regularly sees a handle of close to $500 million on a monthly basis and especially during the football season. PA online sports betting has the third-best revenue in the country, lagging behind New Jersey and Nevada only.
Unfortunately, the high fees and a limit of only 14 total operator license greatly limit the possibilities of PA, but thanks to quite a large population they are doing alright.
Online brands found in PA include:
Rhode Island Sports Betting
Sports Betting in Rhode Island only features a single mobile betting option. Sports betting has been legal here since 2018 when two commercial casinos opened up their retail sportsbooks.
Lawmakers tried to make an appeal to remove the in-person mobile registration requirement, but with little success. The small population and a lack of legal options prevent any online sportsbook action from happening for now.
The two land-based options found in Little Rhody are Tiverton Casino Hotel and Twin River Casino.
South Carolina Sports Betting
Online sports betting seems hopeless in South Carolina. Several attempts have been made in the past but with no success whatsoever. Currently, the Palmetto State has a lot of political figures that oppose any moves towards legalization. So we don’t expect to see any significant improvements any time soon.
There are no land-based casinos found in South Carolina and gambling cruise ships are allowed to operate three miles away from the coastline.
South Dakota Sports Betting
Sports betting became legal in South Dakota in November 2020. However, the ballot that passed meant retail-only casinos located in Deadwood and some tribal gaming facilities. However, some policymakers had an idea that will allow statewide gambling via an app as longs as the servers are kept in Deadwood.
Currently, legislation hasn’t been met with great appraise but is an interesting idea that might add a new digital market on the map for the future. The Mount Rushmore State features Golden Buffalo Casino, Dakota Connection Casino and Travel Center, Dakota Sioux Casino & Hotel, and Lode Star Casino as land-based options.
Tennessee Sports Betting
Tennessee sports betting allows full mobile betting and has a variety of options on the table. Actually, it is the only state that has online sports betting only.
Unfortunately, there are certain restrictions that might hurt the potential that this market comes with. TN is the only state that requires operators to return a 10% hold. It results in bettors from the state getting worse odds than they should.
It took 18 months for the Volunteer State to launch its first online sportsbook, but once they did, plenty of them decided to follow suit. Online brands currently present here are:
Texas Sports Betting
The Lone Star State has not had any success in making online betting legal until now. Some partial movement has been made in 2021 thanks to shifting demographics and outside investment from other gaming interests possibly changing the opinion of current lawmakers.
Unfortunately, a significant solution for Texas Sports Betting should not be expected earlier than 2024.
Until then, the two land-based casinos located in Texas are Kickapoo Lucky Eagle Casino Hotel and Naskila Gaming.
Utah Sports Betting
Utah is the only state in the continental US that doesn’t have any legal gaming form. There have been no moves to make any whatsoever and we don’t expect anything to happen soon.
Vermont Sports Betting
The Green Mountain State is one of the few remaining states that doesn’t have casinos. But a legal sportsbook might not be a bad idea and is under consideration by the legislature. We do expect online sports betting to become the first one to be allowed. With the growing New England market pressuring the Vermont lawmakers, we could see some news soon.
Virginia Sports Betting
Virginia is fully equipped with mobile betting and already has many options on deck. The state took its first online bet in January 2021 and a dozen of brands swooped in not long after that to offer sports wagering online.
There is a cap on the number of “skins” a brand can take, but it hasn’t prevented the top brands to enter the Virginia market.
Currently live Virginia’s Sportsbooks are:
Washington Sports Betting
As far as the state of Washington goes, sports betting is approved but no bets have been placed as of yet. This is because the state is still in talks with tribal representatives about reaching an agreement that will allow sports betting on tribal lands. The first deal has been made and a launch is expected in 2021.
However, mobile sports betting is going to be allowed only on casino grounds, which is a massive deterrent when it comes to online sports betting.
Some land-based casino options currently available in Washington are 12 Tribes Resort Casino, 7 Cedars Casino, Chewelah Casino, Elwha River Casino, and Emerald Queen Hotel & Casino at Fife.
West Virginia Sports Betting
Initially, mobile wagering struck a few bumps on the road in WV, but West Virginia sports betting has been fully operational since August 2019. Even though the Mountain State is not capable of competing with much larger markets, they are doing really well in attracting a variety of popular brands from the betting world.
Some of the names include:
The Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races and The Greenbrier also have retail locations to visit.
Wisconsin Sports Betting
Ceratin changes have been made and a deal was struck between Gov. Tony Evers and the Oneida Nation in July 2021 which will allow the tribe to open up a retail sportsbook at their casinos.
Unfortunately, the deal does not include statewide mobile wagering as well as not being able to bet on college sports. Pending federal approval, the Oneida tribe hopes to launch their sportsbook at the end of 2021.
Some of the land-based casinos in the Badger State include Bad River Lodge Casino, Ho Chunk Gaming – Black River Falls, Ho Chunk Gaming – Nekoosa, Ho Chunk Gaming – Wisconsin Dells, and Lake of the Torches Resort Casino.
Wyoming Sports Betting
To the surprise of many, lawmakers have approved statewide mobile wagering in Wyoming. The Cowboy State became only the second state that allowed sports wagering without having a retail sportsbook.
The Northern Arapaho Tribe is planning to make retail sports betting possible under existing laws. But operating without legislation still means that there is a lot of work to be done here.
Both tribal-run and commercial sportsbooks are expected to emerge by 2021 and to start taking bets. The list of land-based casino options in Wyoming includes 789 Casino, Shoshone Rose Casino, Wind River Hotel and Casino, and Little Wind Casino.
Washington DC Sports Betting
Washington DC is a very peculiar case with a sole-source operator jurisdiction with limited mobile betting options. The only app available is GamBet which is owned by the lottery. Since it doesn’t have any legal competition, it does not offer great odds at all.
The app is not allowed within federal properties, limiting its use and expansion.
Washington DC does not possess any land-based casino nor does it have racetracks or poker rooms of any sort.
How to Sign Up at Online Sportsbooks
Owning an account at an online sportsbook allows you to place bets and gain some added perks. Without an account, you can only look but cannot touch, so if you are serious about online sports wagering you better get to it and sign up. The process is not hard at all and will take a few minutes to complete.
The main requirement is being located within the boundaries of the state where the sportsbook you are planning to sign up with is available. Also, players have to be of legal age (21 or 18 depending on the state’s laws). Verification is often needed and players do need to provide some documents to prove their identities. The verification process essentially allows you to deposit and withdraw funds.
Sometimes an operator will release a bonus code that can be used upon registration. These bonus codes should be entered while registering but can also be added later on after an account is ready. Today, these codes are used by operators to track promotions, as some may offer more than one, or in commercial use.
All in all, players should follow the registration form and complete all the requested fields with the necessary details. It is as easy as pie.
Betting Types
When betting on your favorite sports, there are going to be various bet types to consider. Usually, sports betting sites offer a variety of betting markets at very interesting betting odds. So when you bet online it is best to view the best odds that come with a certain bet type. That way one is able to get competitive odds and have more fun.
As far as the bet types go, there are several ones that operators usually propose. The most prevalent wons seen on the various betting platforms include:
- Moneyline: The most basic type of sports wager where a player bets on a certain team to win a game.
- Points Spread/Handicaps: A value is given on one team for how many points they are expected to win.
- Over/Under: A bet made based on the combined score of the two competing teams.
- Futures bets: A bet made on a season-long championship or a tournament winner.
- Prop bets: Bets made on parts of the game and not really the final outcome (number of corners conceded, the first team to score, a hole in one), which can be very entertaining.
If these terms mean nothing to you, we suggest you read our betting guides.
Sports Betting Criteria – How to Choose an Online Sportsbook?
Picking a site to wager with requires a lot of thinking. This can be particularly strenuous for inexperienced players that don’t know what to look for. Reading some sportsbook reviews is helpful but requires much more research than that. Luckily, it doesn’t have to be so hard as it is best to choose based on personal preference.
Odds and Lines
Finding the best odds is important for certain players. If you do your research right you will be able to determine which operator offers the most favorable betting odds. Betting lines do have a tendency to change so be on the lookout for those changes as well. You can always calculate your odds using a betting odds calculator.
Available Markets
Players are advised to bet on sports that they are most familiar with. So betting on your favorite sports guarantees the most success and more fun. But it never hurts to have more options and added markets can allow you to try out something new.
For example, a certain operator might offer college football while others don’t. Also, the best online sportsbook usually offers action on the latest sporting events.
Live Betting
Live betting is an important feature as it makes the regular way of betting much more dynamic. As the score changes so do the sports odds allowing you to swoop in at the right minute to place your bet. The Best sportsbook usually offers live betting on the most popular sporting events.
Bonuses and Promotions
When reading sportsbook reviews one should take specific attention to the offered sportsbook’s bonuses and promotions. Operators might allow new players to earn bonus bets or other kinds of gifts for registering or making a first deposit.
The best online sportsbook does not only allow you to bet on sports but also allows you to compete for certain bonuses and promotions as well.
Payment Options
Banking options should not be overlooked. Having great odds and lines is good but one has to have a method to fund an account whether it is an online casino or a sportsbook.
Players are using their own money to fund their accounts so analyzing the deposit methods should be on the top of their priority list. Having a favorable payment method is important as deposit bonuses might allow players to earn bonus bets or other sorts of rewards.
Customer Service
It is always important to check how can you contact the dedicated team of experts in case of need. Make sure to check what are the methods of communication (chat, phone call, e-mail) and what’s the average response time.
Place your bet anytime and anywhere
Nowadays when most players surf the web on their mobile phones, online bookmakers make sure to be accessible via mobile devices too and to offer exclusive bonuses.
The majority of online sportsbooks in the USA have a dedicated Android and iOS application.
Usually, there are no big differences between via desktop or mobile version of the selected sportsbook. In fact, all the features of the website should exist on the application too. It’s not the same thing for the promotional offers or the bonus codes, as anticipated.
Some online sportsbooks don’t have a dedicated mobile app, which might limitate your experience. At the same time, it doesn’t mean that you can’t use them on your mobile devices. Essentially, most of the websites are mobile-friendly, so you can easily access them through a browser of your devices.
You can learn more about Sports mobile applications in our Best Sports Betting Apps guide.
Summary
Finding an online sportsbook may seem hard at first but as long as you follow the best practice you will be able to find the most suitable one for you.
Sportsbook reviews will tell you about the odds and lines of the site and the availability of bonuses and bonus bets, but it is up to you to determine which criteria are the most important for you personally.
FAQ
For answers to some sports betting questions, check out the FAQ section that we’ve prepared for you. It might hold the key to further success for you.
Iowa began accepting bets in 2019 and is getting ready to remove the in-person registration requirement by the end of 2021. This should help the market grow even more.
Yes, you can. Online betting on sports is legal in Indiana. The state went live in 2019 and it took only a few short months for them ta accept their first bet after legalization.
Yes, it is. Betting was allowed in March 2020, while online betting went live in June 2020.
Yes, it is. New Jersey was the third state to take a legal bet in the US and was the one that brought the sports gambling case to the Supreme Court.
Yes, it is and Michigan actually launched quite recently. In-person wagering was allowed at MGM Grand Detroit in March 2020. MI has the potential of becoming one of the biggest markets in the States.
Yes, it is. PA was among the first states to legalize sports betting in 2018 and began its digital launch in 2019.
Tennessee is the only state that has no casinos bus still offers online sports wagering. So it is perfectly legal to place bets online in TN.
Yes, you can. Virginia took its first online bet in January 2021 and already added a dozen online options.
Yes, it is. Mobile betting is live since August 2019 with a handful of mobile operators already present in the state.