Sports betting is rapidly becoming a key part of the sports experience for millions of Americans. With the growth of big players like FanDuel, DraftKings, and the emergence of online sports betting platforms like ESPN BET, the industry continues to evolve. Each state has its own set of rules for bettingโsome offer full online platforms, while others restrict betting to in-person locations.
Since the Supreme Court lifted the federal ban on sports betting in 2018, more than 30 states have legalized some form of betting, with more expected to follow. This guide breaks down where you can place legal bets, what types of betting are available, and which states might join the wave of legalization soon.
Where is Sports Betting Legal Now?
State | Legal Online Sports Betting |
---|---|
Alabama | ❌ No |
Alaska | ❌ No |
Arizona | ✅ Yes |
Arkansas | ✅ Yes |
California | ❌ No |
Colorado | ✅ Yes |
Connecticut | ✅ Yes |
Delaware | ❌ No |
District of Columbia | ✅ Yes |
Florida | ✅ Yes |
Georgia | ❌ No |
Hawaii | ❌ No |
Idaho | ❌ No |
Illinois | ✅ Yes |
Indiana | ✅ Yes |
Iowa | ✅ Yes |
Kansas | ✅ Yes |
Kentucky | ✅ Yes |
Louisiana | ✅ Yes |
Maine | ✅ Yes |
Maryland | ✅ Yes |
Massachusetts | ✅ Yes |
Michigan | ✅ Yes |
Minnesota | ❌ No |
Mississippi | ❌ No |
Missouri | ❌ No |
Montana | ❌ No |
Nebraska | ❌ No |
Nevada | ✅ Yes |
New Hampshire | ✅ Yes |
New Jersey | ✅ Yes |
New Mexico | ❌ No |
New York | ✅ Yes |
North Carolina | ✅ Yes |
North Dakota | ✅ Yes |
Ohio | ✅ Yes |
Oklahoma | ❌ No |
Oregon | ✅ Yes |
Pennsylvania | ✅ Yes |
Rhode Island | ✅ Yes |
South Carolina | ❌ No |
South Dakota | ❌ No |
Tennessee | ✅ Yes |
Texas | ❌ No |
Utah | ❌ No |
Vermont | ✅ Yes |
Virginia | ✅ Yes |
Washington | ❌ No |
West Virginia | ✅ Yes |
Wisconsin | ❌ No |
Wyoming | ✅ Yes |
Legal Online Sports Betting State Information
Arizona
Arizona, online sports betting is now legal and open to anyone over the age of 21.
In April 2021, Arizona’s state senate gave the green light to online and retail sports betting through the passing of HB 2772. And just a few months later, on September 9th, 2021, the first legal wagers were placed, marking the beginning of a thrilling journey for sports betting enthusiasts.
Many well-known and trusted names have set foot in the Grand Canyon State, bringing their top-notch services right to your fingertips. With renowned operators like BetMGM, FanDuel, and Caesars available.
Arizona | Online Sports Betting Information for the State of Arizona |
---|---|
🏁 Eligibility | To participate, you must be 21 years or older, in line with Arizona’s age restrictions for gambling. |
🎯 Betting Options | You can bet on a wide range of sports, including professional and college sports, including Arizona college teams. It’s time to cheer for your favorites! |
📋 Licensing | Arizona offers a total of 20 sports betting licenses, with opportunities for professional sports franchises, facilities, and federally recognized tribes to get in on the action. |
👮♂️ Regulations | The Arizona Department of Gaming serves as the regulatory body, ensuring fair play and consumer protection in the online sports betting market. |
💰 Taxation | The tax rates for online wagers are set at 10%, while retail bets are taxed at 8%. |
👉💲Get the Best Arizona Sports Betting Promo Codes and Bonuses
- DraftKings Arizona, Best for Big Sporting Events: DraftKings have strong connections to various sports leagues and offer tie-in promotions, making them a top choice for major events. You’ll feel the excitement with DraftKings by your side.
- BetMGM Arizona, Best for Flexibility: Looking for flexibility? BetMGM has got you covered. With their “Edit My Bet” feature, you can customize your wager, add legs, or increase your stake. It’s all about giving you control and options.
- FanDuel Arizona: Best for User Experience: Ease of use is paramount, and FanDuel excels in this department. Their app is incredibly intuitive, earning high marks in user-friendliness. Bet with speed and simplicity, making it a breeze to navigate.
- Caesars Sportsbook Arizona: Best for Sign Up Bonus: Bonuses are your thing? Look no further than Caesars. They offer enticing bonus options alongside competitive odds boosts. Plus, you gain membership in their Caesars Rewards loyalty program. It’s a win-win situation.
Arkansas
Arkansas embraced the thrill of sports betting back in November 2018, making it one of the first states to hop on board. Since then, the state has been buzzing with sports betting action.
The Arkansas Racing Commission oversees all the sports betting activities in Arkansas. They ensure everything is fair and square, giving licensed sports betting operators the green light.
As online sports betting is live in Arkansas, you can now enjoy online sports betting from the comfort of your own home, or wherever you may be in Arkansas!
You can visit Southland Casino Racing, Saracen Casino, or Oaklawn Racing Casino to soak up the electric atmosphere and place your bets at their retail sportsbooks. It’s a perfect excuse for a thrilling night out!
Now, let’s talk about age. You must be at least 21 years old to join the sports betting fun.
When it comes to the sports you can bet on, the sky’s the limit! There are no restrictions in Arkansas.
Whether you’re a fan of football, basketball, baseball, or any other sport, you can back your favorite teams and players.
Here’s something special: Arkansas allows you to bet on in-state college sports unlike other states. With your wagers, you can proudly support teams like the Arkansas Razorbacks or the Arkansas State Red Wolves!
Arkansas | Online Sports Betting Information for the State of Arkansas |
---|---|
📝 Regulation | Arkansas Racing Commission |
🎟️ Minimum Age | 21 |
💻 Available Platforms | Desktop sites, mobile apps |
🏢 Leading Operators | Southland Casino Racing, Saracen Casino |
📍 In-Person Options | Southland Casino Racing, Saracen Casino, Oaklawn Racing Casino |
⚽ Supported Sports | All sports, including in-state college sports |
The Downside of Online Sports Betting in Arkansas
The online options for Arkansas sports betting sites are extremely limited. The top sportsbook brands from around the country are not available at the moment to accept sports wagers. The only sportsbook apps or websites available are Betly, BetSaracen, and Oaklawn.
Itโs unclear if more Arkansas sportsbook options will be available online in the future. For now, Arkansas bettors have just these three to choose from.
The online sports betting rules allow for up to eight sportsbooks to launch in the state.
We might eventually see the more popular platforms such as DraftKings, BetMGM and FanDuel, enter the state. But for now, if you want to bet online in Arkansas, you must either sign up to Betly, BetSaracen, or Oaklawn.
Colorado
In Colorado, online sports betting became legal in May 2020. You can easily access various online sportsbooks right from your phone or computer.
To participate in mobile betting in Colorado, you need to be at least 21 years old and physically located in Colorado. They make sure of this using fancy geolocation technology.
There are so many excellent online sportsbooks available in Colorado. Check out these big names: BetMGM, bet365, ESPN BET, Fanatics, Caesars, Betfred, SI Sportsbook, Betway, FanDuel, BetRivers, SuperBook, and DraftKings. They’ve got you covered for all your sports betting needs!
Like Arkansas and Arizona, you can bet on any sport you like. You can find it all: football, basketball, soccer, or even more niche sports like snooker or handball.
Here’s a small caveat: college player props are off-limits for betting in Colorado. But don’t worry; plenty of other betting options remain to keep the fun going!
It would be best if you were in Colorado and at least 21 years old to get in on the action.
Colorado | Online Sports Betting Information for the State of Colorado |
---|---|
🌄 Eligibility | Must be 21 years old and physically located in Colorado |
🏈 Betting Options | No sports restrictions (except college player props) |
📜 Licensing | Licensed casinos in Central City, Cripple Creek, and Black Hawk |
📋 Regulations | Governed by HB19-1327; restricted to licensed casinos |
💰 Taxation | 10% tax fee on gross sports wagering revenue |
🥇 Leading Operators | BetMGM, bet365, ESPN BET, Caesars, Fanatics, Betfred, SI Sportsbook, Betway, FanDuel, BetRivers, SuperBook, and DraftKings |
🏛️ In-Person Options | Retail sportsbooks available in licensed casinos |
⚽ Supported Sports | All sports are available for betting (excluding college player props) |
👉💲Get the Best Colorado Sports Betting Promo Codes and Bonuses
- Best sportsbook for betting on the go: DraftKings Colorado.
Draftkings Colorado is the top-rated APP on iOS (4.8) and Android (4.7) when it comes to sports betting in the centennial state.
📲⬇️ Download the DraftKings Colorado App!
- Best sportsbook for sports variety: BetMGM Colorado.
BetMGM offers more diverse options than most sportsbooks in Colorado. You can bet on popular sports like football and basketball, but they also have exciting options like Gaelic sports, handball, and snooker. How cool is that?
- Best sportsbook for navigation: FanDuel Colorado.
FanDuel has the smoothest navigation of all the active sportsbooks. It’s super easy to use, designed intuitively, and gets you where you want to go in a flash. It’s like they read your mind!
Connecticut
Since October 19, 2021, Connecticut sports betting is legal, you can place your bets and cheer on your favorite teams from the comfort of your own home.
Connecticut offers some top-notch online sportsbooks that are officially licensed and regulated. The two sportsbooks available for you to choose from are FanDuel Sportsbook and DraftKings Sportsbook. We have referenced these several times before in this guide to online sports betting and for good reason.
These trusted platforms are safe to use and have excellent security measures in place, so you can bet with confidence.
Whether you’re a fan of the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, or other domestic and international leagues, there’s something for everyone. You can even try your luck with college basketball betting, except for in-state teams, unless they’re playing in tournaments like March Madness.
To legally place your bets, you need to be physically located within the boundaries of Connecticut.
Connecticut | Online Sports Betting Information for the State of Connecticut |
---|---|
📌 Eligibility | To participate in online sports betting, you must be at least 21 years old and physically located within the state boundaries of Connecticut. |
🎯 Betting Options | Connecticut offers a wide range of betting options, including major professional sports leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL, as well as international leagues and competitions. College sports betting is available, except for in-state college teams unless they are participating in tournaments with four or more teams. |
🏛️ Licensing | The Connecticut Lottery, in partnership with approved operators, holds the licenses for online sports betting in the state. |
📜 Regulations | Online sports betting in Connecticut is regulated by the Connecticut Lottery and follows the guidelines set forth in the state’s gaming compact legislation. |
💰 Taxation | The state taxes revenue from sports betting at a rate of 13.75%. |
🏆 Leading Operators | FanDuel Sportsbook and DraftKings Sportsbook are the leading operators for online sports betting in Connecticut. |
🏨 In-Person Options | In addition to online betting, in-person sports betting is available at retail locations such as Foxwoods Resort Casino and Mohegan Sun. |
⚽ Supported Sports | Connecticut sportsbooks support a wide range of sports, including but not limited to football, basketball, baseball, hockey, soccer, and more. Bettors have access to both domestic and international leagues and competitions. |
👉💲Get the Best Connecticut Sports Betting Promo Codes and Bonuses
- Best sportsbook in Connecticut for a user-friendly app and various bonuses: FanDuel
FanDuel offers a smooth and enjoyable experience with their user-friendly app. They also provide exciting bonuses for new and existing bettors. Additionally, FanDuel allows you to place same-game parlays, a feature that combines multiple player props for the same event, providing extra excitement and potential winnings.
- Best Connecticut sportsbook for a sleek platform and live-betting options: DraftKings
Draftkings Connecticut offers a modern and stylish design, coupled with fantastic live-betting options.
Moreover, they provides consistently competitive odds and a wide range of betting options. With betting pools available, allowing you to create private contests to play with your friends and family.
Illinois
In Illinois, sports betting is legal both online and at retail locations like casinos and racetracks.
The prairie state has some big names, including BetMGM, Caesars, ESPN BET, BetRivers, FanDuel, and DraftKings. These are all awesome options for you to explore and find your favorite betting platform.
You can bet on all the major sports leagues like NFL and NBA, as well as MLB, NHL, and even soccer leagues like MLS and English Premier League. However, keep in mind that you can’t bet on college games involving Illinois schools through mobile betting. Those bets have to be made in person.
To get started with Illinois online sports betting, it’s a breeze.
- First, pick your preferred sportsbook or maybe even try out a few to see which one you like best. Then, sign up using the relevant promotional codes to claim any special offers or bonuses. Make sure you meet the age requirement of 21+ and are physically located within the state when placing your bets.
- Next up, deposit funds into your account. Most sportsbooks offer various convenient options like ACH/eCheck, debit/credit cards, or even online banking. Just choose the one that works best for you. Remember, there might be a minimum deposit amount required.
- Once your account is funded, you’re ready to dive into the action! Start betting on your favorite sports and enjoy the thrill of the game. Whether you prefer point spreads, moneylines, totals, or player props, you’ll find plenty of options to make your wagers.
As mentioned above, there are some restrictions to be aware of with Illinois sports betting.
Aside from not being allowed to bet on high school sporting events, individuals involved in theses games, like coaches or referees, can’t bet on their own events.
Illinois | Online Sports Betting Information for the State of Illinois |
---|---|
👥 Eligibility | Must be 21+ years old and physically located in the state of Illinois. |
🎯Betting Options | Point spreads, moneylines, totals, futures, player props, and more. |
📄Licensing | Licenses issued to casinos, racetracks, and larger sports venues. Online-only licenses available. |
📜 Regulations | Sports betting legalized in June 2019. In-person registration requirement removed. Official league data required for live wagers. |
💰Taxation | Sportsbooks taxed at a rate of 15% of gross gaming revenue. |
🏆Leading Operators | BetMGM, Caesars, ESPN BET, BetRivers, FanDuel, DraftKings and more. |
🏨In-Person Options | Casinos, racetracks, off-track betting parlors, and venues hosting professional sports. |
🏈Supported Sports | NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS, English Premier League, and more. No mobile betting on college games involving IL schools. |
👉💲Get the Best Illinois Sports Betting Promo Codes and Bonuses
- Best sportsbook for Chicago sports: BetRivers Illinois.
As the exclusive partner of the Chicago Bears, BetRivers knows exactly us Chicagoans crave. With its parent company, Rush Street Interactive, headquartered right here in Chicago, BetRivers offers a Chicago-centric experience that’ll have you cheering for the home team.
- Best sportsbook for a variety of sports: Caesars Illinois.
When it comes to sports variety, Caesars takes the crown. With its acquisition of William Hill, Caesars boasts the deepest lineup of sports to bet on in Illinois. No matter what sport gets your heart racing, Caesars has got you covered.
- Best sportsbook for ease of use: FanDuel Illinois.
FanDuel’s user-friendly app takes the prize for seamless navigation. Its clear and simple organization makes finding your favorite games a breeze. Plus, the slick and straightforward design lets you keep a close eye on your wagers during the game.
- Best sportsbook for innovative or distinct design: Draftkings Illinois
DraftKings. As a pioneer of the early cash-out option in the US, DraftKings knows how to keep things exciting. When you log onto their site, you’ll be greeted with a customized betting carousel, suggesting likely wagers based on your preferences and betting history.
Indiana
In Indiana, you’re in luck because online sports betting is totally legal! You can place your bets and enjoy the thrill of the game from the comfort of your own home.
Now, let’s talk about eligibility in Indiana. To participate in mobile betting, you need to meet the following requirements:
- Age: You must be at least 21 years old. Remember, betting is for grown-ups like you!
- Location: You need to be physically present in Indiana. But don’t worry, your mobile device’s fancy technology will make sure you’re in the right place to make your bets.
Just a quick note: While you can bet on college games, Indiana doesn’t allow betting on college player props. But don’t worry, as I have said before, there are still plenty of other ways to get in on the action!
Indiana | Online Sports Betting Information for the State of Indiana |
---|---|
📍Eligibility | Must be at least 21 years old and physically located within the state. |
🏀Betting Options | Wide range of sports available, including football, basketball, baseball, hockey, and more. |
📄 Licensing | State regulatory bodies issue licenses to operators for online sports betting. |
📋 Regulations | Specific regulations and requirements vary by state, ensuring fairness and consumer protection. |
💰 Taxation | Taxes may apply to sports betting winnings. The rates and rules vary by state. |
🚀 Leading Operators | Prominent online sports betting operators in the state. |
🏛️ In-Person Options | Availability of brick-and-mortar sportsbooks for in-person betting. |
- Best sportsbook for betting variety: BetMGM Indiana.
BetMGM in Indiana offers an extensive list of betting options in Indiana. It received high ratings for its user-friendly interface and overall experience in a 2021 independent study.
- Best sportsbook welcome bonus: Caesars Indiana.
Caesars in Indiana is a major sportsbook with an impressive welcome bonus. Jump on this offer right now by signing up as a new user in the state!
- Best sportsbook for live betting: DraftKings Indiana.
DraftKings offers various options for live betting, including early cash-outs and live same-game parlays. It provides a wide range of markets, statistical tools, and promotions to enhance the live betting experience.
Iowa
Sports betting is legal and easily accessible in Iowa, whether you prefer betting online or in person. Right now, there are a total of eighteen online sportsbooks operating in the state, offering you plenty of options to choose from.
The best part? You can register, deposit, and place bets online from anywhere within Iowa’s state lines.
Now, Iowa may not have any major professional sports teams calling it home, but that didn’t stop the state from embracing sports betting.
Back in 2019, Iowa legalized sports betting, and the excitement kicked off in August of the same year when the first bets were placed.
Iowa | Online Sports Betting Information for the State of Iowa |
---|---|
📋 Eligibility | Iowa offers various betting options, including moneyline bets, point spreads, totals, parlays, and more. |
🎯 Betting Options | Iowa offers a wide variety of betting options, including moneyline bets, point spreads, totals, parlays, and more. |
📜 Licensing | The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) is responsible for licensing and regulating sports betting in the state. |
🔒 Regulations | Iowa Code sections 99D, 99E, and 99F provide the legal framework for sports wagering in Iowa, overseen by the IRGC. |
💰 Taxation | Sports betting winnings in Iowa are subject to federal and state taxes. Consult a tax professional for accurate information. |
🥇 Leading Operators | Iowa allows online sports betting for people who are at least 21 years old. |
🚪 In-Person Options | In-person registration is no longer required for online sports betting in Iowa since January 1, 2021. |
🏀 Supported Sports | Iowa supports a wide range of sports for betting purposes, excluding wagers on Iowa-based college teams. |
- Best for Betting on major games and events in Iowa: DraftKings
These sports betting giants are the go-to options for many bettors in Iowa. They offer exciting betting opportunities for the biggest games and tournaments.
- Largest selection of sports in Iowa: BetMGM, Bet365
When it comes to sports variety, BetMGM and Bet365 take the lead. These top sportsbooks offer the largest overall selections, ensuring you never run out of options.
- Best for Competitive odds in Iowa: Caesars and Betway.
Caesars and Betway consistently provide odds that are on par with or better than the market as a whole. You can trust these bookmakers to offer competitive odds to enhance your betting experience.
- Best Rewards program in Iowa: Caesars
While rewards programs are common in casino gambling, they are not as widespread for sports betting. Caesars stands out as an exception. These two operators offer simple rewards programs that allow bettors to accumulate points based on their play.
- Best for Iowa Sportsbook Promos: BetMGM, Caesars. BetMGM and Caesars excel in providing exciting promotions for existing customers. With a regular array of promos, these sportsbooks keep the fun going and ensure you get the most out of your betting experience.
Kansas
Online sports betting is legal in Kansas.
On May 12, 2022, the governor of Kansas signed a law. It made sports betting legal. You can bet on your favorite games, and I can too! The law started on July 1st, 2022, but online betting came later in February 2023.
In Kansas, a Native American tribe can even do retail sports betting at their casino. That’s awesome! And guess what? There are licenses for other betting things like historical horse racing machines.
Kansas | Online Sports Betting Information for the State of Kansas |
---|---|
🆔 Eligibility | Must be 21 or older and located within state lines |
🎲 Betting Options | Various options including moneyline, spread, totals, parlays, etc. |
📜 Licensing | Operators must apply and receive state-issued licenses |
📏 Regulations | Governed by Kansas Lottery, strict rules for fair play |
💰 Taxation | 10% tax on gross gaming revenue |
🏆 Leading Operators | Six major apps and more coming soon |
🏢 In-Person Options | Casinos and retail locations within the state |
🏈 Supported Sports | Includes major leagues (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL), college sports, etc. |
- Best for Regular Promotions: Caesars Sportsbook Kansas – Offers daily odds boosts and frequent bonuses.
- Best for Betting Options: BetMGM Kansas – Competitive pregame and in-game odds with the MGM loyalty program.
- Best for Innovative Features: DraftKings Kansas – Offers stats hub, betting pools, and live betting.
Kentucky
Mobile Kentucky sports betting is legal and will launch on Sept. 28, 2023.
This will come three weeks after Kentucky’s retail launch on Sept. 7, which was the first day of the 2023 NFL Season.
State bettors can expect to have exciting promos when the Kentucky Derby rolls around next year.
New users are able to pre-register for bet365, Fanatics, BetMGM, FanDuel, and Caesars Sportsbook to unlock exciting welcome bonuses until Sept. 28.
Kentucky | Online Sports Betting Information for the State of Kentucky |
---|---|
🆔 Eligibility | Must be 21 or older and located within state lines (18+ for some books) |
🎲 Betting Options | Available options include moneyline, spread, totals, parlays, etc. |
📜 Licensing | Operators must receive state-issued licenses by the KHRC |
📏 Regulations | Governed by Kentucky Horse Racing Commission |
💰 Taxation | 9.75% (in-person), 14.25% (online) |
🏆 Leading Operators | Four major apps with more launching on Sept. 28 |
🏢 In-Person Options | Racetracks within the state |
🏈 Supported Sports | Includes major leagues (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL), college sports, etc. |