Best Sports Betting Sites USA – Compare Top Online Sportsbooks 2025

By - Wednesday 7th May 2025 1:22 PM

Why Trust Gamblingindustrynews

Sports betting sites can vary quality-wise, so our experts have pulled out the stops to identify the absolute best operators spanning bonuses, odds quality, market depth, banking methods, and more.

We’ll tell you about the industry-leading offshore sportsbooks and discuss various essential sports betting keystones like legality, bet types, promotions, and responsible gambling. After reading, select from our top sports betting sites and claim the welcome bonus via our direct link to get started.

Affiliation Disclaimer

  • All

Up To $1,250 Sports Betting Welcome Bonus

Up To $1,250 Sports Betting Welcome Bonus

  • Watch live streams for real-time betting excitement
  • Fast and seamless verification with minimal steps
  • Get instant payouts online with zero fees
9.9
5 Stars BetWhale Sports
PLAY NOW
NO CODE REQUIRED

Get Up to $250 in Free Bets

Get Up to $250 in Free Bets

  • Real-time live streaming for in-play betting thrills
  • Effortless and speedy verification process
  • Fast online payouts with no additional fees
9.7
5 Stars BetOnline Sports
PLAY NOW
NO CODE REQUIRED

100% Signup Bonus Up to $200

100% Signup Bonus Up to $200

  • Weekly parlay prize draws for losing tickets
  • Upgraded live betting experience with Multiview feature
  • Ongoing competitions and exciting giveaways
9.5
4.5 Stars Everygame Sports
PLAY NOW
NO CODE REQUIRED

Up to $3,750 in Welcome Bonuses

Up to $3,750 in Welcome Bonuses

  • High-definition live streaming for an immersive experience
  • Accepts all major cryptocurrencies for seamless transactions
  • Innovative and customizable bet builder tool
9.3
4.5 Stars Bovada Sports
PLAY NOW
NO CODE REQUIRED

125% Bonus on First 3 Deposits

125% Bonus on First 3 Deposits

  • Advanced parlay builder designed for complex betting strategies
  • Established and trusted since 1994 with a strong track record
  • Locker Room section providing expert tips, insights, and more for bettors
9.2
4.5 Stars BetUS Sports
PLAY NOW
NO CODE REQUIRED

Welcome Package Up to $10,000

Welcome Package Up to $10,000

  • Integrated Comboboost feature for enhanced multi-leg parlays
  • Standard instant withdrawals for quick access to winnings
  • Frequent free bet promotions tied to major events
9.0
4.5 Stars CoinCasino Sports
PLAY NOW
NO CODE REQUIRED

50% Deposit Match Up To $1,000

50% Deposit Match Up To $1,000

  • Easy-to-use interface and a smooth mobile app experience
  • Offers parlays, teasers, and if bets for greater flexibility
  • Thrilling contests and promotions with huge rewards
8.9
4 Stars MyBookie Sports
PLAY NOW
NO CODE REQUIRED

150% Sign Up Bonus

150% Sign Up Bonus

  • Weekly cashback on losses for all sports wagers
  • Various payment methods including VISA, MasterCard, Amex, and crypto
  • Special crypto bonuses with regular rewards
8.8
4 Stars BetNow Sports
PLAY NOW
NO CODE REQUIRED

50% Deposit Match Bonus Up To $1,000

50% Deposit Match Bonus Up To $1,000

  • Diverse esports betting options available
  • Flexible betting limits to suit all types of players
  • Vast sportsbook offering a wide variety of markets
8.6
4 Stars SportsBetting
PLAY NOW
NO CODE REQUIRED

100% Welcome Bonus Up To $2,500

100% Welcome Bonus Up To $2,500

  • Stream all major sports live with in-game bets
  • Season features and team props available
  • Early-cashout gives winnings before the game ends
8.4
4 Stars BUSR Sports
PLAY NOW
NO CODE REQUIRED
Show More Offers+

Best US Sportsbooks and Sports Betting Sites 2025

Check below for our favorite sports betting sites:

  1. BetWhale – Top Sports Betting Platform for eSports Betting & Integrated Twitch Streaming
  2. BetOnline – Best for Ongoing Promos, Mega Parlay Feature, Wager Free Welcome Bonus
  3. Everygame – Incredibly Experienced Operator With Broad Banking Methods
  4. Bovada – Best Sports Betting Online Platform For College Betting & Bovada Rewards Scheme
  5. BetUS – Enjoy Unique Sports Betting Predictions & Live Broadcasts
  6. CoinCasino – Claim Massive 200% Up To $30,000 Welcome Bonus & Enjoy Instant Payouts
  7. MyBookie – Top Online Sportsbook Choice For Boosted Parlays
  8. BetNow – Offers Industry-Leading Sports Betting Losses Reimbursement Program
  9. Sportsbetting.ag – Enjoy High Sports Betting Limits & Re-Bet Capabilities
  10. BUSR – Reliable Crypto-Friendly Sportsbook With Great Racebook Coverage

Best Betting Sites Ranked and Reviewed

Our favorite legal sports betting sites are all verifiably safe and secure with licensing from respected international authorities. To help you choose an operator, here are some deeper mini-reviews:

1. BetWhale – Top Sports Betting Platform for eSports Betting & Integrated Twitch Streaming

Most online sportsbooks pour all their effort into perfecting one area. That kind of specialization makes them hard to recommend across the board. BetWhale is different. It branches out and dominates across the full spectrum. From pre-match markets and live in-play action to horse racing and esports, BetWhale caters to every flavor of bettor.

A snapshot of BetWhale Sportsbook

Despite covering 30+ sports, BetWhale’s layout is anything but chaotic. The site is clean, fast, and easy to navigate, with handy filters that let you personalize your view so you only see the sports and markets you care about.

Their banking options are just as deep. From debit cards to crypto and e-wallets, you’ve got plenty of choice. Crypto users can deposit without limits and enjoy instant processing, while withdrawals across the board are fast and hassle-free.

BetWhale isn’t just good—it’s the best overall option on the market right now. It’s the most complete sportsbook we’ve reviewed, hands down.

License Union of the Comoros
Welcome Bonus 125% up to $1,250 deposit match
Wagering Requirement & Expiry Period 10x | N/A
Number of Sports 30+
Payment Options Visa, Mastercard, Discover, American Express, PayPal, Skrill, Neteller, Bitcoin, Ethereum, Litecoin, Tether, Dogecoin, Solana, Wire Transfer
Instant Payouts
Great for All-around sports betting, crypto-friendly deposits, customizable site layout, fast and easy payouts

Pros:

  • Covers over 30 sports, esports, horse racing, and more
  • Smooth, customizable interface with filter options
  • Deep crypto and fiat banking support
  • Offers fast withdrawals across most methods
  • Fully loaded with live, pre-match, and exotic markets

Cons:

  • No instant payouts
  • Could expand parlay-building tools for power users

2. BetOnline – Best for Ongoing Promos, Mega Parlay Feature, Wager Free Welcome Bonus

BetOnline ticks all the sports betting boxes and so much more. Players are treated generously from the offset, with the 50% up to $250 in free bets welcome bonus notably being free from any wagering requirements.

The BetOnline sports betting homescreen

Our favorite BetOnline characteristic is the ongoing bonuses section under “Sports Promos”. These include over 20 options at the time of writing, providing a great blend of odds boosts, bet insurance, reduced juice, enhanced parlays, and more. And speaking of parlays, you’re also not likely to find anything more powerful than the operator’s “Mega Parlay” feature. Taking advantage is easy, and the entire BetOnline betslip is exceptionally intuitive.

License Junta de Control de Juegos (Panama)
Welcome Bonus 50% Up To $250 In Free Bets
Wagering Requirement & Expiry Period None | 30 Days
Number of Sports 30+
Payment Options Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Cryptocurrency, Person to Person, Wire Transfers, Checks, Money Order
Instant Payouts
Great for No welcome bonus wagering requirements, ongoing promos, intuitive betslip, “Mega Parlay” feature

Pros:

  • 20+ ongoing promos including odds boosts and bet insurance
  • No wagering requirements on welcome bonus
  • Home to the popular “Mega Parlay” feature
  • Fast-loading site and intuitive betslip design
  • Great market depth across US and international sports

Cons:

  • Welcome bonus cap is lower than rivals
  • Outdated interface in some areas of the site

3. Everygame – Incredibly Experienced Operator With Broad Banking Methods

Everygame lands in third place on our list, and honestly, it earns the spot in style. This sportsbook lives up to its name by letting you bet on every game you can think of — and even plenty that aren’t games at all. Sports, politics, markets, and more — it’s all here in one place.

Everygame sportsbook home

Everygame goes big on sports coverage. You’ll find lines on college matchups, national leagues, and international showdowns across a huge range of sports. The betting markets are sharp, the odds are current, and there’s always something interesting to jump into.

Then it flips the script. This isn’t just a sportsbook for sports fans. You can place bets on political outcomes, the stock market, and a full section dedicated to non-sporting events. If you’re the type who likes variety or betting outside the box, this is your playground.

If you’re tired of the usual retail sportsbook experience, Everygame gives you total freedom. It’s a sportsbook experience shaped for those who want to bet on everything under the sun.

License Curacao Gaming Control Board
Welcome Bonus 100% Up To $500
Wagering Requirement & Expiry Period 8x (at minimum -200 odds) | 30 Days
Number of Sports 20+
Payment Options Visa, MasterCard, Discover, Amex, Crypto, Neosurf, Paysafecard, Payz, AstroPay
Instant Payouts
Great for Market experience, versatile banking options, plentiful ongoing offers

Pros:

  • Bet on sports, politics, stock markets, and niche props
  • Great for international bettors and exotic wagers
  • Accepts a wide variety of banking methods
  • Plenty of promos for returning users
  • Operates since 1983 with a strong reputation

Cons:

  • Interface not as modern as top-tier competitors
  • Lacks advanced tools for parlay or same-game builders

4. Bovada – Best Sports Betting Online Platform For College Betting & Bovada Rewards Scheme

Bovada leads our other recommended sports betting sites regarding loyalty bonuses, with the Bovada Rewards scheme being a top highlight. Bettors score points for every wager that can be redeemed for real money prizes and other incentives.

Bovada's sports betting interface

The VIP scheme is just the beginning regarding Bovada’s generosity. Three separate welcome bonuses across the sportsbook, casino, and poker platforms are very welcome. Elsewhere, bettors can also take advantage of daily pre-built parlay wagers with significantly boosted odds. Our favorites are the “Cross Sport Parlay Boosters”.

License Anjouan Gaming Board
Welcome Bonus 50% Up To $250 (75% Up To $750 For Crypto)
Wagering Requirement & Expiry Period 5x | 30 Days
Number of Sports 30+
Payment Options Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Cryptocurrency, Person to Person, Wire Transfers, Checks, Money Order
Instant Payouts
Great for Bovada Rewards scheme, three separate welcome bonuses for each gambling type, daily boosted parlays

Pros:

  • 3 welcome bonuses (sportsbook, casino, poker)
  • Bovada Rewards program offers redeemable points
  • Offers daily pre-made parlays with boosted odds
  • Crypto welcome bonus is among the best for US players
  • Smooth UX across mobile and desktop

Cons:

  • Not available in all US states
  • Limited same-game parlay options

5. BetUS – Enjoy Unique Sports Betting Predictions & Live Broadcasts

The headline news regarding BetUS is the operator’s integrated sports betting prediction site and regular BetUS TV live broadcasts with sporting personalities. It’s something a little different you don’t get at many competitors, helping bettors gain valuable insights from those in the know.

BetUS sportsbooks homepage

BetUS also has the industry’s most generous referral bonus, offering a 300% up to $6,000 incentive for bettors getting their buddies on board. The easy-to-use and powerful prop builder is an additional highlight.

License Curacao Gaming Control Board
Welcome Bonus 125% Up To $2,000 On First Three Deposits
Wagering Requirement & Expiry Period 14x | 7 Days
Number of Sports 30+
Payment Options Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Cryptocurrency, Bank Transfer
Instant Payouts
Great for Live BetUS TV sports betting prediction broadcasts, 300% referral bonus, advanced prop builder

Pros:

  • Integrated BetUS TV for expert-led betting analysis
  • Advanced prop builder interface is easy to use
  • Massive 300% referral bonus offer
  • Generous welcome offer split across three deposits
  • Strong crypto and card support

Cons:

  • 14x wagering requirement is higher than competitors
  • Site layout can feel busy on mobile devices

How Do Sportsbooks Work?

Understanding the underlying mechanics behind sports betting is a key prerequisite, so let’s clarify how sportsbooks work.

At root, operators ensure a profitable business model by taking wagers on both sides of an event and adjusting the odds to balance the action. This minimizes their liability while guaranteeing a built-in profit via the “vig” or “juice” – a small fee embedded in the odds that ensures sports betting sites make money regardless of the outcome.

We’ll go into more detail regarding how sports betting sites calculate their odds and the different betting categories below:

Setting the Odds

How do sportsbooks decide their lines? It can be a rather cryptic concept, but understanding betting odds can significantly improve the way you approach making predictions.

Operators take numerous factors into account, including advanced statistical models, historical data, form analysis, injuries, weather, home advantage, and insider information. Sports betting sites also track each other’s lines and leverage comparison platforms like Oddschecker to ensure their odds remain competitive.

Learning to pinpoint discrepancies between sportsbooks is an expert tip for extracting the most value. For example, one operator may give more competitive odds on underdogs than alternatives, meaning savvy bettors could gain better payouts here if choosing lesser-tipped teams.

Types of Bets Offered

The best sports betting apps and websites offer numerous bet types. Get the lowdown with our online wagering guide below:

Moneyline Bets

Moneyline wagers are the most run-of-the-mill options, involving a straight choice between whether a team or player will win or lose a game. We recommend beginners start out using moneylines – not only are they simple to understand, they’re also valuable introductions to the overall American odds system.

There are two straightforward rules to remember. Firstly, positive odds indicate underdogs and less likely scenarios, while negative odds are the opposite. Secondly, positive odds show how much you’d win from a $100 wager, but negative odds display the amount you’d need to stake to win $100.

Point Spread Bets

While moneyline wagers are rigid options for predicting match results, point spreads offer a more versatile approach. These wagers level the playing field between teams, assigning a handicap similar to golf. For example, an underdog may be given a +6.5 handicap, meaning they can lose by up to 6 points and still win the wager. Conversely, favorites are given negative handicaps linking to the margin of victory required.

Point spreads are fantastic for taking more value from very unequal match-ups, as odds are usually higher than standard moneylines if you’re predicting how many points a team will win or lose by.

Totals (Over/Under) Bets

Totals (also commonly called over/unders) don’t have any relation to the actual game result. Instead, these wagers track the total amount of points, goals, runs, or other statistics during a game. This can apply to the game as a whole or each individual team. For example, a basketball game to hit an overall 210 point total or each team to exceed 100.

Sports betting sites predict the total, and bettors decide whether they want to wager over or under this amount. Totals can offer a more strategic approach with more betting value, especially for games with huge favorites.

Prop Bets

Propositional bets are laser-focussed wagers on specific in-game outcomes ranging from player statistics to standalone events and team performances. These wagers can cover the total passing yards from a quarterback, whether a basketball player will hit a triple-double, and even novelty bets like Super Bowl half-time show-related events.

Sports betting experts can find the most value within prop wagers, as platforms tend to offer more attractive odds on these markets. Just be aware your statistical chances of guessing correctly are smaller.

Parlays

Parlays are arguably the most fun wagers during game weeks, allowing bettors to stack several predictions and multiply the potential payout. But here’s the thing – parlays are also the hardest to get right, as all your predictions (known as “legs”) must be accurate to win.

The best sports betting sites also provide same-game parlays, enabling you to pick between numerous moneyline, point spread, prop, total, and other markets within the same game.

Live Betting

Sports betting sites are constantly updating their odds, which makes live wagering a particularly intriguing option. Our recommended operators all provide in-game betting capabilities so users can place real-time wagers depending on how the game is unfolding.

We strongly recommend checking in-depth live stats and watching games to enhance decision making accuracy.

Juice/Vig

Juice or vig are terms referring to the sportsbook’s fee for taking a wager, an essential aspect keeping operators afloat. This is factored into the odds themselves, typically creating a built-in margin around 5-10% that ensures profitability regardless of the outcome – a similar concept to online casino house edge.

The Best Gambling Sites by Region

The best gambling site for you may not be the same as the best site for bettors in other regions because gambling laws vary by country and region. You should only access websites that are legal in your country and should avoid accessing betting or gambling sites that are prohibited, even if they are legal in other locations.

In addition, regional sites often offer perks specific to their customers. For example, you will likely find the best NFL football betting opportunities (props and specials) on US focused gambling sites, while the Australian focused gambling sites will likely have the widest selection of Aussie Rules betting markets available.

UK Online Bookmakers

Everything you need to know about betting online in the United Kingdom, where land-based and online gambling are both legal in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland.

UK Bookmakers

USA Online Betting Sites

Online sportsbetting is legal in the US as well as serviced by a number of international / offshore betting sites. Find out where you can bet online & which betting sites to avoid.

USA Betting Sites

Canada Sports Betting

A guide to Canada sports betting – including laws, advertising and promotional restrictions and where to safely gamble on sports online in Canada

Canada Sports Betting

Australia Sports Betting

Sports betting is very popular in Australia. Find out which sites are recommended to bet on Aussie Rules football, Cricket and more.

Australia Betting Sites

New Zealand Sports Betting

Online betting is legal in New Zealand because the NZ Gambling Act only regulates betting and gambling activities that originate from within New Zealand. Find out which companies accept online bets from NZ residents.

NZ Betting Sites

Ireland Sports Betting

Bet on soccer, hurling, gaelic-football, American sports & more with popular Irish sportsbooks

Irish Online Betting Sites

How We Rank and Review Sportsbooks

Our experts consider carefully consider and evaluate the following characteristics to determine the best sports betting sites on the market:

Betting Markets Available

Top sports betting sites must have extremely comprehensive and varied betting markets available. Parlays, same-game parlays, and props are the most important advanced markets to consider alongside moneylines, point spreads, and totals. Sportsbooks should also cover dozens of sports, from classics like football to esports, politics, and other niche markets.

Competitive Odds

Comparing sports betting sites by checking their odds for specific events and markets is essential to finding the best value, as these operators all differ slightly. For example, some sportsbooks will have more attractive odds for favorites, while others could back underdogs more heavily.

User Interface & Experience

A smooth and functional user interface is key to a top-tier sports betting platform, with easy navigation, fast loading times, and a well-organized betting menu all essential characteristics. Our experts also survey betslips to find the most streamlined options, paying particular focus to same-game parlays.

Bonuses and Promotions

Bonuses play a major role in how we rank and review the best online sports betting sites. Our favorite operators have generous welcome bonuses with low wagering requirements alongside a regular spread of weekly and monthly existing customer promos. The most favorable options include daily odds boosts, bet insurance, free bets, and enhanced same-game parlays.

 
Promotion Type Description
Free Spins Play slots games for free with the opportunity to win real-money.
No Deposit Free Spins Casinos give customers free spins on selected casino slots games with no deposit required by the customer.
Casino Cashback Casino cashback is a rebate to players of a fixed % of their losses at an online casino over a given period
Free Bets Sportsbook attract new customers via “free bet offers” which generally offer gamblers a refund (in the form of “free bet credits” which must be wagered again) if their first bet or bets lose.

*Note that cashback offers are not permitted by gambling regulators in the Netherlands.

Banking Options

The highest-ranked sports betting sites have versatile banking suites suiting various preferences from traditional credit/debit to cryptocurrencies. Get to know the main deposit/withdrawal categories below:

  • Credit/Debit – Visa, Mastercard, and American Express are widely accepted at licensed sportsbooks in the US. They offer powerful anti-fraud measures and strong reputations, but withdrawal speeds can vary and bettors must disclose more personal information compared to alternatives.
  • Cryptocurrency – Our favorite sports betting sites have wide-ranging and fast cryptocurrency banking options. This is a key benefit with offshore operators, as most state-licensed sites don’t support crypto. Bitcoin, Ethereum, and various other tokens grant anonymous betting with higher limits and the fastest sportsbook payouts. Check out our dedicated crypto sports betting page for more information.
  • eWallet – Offshore sports betting sites stocking eWallets are few and far between, so this is a reliable indicator of an above-average platform. PayPal, Skrill, and other options require less banking data sharing than credit/debit cards and can also provide faster transactions.
  • Prepaid Card – Budget-conscious bettors looking for anonymous fiat banking methods can access prepaid cards at the best sportsbooks. Paysafecard is a famous example, helping you deposit by a virtual pincode. This is another rarer offshore banking method, so any operators stocking prepaid cards get additional points.

Payment Speed and Limits

Accessing the fastest sportsbook payouts is a key concern for most bettors, so we pay close attention to withdrawal speeds. The best US sports betting apps and websites can deliver almost-instant payouts with cryptocurrency, and this is the gold standard our experts strive for. Small minimum withdrawals and large maximums are additional highlights.

Customer Support

Reliable customer support is another key characteristic at the best sports betting sites, ensuring quick and easy fixes for any potential problems. We test 24/7 live chats, telephone numbers, and email to make sure agents are responsive and helpful.

Mobile Compatibility

Mobile-friendly sportsbooks are by far the most popular options nowadays, with bettors overwhelmingly using their smartphones. Offshore platforms tend to prioritize HTML5-optimized mobile browser websites over native sports betting apps, reducing the potentially time-consuming download and installation process. Our experts trial these sites to assure smooth interfaces, intuitive mobile betting features, and other highlights.

Security and Licensing

Our top-rated sports betting sites must have watertight security and licensing to make the shortlist, with bettors safety always a top concern. We check for licensing from internationally respected regulators like the Curacao Gaming Control Board alongside SSL encryption, two-factor authentication, and other security features.

How to Sign Up and Claim Your Bonus at a US Sportsbook

Registering at the top sports betting sites doesn’t take long. Get to know the straightforward process below:

  1. Investigate and choose from our expertly-picked sports betting sites.
  2. Head to your chosen operator and press the “Sign Up” or “Register” button.
  3. Fill the registration form and verify your account via email.
  4. Go to the cashier page and choose a deposit method. Take care to input any promo codes and hit the minimum deposit requirement to claim the welcome bonus.
  5. Use the bonus funds or free bets to bet online. Remember, you’ll need to clear wagering requirements before being able to withdraw.

Types of Bonuses at US Betting Sites

Claiming a sports betting bonus can involve several different mechanics. Make sure you understand how sportsbooks promotions work and the main categories to maximize your overall experience:

No Deposit Bonus

No-deposit promos are fairly rare at sports betting sites USA players can enjoy. These promos grant incentives like free bets without any payment necessary. Technically speaking, many odds boosts, second-chance bets, and cashback promos could be classed as no-deposit bonuses, although the term mainly refers to welcome bonuses that don’t require payment to activate.

Deposit Match

A deposit match is the most common type of introductory promo for new customers, awarding a percentage extra on top of their initial payment. The best sports betting sites can award up to 200%, doubling your first deposit in bonus funds or free bets. It’s the perfect way to kickstart your sportsbook experience, but looking out for unrealistic wagering requirements is crucial.

Free Bets

Free bets are available at many of the top sports betting sites. As the name suggests, these promos grant a set amount of wagers with predetermined values. Most sports betting sites attach specific terms, including minimum odds, expiry dates, winning caps, wagering requirements, and potentially specific events (ie. the Super Bowl or March Madness).

Odds Boost

The best US sports betting apps and websites have a regular stream of odds boosts promotions, helping bettors gain more value on specific events and markets. For example, the Philadelphia Eagles might have had their odds of winning Super Bowl LIX boosted from +200 to +250, meaning a $100 bet would return $250 instead of $200.

Second-Chance Bets

Second-chance bets can have varying names, with other common terms including “No-Sweat Bets”, “Risk-Free Bets”, or “Bet Insurance”. The concept is the same throughout – bettors are afforded the luxury of placing a wager in the knowledge that their stake is covered whether their predictions wins or loses. Watch out for important guidelines here, as there are often minimum odds and maximum stakes to consider.

Parlay Booster

Parlay boosters are increasingly common at the best online sports betting sites, using a similar concept to regular odds boosts. Parlay fans can score extra value with each leg as sportsbooks increase potential payouts depending on the number of predictions. The riskier the parlay, the bigger the potential percentage boost.

Parlay Insurance

Parlay insurance promos are particularly effective for beginners learning these more complex bet types. Top sports betting sites mitigate the frustration of losing a parlay wager by just one leg (or more in rare cases), safeguarding your stake in these instances.

Cashback

Many top-level sports betting online platforms offer regular cashback bonuses, enabling bettors to claim a small percentage of their weekly net losses back as bonus funds or real money. While this percentage doesn’t usually exceed 10%, it can still make a favorable difference.

Our Pro Tips for Choosing the Right US Sports Betting Site

The best US sports betting apps come in various shapes and sizes, so it’s crucial to know the main considerations for choosing the right operator for your own personal preferences. Here are some expert tips:

  • Research Thoroughly: Reading sports betting platform reviews, verifying licensing information, and looking for feedback from real bettors build the essential foundations to selecting the optimal operators.
  • Check Betting Markets: The best US sports betting apps and websites offer extremely extensive betting markets on dozens of international sports. Pay particularly close attention to parlays and props, as this is where the industry leaders really shine.
  • Compare Bonuses: Most bettors will be seeking generous bonuses, but we also recommend looking for the right ones for you. Compare promos based on your betting style. For example, parlay fans should prioritize betting sites with regular parlay boosters or insurance over free bets.
  • Test Mobile Software: Chances are you’ll spend most time sports betting from your smartphone, so seeking the best mobile-friendly sportsbooks is crucial. Test each platform to find the most reliable, intuitive and feature-laden interfaces.
  • Evaluate Banking Options: Don’t forget to evaluate the banking options at your shortlisted betting sites. Prioritize operators with secure and versatile payment methods fitting your preferences. You’ll also want to find the fastest sportsbooks payouts and widest deposit/withdrawal limits.

Legal Landscape of Sportsbooks in the US

Gambling laws in the US have changed significantly over the past decade, spearheaded by the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act during Murphy v NCAA in May 2018.

This landmark event granted individual states the power to create their own regulated sports betting industries, with almost 40 jurisdictions offering some form of licensed sportsbooks in the US.

There aren’t many federal restrictions, so state-by-state betting laws can differ regarding everything from the number of licensed operators to legal betting markets, college sports wagering, tax rates, and whether online or retail betting is permitted.

We’ll give you an overview regarding some of the main legal sports betting states below:

New Jersey

Without New Jersey, the legal sports betting landscape in the US would be considerably different. Garden State lawmakers were influential in overturning PASPA, establishing a state-licensed sportsbook industry in June 2018 – only a few weeks after the court declaration. New Jersey was subsequently the second state after Nevada (operating with a federal exemption since 2010) to launch online sports wagering.

Nowadays, the New Jersey sports betting industry is one of the most competitive markets, with over a dozen licensed sportsbooks and flexible rules regarding college betting (except for in-state college teams and events). The New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement is tasked with overseeing proceedings and is consistently rated as one of the best regulators for player safety.

Pennsylvania

Governor Tom Wolf actually signed HB 271 into law in October 2017, permitting a legal Pennsylvania online sports betting industry pending federal law changes. The Keystone State was subsequently well placed to launch online sportsbooks, with operators taking their first bets in May 2019 (November 2018 for retail betting).

There are currently 11 licensed platforms available, with monthly sports betting handles in Pennsylvania consistently surpassing hundreds of millions of dollars. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board also permits in-state college sports betting, which is a unique advantage over most other states.

New York

Perhaps unsurprisingly considering its population and sporting pedigree, the New York sports betting market has emerged as America’s most active and lucrative. Licensed sportsbooks in The Empire State launched in January 2022, handling over $2.4 billion in wagers during the first five weeks – a record-breaking amount.

New York imposes a 51% tax rate on sports betting operators, a distinctively high percentage that guarantees higher revenue for state amenities, education programs, and responsible gambling initiatives. The New York State Gaming Commission is the licensing authority.

Risks Associated with Gambling at International / Offshore Betting Sites

Be aware that gambling at international bookmakers (also known as offshore sportsbooks) carries certain advantages but also a number of potential risks:

  • Lack of regulation: International and offshore betting sites may not be subject to the same strict regulations as sites in your own country, which means there may be less protection for customers.
  • Legal issues: Depending on where you live, it may be illegal to gamble at international or offshore sites. This could result in legal issues for you if you are caught.
  • Unreliable or fraudulent sites: Because international and offshore sites are not subject to the same regulations as domestic sites, it can be more difficult to determine if they are reliable and trustworthy. There may a higher risk of encountering fraudulent or unreliable sites.
  • Difficulty resolving disputes: If you have a dispute with an international or offshore betting site, it can be more difficult to resolve it compared to dealing with a domestic site. This is because the site may be based in a different country with different laws and regulations.
  • Difficulty withdrawing funds: International and offshore sites may have more limited banking options compared to domestic sites, which can make it difficult to withdraw your winnings.

Overall, it is important to carefully research and consider the risks before gambling at international or offshore betting sites.

Responsible Gambling at Sportsbooks

Sports betting online is hugely enjoyable and mentally stimulating, but don’t get carried away. Avoid chasing losses and always create strict budgeting plans before wagering. We also recommend keeping an eye on your time spent betting, as this should never be your only hobby. Additionally, sports betting sites can provide valuable tools like deposit limits, time alerts, and cool-off periods.

Gain more understanding of responsible gambling via the resources below:

Sports Betting Sites Conclusion

Our favorite sports betting sites USA players can enjoy are all industry leaders, offering a rich array of bonuses, betting odds, forward-thinking features, and other selling points.

BetOnline is no doubt the best platform currently on the market, blending an extremely comprehensive sports betting selection with almost two dozen ongoing promos, advanced “Mega Parlay” functionality, and no wagering requirements on the welcome bonus. Use our exclusive link to get started and claim the welcome bonus.

Key Takeaways:

  • Over 20 ongoing promos for various markets
  • Wagering requirement-free welcome bonus
  • Exceptional design and betslip

Responsible Gambling

US Sportsbooks & Betting Sites FAQs

How do sportsbooks make money?

Sports betting sites carefully calculate odds and set betting lines to ensure a built-in profit margin, often referred to as “vig” or “juice”.

Is online sports betting legal in all US states?


Most US states now have regulated online sports betting industries. However, residents in places like California that have yet to authorize state-licensed sportsbooks can still access offshore platforms with impunity. Learning the federal betting laws can also help clarify things.

What should I look for when choosing a sportsbook?


Some of the key characteristics for choosing the best online sports betting sites include generous bonuses, streamlined software, competitive odds, and comprehensive markets.

Can I place bets on my mobile device?

Yes. All our recommended operators have mobile-friendly sportsbooks, either via dedicated apps or optimized browser sites.

What is a parlay bet?


Placing a parlay bet online enables you to wrap multiple predictions under one stake, with each “leg” multiplying the potential payout. All predictions must be correct for the wager to win, so don’t get carried away.

How can I ensure I’m gambling responsibly?

Staying responsible while enjoying sports betting sites is key. Set strict budgets and time limits on your betting while also using sportsbook problem gambling tools like self-exclusion if necessary.

What is the difference between a sportsbook and a casino?


The clue is in the name – a sportsbook offers betting on sports, while a casino compels players to wager on games like slots.

'Jose Del Pozo

Jose is an iGaming analyst with wide experience within the sector. He has been working as content writer on casino and betting websites for more than 10 years, contributing on websites like Pokerlistings, Casinobee, Betpack among others, sharing his insights and perspective for the future ofthe iGaming market.