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Real recommendations to suit your betting preferences. No bias, ever.
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We only suggest legal, regulated, and trustworthy sportsbooks that are available in your location.
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Best sportsbooks & promos
How to pick the best online sportsbook
The simplest way to identify the best sportsbook? Take our quiz to get a tailored suggestion based on what's most important to you.
These are the questions with a summary of why they are important.
1. What state do you live in?
Sports betting in the US is handled on a state-by-state basis, meaning sportsbooks don’t operate in all states. We make sure you have options that are licensed and available to you to ensure a safe and legal experience.
2. What sport(s) do you plan to bet on most?
Some sportsbooks focus on a select number of sports, offering better odds, promotions, and features for specific games. We'll help you find a platform that best suits your interests.
3. How familiar are you with sports betting?
Beginners might enjoy straightforward platforms with tutorials while experienced bettors could require advanced features and diverse betting markets. We help you find a platform that matches your skill level.
4. Do you plan to bet live (in-play) or place bets before the game starts?
If you enjoy real-time, fast-paced excitement, we look for the best tools designed with live betting in mind. If you like pre-match bets, we’ll recommend options with robust analysis tools.
5. What kind of bonuses or promotions are important to you?
Whether you’re after welcome bonuses, free bets, or loyalty rewards, we pair you with sportsbooks delivering the incentives you care about most.
6. What kind of customer support do you expect?
Want 24/7 support, live chat or phone support? We recommend online sportsbooks that offer the level of support that you prefer.
7. Do you plan to bet most on mobile or desktop?
Some platforms work particularly well on mobile apps, while others are best suited to desktops. We recommend picking a sportsbook that’s geared to your most commonly used device.
8. Any special preferences? (pick a maximum of 3)
Love live streaming, microbetting or social features? We help you find a sportsbook with the extras that matter most to you.
Find your perfect match - Take the above quiz now to find the best sportsbook for your betting style, quick and easy.
How we review and rate online sportsbooks
At Sporting Post our mission is to provide you with accurate, honest assistance in finding your perfect sportsbook, and to do so with clarity and competence.
Our process is based entirely on data, not opinion, which means you’ll get reliable, impartial recommendations every time.
Our team is always tweaking our evaluation criteria to ensure our analysis is as accurate and current as possible.
In the rapidly evolving world of online sports betting, we offer you the dependable information needed to make an educated selection.
You can view our dedicated page for more information on how we test and review sportsbooks.
Additionally, you can view all of our sportsbook reviews here.
Best US sportsbooks
Trying to figure out which online sportsbooks are actually worth it? With so many choices out there, it’s easy to waste time on a site that doesn’t deliver.
That’s why we put every major sportsbook to the test. We created accounts, placed real bets, and ranked each platform based on key factors, like user experience, odds value, payment speed, and customer support.
We also gave extra points to books with strong welcome offers and reliable mobile apps.
Below are our top picks based on real testing; each one stands out for a different reason.
Feature | Sportsbook |
Best overall sportsbook | 🥇 FanDuel Sportsbook |
Best odds boosts | 🥈 Caesars Sportsbook |
Best for beginners | 🥉 BetMGM Sportsbook |
Best bonus bet offer | ⭐ DraftKings Sportsbook |
Best for international sports | 🏆 bet365 Sportsbook |
Best online sportsbook reviews
Still weighing your options? Let’s walk through the top contenders. Each of these online sportsbooks earned a spot on our list based on real performance, not hype.
From standout features to key advantages, here’s what makes them worth a look.
1. FanDuel Sportsbook 🥇- Overall best sportsbook
FanDuel overview
App store rating | 4.9 (iOS), 4.5 (Android) |
Payout speed | 1-5 days |
Promo offer | |
Live streaming | Yes |
States active | AZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, WY |
Number of sports | 20+ |
Customer support | Twitter, 24/7 live chat, email: [email protected] |
Minimum deposit | $10 |
Year founded | 2009 |
Casino | Yes |
Payment methods | Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, PayPal, Skrill, PayNearMe, online banking, Venmo, Wire Transfer, PayNearMe |
FanDuel sportsbook video review
Summary
FanDuel Sportsbook is one of the most reliable and well-rounded destinations for legal online sports wagering in the U.S.
You can bet on more than 20 sports and find daily wagering options on everything from NFL contests to MLB and NBA games.
New users can win $150 in bonus bets with just a $5 wager. If that bet wins, the bonus usually hits their account within three days.
The FanDuel mobile app is highly rated — 4.8 out of 5 on iOS, 4.7 on Android. It’s user-friendly, fast and allows bettors to choose from prebuilt same-game parlays or mix and match on their own.
One area where FanDuel is particularly strong is with live betting. Odds refresh quickly in-play, and users can stream Major League Baseball’s “Free Game of the Day” directly via the app with FanDuel+ access.
It's also one of the better options for bettors looking to manage their habits. Tools like "My Spend" enable bettors to see what and how often they're betting on specific things, making it easier to bet responsibly.
Read our expert FanDuel review and check out the latest FanDuel promo codes.
I was immediately impressed by FanDuel’s odds, especially when I placed a 6-leg NFL parlay. The difference in potential payout compared to other platforms was staggering—FanDuel offered nearly five times the return, which confirmed its value for maximizing profits.
FanDuel’s higher payouts on parlays and the flexibility in adjusting spreads make it an essential tool for serious bettors. Their early cash-out feature is particularly useful for managing risk, allowing more strategic control over wagers.
Despite its strengths in odds and market variety, FanDuel could enhance its offering by improving customer loyalty promotions and streamlining the app’s interface. However, the platform’s fast withdrawals and consistent market fairness position it as a top contender in the betting industry.
Feature | SmartStake score |
|---|---|
Customer support 📞 | 4/5 |
Deposits + payouts 💵 | 4/5 |
Usability 🔧 | 4/5 |
Mobile betting 📱 | 4/5 |
Bonuses + promos 💰 | 4/5 |
Live play 📺 | 3/5 |
FanDuel pros and cons
- Verified withdrawals process within 12-24 hours via PayPal and other secure methods.
- Customer support is available 24/7 with live chat for quick issue resolution.
- Same-game parlays offer both prebuilt options and customizable tools for greater flexibility.
- Its daily fantasy sports platform enhances crossover appeal for DFS users.
- DFS and sportsbook accounts require separate wallets, reducing convenience.
- FanDuel lacks a loyalty program that so many other sportsbooks offer to their customers.
2. Caesars Sportsbook 🥈 - Best odds boosts
Caesars Sportsbook overview
App store rating | 4.7 (iOS), 4.3 (Android) |
Payout speed | 1-3 days |
Promo offer | $1000 First Bet with Caesars |
Live streaming | Yes |
Number of sports | 20+ |
Customer support | Twitter, live 24/7 chat, email: [email protected] |
Minimum deposit | $10 |
Year founded | 1966 |
Casino | Yes |
Payment methods | Visa, Mastercard, NETELLER, PayPal, ACH Transfer, Discover, AMEX, PayNearMe, Skrill |
Caesars Sportsbook video review
Summary
Caesars Sportsbook offers a full-service betting package with a brand that even your grandparents would recognize. Caesars has enjoyed great success with its mix of excellent promos, a reliable brand and an overall solid product that intrigues new players and seasoned bettors alike.
The welcome offer happening right now is basically impossible to miss: Deposit $10 and make a $1 bet to get 10 profit boosts — each worth double the payout, and all together worth up to $25,000 in bonus value.
Live NFL streaming through the app is one of Caesars’ most outstanding features. Caesars is one of the few sportsbooks where you can view both regular-season games and playoff games.
The Caesars Rewards program adds value to the deal. Every bet, no matter how small, will earn you points. These points can be exchanged for perks like gift cards, electronics or VIP experiences at over 50 Caesars properties across the U.S.
Banking is accessible and easy for newcomers and old hands alike, with options ranging from PayPal, Venmo, Play+, and other popular methods readily available. Most deposits and cashouts start at $10 and process in under 24 hours.
Caesars offers more than 25 sports to bet on and a healthy number of bet types, such as live betting and same-game parlays.
The Caesars customer support, solid mobile app (4.6 rating on iOS and 4.2 on Android) and unique features make this our safest sportsbook for users, even though its odds and market depth don't consistently top our rivals in the upper echelon.
Read our expert Caesars Sportsbook review and check out the latest Caesars Sportsbook promo codes.
As someone who has tested numerous betting platforms, I was intrigued by Caesars Sportsbook’s sign-up bonus—matching my deposit immediately was a strong start. However, I quickly noticed that losing parlays lingered in the active bets section far too long, which cluttered the interface and made managing my bets less efficient.
Caesars stands out in the competitive sportsbook market with its top-tier promotions and odds boosts, which are consistently among the most attractive I've encountered. These perks provide real value and make the platform worth considering, especially for serious bettors.
While Caesars excels in promotions, the app’s interface and functionality lag behind some of its competitors. Issues like the delayed removal of settled bets and occasional technical glitches can hinder the betting experience.
Feature | SmartStake score |
|---|---|
Customer support 📞 | 4/5 |
Deposits + payouts 💵 | 4/5 |
Usability 🔧 | 4/5 |
Mobile betting 📱 | 4/5 |
Bonuses + promos 💰 | 4/5 |
Live play 📺 | 4/5 |
Caesars Sportsbook pros and cons
- NFL live streaming is available in-app, providing exclusive access to regular season and playoff games.
- Microbetting options allow users to wager on individual plays, passes, or possessions for dynamic engagement.
- The user-friendly bet slip enables customization of spreads and totals directly within the slip.
- Caesars Rewards integrates with over 50 destinations, offering personalized redemption options like hotel stays and gift cards.
- Caesars' odds are often less competitive, especially for futures and golf markets.
- Betting markets are frequently removed quickly, limiting opportunities for sharp bettors.
- Odds are displayed in a disorganized layout, making navigation challenging for some users.
3. BetMGM Sportsbook 🥉 - Best for beginners
BetMGM overview
App store rating | 4.8 (iOS), 4.5 (Android) |
Payout speed | 1-3 days |
Promo offer | $1500 Back In Bonus Bets |
Live streaming | Yes |
Number of sports | 20+ |
Customer support | Twitter, 24/7 live chat, email: support.[state intials]@betmgm.com |
Minimum deposit | $10 |
Year founded | 2018 |
Casino | Yes |
Payment methods | Visa, Mastercard, Discover, AMEX, PayPal, Skrill, PayNearMe |
BetMGM sportsbook video review
Summary
BetMGM Sportsbook is a top-tier option for bettors prioritizing variety, live betting depth, and a smooth mobile experience.
NFL fans get a choice of 130+ ways to bet on each game, including spreads, totals, moneylines, and a long list of alternate lines. MLB bettors can take their pick from 75+ markets per game, with strong player prop and in-play coverage.
New users can claim up to $1,500 in bonus bets if their first wager doesn’t hit. Existing users get regular promotions too—like parlay boosts, bonus bets, and even discounts tied to MGM’s Las Vegas properties.
The BetMGM app earns a 4.8 rating on iOS and a 4.3 rating on Android. It is both clean and fast, easy to navigate and customize, and includes many features such as real-time updates, live stat tracking, and built-in notifications for active bets.
Beyond sports betting, users can access BetMGM’s online casino and online poker options where available — a good all-in-one gaming option.
While some seasoned bettors say they’ve had their accounts restricted, BetMGM remains a fantastic option for beginner and even mid-level bettors.
BetMGM Rewards also allow users to earn BetMGM Rewards Points and MGM Rewards Tier Credits for every wager placed, which can be used at MGM locations across most states.
With a trusted reputation behind the MGM Resorts brand, BetMGM uses a number of features to land itself as one of the best sportsbooks available on the market today.
Read our expert BetMGM review and check out the latest BetMGM promo codes.
I signed up for BetMGM, attracted by their generous deposit bonus which matched my $500 deposit with another $500. I was initially cautious after reading some negative reviews, but my experience turned out to be smooth.
BetMGM’s daily odds boosts add significant value, making them a strong contender despite their standard sports odds. Their casino games are particularly robust, offering a great variety for those who like to mix up their betting.
The app is user-friendly and reliable, with quick deposit and withdrawal processes. However, the absence of horse racing is a minor drawback.
Feature | SmartStake score |
|---|---|
Customer support 📞 | 4/5 |
Deposits + payouts 💵 | 3/5 |
Usability 🔧 | 4/5 |
Mobile betting 📱 | 4/5 |
Bonuses + promos 💰 | 4/5 |
Live play 📺 | 4/5 |
BetMGM pros and cons
- Offers betting markets for unique events, including entertainment and cross-sport parlays.
- BetMGM Rewards Points can be redeemed across multiple jurisdictions, supporting frequent travelers.
- Comprehensive racebook covers over 200 tracks worldwide, making it ideal for horse racing enthusiasts.
- Wide range of sports covered, including niche options like badminton, snooker, and water polo.
- Website layout can feel cluttered and cramped due to redundant navigation menus and persistent sidebars.
- Customer support lacks phone assistance and has state-specific email addresses, complicating communication.
- Some users report slower performance compared to rivals like DraftKings and FanDuel.
4. DraftKings Sportsbook ⭐ - Best bonus bet offer
DraftKings overview
App store rating | 4.8 (iOS), 4.7 (Android) |
Payout speed | 1-5 days |
Promo offer | Bet $5, Get $150 Instantly |
Live streaming | Yes |
Number of sports | 25+ |
Customer support | Twitter, 24/7 live chat, email: [email protected] |
Minimum deposit | $5 |
Year founded | 2012 |
Casino | Yes |
Payment methods | Visa, Mastercard, PayPal, VIP preferred check, eChecks, Venmo, Online banking, Wire transfer |
DraftKings sportsbook video review
Summary
DraftKings Sportsbook is one of the best options on the market for U.S. bettors. The operator offers a seamless mobile experience and a huge menu of betting options for all major sports throughout the world.
New players can unlock $150 in bonus bets after making a $5 qualifying wager. The bonus comes in the form of six $25 bonus bets, which are good for seven days, enabling new players time to explore the platform without feeling like they have to rush.
The online sportsbook spans all the NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB action, as well as college football and college basketball. The sportsbook also provides solid coverage of tennis, golf, soccer and a range of other global events.
Live betting is an important component of DraftKings. Live odds are constantly updated, and bettors can access limited live streams on select events to keep up while the game is in progress.
DraftKings also provides Flash Bets—short-term wagers on brief moments in a game—and one of the more prolific prop-bet menus in the business.
The app is renowned for its sleek design and stable performance. As with many platforms, most users are satisfied with promos and products, but sharp bettors should be aware that accounts may be limited for long-term profitability.
For casual and mid-level sports bettors who are looking for variety and usability, DraftKings is one of the most well-rounded sportsbooks on the market.
Read our expert DraftKings review and check out the latest DraftKings promo codes.
I turned to DraftKings for their NFL betting and was impressed by the instant payouts—much faster than any other platform I’ve used. The integration with my bank account was seamless, making the process hassle-free.
DraftKings excels with its fast withdrawals and extensive betting markets. Their odds boosts and loyalty rewards are some of the best in the industry, offering real value for regular users.
While they could improve the speed of applying promotions, DraftKings’ overall reliability and strong customer service make it a top choice for serious bettors.
Feature | SmartStake score |
|---|---|
Customer support 📞 | 4/5 |
Deposits + payouts 💵 | 4/5 |
Usability 🔧 | 4/5 |
Mobile betting 📱 | 5/5 |
Bonuses + promos 💰 | 4/5 |
Live play 📺 | 4/5 |
DraftKings pros and cons
- Offers detailed player and team props across major sports for enhanced betting strategies.
- Supports Flash Bets, allowing rapid wagers during live events for dynamic gameplay.
- Integration with DraftKings DFS accounts enables seamless transitions between fantasy and sportsbook.
- Bonus bets must be used within seven days, limiting flexibility for casual bettors.
- No dedicated customer service phone line, relying on live chat and email support.
5. bet365 Sportsbook 🏆 - Best for international sports
bet365 overview
App store rating | 4.7 (iOS), 4.6 (Android) |
Payout speed | 1-3 days |
Promo offer | Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets |
Live streaming | Yes |
Number of sports | 20+ |
Customer support | Twitter, 24/7 live chat, email: [email protected], |
Minimum deposit | $10 |
Year founded | 2000 |
Casino | Yes |
Payment methods | Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, PayPal, Bank Transfer, PayNearMe, Skrill, PaySafe |
bet365 sportsbook video review
Summary
bet365 Sportsbook is one of the most robust options in the industry with its deep offering of betting markets and standout live betting features.
Users can place a bet on over 30 sports, ranging from the major U.S. sports leagues like the NFL, NBA, and MLB, to worldwide staples like cricket, tennis, and virtual sports.
New users can select one of two enticing welcome offers today. Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets or first-bet insurance worth up to $1,000.
Bonus bets are credited quickly and should be in your account within an hour of fulfilling the requirements needed.
The one area where bet365 simply excels is in its live betting. Lines update at the snap of a finger, and live streams are even broadcast in high definition for more high-profile events, such as the Super Bowl and World Series.
The sportsbook regularly offers excellent value, with competitive odds across baseball, UFC, horse racing, and more. Bet limits are accommodating, too—minimum stakes start from as little as $0.10, so all types of bettors can get involved.
Banking is easy and safe, with a number of trustworthy banking options, including PayPal, Skrill and Visa. Minimum deposits are a reasonable $10, and withdrawals are generally quick to process. Happily, no additional fees are deducted at this end.
For bettors interested in live wagering, favorable odds, and flexible betting, bet365 is one of the best sportsbooks available.
Read our expert bet365 review and check out the latest bet365 promo codes.
bet365 quickly stood out to me, particularly during an NFL game where their early payout feature allowed me to secure my winnings before the final whistle. The speed at which the funds were deposited into my account was unparalleled—minutes after the game ended, I had full access to my money.
bet365 may not boast the most visually appealing interface, but its extensive market options and the flexibility in crafting Same Game Parlays (SGPs) are what truly set it apart. Unlike other platforms that impose limitations, bet365 gives bettors the freedom to build customized bets that align perfectly with their strategies.
Though the user interface could benefit from some refinement, bet365 excels where it matters most—payment speed, market depth, and promotional value. Instant withdrawals, particularly to e-wallets like Skrill, provide a seamless experience, and their no-strings-attached free bets are a rarity in the industry.
Feature | SmartStake score |
|---|---|
Customer support 📞 | 4/5 |
Deposits + payouts 💵 | 4/5 |
Usability 🔧 | 4/5 |
Mobile betting 📱 | 5/5 |
Bonuses + promos 💰 | 4/5 |
Live play 📺 | 4/5 |
bet365 pros and cons
- Offers odds boosts for major events like the Super Bowl and FIFA World Cup.
- Refer-a-Friend program rewards users with $50 bonus bets per referral.
- Wide range of payment options, including PayNearMe and Paysafe Card for deposits.
- Live chat support connects users with a representative in under 5 minutes.
- No loyalty program or long-term rewards system available for sportsbook users.
- Maximum win limits vary significantly between sports and lack transparency.
How to start wagering on online sportsbooks
Getting started is simple. Follow these steps:
Choose a sportsbook – Pick a trusted, legal site that fits your betting style.
Create an account – Enter your details, verify your identity, and enable geolocation.
Claim your welcome offer – Most sportsbooks offer bonus bets or insurance for new users.
Make a deposit – Use secure payment methods like PayPal, Venmo, or a debit card.
Place your first bet – Browse sports, pick a market, and enter your stake.
You’re ready to go. Just remember to bet responsibly.
Is online sports betting legal in your state?
Online sports betting laws differ across the U.S. Each state makes its own rules, which means legality can change fast, and not all sportsbooks are licensed to operate everywhere.
That’s why it’s important to know what’s allowed in your state and steer clear of offshore sites that aren’t regulated or safe.
Below is a quick state-by-state guide to where online sports betting is legal, where it's limited to retail-only, and where it's still off the table:
State | Online Betting | Retail Betting | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
Alabama | ❌ No | ❌ No | Legislation active in 2024 |
Alaska | ❌ No | ❌ No | No current bills |
Arizona | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Launched Sept. 2021 |
Arkansas | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Retail only |
California | ❌ No | ❌ No | Efforts ongoing, no success yet |
Colorado | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Live since May 2020 |
Connecticut | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Launched Oct. 2021 |
Delaware | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Retail only |
Florida | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Legal but facing lawsuits |
Georgia | ❌ No | ❌ No | Legislation in progress |
Hawaii | ❌ No | ❌ No | Possible bill in 2025 |
Idaho | ❌ No | ❌ No | No movement |
Illinois | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Live since March 2020 |
Indiana | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Launched Aug. 2019 |
Iowa | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Online since Aug. 2019 |
Kansas | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Launched Sept. 2022 |
Kentucky | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Launched Sept. 2023 |
Louisiana | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Live in eligible parishes |
Maine | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Launched Nov. 2023 |
Maryland | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Launched Nov. 2022 |
Massachusetts | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Live since March 2023 |
Michigan | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Started Jan. 2021 |
Minnesota | ❌ No | ❌ No | Bills pending |
Mississippi | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | In-person only |
Missouri | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Expected Summer 2025 |
Montana | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Apps only at retail spots |
Nebraska | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Retail only |
Nevada | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Legal since 1931 |
New Hampshire | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Launched Dec. 2019 |
New Jersey | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | First to launch, May 2018 |
New Mexico | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Tribal retail only |
New York | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Online since Jan. 2022 |
North Carolina | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Launched March 2024 |
North Dakota | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Tribal retail only |
Ohio | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Online since Jan. 2023 |
Oklahoma | ❌ No | ❌ No | Bills proposed |
Oregon | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Launched Aug. 2019 |
Pennsylvania | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Launched Nov. 2018 |
Rhode Island | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Available since 2018 |
South Carolina | ❌ No | ❌ No | No active legislation |
South Dakota | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Retail only |
Tennessee | ✅ Yes | ❌ No | Online-only model |
Texas | ❌ No | ❌ No | No current progress |
Utah | ❌ No | ❌ No | Unlikely to change |
Vermont | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Launched Jan. 2024 |
Virginia | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Started Jan. 2021 |
Washington | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Tribal casinos only |
Washington, D.C. | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Live since May 2020 |
West Virginia | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Launched Sept. 2018 |
Wisconsin | ❌ No | ✅ Yes | Tribal retail only |
Wyoming | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | Online-only since Sept. 2021 |
State-specific sportsbook reviews
If you are looking for sportsbook reviews for the specific state you live in, check out our reviews below:
How are online sportsbooks & sports betting changing in 2025
In 2025, online sports betting in the United States is evolving significantly due to technological innovations, shifting consumer behaviors, and changes in the regulatory environment.
Recent statistics
The online sports betting marketplace is booming.
Revenue in the sports betting market is projected to reach US$18.51bn in 2025.
Revenue is expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2025-2029) of 7.89%, resulting in a projected market volume of US$25.08bn by 2029.
And that growth is expected to come with 20 million new users on betting platforms in 2025 alone.
Meanwhile, the average annual spend on sports betting per household is up to $1,100—evidence that sports wagering is becoming an ingrained part of US entertainment.
Sources: Statista, Investopedia
Sporting Post insights
In many cases, how readily consumers are betting on sports, and how quickly the industry is expanding, is having unexpected impacts on Americans’ financial behavior.
While the industry booms, there's a concerning trend of reduced savings and investments among bettors. For every dollar they spend on sports betting, households are spending $2 less on investments in things like mutual funds and stocks.
The intersection of media, sports and betting is changing the way people consume entertainment.
The collision of real-time gambling markets with sports broadcasts risks making it even more difficult for fans to tell where sport ends and betting begins, intensifying audience engagement along the way.
Source: Investopedia
Sporting Post predictions based on current trends
Artificial intelligence and personalized betting recommendations: By the end of 2025, AI will tailor the betting experience using user-driven data. Sportsbooks will use AI to offer hyper-personalized betting suggestions to enhance engagement. AI-driven personalization could potentially increase engagement for sportsbooks by up to 40%.
Crypto expansion: As the uptake of digital currencies increases, more major sportsbooks will look to move into the cryptocurrency space and provide enhanced bonuses for crypto depositors as an extra incentive.
Rise of eSports betting: The eSports betting market is poised for substantial growth, with revenue forecasted to hit $1.1 billion by 2028. This nascent industry could draw a younger audience to online sportsbooks.
Tighter regulations: The explosive growth of the industry means we can expect increased regulatory scrutiny aimed at protecting consumers. States may introduce more rigorous responsible gambling protections and stricter advertising restrictions to limit the social costs of increased access to gambling.
Mobile-first experience: As more users opt for mobile betting for its convenience, the industry will prioritize mobile-first experiences. Expect innovations in mobile app design and functionality, potentially including voice-activated betting and augmented reality features that enhance in-game live betting.
Surge in women's sports betting: As interest continues to grow in betting on women's sports, this trend is likely to endure in 2025. More diversified betting options for women's leagues may appear in sportsbooks, which could trickle down to increased viewership and sponsorship opportunities in women's sports.
Sources: S&P Global, American Gaming Association, Gambling News
As the industry evolves, the challenge for stakeholders will be balancing the economic benefits of sports betting with the need to protect vulnerable individuals from the potential harms of excessive gambling.
The success of the legal sports betting industry in 2025 and beyond will likely depend on its ability to innovate responsibly and adapt to an increasingly scrutinized regulatory environment.
How to gamble responsibly in the US
Before we close this guide, we have to warn you to always gamble responsibly.
To ensure you’re being cautious, online sportsbooks implement various responsible gambling practices that will help you keep your betting habits in check.
Limits: Sportsbooks allow you to set betting limits, i.e. limit how much you can bet in a day, a week, or a month.
Cashouts: You can quickly withdraw any winnings from any US sportsbook. This ensures you don’t burn your winnings. There’s also early cashout, so you can still make a profit if the bet starts going soon.
Help & resources: Online sportsbooks give customers access to resources to help problem gamblers and to help them find help for their gambling addiction.
To help, we created a 'how to bet on sports' guide that helps new sports bettors understand the industry better and play safer.
Responsible gambling organizations and charities in the US
Organization | Contact details |
|---|---|
Email: [email protected], Phone: 1-800-522-4700 | |
Email: [email protected], Phone: 020 7381 7722 | |
Email: [email protected], Phone: 1-888-532-3500 |
Frequently asked questions
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