Best Sports Betting Sites: Top U.S. Sportsbooks for 2024
As the world of online sports betting continues to grow in popularity across the United States, finding the right platform to place your wagers has never been more crucial. With a multitude of options available, each offering unique features, promotions, and user experiences, navigating this landscape can be overwhelming.
In this article, I rank the best online sports betting sites in the U.S., highlighting each one’s standout qualities, ease of use, and current welcome offer. Whether you’re a seasoned bettor or just starting out, this comprehensive guide will help you make informed choices and enhance your sports betting experience.
Best Sports Betting Sites Ranked
- bet365 Sportsbook: Best for International Markets
- Fanatics Sportsbook: Best Loyalty Program
- BetMGM Sportsbook: Best Signup Bonuses
- DraftKings Sportsbook: Best for Same Game Parlays
- Caesars Sportsbook: Best for In-Person Rewards
- ESPN BET: Best New Sportsbook
The following section ranks the best sports betting sites in the United States for 2024, covering areas such as the platform itself, its betting options, its welcome offer for new users and more.
Here are my top picks and the features that make them stand out:
1. bet365 Sportsbook
bet365 Sportsbook has been a leading name in online sports betting since its establishment in 2000. Known for its extensive global reach and robust platform, bet365 offers a remarkable live betting experience with over 35 betting markets, including major sports and niche international events. The highly-rated sportsbook app provides a seamless experience for placing bets and managing your account on the go.
The sportsbook stands out with its superior pricing and competitive odds, often featuring reduced juice lines. Additionally, bet365 offers an early cash-out feature, allowing bettors to secure their profits before an event concludes.
New users can choose between two incredible welcome offers: A First Bet Safety Net up to $1,000 or a straightforward Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets offer with the bet365 bonus code ON3BONUS.
2. Fanatics Sportsbook
Fanatics Sportsbook leverages the power of the Fanatics brand to offer unique promotions linked to sports merchandise through its sportsbook app. This sportsbook strictly operates on mobile devices, providing a streamlined and user-friendly experience for placing bets. Unfortunately, this means there is no desktop platform currently available for users.
As mentioned above, what sets Fanatics Sportsbook apart is its integration with the Fanatics retail brand. This unique approach not only enhances the betting experience but also allows users to earn FanCash while they bet, which can then be exchanged for merchandise from its retail website or bonus bets to be used within the sportsbook app.
Right now, first-time users can create a new account using the Fanatics Sportsbook promo code to Bet and Get up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets! No actual promo code is required, so click on the module above or this link to get started!
3. BetMGM Sportsbook
BetMGM Sportsbook‘s robust loyalty program rewards users with points for each bet placed, which can be redeemed for various benefits. New features for the 2024 football season enhance the betting experience with improved app functionality and exclusive markets. Offering over 1,000 futures markets and hundreds of betting options per NFL game, BetMGM ensures that bettors have plenty of choices.
The app allows users to build Same Game Parlays and provides live tracking of bets in real-time, making it easier to manage wagers as events unfold. BetMGM Sportsbook also emphasizes responsible gaming, offering tools and resources to ensure safe gambling practices.
New users at BetMGM can sign up today to score one of two loaded welcome offers:
- The BetMGM bonus code ON1600 unlocks a 20% Deposit Match up to $1,600 in Sports Bonus!
- The BetMGM bonus code ON3BONUS unlocks Up to $1,500 Back in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Doesn’t Win!
4. DraftKings Sportsbook
DraftKings Sportsbook is a leading platform known for its innovative integration of fantasy sports and traditional sports betting. The sportsbook offers a user-friendly interface that facilitates easy navigation across more than 20 betting markets. Regular updates and app improvements ensure a seamless betting experience.
Live betting on DraftKings allows users to place bets on ongoing games with updated odds. The early cash-out feature provides flexibility, although offers can be unpredictable.
New users can register today using the DraftKings promo code to unlock the site’s welcome offer: Bet $5, Get $250 in Bonus Bets Instantly! Simply click on this link to get started!
5. Caesars Sportsbook
Caesars Sportsbook offers a unique rewards program that allows users to earn points through sports betting and casino play. The platform, available in multiple states, features a variety of betting markets, including major sports like baseball, football, and basketball. The mobile app is highly rated, providing a seamless experience for bettors.
First-time signups at Caesars Sportsbook can enter the promo code ON31000 during registration to unlock the site’s welcome offer: Get up to $1,000 Back in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Doesn’t Win!
6. ESPN BET
ESPN BET, launched in November 2023, is a collaboration between ESPN and Penn Entertainment. The platform is available in 18 online and in-person betting states, covering major markets such as New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, and most recently New York.
The user-friendly mobile app provides a smooth betting experience, allowing access to a wide range of betting options across major American sports. New users can enjoy a promotional offer of a $1,000 First Bet Reset.
Online Sports Betting Bonuses Explained
Bonuses at online sports betting sites are designed to attract new users and enhance their betting experience. This section will break down the most common online sports betting bonuses typically offered by licensed operators, helping you understand how to maximize these offers.
Deposit Match
A deposit match bonus often matches a bettor’s initial deposit up to a specified amount, enhancing their available betting funds. For example, if you deposit $100, a 100% deposit match bonus would give you an extra $100 in bonus funds, totaling a $200 balance once the transaction is complete.
However, these bonuses often come with conditions, such as wagering requirements and expiration dates. Wagering requirements indicate the total amount that must be bet before a user can withdraw bonus funds, typically expressed as a multiple of the deposit. Additionally, only certain types of bets, often with odds of -200 or longer, count towards fulfilling these requirements.
First Bet Insurance
First Bet Insurance bonuses provide a refund in the form of bonus bets if the initial wager is unsuccessful, helping to mitigate losses for new bettors. This type of bonus allows bettors to place their first bet with a safety net, knowing they will receive a refund in bonus bets if their bet loses, which can then be used to place another bet.
Bet & Get
A ‘Bet & Get’ bonus rewards bettors with bonus bets after placing a qualifying bet, encouraging participation. For instance, placing a $5 bet might earn you $50 in bonus bets automatically, which can be used for additional wagers.
No-Deposit Bonus
No-deposit bonuses instantly grant new customers a small amount of bonus funds upon signup without requiring any deposit. This type of welcome bonus is great for bettors who want to test a sportsbook before committing any personal funds. For example, a sportsbook might offer $10 in bonus bets just for creating an account.
However, these bonuses usually come with specific wagering requirements before winnings can be withdrawn. The availability of no-deposit bonuses varies by state due to legal regulations surrounding online sports betting.
Where is Online Sports Betting Legal?
Online sports betting is now legal in more than 30 states and the District of Columbia. The specific regulations and available betting options in each state will, however, vary significantly.
Here is a breakdown of the states where online sports betting is currently legal:
- Arizona
- Arkansas
- Colorado
- Connecticut
- Delaware
- Florida
- Illinois
- Indiana
- Iowa
- Kansas
- Kentucky
- Louisiana
- Maine
- Maryland
- Massachusetts
- Michigan
- Nevada
- New Hampshire
- New Jersey
- New York
- North Carolina
- Ohio
- Oregon
- Pennsylvania
- Rhode Island
- Tennessee
- Vermont
- Virginia
- Washington D.C.
- West Virginia
- Wyoming
State-by-State Breakdown
The United States has a complex and evolving landscape when it comes to sports betting. Each state has its own set of laws and regulations governing the activity. Here’s a breakdown of the current state of sports betting in the U.S.:
- Legal States: Currently, 38 states have some form of legalized sports betting, offering a variety of options for sports bettors. These states have embraced both retail and online sports betting, providing numerous opportunities for placing wagers on major sports and other events.
- Pending Legislation: Several states have pending legislation that could potentially legalize sports betting in the near future. This means that the landscape is continually changing, and more states may soon join the ranks of those where sports betting is legal.
- Restricted States: Some states have restricted sports betting, allowing only certain types of bets or limiting the number of sportsbooks that can operate. These restrictions can vary widely, so it’s important for bettors to understand the specific regulations in their state.
Choosing the Right Sports Betting Site
With so many online sports betting sites to choose from, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. Here are some key factors to consider when choosing a sports betting site:
- User Experience: Look for sites with a user-friendly interface and easy navigation. A well-designed site can make placing bets more enjoyable and efficient.
- Mobile Betting: Consider sites that offer mobile betting apps or responsive websites that can be accessed on a mobile device. Mobile betting allows you to place bets on the go, providing greater flexibility.
- Customer Support: Look for sites with 24/7 customer support and a variety of contact methods. Reliable customer support can help resolve any issues quickly and efficiently.
- Payment Options: Consider sites that offer a wide range of payment options, including credit cards and e-wallets. Multiple payment methods provide greater convenience for deposits and withdrawals.
- Responsible Gambling: Look for sites that offer responsible gambling tools and resources, such as deposit limits and self-exclusion. These features help ensure that your betting activity remains fun and safe.
How to Evaluate Online Sports Betting Sites
Evaluating online sports betting sites can be a daunting task, but there are several steps you can take to make the process easier. Here are some tips:
- Read Reviews: Look for reviews from reputable sources, such as sports betting experts and industry insiders. These reviews can provide valuable insights into the strengths and weaknesses of different sites.
- Compare Features: Compare the features and offerings of different sites to find the one that best meets your needs. Consider factors like betting markets, odds, bonuses, and user experience.
- Test the Site: Test the site’s user experience and functionality before making a deposit. This can help you determine if the site is easy to use and meets your expectations.
- Check for Licenses: Make sure the site is licensed and regulated by a reputable gaming commission. This ensures that the site operates legally and adheres to industry standards.
By following these steps, you can find the best online sports betting site that suits your needs and preferences.
Daily Fantasy Sports Betting: An Alternative to Sports Betting
For those in states where online sports betting has yet to be legalized, Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) offers a fantastic alternative. Emerging in the early 2010s, DFS quickly gained popularity thanks to promotions from operators like DraftKings and FanDuel. In DFS, participants select a team of players within a salary cap, earning points based on their players’ real-life performances.
DFS is categorized as a skill-based game, which differentiates it legally from traditional sports betting, often seen as a game of chance. This distinction allows DFS to be legal in many states where traditional sports betting is not. Major sports leagues like the NFL and MLB have even endorsed DFS, partnering with operators for promotional activities.
Check out any of the following guides on my top DFS recommendations:
- PrizePicks Promo Code & Review
- Underdog Promo Code & Review
- Sleeper Fantasy Promo Code & Review
- Betr Picks Promo Code & Review
Best Features of the Top Sports Betting Sites in the United States
Leading sports betting platforms in the U.S. provide various features that enhance the user experience. These include competitive odds, generous bonuses, and a variety of betting markets.
Let’s explore the top features that make these platforms stand out.
Live Betting
Live betting allows users to place wagers on events as they unfold, providing real-time engagement and the ability to react to game dynamics. This feature is fascinating as the odds fluctuate continuously, reflecting real-time events in the game. Bettors can place a variety of bets during live events, such as predicting the next team to score.
However, the rapid pace of live betting can encourage impulsive wagering due to the limited time to place bets. Approaching live betting with a strategy helps avoid hasty decisions.
Parlay Betting
Parlay betting permits bettors to combine multiple bets into a single wager, which can lead to higher payouts if all selections are successful.
To enhance their chances of winning, some bettors play teasers instead, which allow adjusting point spreads or totals in a parlay. These bets result in lower potential payouts but increase your chances of winning. Many sportsbooks also offer parlay insurance, reimbursing a stake if one leg of the parlay fails.
Same Game Parlays
Same Game Parlays enable users to bet on multiple outcomes within a single game, increasing excitement and potential returns. This feature allows bettors to combine bets from the same event, enhancing the betting strategy’s complexity and engagement.
Existing User Offers
Many sportsbooks provide ongoing promotions and bonuses targeting existing users to enhance their betting experience. These offers can include referral bonuses, parlay boosts, and daily odds enhancements. For example, sportsbooks might run contests that offer prizes such as bonus bets, cash rewards, or merchandise.
Additionally, many sportsbooks offer profit boosts specifically for parlay or Same Game Parlay bets, enhancing potential payouts. Referral bonuses are also common, rewarding users for inviting friends to join the platform.
Live Streaming
Live streaming of events is a crucial feature among sportsbooks, allowing users to watch games in real-time while placing bets. This integration makes the experience more engaging for bettors. Some sportsbooks now offer multi-match highlight hubs where users can watch real-time highlights from various live games, further enhancing the viewing experience.
Users can customize their highlight playlists from live game events, providing a personalized experience on sports betting platforms. This feature covers over 50 premium sports competitions globally, ensuring a wide range of options for bettors.
Benefits of Wagering on Sports Online
Wagering on sports online offers numerous benefits compared to placing bets in-person.
Let’s explore these advantages in more detail.
Convenience
Online platforms allow bettors to place wagers from anywhere, providing unmatched accessibility compared to traditional betting methods. The flexibility of online betting enables users to fit wagering into their schedules, making it more accessible for those with busy lifestyles. Mobile betting apps enhance the experience with user-friendly designs and features, suitable for novice and experienced bettors.
Additionally, online betting apps offer live streaming and in-play betting options, allowing users to place bets from any location at any time, thus eliminating the need for physical visits to a casino or racetrack.
Promotions & Bonuses
Many legal sportsbooks offer enticing promotions and bonuses to attract and retain customers, enhancing the betting experience. Popular types of promotions include bonus bets, bet insurance, deposit match bonuses, and referral bonuses.
Ongoing promos such as profit boosts are typical, often tied to specific sports events or seasons. Loyalty programs include tiered rewards based on betting volume, granting long-term users exclusive bonuses and enhanced services.
Line Shopping
Betting on multiple platforms enables bettors to compare odds, which can lead to better payouts. Effective line shopping ensures that bettors are always getting the best possible odds available, significantly enhancing potential returns by finding the best lines.
Slight differences in betting lines can substantially impact a bettor’s overall profitability in the long run.
Banking Options
Numerous banking methods are available for online sports betting, making deposits and withdrawals more convenient. Online sportsbooks typically support various payment methods, including credit cards, e-wallets like PayPal, and prepaid cards. Credit cards remain the most common method for funding online sports betting accounts.
However, withdrawal options are generally more limited than deposit methods, with some sportsbooks not allowing credit cards for cashing out. Deposit processing times can be instant with options like PayPal, while bank transfers may take several business days.
Frequently Asked Questions on the Best Sports Betting Sites
Here are some FAQs surrounding the best sports betting sites:
Is online sports betting legal in the USA?
Absolutely! Online sports betting is legal in 30+ states, including Washington D.C.
What is the best sports betting site in the USA?
bet365 Sportsbook is my personal choice for the best sports betting site in the United States. Both widely available and loaded with popular and niche markets, you can’t go wrong with bet365.
Which states have legal sports betting?
There are now more than 30 states with access to legal sports betting. Check out the full list in this guide for details on which ones are currently offering it!
Which sports betting site has the best signup bonus?
bet365 Sportsbook has the best signup bonus, in my opinion. This is largely due to the fact that the brand allows users to choose between two incredible offers. Claim your choice of A First Bet Safety Net up to $1,000 or Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets today with the bet365 bonus code ON3BONUS.
