Our favorite online gambling sites

- Generous Welcome Bonuses
- Extensive Game Selection
- Daily Rewards and Promotions
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- Crown Coins Loyalty Program
- FREE Daily Rewards & Weekly Challenges
- Mobile App for iOS Available
3

- Get 5,000 Coins free every day
- Start earning VIP points from sign up
- Play your way with 24/7 support
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- 1500+ Games, Slots & Live Dealer Games!
- FREE Daily Rewards
- Authentic brand, Made in the USA
5
- Exclusive promo code: CORGBONUS
- 3,000+ games inc. Stake originals
- Weekly slots battles for 50M GC
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- Exclusive promo code: CORGBONUS
- Top-tier gaming providers
- Win huge CASH prizes
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- Exclusive promo code: CORGBONUS
- Win cash prizes on the MCJACKPOT
- Get free GC every time you log in
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- Exclusive promo code: CORGBONUS
- Fast-paced tournaments every 4 hours
- 24/7 live chat customer support
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- Instant Redemptions
- Casino, Live Casino, Sports all in one place
- Highests RTP on Casino and Highest odds on sports
The latest US casinos to avoid
Our experts use a 25-step review process to rate online casinos, so we only ever recommend the best gambling sites. We cover everything from US regulation and data protection to bonus offers. If any casinos fail to deliver a safe gambling environment, we add them to a list of sites to avoid.

- Unprofessional customer support
- Site operators linked to questionable practices
- Not paid players their winnings

- Reports of players not receiving winnings
- Misleading claims of licensing
- Unresponsive to customer complaints

- 18+ months for withdrawal
- Locked-out accounts
- Slow response times
Looking for something specific?
Play the top US gambling games for free
If you're just starting out in gambling and are not sure where to start, you can get a feel for the experience with over 18,000 free casino games right on Casino.org. Play some of our top free games below before you try online gambling for real money.

"I always say the best online gambling sites will be those that play to your strengths as a bettor. Either because the markets or games are specialized around your preferences and bankroll, or because they reward your skill and pace of play with relevant weekly promos. For example, I like BetRivers' 1x wagering requirements on promos, as that's a far more achievable way for me to bet on games."
Our top three places to play
As most US states do not currently offer online real money gambling, sweepstakes casinos are a legal alternative. Below are our top three sweepstakes casinos, reviewed by our expert team. Expect game lobbies in excess of 1,000 titles, 20+ regular promotions, and casino apps with 4.5/5+ ratings from thousands of players.
1. MegaBonanza – Our top sweeps site for 2025

Pros
✅ Play 800+ slots from 16 software developers
✅ Dedicated web app for mobile and desktop
✅ Stellar security measures including SSL encryption and 2FA
Cons
❌ Less purchase and redemption methods available, with only four accepted
New MegaBonanza players can claim an exclusive Casino.org bonus of up to 50,000 Gold Coins and 25 Sweeps Coins. To access the initial welcome offer, make sure to use bonus code CORGBONUS whilst signing up. The site has a lot to offer social casino lovers, including daily login bonuses that unlock 1,500 Gold Coins and 0.2 free Sweeps Coins, and a lucrative refer-a-friend program. With over 800 slots to discover and a dedicated web app to entertain players on-the-go, MegaBonanza is a real all-rounder.
💬 User review: "They have a great variety of games. The rewards are great and the customer care is prompt and very helpful with any questions in regards to withdraw or rewards. Thanks MegaBonanza!!” 5/5 ⭐ Sb, TrustPilot review, March 13, 2025
💡 Expert's insight: "MegaBonanza is the perfect social casino site for players looking to benefit from regular rewards to use on a good selection of games. They offer daily rewards and unique ways to win, but they also offer over 800 games to play. My favorite site for 2025."
Casino.org rating: 4.5/5 ⭐
Read our full MegaBonanza casino review.
ℹ️ Unavailable in: AL, CT, DE, GA, ID, KY, LA, MD, MI, MN, MT, NV, NJ, NY, OH, PA, WA, and WV.
2. CrownCoins – Best promotions

Pros
✅ Crown VIP Club six-tier loyalty program offers perks such as Coinback rewards and birthday gifts
✅ Highly rated iOS app – 4.8/5 stars on the App Store
✅ Social media competitions and weekly tournaments available
Cons
❌ No mobile app for Android users
CrownCoins sweepstakes casino offers new players a no deposit bonus worth 100,000 Crown Coins and 2 free Sweeps Coins. Featuring plenty of social media competitions, 24/7 customer support, and an iOS app rated 4.8/5 stars, the site has a lot of perks for new and returning players. Add in the generous daily login bonus that increases up to 40,000 CC and 1 SC on day seven, and it’s clear to see why CrownCoins is fast becoming a fan favourite.
💬 User review:"Great games, and I've been winning a lot. My redemptions come within a day or two. Best platform so far.” ⭐ Vickey L., Trustpilot review, March 17, 2025
💡 Editor’s insight: “Although the CrownCoins app is only available on iOS devices, a 4.8 star rating is really impressive considering that mobile apps for sweeps casinos aren’t always available. With a rating like this, it’s one to check out.”
Casino.org rating: 4.7/5 ⭐
ℹ️ Unavailable in: WA, ID, MI, MT, NV, LA.
🔎 Check out our full CrownCoins casino review to learn more.
3. RealPrize – Best loyalty program

Pros
✅ Seven-tier rewards program with multiplier purchases
✅ Available in 45+ states
✅ Largest refer-a-friend bonus of our top picks (up to 200,000 GC and 70 SC)
Cons
❌ No mobile app available
RealPrize is one of the best sites available for rewards. With a seven-tier loyalty program to progress along and no deposit bonus of 100,000 GC & 2 SC for signing up, the initial perks are lucrative. Prizes range from birthday gifts, gold coin multipliers and exclusive games to merchandise gifts and more. In addition to this, you can get a daily login bonus of 5,000 GC and 0.30 SC. Compared to the Hello Millions daily bonus (1,500 GC and 0.20 SC), you can see why RealPrize is the best site for rewards.
💬 User review: “This has got to be one of the best gaming platforms that I've ever played on! Top of the line games! They offer exclusive VIP treatment including bonuses, amazing deals, and tons of free SC!” – 5/5 ⭐ Dominic, Trustpilot
💡 Expert’s insight: “With over 4,696 Trustpilot reviews and an average rating of 4.3/5, I can see from the comments that players enjoy the ongoing bonuses, game variety, how easy the site is to use, and how simple it is to claim prizes. I have to agree after thoroughly testing the site.”
Casino.org rating: 4/5 ⭐
Read our full RealPrize casino review
ℹ️ Unavailable in: Idaho, Michigan, Washington, and Nevada

"Sweepstakes casinos offer a very game-focused experience because you're mainly playing for more chances to play. The majority of bonuses on these sites will give you more Gold Coins (or the brands' equivalents) to play with. There's the added bonus of redeeming any Sweepstakes prizes you may win for cash, but first and foremost I'd go in with a mind to having fun on the games."
Match with America's best online betting sites
Select your preferred way to wager and we'll suggest the best online gambling and casino sites for you.
Our top real money betting sites in detail
If you are from a regulated state and are looking for real money gambling, then the following betting sites stand out for our reviews team in March. Whether it's an above-average RTP of 97%+, in-play bets on all markets, or 24/7 Sit and Go tournaments, these sites all beat the competition.
BetRivers – Our best real money online casino

Pros
✅ An above-average 1,600 games from NetEnt, IGT, and more
✅ The lowest casino wagering requirements at 1x
✅ Withdraw real money wins instantly with Play+
Cons
❌ Could provide more table games beyond the current 50
BetRivers tops our list for real money casino gambling. It's also a great brand overall, with a successful sports betting site in the US. The casino's 96.96% payout rate is a good edge on the 96% industry average. I liked that over 80 slot games are featured as hot for having the highest payouts in the previous hour of play. Titles like Kronos and Slingo Fluffy Favorites peak well above 600x your stake.
💬 User review: "By far the best sportsbetting, casino, signup bonus, referral bonus, and customer service. Draft Kings and Fanduel are close but BetRivers is my favorite. I had a referral that had expired but they overrode it and gave me my bonus. The slots are great. The sportsbook is great. Love this casino in person. Dont waste your money anywhere. Come here. Payouts are quick too and easy sign up. All around A+." 5/5 ⭐ Brent G., Trustpilot, August 28, 2024
💡 Editor's insight: "BetRivers Casino gets some player feedback around a low chance of payouts. Digging deeper, though, I've noted the casino is competitive on payout rate overall, with a higher than average win rate to players. It's important to check the RTP of a particular game, as some payout more than others."
Casino.org rating: 4.8/5 ⭐
Read our full BetRivers Casino review.
FanDuel – Best for sports betting

Pros
✅ The most popular sportsbook in the US, with over 17 million users
✅ Top gambling app rated 4.7/5 and 4.9/5 on the Play and App Stores
✅ More ways to win, with 10+ unique bets like Same Game Parlays and partial game odds
Cons
❌ No loyalty program for sports bettors
FanDuel is an established US gambling site currently available in 37 states. It's backed by one of the world's largest gambling companies, Flutter Entertainment, which owns Sky Betting & Gaming, and PokerStars. FanDuel offers sportsbook, casino, fantasy, and racebook betting. I was pleased to find the sportsbook offering live streaming in over 20 markets. I also rate FanDuel for bet innovations. FanDuel's 'Super Boosts' enhance the odds on bets with two or more outcomes. The Same-Game Parlay allows you to bet on multiple outcomes on a single game.
💬 User review: "They have a lot of different games to choose from, and they are constantly adding new ones. Each week you will find several new games have been added, usually one or two a day at least. Also, their processing time for withdrawals is by far the quickest I have come across yet." 5/5 ⭐ Derek H., Play Store review, February 25, 2025
💡 Editor's insight: Some bettors report issues with cashing out winning bets and suspended accounts. However, reading the terms of bonus bets and promotions is important. Your deposits, bet types, and withdrawals must all comply to receive your winnings quickly. Account suspensions are rare, but FanDuel’s responsible gambling protections can pause an account if the team is concerned someone is chasing losses.
Casino.org rating: 4.3/5 ⭐
Read our full FanDuel review.
DraftKings – Best for online slots

Pros
✅ Play 800+ slots from top game makers NetEnt, IGT, and more
✅ High 97.05% win rate - amongst the best payouts in the US
✅ Easily access your bonus funds with 1x playthrough requirements
Cons
❌ One of the lower value bonuses of our top US casinos
DraftKings is one of the top gambling brands in the US, offering Daily Fantasy Sports, online casino, and sports betting. It also tops our list of best casino gambling sites for exclusive games. With 70+ titles, including 40 unique slots games, the site has far more than the average 20 or so exclusives you'll see at other casinos. I highlighted 2 Tribes, which has a low entry bet of $0.40, Rocket, and Dollar Up! The lobby also connects to progressive jackpots that run across your state. There were prizes up to $400k when I last checked the site.
💬 User review: "Where DraftKings truly shines is their rewards program. It's simply astonishing. You'll always feel appreciated whether you're a casual player or a high roller. The tiered rewards system is generous, offering everything from free bets to exclusive VIP experiences. As someone who has experienced my biggest wins with DraftKings, I can confidently say that the rewards and promotions take the thrill to a whole new level." 5/5 ⭐ Chris M., Trustpilot review, October 9, 2024
💡 Editor's insight: DraftKings Casino gets some player feedback around the likelihood of payout and issues withdrawing. However, this is a common comment against most online casinos and usually reflects players who've misunderstood sign-up or bonus terms and conditions.
Casino.org rating: 4/5 ⭐
Read our full DraftKings Casino review.
How we find the best places to gamble in the US
Casino.org has been at the forefront of gambling online since 1995. With appearances in Fox News, ESPN, and the Los Angeles Times, we're well known for our industry commentary. Our strict 25 criteria review process is trusted by thousands of Americans looking for their next (or first) gambling site. From the range of betting markets to rapid cashier transactions, find out what makes these sites special.
Site security, authority, and reputation
Any gambling site we recommend is legal and licensed by state-level online betting and gaming authorities. A brand like FanDuel holds licenses from 13 different state bodies for its online sports betting operation. These include the Virginia Lottery and Michigan Gaming Control Board. FanDuel has a strong reputation with US players, having been online since 2009. It won EGR's operator of the year award in 2024.
Expert insight: For a casino gambling site, being eCOGRA certified attests to the fairness of the games and that the site follows gambling regulations. Casinos don't have to use eCOGRA, but seeing the badge on site earns more points in our ratings.
Promos, rewards, and bonus offers
You can expect welcome bonuses and regular player promos to reward you for gambling online. BetMGM offers one of the largest welcome bonuses in the US. There's a $1,000 deposit match and $75 in tournament tickets for poker or a $25 no deposit bonus for casino players. This is double the offers at PlayStar and BetRivers.
BetRivers scores higher for wagering requirements, though. Its 1x playthrough rate makes withdrawing wins from the $500 offer more achievable. BetMGM Poker's 12x playthrough is still competitive, but we'd take review points off bonuses with requirements of 30x or more. These prove expensive offers for players.
When choosing where to gamble online, look out for the promos that offer the most frequent value to your betting style. BetMGM has 19 regular promotions across sports, casino, and poker. These include bonus bets, daily bonuses, and double reward points. For comparison, FanDuel and DraftKings have 11 and seven regular offers.
Range of markets, tournaments, and games
The highest scoring gambling sites offer the most ways to bet online. DraftKings Sports features 23 markets, from NBA to Rodeo, with well over 200 bet types across them. FanDuel's 19 sports include popular bets like spread, moneyline, totals, props, parlay, futures, and exclusives like FanDuel's Same-Game Parlay for multiple outcome bets on one game.
BetRivers Casino comes out top for real money casino games with 1,600 titles, well above the 900 and 200 games at DraftKings and FanDuel. PokerStars features 12 poker variants, the highest amongst US poker rooms. You'll find the rarer Badugi and Razz alongside common varieties like Hold 'em and Ohama. BetMGM Poker keeps tables accessible with 24/7 tournaments, including large pot 'hot tables' you can join from $0.10 and mid stakes games from $0.01.
Mobile betting and apps in your state
Players expect the best online betting sites to have high quality gambling apps in their state. FanDuel's app sets our scoring benchmark with 4.7/5 and 4.9/5 reviews from 2.04M users in the Play and App Stores. Our casino yardsticks are High 5, with 4.6/5 from social players, and DraftKings Casino, which scores 4.3/5 and 4.6/5 from over 94,000 real money players in the Play and App stores.
We scored BetMGM's app highly for the personalization it offers poker players. The 'my tournies' tool lets you favorite events in your account. Filtering also allows you to focus your screen display on your key games and preferred stakes, game speed, and table format.
Expert insight: Not all gambling websites offer dedicated apps. While we will deduct review points because of this, a betting site still scores well if it's fully responsive to screen size and makes it easy to filter, navigate, and bet on mobile.
Swift betting at the cashier
With the fast action of sports betting, we expect rapid bet settlement speeds to keep bankrolls going on game day. BetRivers settles most wagers as soon as the game's over. FanDuel relies on league data to settle its wagers, again largely at close of gameplay. Note horse racing is subject to various post-race checks at the tracks, so it takes longer.
When it comes to withdrawing casino winnings, BetMGM scores highly for range. Its 11 options include Apple Pay, PayPal, and Mastercard. This compares well against the six or so at FanDuel and BetRivers. BetMGM's fastest option is Play+ within four hours. Visa, PayPal, and Venmo are complete within 24 hours. There's a minimum $10 withdrawal, and DraftKings scores higher here, with a low $1 minimum for most of its 11 options.
Market-leading customer support
View our recommended gambling websitesWe only recommend legit online gambling sites with responsive and effective customer service. BetMGM and DraftKings score highly here for their 24/7 live chat support. We reserve the highest scores for a brand like BetRivers, which is rare in also operating a phoneline. It's owned by Rush Street Interactive, which won Best Customer Service Operator in the EGR Awards 2024.
FanDuel is also notable for having a wider range of help options, including extensive FAQ articles, a call-back feature, email, and live chat, as well as responding on their X and Facebook social channels. We did shave off some points for the callback feature taking a couple of days for a response.
Ratings you can trust
65+
Casino reviews in the US
150+
Years combined experience
1800+
Hours of testing
1m+
Players per week
How to gamble online in the US

Pick one of our recommended sites. Sign up using our link to get the best and exclusive offers.

Create a username and password as prompted by the new user form. You may need to submit an email address and verify it.

You'll likely need to confirm your name, phone number, address, and the last four digits of your SSN.

Head to the cashier and add funds to your account. This may trigger any new player bonuses if you meet the minimum. It will also allow you to start betting real money.

With your account funded, you can now choose whatever you'd like to bet on and begin. If this is your first time, start with some simpler bets to get acquainted.
Gambling payment methods for US players
Real money gambling and casino sites need to offer a variety of payment options as a basic requirement. We like to see everything from credit and debit cards to e-wallets, Bitcoin, and cryptocurrencies catered for. Take a look below for some of the best real money casino banking methods.
Best US gambling bonus types
From bonus bets to no deposit bonuses, you can expect plenty of rewards for signing up and continuing to log in with a top casino or gambling site online. Below we've broken down the most common offers you'll see.
Welcome bonus
Casino welcome bonusesIn a competitive US online gambling market, casino and sportsbook sites are keen to offer welcome or sign up bonuses to get their player base established. This means larger new player offers as they compete for your custom. These offers generally tend to be deposit match bonuses for casinos and bonus bets for sportsbooks. Either way they can have a maximum value or 100s or 1000s of dollars depending on your deposit.
No deposit bonus
No deposit bonusesWhile not always offered, these bonuses are popular for offering casino credits without making an initial deposit. While the amount might be lower, generally between $5 and $25, as per BetMGM’s no deposit bonus, they offer a great way to try out new betting sites without committing to a deposit. They are offered usually as a sign up incentive, but can also be additional offers for existing players.
Deposit match bonus
This is the most common casino bonus type you’ll see online. Your first deposit is matched by a percentage, typically 100%, but sometimes by 200% or more. Caesars Palace offers one of the biggest, with 100% up to $2,500. Any deposit you make will be matched up to $2,500. So a $75 deposit will be matched with a $75 bonus. Be aware that to withdraw bonus winnings you need to meet wagering requirements that can ask you to wager 15-30x your deposit amount.
Free spins
Free spins bonusesFree spins are essentially extra turns on slots games, sometimes for specific titles or software makers. They can be offered as a sign up bonus and as login bonuses or offers for regular players. They’re a good way to extend your game and preserve bankroll, and often come with limited wagering requirements. PlayStar Casino offers 500 free spins as part of its sign up package, which requires making three minimum deposits of $20 and playing through the spins within seven days.
Bonus bets
Bonus bets are the main sign up offer at sportsbooks online. They are offered as extra credit to bet with when you sign up and make a qualifying minimum bet. They are also regularly offered to existing players, particularly during tournaments and big games. FanDuel’s welcome offer for sports bettors is $200 in bonus bets when you wager your first $5.
Cashback
Sports betting sites offer cashback as a return on any losing bets you make in your first day or so of wagering with the book. It’s paid in casino credits, and generally will be paid on net losses calculated against all your wagers over a specified period. BetMGM Sports offers up to $1,500 back in bonus bets if your first bet at the site loses.
Loyalty programs
Learn more about VIP programsVIP programs are available at casinos, sportsbooks, and poker sites. They’re a tiered set of promotions that reward players for wagering more. You can expect extra bonuses and credits at the lower tiers, and personal account managers and prizes like holidays and cars at the top levels. The best gambling sites enroll all players from their first bet and make it easy to progress with regular betting. Caesars Palace offers points on all wagers across its sportsbook and casino products, which can be traded for bonuses or prizes.
Most popular types of gambling in the US
Learn more about the betting types Americans wager the most on, from near country wide games like Daily Fantasy Sports and lottery, to regionally popular sports like horse racing.
Available in: NJ, MI, PA, WV, CT, DE, RI
Available in: NJ, MI, PA, WV, CT, DE, RI
Available in: NJ, MI, PA, WV, CT, DE, RI
Available in all states bar: AL, AK, CA, GA, HI, ID, MN, MO, OK, SC, TX, UT
Available in all states bar: AL, DC, GA, HI, MS, NC, NV, SC, TX, UT
Available in all states bar: HI, ID, MT, NV, WA
Legal in all states bar: AL, AK, AZ, AR, DC, GA, HI, ID, KY, MO, NE, NH, RI, SC, TN, UT, VT, VA
Legal in all states bar: AL, AK, HI, NV, UT
Legal in all states bar: AL, AK, HI, NV, UT
US state casino and gambling guide
As gambling regulations vary across states, we've created a guide to help you navigate your options for gambling online and locally in the US, including sports betting, casino games, and poker.
US states where online casinos & sports betting are legal
Pennsylvania, Michigan, New Jersey, West Virginia, Delaware, Connecticut, and Rhode Island have all legalized online casino and sports betting. What this means is real money online gambling sites available in these states are regulated at state level.
With this comes many benefits and protections that sites operating from offshore can’t offer you. This includes ensuring games are fair and that gambling sites protect your funds, data, and personal information correctly. Generally it means fairer, better quality betting with more financial protection.
State | Date legalized | Legislation | Gambling types | Retail sportsbooks | Retail casinos | Gambling age | Regulator |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Pennsylvania casinos | October 2017 | HB 271 | Sports, poker, casino, college sports, Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) | 15 | 17 | 21 (18 for lottery, dogs, horseracing, and pari-mutuel) | Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board |
Michigan casinos | December 2019 | HB 4311 | Sports, poker, casino, college sports, DFS | 20 | 26 | 21 (18 for lottery, dogs, horseracing, and pari-mutuel) | Michigan Gaming Control Board |
New Jersey casinos | February 2013 | NJ A2578 | Sports, poker, casino, esports, DFS | 12 | 12 | 21 (18 for lottery, dogs, horseracing, and pari-mutuel) | New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement |
Delaware casinos | June 2012 | HB 333 | Sportsbooks, poker, casino, college sports, DFS | 3 | 3 | 21 (18 for lottery, dogs, horseracing, and pari-mutuel) | Delaware Gaming Enforcement |
West Virginia casinos | March 2019 | HB 2934 | Sports, poker, casino, college sports, esports, DFS | 5 | 5 | 21 (18 for lottery, dogs, horseracing, and pari-mutuel) | West Virginia Lottery Commission |
Connecticut casinos | October 2021 | HB 6541 | Sports, poker, casino, college sports (in state), esports, DFS | 15 | 2 | 21 (18 for lottery, dogs, horseracing, and pari-mutuel) | Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection |
Rhode Island casinos | June 2023 | SB 948 | Sports, casino, college sports, DFS | 2 | 2 | 21 (18 for lottery, dogs, horseracing, and pari-mutuel) | Rhode Island Division of the Lottery |
Other US states where online sports betting is legal
The following states have legal online sports betting but have yet to legislate for online casino gambling. They include New York, Florida, Virginia, and Illinois. The best online betting sites in these states offer thousands of bets across hundreds of events and sports markets, from NFL to NBA, golf, tennis, NHL, and college games.
Sports betting online is regulated at the state level, so you are protected by laws for safe practice and fair gaming, as well as data and banking security to keep your personal information and finances safe. Gambling online also has lots of benefits for speed of play, with features like live and in play betting that let you wager as the game plays out, early cash out to claim a bet while the outcome is in your favor, and fast to instant bet settlement speed to get to your winnings faster.
State | Date legalized | Legislation | Gambling types | Retail sportsbooks | Retail casinos | Gambling age | Regulator |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Arizona casinos | September 2021 | AZ HB 2772 | Sports, poker, retail casino, college sports, DFS | 15 | 27 | 21 | Arizona Department of Gaming |
Arkansas casinos | March 2022 | Gaming Expansion Bill | Sports, retail casino, college sports, DFS | 3 | 3 | 21 | Arkansas Racing Commission |
Colorado casinos | November 2019 | Proposition DD | Sports, retail casino, college sports, esports, DFS | 26 | 40 | 21 | Colorado Division of Gaming |
Florida casinos | November 2023 | Exclusively Hard Rock Bet | Sports, retail casino, college sports, DFS | 6 | 35 | 21 | Florida Gaming Control Commission |
Illinois casinos | June 2019 | Gaming Expansion Bill | Sports, poker, retail casino, college sports, DFS | 11 | 15 | 21 | The Illinois Gaming Board |
Indiana casinos | May 2019 | IN HB 1015 | Sports, retail casino, college sports, DFS | 13 | 13 | 21 | Indiana Gaming Commission |
Iowa casinos | May 2019 | IA SF 617 | Sports, retail casino, college sports, DFS | 18 | 24 | 21 | Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission |
Kansas casinos | May 2022 | KS SB 84 | Sports, retail casino, college sports | 4 | 10 | 21 | Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission |
Kentucky casinos | March 2023 | KY HB 551 | Sports, college sports, esports, DFS | 12 | N/A | 18, but 21 in some venues | Kentucky Horse Racing and Gaming Corporation |
Louisiana casinos | June 2021 | LA HB 697 | Sports, retail casino, college sports, DFS | 14 | 47 | 21 | Louisiana Gaming Control Board |
Maine casinos | July 2022 | ME LD 585 | Sport (online only), retail casino, college sports, esports, DFS | N/A | 2 | 21 | Maine Gambling Control Unit |
Maryland casinos | May 2021 | MD HB 940 | Sports, poker, retail casino, college sports, esports, DFS | 13 | 6 | 21 | Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency |
Massachusetts casinos | August 2022 | MA H5164 | Sports, horseracing, retail casino, college sports, DFS | 3 | 3 | 21 | Massachusetts Gaming Commission |
Mississippi casinos | August 2018 | Betting apps only within a retail casino | Sports, retail casino, college sports, DFS | 29 | 29 | 21 | The Mississippi Gaming Commission |
Nevada casinos | May 2001 | AB 466 | Sports, poker, retail casino, college sports, esports | 180+ | 350+ | 21 | The Nevada Gaming Commission |
New Hampshire casinos | July 2019 | HB 480 | Sports, poker, retail casino, college sports, DFS | 3 | N/A (only some charitable venues) | 18 | New Hampshire Lottery Commission |
New York casinos | April 2021 | S2509C | Sport, retail casino, college sports, DFS | 11 | 34+ | 21 | New York State Gaming Commission |
North Carolina casinos | June 2023 | NC HB 347 | Sports, retail casino, college sports, DFS | 4 | 3 | 21 | North Carolina Education Lottery |
Ohio casinos | December 2021 | OH HB 29 | Sports, retail casino, college sports, esports, DFS | 10 | 4 | 21 | Ohio Casino Control Commission |
Oregon casinos | August 2019 | OR HB 2288 | Sports, retail casino, DFS | 4 | 10 | 21 | Oregon State Police: Gaming Enforcement |
Tennessee casinos | May 2019 | TN HB 0001 | Sports (online only), college sports, esports, DFS | N/A | N/A | 21 | Tennessee Sports Wagering Advisory Council |
Vermont casinos | June 2023 | VT H 127 | Sports (online only), college sports, esports, DFS | N/A | N/A | 21 | Vermont Department of Liquor and Lottery |
Virginia casinos | April 2020 | VA SB 384 | Sports, retail casino, college sports, DFS | 3 | 3 | 21 | Virginia Lottery |
Washington casinos | March 2020 | WA HB 2638 | Sports, retail casino, college sports, esports | 14 | 35 | 21 | Washington State Gambling Commission |
Wisconsin casinos | February 2022 | Betting apps only within a retail casino | Sports, retail casino, college sports, DFS | 1 | 26 | 21 | Office of Indian Gaming |
Wyoming casinos | April 2021 | WY HB 133 | Sports (online only), retail casino, college sports, esports, DFS | 1 | 4 | 21 | Wyoming Gaming Commission |
District of Columbia casinos | May 2019 | Act 22-594 | Sports, college sports, DFS | 6 | N/A | 18, 21, depending on venue | DC Office of Lottery and Gaming |
States yet to legalize gambling
Of the remaining states, some are closer to legalizing gambling than others. Nebraska, Oklahoma, and Alabama all have gambling related legislation that has moved in 2024, while not getting to or through the voting stage. Nebraska introduced LB13 on July 25, which would authorize Nebraska’s racinos to provide online sports betting. Further debate on the bill won’t happen until at least January.
At the other end of the spectrum, it’s highly unlikely that Utah or Texas would legalize gambling owning to strong political opposition in the states. Similarly Idaho, Alaska, and South Carolina have seen little movement towards legislation in recent years.
US gambling timeline
The complex road to legal online betting in the US has seen a few critical points in the last 60 years. This timeline takes us from the early legal changes up to the present day to explain how gambling has changed in America in the 20th and 21st Centuries.
- The act was originally aimed at preventing racketeering and shutting down mobsters targeting betting operations. Its wording was later seen to allow online betting, prior to the passing of the UIGEA in 2006.
- This act allowed American tribes to open gambling establishments if gambling was already legal in the state.
- The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act banned states from regulating or taxing sports betting. Exceptions were Nevada, Oregon, Montana, and Delaware, as they already had limited betting.
- Congress’s Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act banned anyone accepting money from illegal online gambling. This effectively shut down US online casinos.
- Online poker was hit by legislation that shut down many operators. Full Tilt, Absolute, and PokerStars were indicted for various illegal gambling activities.
- The Supreme Court overturned PASPA, allowing states to regulate online sports betting. Delaware and New Jersey were the first to move on this legislation and open the US’s first retail sportsbooks outside Nevada.
- With 38 states now offering some kind of online gambling, the US continues to see various legal maneuvers at state level to further expand, regulate, and alter the market.
The latest legal online gambling updates
The status of online gambling in the USA constantly changes as various state legislators raise bills and amendments to open and expand markets in their jurisdiction. Our US experts stay on the pulse of these updates and report on the latest developments below. You can learn more about the legal situation in your state in our US legal guide.
- September 12, 2024 - Federal Sports Betting Bill proposed: The SAFE Bet Act would require all state level sports betting to be authorized by the Department of Justice. Raised by New York Rep. Paul Tonko and Connecticut Sen. Richard Blumenthal, the act, if passed, looks to enforce standards for gambling and advertising practice at a federal level.
- September 9, 2024 - New York wagered $1.4bn on sports betting in August: The New York Gaming Commission reported New York’s online sportsbooks generated $1.4 billion for the month, up 27.3% year on year. FanDuel and DraftKings had the lion’s share of the August handle.
- August 28, 2024 - Record number of Americans gambled in the last year: For the first time, a survey has shown the majority of American adults participate in gambling, with 55% of people reporting they did so in an American Gaming Association survey. This figure is an all-time high, and double the 22% gambling in 2021 in the post-pandemic low.
- August 13, 2024 - Missourians can vote to approve sports betting in November: Voters in Missouri will have a say in the November 5 ballot on sports betting in the state. 180,000 signatures were gathered on a petition filed with the Missouri Secretary of State, enough to secure Missourians a stake in the November vote.
- July 25, 2024 - Nebraska online sports betting unlikely until 2027: The introduction of Legislative Bill 13 would authorize Nebraska’s racinos to offer online sports betting. However, an amendment to the bill allowing voters to approve the move in an upcoming ballot pushed the provision past the fall election. The next opportunity would be the 2026 midterms.
- June 17, 2024 - Supreme Court shuts down Florida sports betting challenge: Two parimutuel betting companies were seeking to undo federal approval for the gaming compact between Florida and the Seminole Tribe. The legal case had been taken to the Supreme Court, but the petition was denied. This leaves the legal betting market in the hands of the Seminole and Hard Rock.
The latest US gambling news
What's happening in US gambling today?
Read all the latest news from the gambling world. Our industry news team work around the clock to bring you the inside scoop on the US betting market and beyond.
Responsible gambling in the US
For many people, online gambling is a great form of entertainment, but for some people it can become a problem. Casino.org always promotes responsible betting and gambling, and provides resources and links to those who can help.
You can read our dedicated guide to US responsible gambling resources and tools. We've also highlighted some of the key problem gambling organizations and state helplines below:
- National Council on Problem Gambling - A non-profit that works to educate people around problem gambling and raise awareness. It also provides help to those affected by gambling. Phone: 1-800-GAMBLER
- Gamblers Anonymous - Operates countrywide to provide in person and virtual meetings and hotlines to provide assistance and learning resources to those facing gambling addiction. Phone: 909-931-9056
- Gam-Anon - Another national provider of problem gambling support, meetings, and educational resources across the US and Canada. Phone: 718-352-1671
State gambling helplines
- AZ: 1-800-NEXT-STEP
- AK: 1-800-522-4700
- CO: 1-800-522-4700
- CT: 1-888-789-7777
- DE: 888-850-8888
- IL, IN, MD, NJ, PA, VA, WV: 1-800-GAMBLER
- IA: 1-800-BETS-OFF
- KS: 1-800-522-4700
- KY: 1-800-426-253
- LA: 1-877-770-STOP
- MA: 800-327-5050
- MI: 1-800-270-7117
- MT: 1-888-900-9979
- NV: 1-800-522-4700
- NH: 603-724-1605
- NM: 888-696-2440
- NY: 877-8-HOPENY
- OH: 800.589.9966
- OR: 1-877-695-4648
- RI: 1-877-942-6253
- TN: 800-889-9789
- DC: 1-800-522-4700
- WA: 1-800-547-6133
- WI: 800-426-2535
- WY: 1-800-522-4700
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is online gambling legal in the US?
There are currently seven US states which offer real money casino gambling: Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Rhode Island, Pennsylvania, and West Virginia. Social casinos are more widely available, and online sports betting is available in 38 states. For more information on legal online gambling in your state, check out our guides.
How old do you have to be to gamble in the US?
You must be at least 21 years old to play at online casinos in US states where gambling for real money is legal. However, there are certain legal betting states where you can place wagers with online sportsbooks if you are 18 or older.
Is it safe to gamble online?
Yes, most online casinos are safe. When looking for a safe gambling site, ensure it has a US license, uses encryption to protect your data, and offers trusted banking methods. If you are unsure about where to go, choose one of our expert-tested, recommended casinos.
How popular is online gambling?
Online gambling is hugely popular across the US. The market is worth $25bn in 2024, and continues to grow every year as more legal gambling states emerge, and online casinos and sportsbooks launch.
What is the best online site to gamble on?
We've ranked MegaBonanza as the site with the best reputation and player safety. You’ll find the best online gambling sites here at Casino.org, checked and rated by our experts. Our reviews team ensures sites have a valuable range of bonuses, good variety of games, popular payment methods, oversight by US gambling authorities, and testing for fairness.
Can I gamble online on my mobile device?
Yes. Most online casinos, poker sites, and sportsbooks in the US offer gambling apps for Android or iPhones. In many cases, you can also log in via your mobile web browser to access games and sports betting markets.
What kind of games do they have at online casinos?
Online casinos are packed with even more games than you'll find at any land-based casino. Pick from slots, roulette, blackjack, poker, and more favorites. You can even get the casino feel in your own home by choosing live dealer games when gambling online.
What is the best gambling game to win money?
Blackjack is commonly known as the casino game with the best odds for you to win. However, this requires a basic understanding of the game. You can learn how to play blackjack and get blackjack tips from our experts on our blackjack page.
Can I play games on online gambling sites for free?
Yes, the majority of online casinos in the US offer free-play options alongside their real money games. In some cases, you don't even need to register an account to play. Just visit your chosen gambling site and try some games at no cost.
Which sports can I bet on in the US?
Sports betting sites in the US offer you the chance to place wagers on all your favorite sports. From basketball, NFL, and NHL, to golf, horse racing, and UFC, sportsbooks provide markets and betting odds for every bettor to enjoy.
Are gambling winnings taxable in the US?
Online casino players must report gambling winnings as they are fully taxable in the US. You can only deduct your gambling losses if you have kept a record of your winnings and losses. The IRS provides a full explanation of gambling taxes on its website.
How do I quit gambling?
Most online casinos have safeguarding measures in place to help you quit gambling. You can look into measures such as capping your deposit amounts, setting up a ‘Reality Check’, or setting up a self-ban to exclude your account from certain services for a period of time. Most legal gambling states in the US also offer statewide self-exclusion programs.
If you're struggling with your gambling habits or finding it hard to recover from a big gambling loss, it could be the sign of gambling addiction. We strongly recommend that you seek professional medical help. Check out our gambling addiction help page for more information.

A writer and editor with a penchant for games and strategy, Adam Ryan has been with the Casino.org team for eight years now. Having written for and edited numerous iGaming brands in his career, he’s something of a content sage when it comes to our iGaming copy in the US and Canada.

All US casino details on this page were checked by Steve Bourie. He is the author of the American Casino Guide, the most comprehensive publication for information on U.S. casinos and resorts. He also has over 35 years of experience in the gambling industry, as a marketing executive, writer, and speaker.

Hannah Cutajar checks all content to ensure it upholds our commitment to responsible gambling. At Casino.org, we want to help US players make better decisions. As such, we never promote unsafe sites or encourage irresponsible play.
Refererences
- 'US Gambling Statistics & Trends 2024' - Gambling Industry News
- 'A profile of an average online casino player in the USA' - RichAds
- 'Fantasy sports in the U.S.' - Statista
- 'U.S. Online Poker Market Share Forecasted to Reach USD 183.30 Billion by 2034' - GlobalNewsWire
- 'Bingo statistics' - WorldMetrics.org