State-by-State Breakdown of Sports Betting Landscape in the U.S.

Today, many U.S. states are becoming increasingly aware of the lofty economic potential of sports betting. This awareness is setting off a thrilling domino effect among other states.

With Delaware first setting the tempo, some others, like Arizona, Connecticut, Pennsylvania, and New York, have followed suit, with a bunch more like Georgia, California, and North Carolina planning to do the same.

Florida is home to some of the country’s best leisure and entertainment owing to its sunny weather and beautiful beaches. This scenery makes legalized sports betting more exciting for residents—one they have already taken advantage of for years thanks to the wide selection of the best offshore online sportsbook platforms available in the state.

That’s because the legality of sports betting in Florida is complicated at best. Although the state legalized online sports betting three years after the 2018 Supreme Court ruling, the eventual implementation was marked by anticipation and controversy. Several bills and proposals were tabled in the state legislature over time, each meeting with its challenges and deliberations.

One of the primary factors that contributed to this delay was the need for an agreement with the Seminole Tribe of Florida.

This group supposedly kicked off the push for online sports betting in Florida. About two years ago, under Governor Ron DeSantis's administration, they closed off an agreement that made them the only entity in the state endorsed for online sports betting. This agreement led to its establishment in the state.

However, the agreement was deemed illegal by U.S. District Judge Dabney Friedrich because it permitted placing sports bets anywhere in the state, in violation of federal laws. For now, the U.S. Supreme Court has temporarily stayed on the case, and Floridians don’t know yet whether sports betting will return to the state, although it’s expected to imminently.

New Jersey deserves recognition as one of the trailblazers of legalized sports betting in the U.S. The Garden State played an essential role in the legal battle for overturning the federal ban on sports betting, thus redefining the U.S. gambling landscape.

So when the Supreme Court overturned the ban, they quickly set up shop on June 14, 2018.

The New Jersey approach involves physical sportsbooks and online betting apps with great accessibility. Its competitive market has created an attractive space for bettors with better odds and many options.

However, in-state collegiate games and events are prohibited. Nonetheless, the state allows all residents above 21 to place sports bets in person and online via apps from mobile sportsbooks anywhere within the state lines. Also, betting on player props is prohibited. Common locations for legalized sports betting include the MetLife Stadium and Atlantic City.

Pennsylvania kick-started sports betting operations just six months after the Supreme Court ban was overturned in 2018. Since then, the market has transformed into one of the most mature in the US, rivaling the likes of Nevada in terms of casino revenue, too. This steady growth can be attributed to the state’s large population, high sports fanaticism, and large number of sports teams.

The state has 12 legal sportsbooks and counting, with many betting options. With mobile betting apps and a growing number of sportsbooks, the Keystone State has established itself as a vibrant sports betting hub.

To maintain responsible gambling activities, Pennsylvania’s gambling laws are similar to many other states in that only adults aged 21 and above can sign up for sportsbooks. Furthermore, betting on collegiate player props is prohibited regardless of the sport or the school they represent. Likewise, it is illegal to bet on high school athletics in any way or form.

Tapping into the gambling enthusiasm of Pennsylvanians, the state’s sports betting model has contributed substantially to its fiscal needs. The tale of Pennsylvania’s journey into sports wagering is simply a testament to intelligent integration and revenue generation.

Following passing bills S4916 and H4311, Governor Gretchen Whitmer legalized sports betting in Michigan in December 2019. In March 2020, some retail sportsbooks began operations.

The legal framework regulating gambling activities is quite similar to those earlier discussed in that bettors must be 21 or older. The state's approach includes online and in-person betting options, and its market is consistently gaining momentum. Michigan's unique combination of professional sports teams and supportive fan base foretold its penchant for the sports betting industry.

Moreover, Michigan has adopted a promising system by permitting betting on college sports, including in-state colleges. This intriguing approach adds to the options of bettors and increases the reach of the state’s sporting events.

The state is reaping the benefits, receiving 8.4% of all gambling revenues as tax and an additional 1.25% from Detroit gambling operators. One unique feature of Michigan’s legal framework is that online sportsbooks must partner with land-based casinos for eligibility.

California will not be joining the above states in allowing sports betting any time soon.

As the most populous state in the nation, you would expect residents to show considerable interest in sports betting. Various bills have been proposed in the State legislature. However, Californians voted against Prop 26 and 27— two ballot options that would have made sports betting a reality.

Any changes to the current fact will not be seen until 2024 at the earliest. One of the factors hampering sports betting implementation in California is its vast cultural diversity and tribal politics. However, the lingering economic strain and sheer aspiration to cater to the masses are vital intricacies making the state a lustrous site for sports betting. Like Florida, offshore betting sites are currently popular in California, and allow residents to bet on the state’s many professional sports franchises.