As the world of sports betting continues to grow in popularity, many states are legalizing the activity. This has led to a situation where residents of some states can legally place bets on sporting events while residents of other states cannot.
This article provides an overview of the five best states that enable residents to bet on sporting events.
The Legalization of Sports Betting
The legalization of sports betting has been controversial in the United States for many years. While some states have legalized the activity, others have not.
The federal government has also taken a stance on the issue, with the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 (PASPA) outlawing sports betting nationwide. However, this law was struck down by the Supreme Court in 2018, opening the door for states to legalize sports betting if they so choose.
Sports Betting Statistics Since Legalization
Since the legalization of sports betting, the industry has proliferated.
- According to the American Gaming Association, more than 1,000 sportsbooks are in operation across the country. This includes both online and brick-and-mortar sportsbooks.
- The total handle (the amount of money wagered) on legal sports bets in the United States was $13.3 billion in 2019. This figure is expected to grow to $23.9 billion by 2023.
- The AGA reports that more than 8 million sports bettors are currently in the United States. This figure is expected to grow to more than 14 million by 2023.
- Pew Research Center polling indicates that most Americans (54%) now favor legalizing sports betting.
The Five Best States for Sports Betting
The following five states are the best in the United States for sports betting, based on various factors such as the legality of the activity, the availability of online and mobile sports betting, and the tax rate on winnings.
Ohio
Ohio is one of the few states in the US that allows legal sports betting. Ohioans can bet on sports at physical casinos, horse tracks, and online betting sites. There are many Ohio sports betting sites to choose from, so Ohioans have plenty of options when it comes to placing their bets.
The Ohio Casino Control Commission is the regulatory body that oversees sports betting in the state. They have strict regulations to ensure that all Ohio sports betting sites are fair and safe for bettors.
Alabama
The state of Alabama has long been a hotbed for college football. As such, it should be no surprise that the state has legalized sports betting. As a result, residents of Alabama can bet on college football games and professional baseball and basketball games.
Delaware
Delaware was one of the first states to offer legal sports betting, and it continues to be one of the best states for sports bettors. The state provides residents a wide variety of options for where to place their bets, including at casinos, racetracks, and online. In addition, residents of Delaware can bet on any type of sporting event, including professional and collegiate level events.
Iowa
Iowa became one of the first Midwestern states to legalize sports betting in 2019. The state offers residents a wide variety of options for where to place their bets, including at casinos, racetracks, and online. Residents of Iowa can bet on any type of sporting event, including professional and collegiate level events.
Arkansas
Arkansas was one of the first states to legalize sports betting following the Supreme Court ruling in 2018. As a result, the state offers residents a wide variety of options for where to place their bets, including at casinos, racetracks, and online. In addition, residents of Arkansas can bet on any type of sporting event, including professional and collegiate level events.
Final Thoughts
These are the five best states in the United States for sports betting. Each state has unique laws and regulations governing the activity, but all five states offer residents a wide variety of options for where to place their bets. So whether you’re a college football or professional baseball fan, you’ll be able to find a state where you can legally bet on your favorite sport.