Maryland Sports Betting: Best MD Online Sportsbook Sites Dec. 2024
With all due respect to crab cakes and ice-cold Natty Boh, a heavy appetite also exists in the Old Line State for legal Maryland sports betting. Mobile MD betting sites, like DraftKings, FanDuel, and Caesars, launched in November 2022 with great Maryland sportsbook promos to boot.
Best Maryland sports betting sites
Features
- Some of the best live-betting odds.
- Great deposit options.
- Earn MGM Rewards from betting activity.
BetMGM Review
BetMGM is one of the top-rated sportsbooks in the U.S. offering some of the best live betting odds in the industry. They’re also the largest iGaming operator across the U.S.
Features
Bet $1, Get 10x 100% Profit Boosts
New users only. Must use promo code. Min. $10 deposit. Max. additional winnings $2.5K per token. Tokens expire in 14 days. Void where prohibited. Full terms.
Features
- Earn Caesars Rewards from betting activity.
- Live streaming of NFL games.
- User-friendly mobile app.
Caesars Review
Caesars is proving to be one of the most aggressively expanding brands in sports betting. Unfortunately, like all major U.S. sportsbooks, they are quick to limit you if you go on a tear and their odds boost promos offer low maximum bet limits.
Features
Features
- Lots of promos and odds boosts.
- Wide range of sports and bet types.
- Seamless integration with DFS.
DraftKings Review
DraftKings had a solid reputation as the leading DFS provider in the country, so the shift to legal sports betting felt natural. They offer one of the most voluminous collections of ongoing promos and odds boosts in the industry as they cater to the beginner crowd.
Features
Features
- Top-tier app experience.
- Same Game Parlays and SGP+.
- Extensive promos and odds boosts.
FanDuel Review
FanDuel reigns supreme right now as the No. 1 betting site in America. And it has largely earned that spot on the strength of superior brand recognition, an easy-to-use product, an overwhelming number of markets for North America’s most popular sports, and representation in every state in which it is permitted to offer legal sports betting.
Features
Features
- Live in 21 states
- Extremely powerful brand history and recognition
- FanCash reward system is great for sports fans
Fanatics Sportsbook Review
Fanatics Sportsbook has launched its app in 22 states already, with plans to expand to more in the near future. Fanatics is poised to be a major player in the sports betting industry.
Features
Quick links On this page
- Best Maryland sports betting sites
- Maryland sports betting promos and bonuses
- Top Maryland sports betting sites
- MD sports betting key developments and updates
- Maryland sports betting quick facts
- Legal Maryland sports betting options
- Who can bet on sports in Maryland?
- What you can’t bet on in Maryland
- How to start betting in Maryland
- How we rate and review Maryland sportsbooks
- Maryland sports betting handle
- Maryland sports leagues and teams to bet on
- Legal Maryland sports betting history
- Responsible Maryland sports betting
- Sportsbooks to avoid in Maryland
- Growth of sports betting 📈
- Maryland sports betting FAQs
Maryland sports betting promos and bonuses
Most Maryland sports betting sites offer some version of first bet insurance as their welcome bonus. While new players should be thrilled that several contain a maximum value of $1,000 or more, it’s also worth noting that these types of offers require you to lose your first bet to obtain any bonus funds. Those funds can then be used for a second shot at winning.
Here are some of the most lucrative Maryland sports betting promos and bonuses:
- BetMGM: Up to $1,500 in bonus bets
- Caesars: 10 100% Profit Boosts
- Fanatics: Up to $1,000 in bonus bets
Maryland sportsbook 🏆 | Welcome bonus 💰 | Promo code ✅ |
---|---|---|
⭐ BetMGM | Up to $1,500 in bonus bets | SBRBONUS |
⭐ FanDuel | Bet $5, win $150 in bonus bets | No code necessary |
⭐ Caesars | Bet $1, get 10x 100% Profit Boosts | SBRBONUSDYW |
⭐ Fanatics Sportsbook | Up to $1,000 in bonus bets | No code necessary |
⭐ DraftKings | Bet $5, win $150 in bonus bets | No code necessary |
⭐ betPARX | Bet $10, win $125 | No code necessary |
⭐ BetRivers | Up to a $500 bonus bet | No code necessary |
⭐ LetsBetMD | Up to $500 in bonus bets | No code necessary |
⭐ Bally Bet | Bet $25, get $150 in bonus bets | No code necessary |
⭐ Crab Sports | Up to $410 deposit match | No code necessary |
⭐ ESPN BET | Up to $2,000 in bonuses | No code necessary |
For veteran bettors who have already signed up with one or more of these sportsbooks, while you cannot take advantage of a welcome bonus, you can still claim daily and ongoing promotions. From daily odds boosts to reduced juice on specific events to same-game parlays to referral credits and loyalty rewards, the best Maryland sports betting sites will continue to present compelling offers. Be sure to check in with each site consistently to view available promotions.
Top Maryland sports betting sites
With 11 active sportsbooks, all Maryland betting sites have something to offer bettors, from novices to veterans. However, with up to 60 of the best sportsbooks coming to Maryland in the months and years ahead, each operator will want to stand out in an increasingly crowded field. As such, online sportsbooks will likely go above and beyond to create unique user experiences and provide outstanding promotions and loyalty perks that keep players returning to their platforms.
Here is what Maryland’s current slate of online betting sites has to offer new and existing customers:
Maryland sportsbook | Best known for |
---|---|
Bally Bet | Great customer service |
BetMGM | "King of Parlays" |
betPARX | Modern style |
BetRivers | Award-winning parent company |
Caesars | Lucrative welcome bonus |
Crab Sports | Maryland focused |
DraftKings | Industry leader |
ESPN BET | Unique personality-driven promos |
Fanatics Sportsbook | Apparel partnerships and rewards |
FanDuel | Highly-rated mobile app |
LetsBetMD | Maryland exclusive operator |
Why DraftKings is the best sportsbook in Maryland 👑
DraftKings was ahead of the curve when it launched its daily fantasy games in the early half of the 2010s. Now, its long-term staying power revolves around its top-rated, silky-smooth online sportsbook and sports betting app. The app’s average rating among iOS users is 4.8/5, while Android users have given it a 4.6/5.
New players with DraftKings Maryland can earn the bet $5, win $150 in bonus bets offer - — no DraftKings promo code required. To earn bonus bets, new users will need to win their first bet. As additional sportsbooks come online in MD, don’t be surprised to see DraftKings continually near the top of the pack when it comes to the best sportsbook promos and bonuses.
Once you’ve registered and redeemed your welcome bonus, you’ll find DraftKings’ platform offers a plethora of enticing features to hold your attention, such as an industry-leading user experience, live video streaming, live in-game betting, daily and weekly promotions, and best-in-class customer support.
To learn more about the sportsbook, read our complete DraftKings review.
DraftKings Maryland | |
---|---|
⭐ App Store rating | 4.7/5.0 ⭐ (5K reviews) |
📈 Google Play rating | 4.6/5.0 ⭐ (129K reviews) |
🏆 Best feature | Loads of micro-betting options |
📺 Live streaming | Yes |
💰 Current welcome offer | Bet $5, win $150 in bonus bets |
💵 Payout speed | Within 24 hours |
⬇ Download size | 466.3 MB |
🗺 States active | 25 + DC |
Other Maryland online sportsbooks
Caesars Maryland 🏛
New users only. Must use promo code. Min. $10 deposit. Max. additional winnings $2.5K per token. Tokens expire in 14 days. Void where prohibited. Full terms.
Caesars could have rested on its laurels in the Las Vegas sands but decided to branch out and explore other sports betting markets around the U.S. Now, it boasts one of the highest-rated betting apps in the country and a top-five sportsbook in Maryland. New MD bettors can use the Caesars Sportsbook promo code SBRBONUSDYW to get 10 100% Profit Boosts.
Caesars Maryland | |
---|---|
⭐ App Store rating | 4.6/5.0 ⭐ (55K reviews) |
📈 Google Play rating | 4.2/5.0 ⭐ (23K reviews) |
🏆 Best feature | Frequent odds boosts |
📺 Live streaming | Yes |
💰 Current welcome offer | Bet $1, get 10x 100% Profit Boosts |
💵 Payout speed | Within 24 hours |
⬇ Download Size | 226.7 MB |
🗺 States active | 22 + DC |
When searching for where to bet on sports in Maryland, few options are better than Caesars. Read our complete Caesars review for more information.
FanDuel Maryland 🔵
The No. 1 sports betting app, according to Apple and Android users, has our heads on a swivel. Every week FanDuel seems to be promoting a new, generous welcome bonus. Right now, first-time players can enjoy a bet $5, win $150 in bonus bets without a FanDuel promo code.
Bonuses and promotions aside, FanDuel’s one of the top live betting sites — live video streaming, live in-game betting, and wide variety of sports betting markets continue to see it pressure DraftKings as the industry’s overall top dog.
FanDuel Maryland | |
---|---|
⭐ App Store rating | 4.7/5.0 ⭐(41K reviews) |
📈 Google Play rating | 4.7/5.0 ⭐(267K reviews) |
🏆 Best feature | Same-Game Parlay+ |
📺 Live streaming | Yes |
💰 Current welcome offer | Bet $5, win $150 in bonus bets |
💵 Payout speed | Within 24 hours |
⬇ Download size | 142.4 MB |
🗺 States active | 22 + DC |
Interested in learning more about the iconic sportsbook? Check out our FanDuel review. See how FanDuel compares to our top recommended sportsbook: FanDuel vs. DraftKings.
BetMGM Maryland 🦁
The self-proclaimed “King of Parlays,” BetMGM’s reputation carries a lot of weight thanks to its branding and rich history in the industry. New Maryland players who sign up with BetMGM’s online sportsbook can take advantage of up to $1,500 in bonus bets with BetMGM bonus code SBRBONUS. Users will earn bonuses equal to the amount of their first wager if their first wager loses, up to $1,500.
BetMGM Maryland | |
---|---|
⭐ App Store rating | 4.8/5.0 ⭐ (186K reviews) |
📈 Google Play rating | 4.1/5.0 ⭐ (25K reviews) |
🏆 Best feature | Excellent rewards program |
📺 Live streaming | Yes |
💰 Current welcome offer | Up to $1,500 in bonus bets |
💵 Payout speed | 1-2 days |
⬇ Download size | 114.3 MB |
🗺 States active | 22 + DC and PR |
Find yourself aching to learn more about the sportsbook? Dive into our BetMGM review.
Fanatics Maryland 🧢
Fanatics Sportsbook is now active in a dozen states and continues to grow as a preferred online sportsbook among new and veteran bettors. You don’t need a Fanatics promo code to get started with the platform, either.
Users can receive up to $100 in bonus bets every day for 10 straight days, if they lose their first wager of each day. Bonus bets will be awarded based on the amount wagered and lost.
Fanatics Maryland | |
---|---|
⭐ App Store rating | 4.7/5.0 ⭐ (11.1K reviews) |
📈 Google Play rating | 4.5/5.0 ⭐ (1.3K reviews) |
🏆 Best feature | Apparel partnerships and rewards |
📺 Live streaming | Yes |
💰 Current welcome offer | Up top $1,000 in bonuses |
💵 Payout speed | Within 24 hours |
⬇ Download size | 263.3 MB |
🗺 States active | 21 |
Take a look at our full Fanatics Sportsbook review for more actionable intel.
Maryland sportsbooks honorable mentions
Though they didn’t crack our top five online sportsbooks in Maryland, be sure to check out our team of experts’ thorough and independent reviews of the other three active mobile sports betting operators in the state:
Right now, the BetRivers bonus code allows new users to unlock up to a $500 second chance bet.
MD sports betting key developments and updates
Nov. 14, 2023: ESPN BET debuts its sportsbook product in Maryland and 16 other states.
Sept. 2, 2023: The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission issues a sports
Aug. 16, 2023: Fanatics Sportsbook officially launches in Maryland after a short period of beta testing to a limited customer base.
May 11, 2023: Maryland's 19 betting providers take in a combined $328.4 million in April, about $57 million or 14.9% lower than the $386 million the state reported in March.
April 13, 2023: SuperBook launches its sports betting product in Maryland, becoming the state's eighth active sportsbook.
Jan. 30, 2023: Maryland could soon see an increase in its sports betting options. As many as 20 mobile sportsbooks could be live by the end of 2023.
Jan. 20, 2023: Fanatics opens the first retail sportsbook inside an NFL stadium at FedEx Field.
Dec. 14, 2022: Bally Bet and WynnBET acquire mobile sports betting licenses from Maryland’s SWARC.
Nov. 23, 2022: Legal MD online sports betting goes live after a brief soft launch. Seven operators, including DraftKings and FanDuel, launch their platforms.
Nov. 16, 2022: The SWARC approves 10 online sportsbook licenses for the following operators: Barstool Sportsbook, Betfred Sports, BetFanatics, BetMGM, betPARX, BetRivers, Caesars Sportsbook, DraftKings, FanDuel, and PointsBet.
Sept. 6, 2022: State regulators start accepting applications for sports betting licenses from online sportsbook operators.
July 13, 2022: The Sports Wagering Application Review Commission approves proposed draft rules, pushing mobile sports betting closer to launch.
Dec. 9, 2021: MGM National Harbor Casino becomes the first retail sportsbook in Maryland to open its doors for legal sports betting.
Nov. 18, 2021: The Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC) awards retail sports betting licenses to five casino locations: Hollywood Casino Perryville (Barstool), Horseshoe Baltimore (Caesars), Live! Casino Maryland (FanDuel), MGM National Harbor (BetMGM), and Ocean Downs (TwinSpires).
May 2021: Governor Lawrence Hogan signs HB 940 into law. Sports betting is now legal in Maryland. November 2020: Maryland voters approve legal sports betting via a referendum on the 2020 ballot.
May 2018: The United States Supreme Court overturns the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), leaving the legalization of sports betting up to individual states.
Maryland sports betting summary
🚀 MD apps launch date | November 2022 |
➡️ Legal betting age | 21+ |
🔔 MD regulator | Maryland Lottery & Gaming Control Agency |
▶️ Sports betting licenses | Up to 60 (online) |
📱 Online sports betting | Yes |
🎰 Retail sports betting | Yes |
🖥️ Online casinos | No |
🃏 Online poker | Yes |
📱 Sports betting apps | 11 |
🌎 State population | 6.17 million |
💵 Projected 2024 handle | Over $4 billion |
Legal Maryland sports betting options
After a lengthy delay between the opening of legal retail sportsbooks and the launch of mobile betting in Maryland, the Old Line State currently offers 11 active online sportsbooks. The most recent addition was Bally Bet, who opened up in the state on July 29, 2024.
Bettors can also play Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) via certain retailers. Check out our guide to the best DFS sites to learn more about what the fantasy game has to offer in Maryland.
Maryland’s online and mobile sportsbooks
Online sportsbook | Launch date |
---|---|
Bally Bet | July 2024 |
BetMGM | November 2022 |
betPARX | August 2023 |
BetRivers | November 2022 |
Caesars | November 2022 |
Crab Sports | July 2023 |
DraftKings | November 2022 |
ESPN BET | November 2023 |
Fanatics Sportsbook | June 2023 |
FanDuel | November 2022 |
LetsBetMD | July 2024 |
There are currently 11 land-based MD sportsbooks to visit in person. However, state law allows for up to 47 retail licenses to be awarded in the coming months and years. With a concentration on providing accessibility, interested players shouldn’t have to drive too far to find a sportsbook in their area.
Land-based MD sportsbooks
Retail sportsbook | Location |
---|---|
BetMGM | MGM National Harbor Casino |
betPARX | Greene Turtle restaurant |
BetRivers | Bingo World |
Caesars Sportsbook | Horseshoe Baltimore Casino |
Fanatics | FedEx Field |
FanDuel | Live! Casino & Hotel |
Greenmount OTB | Greenmount Station OTB |
PointsBet | Riverboat on the Potomac |
The Sportsbook at Hollywood Casino | Hollywood Casino Perryville |
TwinSpires | Ocean Downs Casino |
Who can bet on sports in Maryland?
Legal age 🎂
You must be at least 21 years old to wager on sports in the state of Maryland.
Mobile betting 📱
Mobile betting went live in Maryland in late November 2022. There are currently 11 online sportsbooks.
Remote registration 💻
Maryland players can skip visiting a retail sportsbook to complete the sign-up process. Remote registration is available at every online sportsbook and generally takes less than five minutes to complete.
Within state borders 📍
You do not need to be a Maryland resident to wager on sports in the Old Line State legally. However, you do need to be physically within MD’s borders when you log into your sportsbook account. Operators use geotagging software to pinpoint your location when logging in and when you place a bet. You won’t be able to wager if you’re outside Maryland state lines.
Retail sportsbooks 🏢
There are 10 retail sportsbooks in Maryland, including Fanatics’ new location inside the Commanders’ FedEx Field. Current law allows for up to nearly 50 land-based sportsbooks around the state.
Taxable winnings 💸
Operators pay a modest 15% tax on sports betting revenue to the state of Maryland. For the individual bettor, there is an 8.75% tax on winnings of over $5,000 if you live in MD and a 7% tax if you live out of state. This is separate from the 24% federal tax on gambling winnings.
What you can’t bet on in Maryland
Concerning sports betting, Maryland is liberal in its approach to most events. However, there are a few topics you won’t find any legal sportsbooks providing odds on in the Old Line State.
Politics ❌
You can’t wager on political events in the U.S.; thus, you won’t find betting odds on who will win the 2024 presidential election, for example, at legal Maryland sportsbooks.
Entertainment award ceremonies ❌
You can’t wager on award shows like the Oscars, Emmys, or Grammys in Maryland. With so many other states allowing online sportsbooks to accept these types of wagers, this could change in the future.
eSports ✅
Esports are fair game in Maryland. You can find odds for the likes of League of Legends, Fortnite, and Madden.
What about Maryland college sports? 🎓
Unlike some regions, it is legal to wager on in-and-out-of-state college sporting events in Maryland. You can bet on a Maryland Terrapins college basketball game, have a tip on Towson, or put money on UMBC shocking the world once again.
How to start betting in Maryland
If you believe Eric Bieniemy can get the Washington Commanders to the next level, or you believe Lamar Jackson will return to the Baltimore Ravens and lead them back to the promised land, perhaps you’re confident in laying down some scratch on Super Bowl 58 futures odds. If these are the types of thoughts that have crossed your mind, you’re ready to start betting on sports.
Here is a simple step-by-step breakdown of how to start sports betting in Maryland:
1. Select a licensed Maryland sportsbook
When choosing a betting site, you must find one — and a sports betting app — that suits your needs. Before you select one, be sure to read all of our independent and thorough reviews that explain each operator’s pros and cons.
Once you’ve made your selection, you can visit the sportsbook’s website or download its app to your mobile device.
2. Register online
You can register online via desktop or laptop computer, or you can opt to utilize the sportsbook’s sports betting app. Once you’ve chosen your method, you can start the registration process, which should take less than five minutes to complete.
Your chosen sportsbook will require some basic personal information, including your full name, home address, email address, date of birth, and social security number. The latter is necessary to confirm your identity and ensure that fraudulent accounts aren’t made in your name in the future. You’ll probably receive a verification email to authenticate your new account.
Next, you’ll need to create a unique username and password. The strongest passwords combine upper and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters. Try to keep the password around eight characters in length.
3. Deposit and claim a bonus
Once you’ve registered for an account and set up your username and password, you can log in and locate the cashier. Here, you’ll sync your preferred banking method to your sportsbook wallet. Major credit and debit cards, bank wire transfers, Paypal, and other third-party wallets are the most popular deposit options.
Just remember that some MD sports betting sites require a promo code at this step. Have it handy to punch into the specific field before you process your initial deposit. You don’t want to miss out on bonus funds just because you forgot to type in a code.
4. Select and finalize your bet
It’s time to do some shopping with your chosen online sportsbook. The best user experiences are ones where it’s easy to navigate from page to page and sport to sport. Ideally, the number of clicks between finding an event and submitting your finalized wager is few. Ensure you review all the available betting markets, like the NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL, in addition to all the unique bet types, such as moneylines, point spreads, and point totals, before you lock in a selection.
Once you’re ready to place a bet, add it to your bet slip, review it again, and submit the ticket. You’ll receive a confirmation slip that will appear in your virtual wallet.
If this is your first time placing a wager, give our guide on how to bet on sports a read.
5. Withdraw your winnings
So, you just hit a three-team parlay and are ready to celebrate with your newfound winnings — return to the cashier and request a withdrawal. Payout times vary by operator and banking method, but most will be processed within five business days. The only caveat to that rule is if you request a physical check to your Maryland or out-of-state residence. In that case, it can take up to 15 business days to arrive.
How we rate and review Maryland sportsbooks
Our editorial team consists of sports betting experts who independently and thoroughly review the best online sportsbooks and betting apps in Maryland. If you’re new to legal sports betting, deciding which sportsbook to register with can be a painstaking process. Our goal with each published review is to help you, the bettor, make an informed decision when selecting an MD sports betting site or app. Our evaluations and critiques of MD betting sites encompass a variety of characteristics, but the ones we focus on most are highlighted below.
Welcome bonuses and promotions
Maryland betting sites offer generous welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions to attract new players to their platforms. By signing up and funding your account, you can be in line for anything from a deposit match bonus to a first bet insurance welcome offer. Once you’ve claimed your initial promo, you’ll have access to boosted odds, reduced vig — juice — insured parlays, and loyalty rewards daily and weekly.
User experience
Ultimately, what constitutes a positive user experience for one person may differ from what another prioritizes. In general, we grade a sportsbook’s user experience through key features, like an easy sign-up process, a plethora of banking options, simple navigation, live video streaming, early cash out options, fast payouts, top-notch security, and an easy-to-contact customer service team. If an MD online sports betting app crashes often, for example, it won’t rank highly for us in this category.
Variety of bet types and markets
New players may stick to the big four leagues — NFL, MLB, NHL, and NBA — and the most common bet types — moneyline, point spreads, and Over/Under totals — but as they continue to grow, a Maryland sportsbook offering a unique variety of sports betting markets becomes that much more important. The best operators feature European football, PGA tour events, MMA main events, heavyweight boxing bouts, esports tournaments, and live in-game player props where you can bet on every drive, play, and outcome after the game has started. Don’t settle for just the basic bet types and sports markets.
Banking options
Banking with regulated and authorized Maryland sportsbooks is safe and secure, with many of the most popular payment providers — such as PayPal — available. Other notable options include major credit and debit cards, bank wire transfers, Paypal, and other e-wallet banking options. All of the best betting sites for withdrawal and deposit options are the ones listed in this guide.
Payout speed
We grade each Maryland sports betting site on how quickly they process withdrawals. After hitting a big parlay or finally learning that your futures wager from six months ago cashed, you don’t want to wait weeks to count your profits. In our experience, most modern online sportsbooks process withdrawals within 48 hours, and funds are transferred to your preferred account in less than five business days. The one catch is that requesting a physical check may take up to 15 business days.
Security and customer service
When sharing personal and financial data, sportsbook security is top of mind. We only recommend online sportsbooks and sports betting apps with the latest encryption software and firewall protocols.
As for customer service, it must be accessible on your time, not theirs. This means having the option to contact the support team via email, phone, and, our personal favorite, live chat whenever you prefer. A question or issue will arise at some point, and you don’t want to wait for the sportsbook to return your call a day later.
Maryland sports betting handle
Despite mobile betting’s lengthy delay and not launching until Nov. 23, 2022, Maryland recorded a sports betting handle just south of $1 billion in 2022. With 11 legal online sportsbooks and 11 retail sportsbooks active — and more on the way — the Old Line State reached $4.61 billion in handle in 2023.
Maryland is hoping to reach a record annual handle in 2024, and you can track the progress below.
2024
Handle | Month |
---|---|
January | $544.9 million |
February | $442.5 million |
March | $536.7 million |
April | $486.3 million |
May | $431.5 million |
June | $384.7 million |
July | $333.3 million |
August | TBD |
September | TBD |
October | TBD |
November | TBD |
December | TBD |
Annual total | $3.16 billion |
2023
Month | Handle |
---|---|
January | $441.5 million |
February | $340 million |
March | $386 million |
April | $328.5 million |
May | $320.1 million |
June | $254.5 million |
July | $247.4 million |
August | $263.7 million |
September | $442.5 million |
October | $483.1 million |
November | $550.7 million |
December | $559.8 million |
Annual total | $4.61 billion |
2022
Month | Handle |
---|---|
January | $32.5 million |
February | $25.5 million |
March | $31 million |
April | $26.9 million |
May | $23 million |
June | $19 million |
July | $15.5 million |
August | $18.7 million |
September | $31.4 million |
October | $39.7 million |
November | $219 million |
December | $497.1 million |
Annual total | $980.6 million |
2021
Month | Handle |
---|---|
December | $16.5 million |
Annual total | $16.5 million |
Maryland sports leagues and teams to bet on
Now that Maryland offers legal sports betting, those who cheer for their hometown teams in and around Baltimore and the nation’s capital may be tempted to drop a few dollars on their favorite squads. But while betting on your local club may be enjoyable, it’s not always a wise investment of time and money.
Before you submit a biased bet slip, do your homework and learn how to manage your bankroll. Checking the weather forecast, injury report, depth chart, and possible suspensions while reviewing the opposition’s strengths and weaknesses will make for an educated wager. Don’t blindly toss money at the Ravens or Commanders because betting with your heart instead of your brain is the fastest way to bleed your bankroll.
NFL 🏈 | MLB ⚾ | NHL 🏒 | NBA 🏀 |
---|---|---|---|
Baltimore Ravens, Washington Commanders | Baltimore Orioles, Washington Nationals | Washington Capitals | Washington Wizards |
Though less popular than the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL, online sportsbooks in Maryland typically offer odds for MLS, WNBA, and even XFL matchups. So, if you’re looking to back D.C. United, the Washington Mystics, or the DC Defenders, you’re in luck. Also, watch out for PGA tour odds when the pros hit the east coast.
Sports bettors can check out the top sportsbooks for specific sports, leagues, and events:
Legal Maryland sports betting history
There was nothing simple about the passing and ratification of Bill HB 940. Maryland legislators hit their fair share of barriers during the assembly process, but have now finally seen the fruits of their labors with the official launch of online and mobile sports gambling on Nov. 23, 2022. How exactly were they able to get it all done in the end?
Here’s a look at Maryland’s sports betting history:
2022: Online sports betting launches
With retail wagering in place, the push was on to move forward with mobile sports betting, but there would be no quick path thanks to wording in the signed bill that emphasized the participation of minorities and women in the state’s betting industry.
A disparity study by SWARC began in March marking a critical step toward launching online betting by the end of the year. The first non-casino retail sportsbook in the state opened in August after BetRivers partnered with Bingo World.
On September 16, Lottery and Gaming Control Agency Director John Martin expressed his optimism for online sportsbooks launching before the end of 2022 with up to 60 mobile licenses to be available in the state. Six days later, the Maryland SWARC announced that mobile sports betting licenses would be awarded on a rolling basis.
DraftKings Sportsbook was the first to get approved, offering a promo for $200 in free bets to those who sign up early. Greenmount Station joined seven other organizations in Maryland offering retail sports betting in October, partnering with Parx. GeoComply was given a Tier One Contractor license for its geolocation and ID verification services on November 1, marking an important step towards a mobile launch.
On Wednesday, November 16, the Maryland Sports Wagering Application Review Commission awarded 10 mobile sports betting licenses to the following sportsbooks: Barstool, Betfred, BetMGM, betPARX, BetRivers, Caesars, DraftKings, Fanatics, FanDuel and PointsBet. (Some would eventually close or be acquired and rebranded.)
On Friday, November 18, following one last series of regulatory testing, it was announced that online and mobile sports would follow suit and officially be available on Wednesday, Nov. 23, 2022, ahead of an enticing Thanksgiving NFL slate.
Greenmount OTB LLC, Long Shot's LLC, and Maryland Stadium Sub LLC (Washington Commanders) were not ready for opening day but launched shortly afterward.
2021: Retail sports betting launches
The new MD sports betting bill (Bill HB 940) made great progress early on in the year. It was passed by both the House and the Senate in April, by an overwhelming majority, and Governor Hogan officially made it law in May. A couple of months later, the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency released its first set of rules and regulations.
While the specifics of regulation and licensing were still being worked out, sportsbooks began moving toward partnership agreements. Caesars announced an agreement with the Baltimore Ravens and was one of five operators to join forces with casinos that had been awarded betting sports betting licenses in November.
Finally, Governor Hogan placed the first official sports bet at MGM National Harbor on December 9 which signified the launch of retail sports betting in the state. Four other casinos joined them over the next 14 days.
2020: Bill inches closer to approval
Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle were confident that sports betting would become a reality in 2020 — but with the COVID-19 pandemic resulting in a truncated legislative session, a more detailed bill was scrapped in favor of a limited measure.
Voters subsequently approved sports betting in a November referendum, which made the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Commission the regulatory agency for sports betting in the state. Yet, despite the referendum passing, there was still a lot of work to do.
2019: No referendum? No bill
Maryland intended to move quickly after the Supreme Court repealed the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) but couldn’t finalize a sports betting bill before the end of the 2018 legislative session. Lawmakers then got to work early in 2019, seeking to pass a bill (HB 1132) that would allow for horse racing licensees and VLT operators to offer sports betting.
The bill was seen as a workaround to Maryland law, which stated that any amendment revolving around the legalization of sports betting would need to first be decided by a voter referendum. That ended up being the exact conclusion reached by the attorney general’s office, resulting in the bill being tabled until the following year.
Responsible Maryland sports betting
Maryland’s approach to sports betting regulation is unique compared to other states. It’s split into two entities: The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency, the primary governing body in charge, and the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission, which oversees applications and issuance of licenses. The goal of implementing the SWARC as part of the regulatory process was to allow for better vetting of applications and work towards achieving diversity and inclusion among operators looking to earn a license.
The SWARC allows the MLGA to pay closer attention to the operators and products. They perform regular audits of sports betting sites and apps while enforcing laws and issuing fines should operators work outside the lines. Sports betting in Maryland could become crowded in the coming years, with up to 60 online and 30 brick-and-mortar licenses available.
Mobile sports betting operators must shell out $500,000 for an application fee and $1,500,000 for a license fee. Both retail and online sportsbooks are taxed at 15%, which allows Maryland to raise revenue and apply tax credits to various programs around the state, including prevention and treatment of problem gambling — visit the Maryland Alliance for Responsible Gambling for a list of resources.
National U.S. gambling helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER
Sportsbooks to avoid in Maryland
Maryland sports bettors may sometimes be tempted to create accounts with offshore sportsbooks. The state does not regulate these illegal sites, meaning bettors will likely fall prey to nefarious actions, such as data breaches of personal and financial information and non-payment of profits earned.
Now that sports gambling in Maryland is legal, it’s much safer to register with a licensed and legitimate online sportsbook. State regulators keep a close eye on every operator and will hold each accountable for providing their customers with the best user experience, customer support, and security.
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Growth of sports betting 📈
When the U.S. Supreme Court repealed PASPA in 2018, the growth of legal sports betting in the United States skyrocketed. Close to three dozen states have since legalized some form of sports betting, with the most common legislation including the licensing of online sportsbooks and mobile betting apps. Check our legal sports betting tracker to find out more about any state you're interested in.
Over the past few years, large states like Ohio and Massachusetts have enjoyed massively successful online betting launches. Sports fans get an extra way to engage with their favorite teams, and the states earn plenty of much-needed revenue from licensing fees and taxes.
More recently, legal North Carolina sports betting arrived on March 11, 2024, bringing eight of the best sportsbooks in the country to the Tar Heel state. And with events like the Copa America and Euro 2024 soccer tournaments happening all Summer long, the excitement and opportunities for sports betting enthusiasts continue to grow.
Maryland sports betting FAQs
Is sports betting legal in Maryland?
Yes, sports betting became legal in Maryland in 2021. Online sports betting went live in November 2022.
When did sports betting go live in Maryland?
Retail sports betting went live in December 2021, while online sports betting went live over a year later in November 2022. The delay was partly due to a concerted effort to achieve inclusion and diversity in the application process.
Where can I bet on sports in Maryland?
You can bet on sports in Maryland via 11 online sportsbooks, each of which offers a mobile sports betting app. Alternatively, there are 11 retail sportsbooks where you can wager on sports in person.
How many online sportsbooks are there in Maryland?
Maryland has 11 active online sportsbooks, with a few more getting ready to launch, and up to 60 online licenses are up for grabs in the state.
What sportsbooks are legal in Maryland?
The 11 active Maryland sportsbooks are Bally Bet, BetMGM, betPARX, BetRivers, Caesars, Crab Sports, DraftKings, ESPN BET, Fanatics, FanDuel, and LetsBetMD.
Can you bet on Maryland-based teams in MD?
Yes, you can bet on Maryland-based teams in the Old Line State at both the professional and collegiate level. Some states prohibit in-state wagers on college sports teams, but not Maryland.
Do you have to live in Maryland to bet online?
No, you don’t have to live in Maryland to bet online. However, sports betting apps and online sportsbooks require that you be physically located within state lines when placing a bet. They use geofencing software to pinpoint users’ locations to confirm this is the case.
How do you place a sports bet in Maryland?
There are currently three ways to place a sports bet in Maryland: You can register at one of 11 online sportsbooks, download one of 11 sports betting apps, or visit one of 11 land-based sportsbooks.
Are sports betting apps legal in Maryland?
Yes. Sports betting apps became legal in Maryland on Nov. 23, 2022.
What is the minimum age to bet in Maryland?
The minimum age to bet on sports in Maryland is 21 years old.
Who is responsible for overseeing sports betting in Maryland?
The Maryland State Lottery & Gaming Control Agency has jurisdiction over sports betting in the state. You’ll find plenty of information on their website, including details on gaming regulations and monthly reports.