Skip to main content

Massachusetts Sports Betting: Best 5 MA Online Sportsbooks 2024

Online Massachusetts sports betting sites went live on Friday, March 10, 2023. Currently, six of the best sportsbooks in the U.S., including FanDuel, Fanatics, BetMGM, DraftKings, and Caesars, have been awarded operations certificates by the MGC and are actively offering Massachusetts sportsbook promos.

Best Massachusetts sports betting sites

21+ and present in MA. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org.

#1

Bet $5, Win $200 in Bonus Bets

New customers only. Deposit min. $10. Place first bet of $5+ and get $200 in Bonus Bets if wager wins (within 72 hours).

Features

  • Top-tier app experience.
  • Same Game Parlays and SGP+.
  • Extensive promos and odds boosts.

FanDuel Review

To claim the welcome offer, new FanDuel MA users must register and download the mobile app to make their first deposit of at least $10. Then, place your initial wager of $5 or more on any moneyline market. If you win, you'll get $150 in bonus bets. The reward will appear in your account within 72 hours of placing the qualifying bet. The bonus bets must be used within seven days, or they will expire.  

Offer ends on Dec. 28, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. ET.

21+ and present in MA. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-327-5050

Features

#2

$1,000 First Bet on Caesars

Features

  • Earn Caesars Rewards from betting activity.
  • Live streaming of NFL games.
  • User-friendly mobile app.
Bet Now

Caesars Review

The welcome offer for new U.S. customers is a $1,000 first bet on Caesars. Ensure you use the active Caesars promo code — SBRBONUS1000 — to claim the offer.    

Features

#3

Get up to $1,000 in Bonus Bets

Features

  • Live in 16 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 a dozen 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

#4

Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets

Features

  • Lots of promos and odds boosts.
  • Wide range of sports and bet types.
  • Seamless integration with DFS.

DraftKings Review

New users who sign up for an account with DraftKings Sportsbook in Massachusetts can bet $5 to get $200 in bonus bets.

21+ and present in MA. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-327-5050

Features

#5

Up To $1,500 Back In Bonus Bets

Terms and conditions apply. 

Features

  • Some of the best live-betting odds.
  • Great deposit options.
  • Earn MGM Rewards from betting activity.
Bet Now

BetMGM Review

New customers in Massachusetts that register for an account with BetMGM will receive a first bet paid back up to $1,500 in bonus bets if the bet loses.

21+ and present in MA. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-327-5050

Features

Affiliate Disclosure: Sportsbook Review may receive advertising commissions for visits to a sportsbook betting site.

MA sports betting key developments and updates

Here’s a look at Massachusetts' sports betting history:

Mar. 17, 2024: Bally Bet continues to delay a potential MA launch despite being granted one of the original betting licenses in 2023, attracting the ire of state betting regulators

Feb 18, 2024: Massachusetts sets a new monthly betting revenue record for January 2024, bringing in almost $73 million in gross revenue on a betting handle of $651.7 million. 

Feb. 1, 2024: WynnBET and Betr decide to leave MA market as each sportsbook submitted a notice of intent to abandon operations within state lines. Ninety days' notice is typically required; however, each sportsbook has expressed interest in leaving as soon as mid-February.

Jan. 4, 2024: Betway announces they will not enter the MA market, despite previously securing a temporary license. 

Nov. 7, 2023: The MGC announces that it will allow ESPN BET to go live in the state on Nov. 14, 2023.

Sept. 15, 2023: State regulators announced the sports betting handle for the month of August was $307.1 million. That was roughly $20M more than in July. FanDuel and DraftKings made up over 80% of the entire handle. 

Aug. 24, 2023: The Massachusetts Gaming Commission adds pickleball to its official sports betting catalog.

Aug. 16, 2023: Fanatics officially launches in Massachusetts after a brief soft-launch period.

Aug. 1, 2023: The Massachusetts Gaming Commission delays a hearing about a new category 2 sports license for Raynham Park until August 18, setting the process back at least two weeks.

July 24, 2023: The MGC considers fines or sanctions against DraftKings for accepting bets on unauthorized tennis events.

June 30, 2023: New state legislation requires all sportsbook advertising and branding logos to include some sort of "Must be 21 or older" language. This includes existing marketing atFenway Park, TD Garden, Gillette Stadium, and Polar Park. Operators have 90 days to comply.


June 16, 2023: The Massachusetts Gaming Commission reports $454.9 million in legal sports betting handle for the month of May. It is a 21.5% drop from the prior month.

May 25, 2023: Fanatics Sportsbook soft-launches its product in Massachusetts, becoming the state's eighth active online sports betting platform.

May 23, 2023: The Massachusetts Gaming Commission unanimously votes to continue taxing operators on revenue created by promotional play, such as bonus bets.

May 16, 2023: The Massachusetts Gaming Commission awards Fanatics Sportsbook a sports betting operations license. The operator plans on launching its platform at the end of May.

May 8, 2023: Betr officially announces the launch of its real money sports betting app in Massachusetts.

March 17, 2023: Massachusetts reports $25.7 million in sports betting handle for its first full month of legal wagering at its three brick-and-mortar casinos. 

March 10, 2023: Massachusetts online betting officially goes live in the state at 10 a.m. ET

March 9, 2023: The Massachusetts Gaming Commission votes to award operations certificates to six online sportsbooks for a March 10 launch. (FanDuel, DraftKings, WynnBET, Caesars, BetMGM and Barstool)

March 8, 2023:
FanDuel and BetMGM announce partnerships with NESN and the Boston Red Sox respectively.

March 7, 2023: DraftKings announces it will launch in Massachusetts on March 10, 2023, pending approvals. Upon launch, Massachusetts will be the 21st state DraftKings will be legal in. 

Feb. 25, 2023: MGM Springfield, Encore Boston Harbor, and Plainridge Park Casino are facing potential punishment for accepting illegal college bets

Feb. 23, 2023: Caesars Sportsbook officially makes its mobile app available for download ahead of Massachusetts' mobile betting take-off, which is on track to go live before March Madness. 

Feb. 23, 2023: Fanatics and Betway each announce they will not be ready for the March 10 online sports betting marketplace launch date. 

Feb. 23, 2023: Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) Executive Director Karen Wells announces that PointsBet is withdrawing its bid for an online sports betting license.

Feb. 15, 2023: The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) announces a handle of $510,948 since the start of sports betting in the state (three retail sportsbooks).

Feb. 9, 2023: Massachusetts Gaming Commission Executive Director Karen Wells proposes tentative start date of March 10 for mobile sports betting.

Jan. 31, 2023: Retail sports betting goes live in the state.

Jan. 26, 2023: The MGC amends sports betting ad standards ahead of Massachusetts launch and will now allow professional athletes between the ages of 18 and 20 to engage in commercial endorsements with sportsbooks. 

Jan. 25, 2023: The Massachusetts Gaming Commission approves a sports betting menu, listing which sports are available to wager on in the state. 

Jan. 25, 2023: bet365 — originally the mobile partner for Raynham Park — withdraws its bid for a Massachusetts sports betting license.  

Jan. 23, 2023: Caesars announces retail sports betting venue in Massachusetts, partnering with Raynham Park. 

Jan. 20, 2023: Sports betting will go live in Massachusetts on Jan. 31, 2023 at 10:00 a.m. ET. The state's first retail sportsbooks will officially launch. 

Jan. 19, 2023: FanDuel and Draftkings are among the six sportsbooks approved for a temporary untethered Category 3 online sports betting license.

Jan. 17, 2023: PointsBet meets the requirements for a Massachusetts sports betting license. This provisional approval paves the way for PointsBet to join the Massachusetts sports wagering landscape pending a formal vote.

Jan. 11, 2023: DraftKings meets the criteria for an online sports betting license in Massachusetts. This provisional approval paves the way for Draftkings to join the Massachusetts sports betting landscape pending a formal vote.

Jan. 10, 2023: Jake Paul’s Betr Sportsbook satisfies the requirements for a Massachusetts online sports betting license. The micro betting company joins Bally Bet and FanDuel as the only three sports books awaiting a vote to receive an untethered Category 3 online sports betting license.

Jan. 4, 2023: Barstool Sportsbook receives approval for an online tethered sports betting license. It will be tethered to Penn National-owned Plainridge Park Casino along with Fanatics Sportsbook.

Dec. 20, 2022: Caesars Sportsbook receives approval for an online tethered sports betting license. It will be tethered to Encore Boston Harbor alongside WynnBET.

Dec. 19, 2022: BetMGM receives approval for an online tethered sports betting license and will be tethered to MGM Springfield.

Aug. 10, 2022: H.5164 is signed by then-Governor Charlie Baker, approving online and retail sports betting in Massachusetts.

July 2021: HB 3993 is approved, officially legalizing sports betting in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts sports betting quick facts

With legal MA sports betting now here, we've identified critical Massachusetts sports gambling facts, including betting options and projected revenue numbers.

🚀 MA retail launch dateJan. 31, 2023
🚀 MA betting sites launch dateMarch 10, 2023
➡️ Legal betting age21+
🔔 MA regulatorMassachusetts Gaming Commission
▶️ Sports betting licenses15
📱 Online sports bettingYes
🎰 Retail sports bettingYes
🖥️ Online casinosNo
🃏 Online pokerNo
🏆 Sports betting sites6
🎫 Sports betting kiosksTBD
🌎 State population6.9 million
💵 Projected annual revenue$550 million

Yes, sports betting is legal in Massachusetts. Following then-Governor Charlie Baker's signing of House Bill 5164 into law on Aug. 10, 2022, legal retail sports betting began on Jan. 31, 2023. Seven months later, on March 10, 2023, online sports betting launched.

Several of the best sportsbooks in the country have applied for and obtained licenses to operate legally in Massachusetts. 

Massachusetts sports betting promos and bonuses

New and seasoned sports bettors will be thrilled to learn that operators will be eager to offer the best sportsbooks promos and bonuses. For new players, bonus first bets can be a great way to learn without fear of losing money. For experienced bettors, welcome bonuses allow them to be more aggressive and maximize their return on deposit if they target betting markets with big odds.

Massachusetts sportsbook promos and bonuses go beyond the initial sign-up. Prospective customers should identify operators offering ongoing promotions like boosted odds, loyalty rewards, refer and earn credits, and exclusive offers not found at betting sites.

Massachusetts sportsbook 🏆Promo code ✅Welcome bonus 💰
CaesarsSBRBONUS1000$1,000 first bet on Caesars
DraftKingsClaim $150 without codeBet $5, get $150 in bonus bets
ESPN BETClaim $100 without codeGet $100 in bonus bets
Fanatics SportsbookClaim $1,000 without codeUp to $1,000 in bonus bets
FanDuelClaim $200 without codeBet $5, win $200 in bonus bets
BetMGMSBRBONUSUp to $1,500 in bonus bets
Future Massachusetts sportsbooksPromo code Projected sports betting bonus
Bally BetClaim $250 without codeUp to $250 deposit match

Top Massachusetts sports betting sites

With the full legalization of sportsbooks in Massachusetts, there will be plenty of competition for your money. Below are the betting sites and Massachusetts sports betting apps that went live on March 10, 2023. 

Massachusetts sportsbookBest known for
⭐ BetMGM"King of Parlays"
⭐ CaesarsLucrative welcome bonus
⭐ DraftKingsIndustry leader
⭐ ESPN BETUnique personality-driven promos
⭐ Fanatics SportsbookFanCash reward system
⭐ FanDuelHighly-rated app

Why Caesars is the best sportsbook in Massachusetts 🏛

One of the first four online sports betting operators to earn a Massachusetts gaming license, Caesars is a trusted brand that first made its mark in the Las Vegas desert. By taking its talents to mobile online sportsbooks and sports betting apps, it can showcase its slate of promos, bonuses, live betting, and VIP rewards that can be claimed without a Caesars Sportsbook promo code. The app also features the ability to live-stream sporting events, including the NFL. Check out our Caesars review for more.

$1,000 First Bet on Caesars

Terms and conditions apply

Sportsbook Review may receive advertising commissions for visits to a sportsbook betting site. 21+ and present in MA. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org.
  • App store ratings: 4.6 (iOS), 4.1 (Android)
  • Payout speed: 1-5 business days
Caesars Massachusetts 
⭐ App Store rating4.6/5.0 ⭐ (55K reviews)
📈 Google Play rating4.2/5.0 ⭐ (23K reviews)
🏆 Best featureFrequent odds boosts
📺 Live streamingYes
💰 Current welcome offer$1,000 first bet on Caesars
💵 Payout speed1 - 5 business days
⬇ Download Size226.7 MB 
🗺 States active22 (+DC)

Other Massachusetts online sportsbooks and sports betting apps

FanDuel Massachusetts 🔵

Like rival DraftKings, FanDuel has its license approved. Aside from superior app ratings from iOS and Android users, FanDuel offers a best-in-class welcome bonus — no FanDuel promo code necessary — promotions, and unique treats within its app. Recently, the operator partnered with Venmo to add to its arsenal of banking methods. This is also noteworthy for Massachusetts bettors since they can’t deposit with a credit card.

  • App store ratings: 4.5 (iOS), 4.7 (Android)
  • Payout speed: 1-5 business days

Where to bet on sports in Massachusetts: FanDuel review.

FanDuel Massachusetts 
⭐ App Store rating4.7/5.0 ⭐(41K reviews)
📈 Google Play rating4.7/5.0 ⭐(267K reviews)
🏆 Best featureSame-Game Parlay+
📺 Live streamingYes
💰 Current welcome offerBet $5, win $200 in bonus bets
💵 Payout speedUp to 48 hours
⬇ Download size142.4 MB 
🗺 States active22 (+DC)

DraftKings Massachusetts 👑

Boston-based DraftKings Sportsbook went live in the state on March 10, 2023.

DraftKings offers players an elite user experience with its easy-to-use betting app, seamless site navigation, and ongoing promotions. Customers can access odds boosts, second-chance bets, same-game parlays — it's one of the top parlay betting sites — rewards, and more.

Although credit cards remain an invalid or prohibited form of deposit, DraftKings offers its customers a full line of banking methods for both sides of the transaction.

21+ and present in MA. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

Where to bet on sports in Massachusetts: DraftKings review

Also, check out our guide on DraftKings promo code. See how DraftKings compares to our top recommended sportsbook: FanDuel vs. DraftKings.

DraftKings Massachusetts 
⭐ App Store rating4.7/5.0 ⭐ (5K reviews)
📈 Google Play rating4.6/5.0 ⭐ (129K reviews)
🏆 Best featureLoads of micro-betting options
📺 Live streamingYes
💰 Current welcome offerBet $5, get $150 in bonus bets
💵 Payout speed60 minutes - 7 days
⬇ Download size466.3 MB
🗺 States active25

BetMGM Massachusetts 🦁

BetMGM is another one of the operators to earn licensure from the Massachusetts Gaming Commission. Now live, players can sign up with the self-proclaimed "King of Parlays" using BetMGM bonus code SBRBONUS to enjoy live video streaming of select sporting events, solid promotions, and loyalty rewards.

Up To $1,500 Back In Bonus Bets

Terms and conditions apply. 

Sportsbook Review may receive advertising commissions for visits to a sportsbook betting site. 21+ and present in MA. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org.
  • App store ratings: 4.8 (iOS), 4.6 (Android)
  • Payout speed: 2-8 business days

Where to bet on sports in Massachusetts: BetMGM review.

BetMGM Massachusetts 
⭐ App Store rating4.8/5.0 ⭐ (186K reviews)
📈 Google Play rating4.1/5.0 ⭐ (25K reviews)
🏆 Best featureExcellent rewards program
📺 Live streamingYes
💰 Current welcome offerUp to $1,500 in bonus bets
💵 Payout speedUp to 5 banking days
⬇ Download size114.3 MB 
🗺 States active22 (+DC and PR)

Massachusetts sportsbooks honorable mentions

Though they didn’t make our top five rated Massachusetts online sportsbooks and sports betting apps, the following operators all earned honorable mentions due to their significant welcome bonuses. Whether you are or aren’t interested in any of the top five sportsbooks above, be sure to at least glance at our sportsbook reviews of the following operators. Who knows, what you learn may surprise you and might lead you to sign up.

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission voted to award operations certificates to six online sportsbooks, including DraftKings, FanDuel, Barstool (now ESPN BET), BetMGM, and Caesars. The five listed went live on March 10, 2023.

Since then, two sportsbooks — Betr and Fanatics — have launched their platforms in the state on May 8, 2023, and May 25, 2023, respectively. However, Betr left the MA market in early 2024. 

Two other operators have received licenses but have yet to enter the new MA market: Bally Bet and Betway. In Jan. 2024, Betway announced they would let their license expire and not open up in Massachusetts.

Massachusetts sportsbookApplication statusLaunch date
Bally Bet✅ ApprovedTBD
BetMGM✅ ApprovedMarch 10, 2023
Fanatics Sportsbook✅ ApprovedMay 25, 2023
Caesars✅ ApprovedMarch 10, 2023
DraftKings✅ ApprovedMarch 10, 2023
FanDuel✅ ApprovedMarch 10, 2023
ESPN BET✅ ApprovedNov. 14, 2023

Land-based Massachusetts sportsbooks

Three of the five retail sportsbooks licensed by the state are allowed to partner with two online sportsbook properties. In contrast, the pari-mutuel locations of Raynham and Suffolk are permitted to partner with one online operator each. Here's a quick summary of in-person betting options that carry a retail sports betting license.

Retail sportsbookOnline sportsbook partnerLaunch date
Encore Boston HarborTBDJan. 31, 2023
MGM SpringfieldBetMGMJan. 31, 2023
Plainridge Park CasinoBarstool Jan. 31, 2023

Who can bet on sports in Massachusetts

Here’s what Massachusetts residents and those visiting the state need to know about sports betting after its Jan. 31, 2023, launch date.

Legal age 🎂

Massachusetts retail sportsbooks, online sportsbooks, and sports betting apps will require its players to be at least 21 years of age to place a wager.

Mobile betting 📱

The state has legal online sports betting, as of March 10, 2023. A number of reputable online sportsbooks have been licensed to operate in the state.

Remote registration 💻

Massachusetts bettors can now register remotely at online sportsbooks and via sports betting apps. This process requires players to provide personal information to verify identities, locations, and email accounts. Geolocation software will confirm players are inside state lines at the time of registration.

Within state borders 🌎

Like many other states, Massachusetts requires bettors to be within state lines in order to place a bet. However, being a resident of the state is not an explicit requirement. Sports betting operators will confirm your location via the sports app’s geotagging software baked into the product. Customers outside of state lines will lose the ability to place wagers.

Retail sportsbooks 🏢

Massachusetts offers residents (and tourists) five in-person sports betting options to choose from, which opened prior to the launch of any online sportsbooks. MGM Springfield, Encore Boston Harbor, Plainridge Park Casino, and two other pari-mutuel horse tracks started accepting bets on Jan. 31, 2023.

Taxable winnings 💸

The state and Uncle Sam both want a slice of your winnings should you profit. Gambling earnings will be taxed at 24%, while the state of Massachusetts will take a cut of 5%. Don’t spend all your winnings in one place until you pay the piper.

What you can't bet on in Massachusetts

As discussed earlier, you can wager on professional sports in and outside Massachusetts. However, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission is currently one of the more constricting state regulators when deciding what can and can’t be wagered on within the state. Here's a primer:

Politics ❌

It is not legal to wager on political events in Massachusetts. For instance, you can’t wager on the upcoming 2024 United States Presidential Election. This policy is consistent across all legalized U.S. states.

Entertainment award ceremonies ❌

Currently, Massachusetts does not allow betting on entertainment award ceremonies like the Grammys or Academy Awards. This policy could change in the future depending on how the MGC legislates things throughout 2023. Still, your insight and handicapping of “Best Record of the Year” at the Grammys will have to be just for fun.

esports 🎮

Betting on esports at Massachusetts online sportsbooks remains a murky subject. The MGC has not made a formal ruling and could change its stance, as several other states have legalized esports betting. Delaware North Chairman and Boston Bruins owner Jeremy Jacobs is a stakeholder in the esports organization Splyce.

What about Massachusetts college sports? 🎓

Wagering on college sports in the state is permitted, but betting on in-state teams is prohibited unless in a tournament setting like college basketball’s March Madness. This restriction was a sticking point between the Massachusetts House and Senate when they tried to pass a bill in 2021 and 2022. In the end, a compromise was struck, but not the one sports bettors preferred.

To recap, betting on college teams is legal. However, betting on in-state teams, like Harvard and Boston College, will be limited to tournament formats, like the NCAA men’s and women’s basketball tournament, come March.

How to start betting in Massachusetts

Online sports betting in Massachusetts began Friday, March 10, 2023, at 10 a.m. ET.

1. Select a licensed Massachusetts sportsbook

First, you’ll need to select an online sportsbook or sports betting app. SBR’s team of experts has poured hours and hours into researching, evaluating, and grading more than a dozen operators. For a thorough overview, you’ll want to consult our best Massachusetts online sportsbook reviews before deciding. Prospective customers should focus on welcome bonuses, user experience, banking options, customer support services, and security measures.

2. Register online

Signing up for a new online sportsbook account has evolved to the point where it should take just a few minutes to get up and running.

First, the operator will ask you to provide basic personal information like your full name, home address, email address, date of birth, and social security number. The SS number helps with identification verification to prevent fraudulent accounts from being created and helps speed up payouts later. The operator will likely send an email to verify your address and register your account.

Once that step is complete, you’ll create a username and password. Sometimes the username is your email address, which is easy to remember. The password should be eight characters at a minimum and a combination of numbers, letters, and special characters.

3. Deposit and claim a bonus

After logging in to your new online sportsbook account, you’ll head to the cashier and make a first deposit. Here you will sync your preferred banking method to your account. Remember, Massachusetts does not allow for credit card deposits but does accept services like Paypal and bank wire transfers.

Before submitting your first deposit, check for any required promo code fields. You don’t want to miss out on bonus bets because you forgot the promo code when making your initial deposit.

4. Select and finalize your bet

Now that you’ve registered a new account created a unique password, and made a first deposit to fund your wallet, you are all set to make your first bet. Remember, you can wager on every professional team in Massachusetts. So, if you think the Patriots will turn things around next year and win the Super Bowl, you can place a bet. Believe the Bruins to cover the puckline this weekend? Wager on it. Will Jayson Tatum win the Most Valuable Player award? These and other odds will be available at Massachusetts online sportsbooks.

Finalizing a wager takes a few clicks with the best sports betting apps. The improved, seamless user experience, where a bet can be placed in a matter of seconds, makes modern-day sports betting convenient and potentially more entertaining. 

5. Withdraw your winnings

The process is quite simple if one of your big bets wins and you’re ready to cash out. Visit the same cashier link you used to deposit and click withdrawal to get things in motion. Here, you’ll type in the amount of money you want to withdraw and which banking method you want to use to secure the funds. Available options include e-wallets and bank wire transfers or even, in some cases, a physical check mailed to your address. However, the latter option can take up to 15 business days.

How we rate and review Massachusetts sportsbooks

Our team of experts from around the country works independently to evaluate and review the best Massachusetts online sportsbooks and MA sports betting apps. Are you new to online sports betting? Figuring out which features are most important can be confusing and intimidating. We help take the guesswork out of the process and explain how we rate and review each operator. We assess the most critical characteristics before adding or removing them from our best-of sportsbook rankings.

Welcome bonuses and promotions

With up to 15 operators battling for Massachusetts sports betting market share, industry stalwarts like DraftKings, FanDuel, and Caesars will dole out hundreds if not thousands of dollars to new players in the form of welcome bonuses. Based on our experience in other legal states, Massachusetts bettors stand to benefit from low minimum deposits that unlock dollar-for-dollar match bonuses, bet credits, and first-bet insurance worth up to $1,000, along with other forms of added value.

User experience

Our editorial guidelines weigh user experience as one of the essential pillars of a successful and high-quality online sports betting product. User experience can hold a variety of definitions. Think about ease of signing up, banking ability on the site or app, how fluid is navigating the app from one page to the next, can you live stream sporting events, does it crash or have trouble geolocating your position to allow you to bet and how accessible is customer service? All of those factors go into grading out one’s user experience.

Sports bet variety

New sports bettors typically engage with basic odds markets where they can wager on the moneyline or point total. As they gain more experience and join veteran sports bettors on the sports betting platform, various betting markets make for a more pleasing and potentially profitable experience. So, the best online sportsbooks offer global sports as well as domestic. The NFL and college football are the most popular sports to wager on in a calendar year. Still, bettors engage with soccer odds, tennis tournament grand slams, and PGA major championships.

Banking options

Massachusetts law prohibits sports betting customers from funding their accounts or making deposits with credit cards. Operators will leverage services like PayPal, various e-wallets, and ACH bank wire transfers. Some operators have started to accept Venmo as a preferred banking option too. These options will help to alleviate some of the headaches associated with the state barring the most common banking method.

Payout speed

Once you hit a big Boston parlay, you may want to cash out, and waiting is the hardest part. Our betting experts rate sites based on their payout speed from bet settlement to triggering the withdrawal. Some betting sites may take up to five business days, while the elite operators can deliver the funds to your account within two business days. If you deposit or withdraw by physical check, wait times can run up to three business weeks.

Security and customer support

Our editorial guidelines also stress the importance of site and app security. Operators must use the latest SSL encryption software to protect personal and financial information from bad actors.

When questions arise, online sportsbooks should have a solid stable of customer support team representatives available via phone, email, or, in our preference, live chat. Live chat customer support features the shortest wait times and answers your queries in short order.

Massachusetts sports betting handle

Depending on the source material, Massachusetts sports betting handle — total amounts wagered — and related tax revenues vary. However, we project that the Bay State could recognize $550 million (approximately) in revenue in year one. That figure is speculative, and contingent upon all 15 of the expected online sportsbooks meeting the required approvals and launching in early 2023.

On Feb. 15, 2023, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) announced a handle of $510,948 since the start of sports betting in the state (three retail sportsbooks).

The taxes will be distributed into five funds for which the leaders of those groups will determine their purposes:

  • General Fund (45%)
  • Gaming Local Aid Fund (27.5%)
  • Workforce Investment Fund (17.5%)
  • Public Health Trust Fund (9%)
  • Youth Development and Achievement Fund (1%)

MA sports betting handle 2023

MonthHandle
January        $488,000
February         $24.4 million
March         $568.2 million
April        $579.2 million
May        $454.96 million
June        $332 million
July        $294.9 million
August        $314.9 million
September$512.2 million
October$571.7 million
November$654.4 million
December$658.7 million
Annual total $4.96 billion

Massachusetts sports leagues and teams to bet on

Massachusetts is home to some iconic goliaths of professional sports. The well-documented dynasties of the Patriots and Celtics come to mind, as well as the hot championship stretches of the Red Sox and Bruins.

However, we urge every new sports bettor not to wager with emotion and connection to their hometown teams. Do your homework before placing a bet on your favorite squad because weather, injuries, depth chart changes, and other factors can occur in the hours leading up to an event. Make a well-informed wager, and do not bet with your heart at any time.

New England Patriots 🏈

Even non-football fans know about the dynamic duo of Tom Brady and Bill Belichick. The legendary quarterback/head coach combo helped guide the New England Patriots to one of the most dominant dynasties the NFL has ever seen. In a span of 13 season, the team won the AFC title 11 times and went on to win the Super Bowl six times.

Brady has since retired (after winning one more Super Bowl in Tampa Bay), and the team is struggling to find a new identity. Nevertheless, faithful Pats fans are eager to make some savvy picks on every new NFL season.

Boston Red Sox ⚾

After a few decades of suffering, the Red Sox finally lifted the "Curse of the Bambino" in 2004, winning their first World Series in 86 years. Since then, they've added championships in 2007, 2013, and 2018. Not bad for a team that went an average American's lifespan without sniffing a trophy.

Win or lose, the Fenway Park faithful love their baseball. Every summer a few million spectators pass through the turnstiles of the oldest ballpark in the big leagues to snack on Fenway Franks and behold the Green Monster. And maybe bet on the BoSox to score some runs.

Boston Bruins 🏒

The Bruins are an Original Six NHL team, meaning they've existed basically as long as professional hockey has. They have more than two dozen division championships and six Stanley Cup victories to their name, most recently in 2011.

Hockey fans in Massachusetts can place any number of "wicked smaht" wagers on the Bruins. Aside from the standard moneyline, spread, and over/under bets, sportsbooks now offer a litany of creative player, team, and game prop options. 

Boston Celtics 🏀

Boston is also known as Titletown or the City of Champions, and the Celtics are a key reason why. They have 17 NBA championships, tied with their hated West Coast rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers.  The majority of those trophies were won in the 60s, 70s, and 80s. But a lack of more recent success doesn't deter the Celtics' fanbase.

In fact, recent Atlantic Division titles in 2022 and 2023 have given the team (and fans) renewed hope that that elusive 18th championship banner is just around the corner. 

New England Revolution ⚽

The New England Revolution of the MLS doesn’t garner the same headlines, but MA bettors will be able to access odds for its matchups at several online sportsbooks and sports betting apps.

The Revs were one of the ten founding members of MLS in 1995, but have never won an MLS Cup despite playing in the final on five separate occasions. Silverware in the form of a Supporters Shield (2021) and U.S. Open Cup (2007) will have to tide fans over for now.

Other sports betting categories

Sports bettors can check out the top sportsbooks for specific sports, leagues, playoffs, and categories:

Responsible Massachusetts sports betting

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission is the state’s governing body that oversees legal sports betting and casino gaming, and horse racing wagers. It has approved the six licenses for the active sportsbooks in the state.

The MGC’s mission is to create a fair and transparent process for all parties to understand the expanded sports betting laws in the state. They will be in charge of issuing licenses and policing, investigating, and regulating Massachusetts sports betting operations. 

The MGC also implements Responsible Gaming frameworks, offering gambling addiction counseling, treatment, and resources to interested parties. They also provide a voluntary self-exclusion program, limiting or banning individuals from gaming participation for a set period. This program can be accessed by phone, live chat, or at three retail casinos.

Massachusetts gambling helpline: 1-800-327-5050

National U.S. gambling helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER

List of Massachusetts sports betting resources

Massachusetts Gaming Commission – Gambling regulator. 

Massachusetts Legislator – Lawmaking body In Massachusetts    

Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health – Top resource for responsible gambling in the state.    

Sportsbooks to avoid in Massachusetts

The opening of MA retail sports betting locations on Jan. 31, 2023, followed by online betting at a time yet to be determined, provides enough reasons for players to take the risk of setting up an account at offshore sportsbooks. The risks tied to registering accounts with offshore entities are significant, as players are often left with no recourse should any dispute arise.

Here are a few examples of illegal sites to avoid and the reasons SBR’s betting editors team has deemed them off-limits:

❌ 1LuckyGambler ❌ SBG GlobalOddsmaker
Blacklisted since 2008, slow pay, sketchy policiesCheckered past, winning bets confiscated, lost of trust among userUnfair business practices, kept players' bonus winning, F rating

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. 

Over the past two 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.

Most 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. 

Massachusetts sports betting FAQs

Is sports betting legal in Massachusetts?

Yes, sports betting became legal in Massachusetts in August 2022 when Governor Charlie Baker, a proponent of legal sports betting, signed the Massachusetts Sports Wagering Act into law. This move paved the way for legal sports betting to launch in 2023.

Retail went live on Jan. 31, 2023 and the online launch date was March. 10, 2023.

When did sports betting go live in Massachusetts?

Retail sports betting in Massachusetts went live Jan. 31, 2023. Online and mobile sports betting within state borders went live March. 10, 2023.

Where can I bet on sports in Massachusetts?

Starting on Jan. 31, 2023, Massachusetts residents will have a handful of retail sportsbooks to choose from, including MGM Springfield, Encore Boston Harbor, and Plainridge Park Casino. Six online and mobile sports betting operators have received approval.

How many online sportsbooks are there in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts law states that up to 15 operators can earn online sportsbook licenses. Six sportsbooks went live on launch day (March 10, 2023). They include DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars, BetMGM, and ESPN BET. Betr went live on May 8, 2023, and Fanatics launched on May 25, 2023. Betr and Wynn Bet have since closed in the state, leaving six online sportsbooks total. 

What sportsbooks are legal in Massachusetts?

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission has approved six sportsbooks. (DraftKings, FanDuel, ESPN BET, Caesars, Fanatics Sportsbook, and BetMGM) There are three legal retail sportsbooks in Massachusetts: MGM Springfield, Encore Boston Harbor, and Plainridge Park Casino. Raynham Park and Suffolk Downs, known primarily for horse racing betting, will also be viable sportsbook options.

Can you bet on MA-based teams in Massachusetts?

Yes, you may place wagers on Massachusetts-based professional teams like the Boston Bruins, Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots, and Boston Celtics. However, betting on college sports is limited to tournament-based events like NCAA college basketball’s March Madness. So, if you’re ready to back Harvard’s men’s basketball team come March, you may bet on them then.

Do you have to live in Massachusetts to bet online?

No, you do not have to live or reside in Massachusetts to place an online sports bet. However, those interested in betting on sports online must be located within state borders when placing a wager at online sportsbooks or via sports betting apps. Operators use geotagging software to pinpoint your location when placing all sports bets. If you are outside Massachusetts state lines, the app will not let you place a bet.

How do you place a sports bet in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts residents have three options to place a sports bet within state borders: retail, online sportsbooks, and sports betting apps. Three retail sportsbooks started accepting wagers on Jan. 31, 2023, with mobile sports betting launching March 10.

Are sports betting apps legal in Massachusetts?

Yes, sports betting apps are legal in the state of Massachusetts, with the first ones having arrived on March 10, 2023.

What is the minimum age to bet in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts residents must be 21 years of age or older to bet on sports within state borders.