Our New York sports betting guide will be plenty useful for anyone looking to wager online in this great city. While doing so may be a new experience for many New Yorkers, we think quite a few will be surprised by the scope and standards of what’s out there already.
- 1 Where Can I Place Sports Bets in New York?
- 2 Is Online Sports Betting Legal in New York?
- 3 A Timeline for Retail and Online Sports Betting in New York
- 4 Sports Betting Revenue and Taxation in New York
- 5 Top Online Sportsbooks Reviewed
- 6 Best Sports Betting Apps in New York
- 7 New York Sports Betting Promotions
- 8 How Can I Sign-up for New York Sports Betting Sites?
- 9 New York Sports Betting Laws and Regulations
- 10 Legal Sports Betting Operators in New York
- 11 Best Local Sports Teams to Bet on in New York
- 12 New York Sports Betting Facts
- 13 New York Sports Betting Handle
- 14 Responsible Gambling in New York
- 15 Popular Types of Bets
- 16 States Where it is Legal to Bet on Sports
- 17 ThePuntersPage Final Say
- 18 New York Sports Betting FAQs
Where Can I Place Sports Bets in New York?
Full T&Cs apply. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER |
Full T&Cs apply. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER |
Full T&Cs apply. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER |
Is Online Sports Betting Legal in New York?
Yes, you may legally bet on sports leagues and events in the state of New York, on mobile as well as desktop. This has been the case since January 2022, when the first four online sportsbooks opened their virtual doors. These included FanDuel, Caesars, DraftKings and BetRivers, and they have been joined by several other top names since then.
So, what's the story behind this?
Things started with the Supreme Court ruling in 2018, which allowed individual states to legalize betting online within their jurisdiction. Sports betting in New York was actually made legal at a state level in 2013, so, following the lifting of the federal ban, the wheels to move things along were already in motion.
Do note, however, that a betting site isn’t necessarily legal in the state as a result of these rulings. Operators must also adhere to certain regulations and be licensed by the New York State Gaming Commission specifically to be considered fully legitimate.
Please note that these sports betting regulations do not legalize online casino betting, which remains illegal at the time of writing, although there is plenty of hope that may change sooner rather than later.
A Timeline for Retail and Online Sports Betting in New York
1967 – The New York Lottery begins again, marking the beginning of modern gambling history in the state. While the origins of betting in New York actually date back to the lotteries of Jamestown in the 1600s, the Big Apple actually became the first state to ban them in 1833. This is when the city welcomed back gambling after centuries and paved the way for the options we see today.
1970 – Off-track betting – that is, the sanctioned wagering on racing (either greyhound or horse) outside an actual race track – becomes the first form of sports betting legal in the state of New York.
2013 – New York decides to officially legalize sports betting on a state level. However, sports betting was broadly illegal on a federal level due to the passing of the “Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act” (PASPA) in 1992. What this therefore meant was that sports betting in New York would be legal automatically if the federal ban were lifted.
2018 – PASPA is finally overturned on May 14th, 2018, doing away with any federal restrictions on sports betting.
2019 – The first fruits of the change in the law are seen with the opening of The River Sports at Rivers Casino on July 16th, 2019 in Schenectady. Many more have since followed
2022 – In January of this year, the first sportsbook in New York was expected to go online legally. However, the COVID-19 pandemic delayed things, meaning the New York Gaming Commission spent 2021 finalizing regulations, rules, and licensing criteria before launch day could finally go ahead.
2023 – By the end of the year, New York ranked third all-time in total sports betting handle across the US having collected the most taxes ($1.5b more than any other state) across the country. The state regularly topped $1bn in monthly sports betting handle.
2024 – Fanatics sportsbook becomes the ninth online sportsbook to launch in New York.
Sports Betting Revenue and Taxation in New York
Taxes on New York sports betting are debated regularly, owing to the 51% tax rate on businesses for gross gaming revenue.
While there’s a strong possibility that things could change for sportsbooks, the individual tax rate is much more likely to remain stable.
Presently, there are two tax rates you need to be aware of: a federal tax rate of 24%, and an additional state tax based on your annual income.
The tax rate for single New Yorkers, or those who file individually, are as follows at the time of writing:
Earnings | Taxation Rate |
---|---|
$8,500 or under | 4% |
$8,501 – $11,700 | 4.5% |
$11,701 – $13,900 | 5.25% |
$13,901 – $21,400 | 5.90% |
$21,401 – $80,650 | 6.09% |
$80,651 – $215,400 | 6.41% |
$215,401 – $1,077,550 | 6.85% |
More than $1,077,550 | 8.82% |
Do note that that this may differ for married couples filing jointly, and that you are only required to pay the tax rate above the minimum amount of that earnings bracket.
For example, you only pay 4.5% between the amount earned between $8,501 and $11,700, and anything earned less than that is charged at 4%. Winnings are to be reported via a W-2 F form, and you may deduct gambling losses if you itemize them on your tax returns.
The fairly hefty tax rates does often lead to impressive revenue hauls, and in May 2024, for the first time in over a year, New York’s sports betting revenue topped $200m.
Top Online Sportsbooks Reviewed
All three sites listed below get top marks from us. What will make the difference for you is how well they suit your own betting preferences. Remember too, whether it’s to sample more promotional goodies or to just utilize more betting options, you can also sign up to more than one without consequence.
DraftKings: A Site of Betting Greatness
DraftKings provide an astounding betting variety without ever dropping in quality.
This means, for instance, that they are both an industry leader in fantasy as well as traditional sports.
Their daily fantasy sportsbook has new, exciting and creative contests every day, and you don’t even need to finish first to win. In a nutshell, this bookmaker offers the most personalized version of fantasy gaming online, to the highest standards.
When it comes to traditional sports, you have a fantastic mix of classic American sports leagues favorites covered, like the Super Bowl and NBA Finals, alongside more obscure and international options. The latter covers everything from darts to lacrosse, and MMA fans can find a home here.
In addition, you'll find exciting live markets backed up by sturdy technical performance. All this is further sweetened by lucrative promotional offers, which can provide odds boosts and parlay bonuses, to mention just a couple of examples.
- Fun, creative and accessible fantasy gaming
- Equally excellent traditional sportsbook markets
- International and American markets amply provided for
- Promotions could be for broader range of global options
BetMGM: Superb Choice for Newcomers
Those new to betting online often prioritize useability at the forefront of everything in order to make the most of what’s being offered. If you consider simplicity to be key, then look no further than BetMGM.
The site's slick and mature appearance reflect the operator's confident, professionally crafted experience, but also one with a soft side. Both the app and desktop site are impeccably designed, making navigation a breeze from registration all the way to withdrawing your winnings.
And don’t just take our word for it – BetMGM are one of the most critically acclaimed sports operators in the world, with an astonishingly high score of up to 4.8 (at the time of writing) on the app stores.
This all provides the perfect platform for their terrific, odds generous selection of US-focused markets. Even these go above and beyond in the user experience, offering pre-made parlays for you to check out. Beyond a simple sportsbook, BetMGM is a sports betting experience.
- Suitable for all kinds of bettors
- Terrific mobile betting options
- Pre-made parlays
- Some popular European markets not available
- Conservative appearance not for everyone
FanDuel: Jack-of-All-Trades
If DraftKings are No.1 when it comes to balancing out traditional sports wagering with the imaginative world of fantasy betting, then the awesome FanDuel are No.1A. They are superb at what they do, and bring so much creative, fun betting opportunities to New York sports betting fans.
FanDuel stands out for providing fantasy contests exclusively for beginners, and guiding you through that process as well. This means you are given an entertaining and affordable way of getting started. Afterwards, you can even take advantage of the many options they have via daily and weekly contests.
On top of this, they offer a fantastic array of traditional sports, with horse racing and UFC markets being a couple of unexpected highlights. Above and beyond too are their FanDuel TV services, which supplements their place as a great live betting site with 3000 hours of live sport. They even provide exclusive news, picks, and predictions.
All the fundamentals are covered here too, with a secure and trustworthy reputation, bolstered by fair terms and accessible, helpful customer service. Everything including the banking process is a straightforward and stress-free experience.
To sum up, FanDuel get all the important things right and then some.
- Fantasy betting suitable for beginners and experts alike
- Extensive, varied sports coverage
- Great horse racing bookmaker
- Two apps are required
Best Sports Betting Apps in New York
If you’re a New York sports bettor who enjoys placing wagers on the go, here’s why our recommendations are ace on mobile too.
DraftKings
DraftKings boast an acclaimed mobile experience, supported by positive user reviews on Google Play and the App Store. What's notable here is that this level of praise is exceptional in the divisive world of New York sports betting.
Customers particularly appreciate the technical performance and extensive betting options available on the platform. Highlights include a seamless and user-friendly experience, encompassing fantasy gaming options and a wide range of American sports markets. The competitions and promotions are of high quality, ensuring an uncompromised experience.
BetMGM
Just as beloved are the betting apps offered by BetMGM sportsbook, again available on iOS and Android. All the big hitting American markets are here including football, baseball and basketball, with an immense amount of betting depth. They are especially great when it comes to parlay bets, which easily to locate and utilize on mobile.
What makes BetMGM so special generally is the inviting and user-friendly design. In fact, we think the super intuitive, cleverly designed, small-screen version may even have the edge on its desktop bigger brother. And, with daily boosted bets, fantastic live betting lines, and immense market depth, there’s plenty of reasons quickly check out what’s going on.
FanDuel
The colorful looks of FanDuel are incorporated in two separate apps for traditional sports and fantasy betting. Each is positively bursting at the seams with opportunities, whether it’s a fantasy betting selection for esports or a great set of markets on a golf tournament.
Substance and style go hand in hand here, complete with great customer service, regularly updated promotions and top-notch security features.
New York Sports Betting Promotions
Every site we have recommended in this article offers a dynamic range of promotions, ensuring a consistently fresh and exciting experience.
Below is just a taster of what you can expect. Bear in mind, however, that online betting bonuses are always subject to change, so it's a good idea to check back with your chosen bookmaker frequently to remain updated with what's available.
DraftKings are well-known for their promotional generosity and creativity, with their new customer offer granting the opportunity to win $150 for a mere 5 buck wager. Simply deposit $5, go into your profile, and place a bet for that amount. If it wins, you’ll not only get your winnings, but also six $25 bonus bets with a week time limit on each.
Meanwhile, FanDuel offers a sociable and generous refer-a-friend bonus. If you send a friend an invite link to the site, you and a friend can win $50 – as long as your friend makes a $10 bet within 30 days of signing up. You will receive the money within 72 hours.
Nothing beats a generous welcome bonus, and BetMGM certainly excels in this aspect. Theirs is a first bet offer of up to $1000, where if your initial bet doesn't win, you receive the money back as a free bet.
How Can I Sign-up for New York Sports Betting Sites?
New York sports bettors certainly aren’t short of options. There’s an array of retail locations to check out, with multiple online operators also now functioning in the state.
There aren’t too many limitations to betting in New York. You must be 21+, however.
Pick one of the available online sportsbooks operating in New York.
Download the bookmaker’s mobile app via the App Store or Google Play (iOS/Android).
You’ll be able to create a betting account if you’re 21 or over.
The bookmaker in question will have an array of payment options available, so depositing funds and taking advantage of their new customer offer shouldn’t be an issue.
Start placing sports wagers!
New York Sports Betting Laws and Regulations
New York didn’t immediately legalize sports betting following the overturning of PASPA in 2018, meaning many New York-based sports bettors turned to the neighbouring New Jersey as a means of getting their gambling fix. Retail sportsbooks did open their doors in 2019, but the majority were located upstate and away from the densely populated New York City.
However, in April 2021, Governor Andrew Cuomo signed online sports betting into state law with online sports betting emerging at the start of 2022.
Nine sportsbooks subsequently launched in the Empire State, with each agreeing to pay 51% of their New York sports betting revenues in taxes.
You must be 21+ to place bets, with the law prohibiting bettors to place bets on New York high-school matches, as well as matches including New York collegiate teams.
Election betting is also prohibited, as is wagering on entertainment markets such as the Oscars.
Legal Sports Betting Operators in New York
The US’ premier sportsbooks entered the Big Apple in 2022, with a total of nine bookmakers currently operating in the state of New York. Fanatics was the most recent sportsbook to open its doors in February 2024. New York sports bettors can download the respective mobile apps of these bookmakers, or place bets at 11 retail locations in the state.
Online Sportsbooks in New York
Online Sportsbook | Debut | Licensing Partner |
---|---|---|
Fantics | February 2024 | – |
Caesars | January 2022 | Points Place Casino |
DrfatKings | January 2022 | Del Lago Place Casino |
FanDuel | January 2022 | Tioga Downs |
BetRivers | January 2022 | Rivers Casino & Resort |
BetMGM | January 2022 | – |
WynnBet | February 2022 | – |
Resorts World Bet | March 2022 | – |
Bally Bet | July 2022 | – |
Land-based Sportsbooks in New York
Venue | Address | Sports Betting | Online Betting | Off-track Betting |
---|---|---|---|---|
Del Lago Resort and Casino | 1133 NY-414 Waterloo, NY 13165 | Yes | Yes | No |
Tiogo Downs Casino Resort | 2384 W River Rd Nichols, NY 13812 | Yes | Yes | No |
Rivers Casino & Resort | 1 Rush St Schenectady, NY 12305 | Yes | Yes | No |
Resorts World Catskills | 888 Resorts World Dr Monticello, NY 12701 | Yes | Yes | No |
Seneca Allegany Casino | 777 Seneca Allegany Blvd Salamanca, NY 14779 | Yes | Yes | No |
Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino | 1 Fulton St Buffalo, NY 14204 | Yes | Yes | No |
Seneca Niagara Casino | 310 4th St Niagara Falls, NY 14303 | Yes | Yes | No |
Akwesasne Mohawk Casino Resort | 873 NY-37 Hogansburg, NY 13655 | Yes | Yes | No |
Point Place Casino | 450 452 NY-31 Bridgeport, NY 13030 | Yes | Yes | No |
Turning Stone Resort Casino | 5218 Patrick Rd Verona, NY 13478 | Yes | Yes | No |
Yellow Brick Road Casino | 800 W Genesee St Chittenango, NY 13037 | Yes | Yes | No |
Best Local Sports Teams to Bet on in New York
New York is home to some of the most passionately supported franchises in the US across multiple sports, but such popularity hasn’t translated over to success.
There are two NFL franchises in the state, although both the Giants and Jets play their home games at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey. The Jets are regarded as the laughing stock of the NFL having failed to win a title since the 60s, while the venerated Giants are four-time Super Bowl champions. In 2008, they pulled off the greatest upset arguably in the sport’s history by downing the unbeaten New England Patriots in Super Bowl 42.
The New York Knicks are just two-time NBA champions with their last title arriving in 1973. They enjoyed a successful era while Patrick Ewing was in town, too, but no title followed. The Brooklyn Nets are yet to win a championship.
The MLB’s Yankees are by far and away the most successful New York sports team, claiming a whopping 27 World Series wins – the most of any franchise. The Mets have two title triumphs having reached five World Series’.
New York’s ice hockey franchises – the Devils, Islanders, and Rangers – have combined for 11 Stanley Cups. Success, however, has been sparse in modern times for the Islanders and Rangers.
Soccer lovers have two franchises in the MLS, too, with the New York Red Bulls being joined by NYFC in America’s top-flight. Thierry Henry, Andrea Pirlo, Frank Lampard, and David Villa are among the superstars to have plied their trade in New York.
New York Sports Betting Facts
Live since | 2022 |
Legal Age | 21 |
Retail sports betting | Yes |
Online Sports Betting | Yes |
eSports wagering | Not legal but heavily regulated |
College sports wagering | No |
Mobile sports betting | Yes |
Taxable winnings | 12.7% |
Geo-location | Yes |
Managing body | New York Gaming Commission |
New York Sports Betting Handle
New York generates an obscene amount in sports betting revenue thanks to their high tax rate. The state is also one of the biggest for sports betting in the country. With several premier bookmakers operating in the Empire State, New York is able to generate huge monthly handle hauls.
Only its neighbour, sports betting juggernaut New Jersey ($50.9bn), has generated a greater all-time handle than New York ($43.4bn). NJ opened its doors to online sports betting years four years before NY, with the latter poised to soon emerge as the US’ biggest sports betting state.
In 2023, New York topped $1bn monthly handles in 11 out of the 12 months and consistently smashed $2bn towards the end of the year. In May 2024, New York mobile sports betting handle was listed at $1.97bn – a 45.9% increase from May 2023 and the highest haul since November 2023.
Responsible Gambling in New York
The New York State places a heavy emphasis on responsible gambling, with state authorities having multiple programs in place to mitigate against and prevent problem gambling.
The New York State Gaming Commission play a major role on the responsible gambling front, as does the New York Council on Problem Gambling. The latter’s website is jam-packed with information and invaluable resources for anyone in need of help. Recovery Month, Problem Gambling Awareness Month, KNOWTHEODDS, and TALK2KIDS are among the initiatives they run.
Popular Types of Bets
Top sports betting operators in New York provide a vast array of betting markets, catering to diverse interests, even the most niche ones. If you need inspiration for your next bet, our below list will certainly be of help.
World Cup Winner
While New York state has a healthy love of the great American sports – NBA, NFL, and MLB all spring to mind as top sports leagues – they are also a city of international tastes, even in the sporting world.
Soccer and the Big Apple have long enjoyed a love affair that's over a century old, showcased today with teams like the New York Red Bulls and New York City FC, both major players in the Eastern Conference of the MLS. And what better way to celebrate this than by getting invested in the biggest soccer event of them all, the World Cup?
Betting on a winner is a great way of getting invested in all areas of the tournament, ideal if you’re not necessarily familiar with all the teams. This is especially true when you consider that all but the very favorites offer decent enough odds to enjoy a sizable return with small bet. And you could always back the USA, if you feel patriotic and fancy the long odds.
Picking A Fantasy Betting Team
,Do note that we did say different types of betting and not necessarily traditional betting markets. That’s because we think it’s fair to say, especially considering the top operators in the state, that fantasy betting is extremely popular in New York.
The basics of this come down to you picking a fantasy sports team with points accumulated based on various statistics. It can be on all kinds of sports and be determined on all sorts of factors, allowing you to pick your own adventure.
Over/Under Betting Markets
If the odds don’t suit or you don’t feel much interest can be garnered from traditional winner markets, over/under betting markets may be the perfect alternative you're looking for.
The principle here couldn’t be simpler. You bet on whether a certain variable will be over or under an amount set out by the bookmaker. What's more, New Yorkers love baseball, and there’s no sport better suited for this type of wager. Here, you bet on whether the overall score will be over or under a certain amount or runs, meaning you can actually bet on the kind of game you think is going to be played, rather than picking a winner.
New York Yankees vs Boston Red Sox Winner
If you’re talking about New York sports betting, we’ve got to talk about baseball, and if we’re talking about baseball, how could we fail to mention the historic rivalry between the New York Yankees and the Boston Red Sox? They have competed over 120 seasons and look to continue so long as the sports exists, which provides plenty of opportunity to cast your bets on the next epic showdown.
And if you’re a proud New Yorker, we’re willing to guess we know who you’re going to pick. However, if you think your home team might struggle one game, do consider alternative markets like the above over/under markets suggested.
NBA Finals
New York also loves basketball and this market highlights the culmination of everything which makes the sport great. You can also go about picking a winner two ways; either backing a team early for longer odds, or waiting until the match itself.
And if the New York Knicks don’t make it, a smart betting strategy may help provide interest in the rival teams. Plus, if you win, that’s bound to take the sting out of any season.
States Where it is Legal to Bet on Sports
The change in the law in 2018 did not just affect New York state, but the entire country. Of course, many states in the USA decided they did not want legalized betting, or are still stuck within that legislative process.
Below is a list of states that have chosen to legally provide sports betting at the time of writing.
Do note, though, that each has its own legal caveats, much like how New York bans in-state betting on college teams. If you wish to (and are able to) bet in another state, do be sure to check the individual laws and licenses in that jurisdiction.
ThePuntersPage Final Say
Considering that New York has one of the most passionate and important sporting cultures in the United States, and that they set the wheels in motion for legalization long before the 2018 overturn ever looked likely, the expectations for New York sports betting when it arrived online were astronomical.
We may only still be relatively early on down the track, but we’d say you already can expect both high standards and betting variety as strong as any alternative.
New York Sports Betting FAQs
Online sports betting has been legal in New York since January 2022 with nine online sportsbooks now operating in the state.
Sports betting was legalized in New York in April 2021.
The nine sportsbooks currently operating in New York are: BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars, BetRivers, Fanatics, WynnBET, Resorts World Bet, and Bally Bet.
Fanatics Sportsbook is the latest sportsbook to begin operations in the state, doing so in February 2024.
FanDuel’s mobile app launched in New York in January 2022 and has gone on to emerge as the state’s most popular bookmaker.
There are currently nine live betting apps which work in New York, including FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM.