Massachusetts Online Sports Betting Sites

Find the best online sportsbooks in MA and learn about betting laws in The Bay State

Hero image
#1 Best overall
betus_sportsbook
5 stars
125% up to $3,125

5

Overall Rating

19

Top features:

  • One of the biggest sports bonuses
  • 10x bonus wagering requirement
  • Parlay builder for complex bets

What we like:

  • Accepts all major cryptos
  • Online since 1994
  • Teasers and if bets
#1 Best overall
betus_sportsbook
5 stars

Bonus:

125% up to $3,125

Top features:

  • One of the biggest sports bonuses
  • 10x bonus wagering requirement
  • Parlay builder for complex bets

Bonus:

125% up to $3,125

5

5 stars
19

What we like:

  • Accepts all major cryptos
  • Online since 1994
  • Teasers and if bets
#2 Recurring promos
betonline_sportsbook
4.5 stars
50% up to $1,000

4.5

Overall Rating

25

Top features:

  • More than 20 sports to bet on
  • Excellent odds for US bettors
  • Deposit with 16+ cryptocurrencies

What we like:

  • Bitcoin boost and risk-free prop
  • Responsive mobile betting app
  • 22+ years on the market
#2 Recurring promos
betonline_sportsbook
4.5 stars

Bonus:

50% up to $1,000
#2 Recurring promos

Top features:

  • More than 20 sports to bet on
  • Excellent odds for US bettors
  • Deposit with 16+ cryptocurrencies

Bonus:

50% up to $1,000

4.5

4.5 stars
25

What we like:

  • Bitcoin boost and risk-free prop
  • Responsive mobile betting app
  • 22+ years on the market
#3 Best mobile app
bovada_sportsbook
4 stars
50% up to $250

4

Overall Rating

15

Top features:

  • Live sports streams in HD
  • Great in-game betting features
  • Multiple cryptos supported

What we like:

  • Excellent native mobile app
  • 5x bonus playthrough
  • Online since 2011
#3 Best mobile app
bovada_sportsbook
4 stars

Bonus:

50% up to $250
#3 Best mobile app

Top features:

  • Live sports streams in HD
  • Great in-game betting features
  • Multiple cryptos supported

Bonus:

50% up to $250

4

4 stars
15

What we like:

  • Excellent native mobile app
  • 5x bonus playthrough
  • Online since 2011

Key Things You Need to Know

  • Massachusetts online sports betting is legal but will not be live until March 10, 2023, at the earliest.
  • So far, 11 online sportsbooks have been licensed to launch ahead of the tentative launch date in March.
  • Retail sports betting in Massachusetts has been available since January 31, 2023.
  • In-state college betting via legal sportsbooks is banned.
  • Massachusetts bettors can still grab the March Madness betting action, including in-state college betting, via the top offshore sportsbooks.

List of the Top Online Sportsbooks in Massachusetts

  • BetUS – Best overall online sportsbook
  • BetOnline – Best for recurring sports promotions
  • Bovada – Best native betting app

Reviews of the Top Three Massachusetts Betting Sites

We chose these top Massachusetts real-money betting sites based on the best bonuses and market coverage.

BetUS – Best Massachusetts Market Coverage

BetUS is our top pick for online betting in Massachusetts in 2023. This offshore sportsbook site is owned by Firepower Trading Ltd. and is licensed by Curacao eGaming Authority. This trusted brand has been operating in Massachusetts since 1994.

Top Feature

The BetUS Loyalty Program is the top feature we found on this site. This six-tier program starts at Blue and goes all the way up to Black, where you qualify for a 10% bonus on deposits. For every real-money wager you place, you move up through the loyalty program.

Each month, you receive an exclusive invitation to the Loyalty Program Tournament of your tier. The best part is that the prizes won through these tournaments are yours; there’s no rollover attached to these real-money prizes.

Welcome Promotions

BetUS bonus

BetUS unveils a 100% up to $2,500 sports welcome bonus – the best online sportsbook bonus in Massachusetts. The minimum requirement to claim this bonus is $100. This bonus carries a 10x rollover and expires after 14 days. Use the code JOIN125 to claim this generous welcome bonus offer.

Other Promotions

Other promotions at BetUS include a 150% casino sign-up bonus of up to $3,000 on your first deposit and a 150% sign-up crypto sportsbook bonus of up to $3,750.

Sports Betting Markets

As one of the first-ever online sportsbooks for US-specific bettors, BetUS allows betting action on every sporting event in the USA. So, whether you want to bet on professional football, basketball, or baseball, or you’re more into March Madness betting, BetUS has you covered. You can even bet on politics and international sporting events on this top Massachusetts site.

Banking Methods

BetUS allows a decent mix of banking options, including 10 deposit methods. You can deposit using Visa, Mastercard, wire transfer, Google Pay, Apple Pay, and several cryptocurrencies. However, currently, Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ethereum, and Litecoin are the only four withdrawal methods available.

We want the operator to include some more payout options to facilitate more Massachusetts sports bettors. The minimum deposit requirement at BetUS is $10, and you can deposit up to $50,000 via cryptocurrencies.

Bovada – Best NFL Betting Site in Massachusetts

Bovada has been the third-largest online sportsbook in Massachusetts since it went live in 2011. This Canada-based site is owned by the Mohawk Morris Gaming Group and operates on a Curacao license.

Top Feature

Bovada’s prop builder tool for the NFL is the best feature of this site. This feature enables you to have customized props, building your own props quickly and easily. In addition, you have a choice of thousands of prop bets, all with a live betting calculator showing how much you can win for every added variable you put into the mix.

Welcome Promotions

Bovada Crypto Sports Welcome Bonus

Bovada’s 50% sports welcome bonus allows you to get up to $250 on your first deposit. The minimum deposit required to claim this bonus is $20. This bonus carries a 5x wagering requirement.

A more exciting welcome promotion is reserved for Massachusetts players who make a crypto deposit at Bovada. You can grab this 75% up to $750 crypto match bonus by depositing with Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Bitcoin SV Deposit, Litecoin, or USDT. Use the bonus code BTCSWB750 to activate this one-time offer.

Other Promotions

Other promotions at Bovada include a $3,000 casino welcome bonus, and a 100% poker welcome bonus of up to $500.

Sports Betting Markets

Bovada offers wager opportunities on just about every significant sports betting event in the USA. You can find the major sports in the ‘Sports‘ section, where all the live and upcoming events are listed. Currently, NBA, college basketball, NHL, UFC Fight Night, and England Premier League are trending. However, you can find your favorite sporting action in the ‘All Sports (A-Z)’ section, where events are listed alphabetically.

Banking Methods

Bovada allows eight deposit methods, including Visa, Mastercard, and a handful of cryptos. The seven withdrawal methods include cryptos and check by courier. However, the inclusion of MatchPay is a standout feature, making Bovada the only operator to allow e-wallet methods in Massachusetts.

The only thing we didn’t like about Bovada is that it charges an exorbitant 15.9% fee on credit card deposits. However, it makes up for it by offering no fees on crypto deposits.

The minimum deposit requirement at Bovada is $5, and the maximum limit is $5,000 via crypto deposits.

MyBookie – Best MA Site for Live Betting

MyBookie is a highly respected sportsbook serving sports enthusiasts since its establishment in 2014. It’s licensed in Curacao and ensures it operates under strict regulations, making it a trustworthy platform for your betting needs in Massachusetts.

Top Feature

MyBookie’s ongoing contests are a standout feature for Massachusetts sports enthusiasts. Currently, it offers ‘Squares,’ a thrilling contest where you can select your NFL or NCAAF and stand a chance to win huge cash prizes.

Welcome Promotions

MyBookie offers two exciting welcome promotions, including a 50% up to $1,000. Anyone depositing a minimum of $50 or more will qualify for this top bonus with a 30-day expiry. Use promo code MYB50 and clear the 10x rollover attached to this.

This top MA site also offers another deposit bonus – a 10% up to $200. This bonus has a very moderate 1x rollover requirement. Use promo code 200CASH and make at least $45 to get this bonus.

Mybookie sportsbook lobby

Other Promotions

Other MyBookie promotions for existing customers include a 25% up to $1,000 sports reload bonus. This ongoing promo has a 6x rollover and a minimum deposit requirement of $100. Use MYB25 to get this exciting offer.

You can also get a 200% Referral Bonus up to $200 every time you successfully invite a friend to this prestigious MA betting site.

Sports Betting Markets

MyBookie offers extensive coverage of various sports, including NFL football, college football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and horse racing.

Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned bettor, you’ll appreciate the comprehensive betting options, such as moneylines, props, parlays, futures, prop bets, and live in-play betting.

Banking Methods

MyBookie features 13 deposits and three withdrawal options. Traditional options like credit cards and MoneyGram are available, but if you prefer using cryptocurrencies, you’ll be pleased to know that MyBookie accepts Bitcoin and Litecoin. Start betting for as low as $20 using these crypto methods.

Best Sports Betting Promotions in Massachusetts

All these sports betting promotions are up for grabs on our top Massachusetts sports betting sites.

Risk-Free Bets

A risk-free bet is a promotion where your sportsbook will refund your initial bet if you lose it. The funds usually come in the form of site credits or free bonus bets.

For example, top Massachusetts sportsbooks such as BetUS offer up to $500 in a risk-free bet on your first qualifying real money bet.

Deposit Match

A deposit match is where the site will match a percentage of the initial amount you deposited at the time of the sign-up. This percentage may vary from 50% to 100% with traditional deposits but can go up to 150% to 200% with crypto deposits.

For example, BetUS offers a 100% sports welcome bonus of up to $2,500. So, if you make an initial deposit of $2,500, the top Massachusetts sportsbook will award you an additional $2,500, meaning you end up with $5,000.

Odds Boosts

Reputed online bookmakers regularly feature odds boosts to their customers on certain wager types and markets. These boosted odds, or better odds, help you get an additional payout for the bets you place.

For example, BetOnline’s odds boosters will boost the odds of your MLB team winning the World Series. So, if the current odds for your Boston Red Sox are +500, with BetOnline’s boosted odds, the odds will be +800.

Parlay Insurance

Parlay insurance is a great promotion that allows you to place parlay bets more confidently. The way this promotion works is that if one of your parlay legs misses hitting, you receive a refund. You must hit all the legs (individual wagers) to pay out in standard parlay betting.

Referral Bonus

A referral bonus is a way your sportsbook returns a favor in exchange for promoting its brand. It’s a great way to earn free dollars in site credits to tell your friends about your Massachusetts sportsbook and encourage them to join.

For example, BetUS offers a 100% refer-a-friend for up to $2,000. So, all you need is to refer your friends and those who haven’t joined the site to BetUS.com.pa. You will be rewarded after they make their first deposit.

How to Sign Up with the Best Massachusetts Sportsbook App

Joining a Massachusetts sports betting site is easy and takes no longer than a few minutes. We will use BetUS to show how you can join the best Massachusetts sportsbook applications in a three-step process.

Step 1: Create an Account

Go to the BetUS sportsbook site and click on the ‘Join‘ icon on the top right-hand side. Then fill out the registration page to create your online sportsbook account.

BetUS Register Your Account

Make a Deposit and Enter Bonus Code

The next step is to make a deposit. Click on the ‘Deposit‘ icon once you create your account and choose your preferred deposit option.

Deposit Funds via BetUS Account

Choose a Sport/Game and Play for Real Money

The fun part begins now: Go to the ‘Sportsbook‘ section on the top left of your screen and pick one of your favorite sports/events, choose a bet amount, and bet online for real money.

Legal Online Sports Betting in Massachusetts

Thanks to the recent legalization, online wagering in Massachusetts is legal. However, as we write this review in mid-February 2023, only retail sports betting is available as legal online sports betting has yet to be launched. The tentative date to launch Massachusetts online sports betting is March 10, 2023.

However, in-person sports betting has been operational since January 31, 2023, with three retail sportsbooks kicking off legal Massachusetts sports gambling. There are also poker sites for Massachusettes residents.

Massachusetts Sports Betting Law

The Massachusetts Sports Wagering Act includes the following features:

  • A 20% tax for online sports wagering and a 15% tax rate for retail wagering.
  • Casinos and racetracks qualify for sports betting licenses.
  • The law authorizes 15 mobile licenses – 8 tethered to a land-based partner and 7 by competitive bids.
  • In-state college teams (except when they’re playing in tournaments) will not be available for wagers.

Massachusetts Sports Betting Licenses

The law creates three types of licenses for Massachusetts sports betting:

  • Category 1 (retail with mobile partners): Category 1 sports wagering operators can operate in-person wagering at their facilities and up to two mobile skins. The mobile operator tethered to a Category 1 license will be licensed as a Category 3 sports wagering operator.
  • Category 2 (racing retail): This category allows sports betting operations at venues that either conduct live horse racing or simulcast wagering on horse or greyhound racing, for example, Raynham Park Simulcast Center and Suffolk Downs.
  • Category 3 (mobile): This category permits the operation of sports betting via a mobile betting site and other digital platforms approved by the regulator. The law allows the MGC to give no more than seven stand-alone Category 3 licenses. The standalone licenses are in addition to the eight Category 3 licenses attached to the Category 1 license.

When Will Massachusetts Sports Betting Launch?

Online sports betting in Massachusetts has a tentative launch date: March 10, 2023.

During a regulator’s meeting on February 9, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission‘s (MGC) executive director proposed a tentative launch date for online MA sportsbook applications for March 10 at 10 a.m. If it happens, residents will be able to bet on the NCAA tournament (or March Madness), which begins on March 14.

The MGC’s Karen Wells told the commissioners to launch on March 10 because it will give them the weekend if there are any issues before the NCAA tournament starts. Then, the commission could have a meeting on March 13 if there are any issues before the big tournament kicks off.

Potential Massachusetts Online Sportsbooks Available on the Launch Day

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission approved 11 online sports betting licenses.

The approved Massachusetts mobile sports betting apps are Bally Bet, BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars Sportsbook, PointsBet, Barstool Sportsbook, Betr, BetFanatics, Betway, and WynnBET.

Except for Betway, all 10 mobile betting sites are prepared to go live on the launch day. The UK-based betting company told the MGC that it would not be ready to offer mobile sports betting immediately when legal online betting goes live in the Bay State.

Massachusetts Legal Sports Betting Finally Becomes a Reality After 5 Years of Efforts

On August 22, 2022, Gov. Charlie Baker signed into law House Bill 5164, a culmination of five years of legislative efforts to legalize sports betting in the Bay State.

The Republican governor and the Democrat-controlled legislature have pushed dozens of sports betting bills in the past since the Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) of 1992. They finally agreed on a sports betting bill in the final moments of the 2022 session.

After the Senate voted 36-4 to legalize sports betting on August 1, House Speaker Ron Mariano announced the historic agreement:

“I am proud to announce that the Sports Betting Conference Committee has reached an agreement on legislation that will legalize wagering on professional and collegiate sports in Massachusetts, bringing the immense economic benefits of a legal sports betting industry to MA”.

College sports betting, the tax rate, and the number of sports betting licenses were the major reasons that delayed legal sports betting in Bay State for so long.

Massachusetts Sen. Eileen Donoghue introduced the first sports betting bill in the state’s history in January 2018, months before the PASPA annulment. However, the proposal never gained much traction.

Massachusetts Sports Betting Goes Live

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission officially launched retail sports betting on January 31, 2023. Three casinos – Encore Boston Harbor, Plainridge Park Casino, and MGM Springfield – launched their retail sportsbooks to offer in-person sports betting.

The Massachusetts retail sports betting launched in time for the Super Bowl, which was scheduled for February 12. The legal sports betting launch was one of the quickest launches in the nation. The decision to launch retail wagering came six months after the state lawmakers legalized sports betting on August 1.

Support and Opposition of Massachusetts Sports Betting

There was no organized opposition to sports betting legislation in Massachusetts. All major sports franchises, casinos, state house lawmakers, and Gov. Charlie Baker supported legal betting.

However, some state senators feared that easier access to sports gambling in Massachusetts could put residents at risk of losing their money. The Massachusetts House voted to legalize sports betting twice in 2020 and 2021, but it never emerged in the upper chamber for public debate.

In addition, the most prominent Massachusetts universities also opposed college sports betting in the state. Eventually, in-state college betting did not make the final bill, HB 5164, which legalized online betting in Massachusetts.

Who Regulates Online Sports Betting in Massachusetts?

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) is empowered to regulate the sports betting industry, both retail and online. The five-member commission is also responsible for selecting, licensing, regulating, and implementing the expanding sports gambling laws.

What is the Minimum Age for Online Sports Betting?

The minimum legal age to place a bet in Massachusetts is 21. However, our top three offshore sites accept Massachusetts bettors aged 18 and above.

Is it Safe to Use an Offshore Sportsbook in Massachusetts?

It depends on the site you choose. Many new offshore sites are not safe to join, and they are soon to be flagged. We recommend you pick the best offshore sites for secure online betting in Massachusetts. The three Massachusetts sportsbook sites we reviewed above offer the best bonuses, best competitive odds, and quickest payouts.

A History of Sports Betting in Massachusetts

The history of Massachusetts sports betting dates back to months before the US Supreme Court struck down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) in May 2018. We will summarize the five years of Massachusetts sports betting history in this bulleted section:

  • February 15, 2023: The Massachusetts Gaming Commission reports $510,948 in sports betting handle on the first day betting launched on January 31. 2023.
  • February 9, 2023: The executive director of the MGC, Karen Walls, gives a tentative date for the Massachusetts online sports betting launch to occur on March 10, 2023.
  • February 8, 2023: Encore Boston Harbor and Plainridge Park Casino are reported to accept wagers on in-state college basketball teams against state law.
  • January 31, 2023: Retail sports betting launches at 10:00 a.m. ET. Springfield Mayor Domenic Sarno and Boston hockey legend Ray Bourque place the first wager at BetMGM Sportsbook & Lounge at MGM Springfield.
  • January 25, 2023: The Massachusetts Gaming Commission approves the proposed sports betting catalog. It includes major league drafts, major league award shows, and the 2023 Oscars, Emmys, and Nathan’s Hot Dog Eating Contest.
  • January 23, 2023: Caesars Sportsbook and Raynham Park announce a sports betting partnership, marking Caesars’ first retail sports betting presence in Massachusetts.
  • January 19, 2023: The MGC votes to award temporary standalone Category 3 sports betting licenses to Bally Bet, DraftKings, FanDuel, PointsBet, Betr Holdings, and Betway.
  • January 4, 2023: Barstool Sportsbook gets a Category 3 sports betting license in Massachusetts.
  • December 13, 2022: The MGC unanimously approves WynBETT for the state’s first Category 3 mobile sports betting license.
  • August 10, 2022: Gov. Charlie Baker signs Massachusetts sports betting bill into law.
  • August 1, 2022: Massachusetts Senate votes 36-4 to accept the sports betting deal in the state.
  • July 22, 2021: Massachusetts House passes the sports betting bill 156-3.
  • July 29, 2020: The state house approves a $459 million economic development bill that includes the legalization of sports betting.
  • January 24, 2018: Sen. Eileen Donoghue proposes a bill to conduct a comprehensive study on legalizing sports betting if the Supreme Court strikes down PASPA.

Online Sportsbooks Licensed in Massachusetts

So far, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission has awarded a total of 11 online sportsbook licenses. The law allows up to 15.

Eight of those licenses must be tethered to the retail partners. Seven untethered permits are also up for grabs. Here are those 11 online sportsbooks licensed in Massachusetts:

Online Sportsbook: Land-Based Partner (if not untethered)

  • Bally Bet: untethered
  • BetMGM: MGM Springfield
  • DraftKings: untethered
  • FanDuel: untethered
  • Caesars Sportsbook: Encore Boston Harbor Casino
  • Barstool Sportsbook: Plainridge Park Casino
  • Betway: untethered
  • PointsBet: untethered
  • WynnBET: Encore Boston Harbor Casino
  • Betr: untethered
  • Fanatics: Plainridge Park Casino

Mobile Sports Betting Sites in Massachusetts

All our recommended Massachusetts sports betting sites are specifically designed for mobile betting. You just have to sign up to participate in mobile betting in Massachusetts.

Android Sports Betting

All our top three Massachusetts sports betting sites are optimized for Android sports betting. Instead of downloading an Android app, you can place an online bet directly from your Android phone or tablet using your normal browser. So, you can bet directly from your mobile/tablet browser, thus reducing the irritation of having to download regular software updates.

iOS Sports Betting

Our top Massachusetts sports betting sites are also ideally optimized for iOS sports bettors in Massachusetts without requiring an iOS mobile app. So, you can sign up with those sites using your Apple phone or iPad, place a bet on your favorite sport/event, and request a payout instantly, no matter whether you’re at home or anywhere in the state.

Massachusetts Retail Sportsbooks

Massachusetts regulators launched retail sports betting on January 31, 2023. Three retail sportsbooks were initially allowed to accept retail betting in the Bay State. Here are those retail sports betting operators with their locations:

  • Barstool Sportsbook at Plainridge Park Casino – 301 Washington St., Plainville, MA 02762
  • BetMGM Sportsbook at MGM Springfield – 1 MGM Wy., Springfield, MA 01103
  • WynnBET Sportsbook at Encore Boston Harbor – 1 Broadway, Everett, MA 02149

Why Play at an Offshore Sportsbook?

Playing at an offshore sportsbook has many advantages, which we will outline below:

  • Offshore sportsbooks have existed for decades in Massachusetts, and experienced platforms like BetUS and BetOnline offer huge promotions and bonuses. Legal Massachusetts sportsbooks, burdened by operating fees, cannot afford to give better bonuses.
  • Offshore sportsbooks also offer competitive odds and wider markets. In comparison, legal betting sites such as Caesars Sportsbook are subject to heavy regulatory controls. For example, the three retail sportsbooks in Massachusetts, which allowed bets on in-state college sports teams, are under scrutiny. Luckily, Massachusetts bettors looking to place hassle-free betting on in-state college sports or politics can do so via the top offshore sportsbooks we have reviewed above.
  • One of the biggest advantages of joining an offshore online sportsbook is that they allow crypto deposits. The ability to deposit and withdraw via Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies lets you bet online without revealing your identity. It is an ideal scenario for those Massachusetts bettors who want to enjoy online sports wagering without giving away their personal and financial details.

Sports Wagers in Massachusetts

All these online sports wagers are also available across our top three Massachusetts sports betting sites:

Moneyline

A moneyline bet is the simplest wager type involving mostly two outcomes, depending on the sport. In a case where two players or teams are listed on a moneyline bet, you will pick one to win the game. A favorite will be shown with a minus (-) sign, and an underdog will be represented with a plus (+) sign.

Parlays

A parlay bet is where your Massachusetts sportsbook will tie multiple bets to the same ticket. The purpose is to create a larger payout with a small amount. For example, if you want to wager $100 on the three-team baseball parlay with the Red Sox +150, Braves +100, and Tigers +203, if all three MLB teams win, the $100 bet earns you a whopping $1,515.

Totals

Also known as over/under, total betting is placed on a game’s total point or run scored by both teams in an event. You can bet on whether the combined score will be higher (over) or lower (under) than the one listed in your Massachusetts sportsbook.

For example, the Jets are +7 over/under 42, and the Patriots are -7.

You place a bet on “over 42 total points.” So, if the combined score of the Patriots and Jets is greater than 42 points, you will win the bet.

Points Spread

A point spread bet is placed on how much the favorite side will win by. A favorite team, represented by a minus sign, will have to win by the specified number or more for you to cash. The underdog, represented by a plus sign, will have to win or lose by less than the specified margin for you to cash.

For example, if the New England Patriots are favored over the Indianapolis Colts by 5.5 points and the Patriots win by 7 points, the Patriots have covered the spread. If you wagered on the Patriots, you would have won the bet.

Futures

A future bet is placed on an event, award, or election that will finish days, weeks, months, or years later. For example, betting on Who will win the Super Bowl 2024?

Prop Bets

A prop or proposition bet is placed on any in-game event other than the game’s final outcome. Anything from picking the first player to basket the ball in a basketball game to the length of the national anthem at the next Super Bowl is a prop bet. Even betting on the coin toss is a prop bet.

Live Bets

Live or in-game betting enables Massachusetts players to place online bets as they watch the live action. Due to the ever-changing in-game situation, the odds are likely to change drastically. Therefore, live betting allows bettors to make informed decisions while the game is being played as compared to pre-game betting, where they have to place a bet before the game starts.

Prohibited Bets

Prohibited bets are those bets not allowed by licensed operators. For example, according to the law, Massachusetts online sportsbooks cannot offer bets on in-state college games or elections.

Luckily, bettors can still grab the fun by enjoying the most prohibited bets using top MA offshore sports betting sites.

Betting Online on the NFL in Massachusetts

Football is king in Massachusetts, and the New England Patriots attract the largest number of bettors in the state. As one of the most popular NFL franchises, Patriots hold a record six Super Bowl titles – 2002, 2004, 2005, 2015, 2017, and 2019; likewise, the Pittsburgh Steelers won 6 Super Bowl titles.

Naturally, the Patriots’ victories during the last two decades have increased NFL betting. Especially since 2011, Bovada has provided the best NFL betting platform to MA players. This site offers all the latest NFL odds and wagers you can make. In addition, depending on the time of the year, you’ll get NFL game lines for single bets and NFL future odds and specials on events like the annual NFL Draft.

Bettors can also enjoy sports wagering using the Bovada Player-Prop Builder for NFL betting, ideal for prop betting in Massachusetts.

Leagues and Sports You Can Bet on in Massachusetts

Besides betting on the national craze of NFL betting, Massachusetts players can also bet on all sports leagues and events in the state and the USA.

NBA

Professional basketball is the second-most popular event in Massachusetts. The Boston Celtics are also one of the most successful basketball teams in NBA history, with 17 championships. Los Angles Lakers are the only other NBA team with the same number of titles.

Any Massachusetts basketball fan has every reason to bet on their state team, which currently holds the record for the most recorded wins of any NBA team. For those looking to bet on Celtics, BetOnline is the best option. This top NBA betting site offers better moneyline and spread betting odds on Celtics and the other 29 NBA teams.

MLB

Massachusetts is home to the MLB’s Boston Red Sox. The team has won nine World Series championships and has played in 13 World Series. Massachusetts bettors can find the most exciting MLB betting futures on BetUS. The top MLB site currently offers +600 moneyline odds on Houston Astros winning the 2023 World Series.

NHL

The Boston Bruins is the third-oldest team and one of the Original Six in the NHL. The Bruins have won six Stanley Cup titles, in 1929, 1939, 1941, 1970, 1972, and 2011.

Bruins fans can bet on their favorite team, or any NHL team, via XBet. This top NHL betting site offers exciting live odds on hockey betting. Its straightforward betting lines show spread, moneyline, and total in a row, making betting on NHL easier.

MLS

Major League Soccer (MLS) is one of the most popular sporting events in US online sports betting, including online sports betting in Massachusetts. The New England Revolution is one of the ten charter clubs of the league since the 1996 MLS season – the league’s inaugural season.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced online soccer bettor in Massachusetts, our top three MA betting sites cover MLS sporting events. BetUS offers plenty of wagering options within MLS, including moneyline bets, spread bets, live bets, and favorable soccer odds.

NCAAB

College basketball is one of the most popular sporting events in the USA, including Massachusetts. As March Madness is just around the corner, you can participate in college basketball betting via top MA betting sites. BetOnline is as good at offering college basketball betting odds as it is with professional basketball betting odds.

CFL

Besides betting on American football, Massachusetts bettors can place online bets on the Canadian Football League – a professional sports league and the highest level of competition in Canadian football. The Canada-based Bovada allows early odds on CFL betting action. The site rightly claims to offer the best CFL futures odds.

WNBA

Since 1997, the Women’s National Basketball Association has added another sporting event to wager on in Massachusetts. While Boston doesn’t have a WNBA team, Massachusetts players can cheer on any of the 12 teams in the league.

BetOnline again features early WNBA betting odds and lines and offers exciting bonuses for the new Massachusetts basketball fans who sign up on the site.

NCAAF

The NCAAF is the highest level of college football in the nation. Being one of the most exciting opportunities for Massachusetts bettors, there’s every reason to bet on NCAA football this season.

The Boston College Eagles are one of Massachusetts’s most popular college football teams, and Harvard Crimson Football is considered one of the founders of American football. 

Bovada features the best college football betting odds for Massachusetts sports fans who cannot have in-state college betting via legal MA sportsbook applications.

Horse Race Betting in Massachusetts

Horse race betting has been legal in Massachusetts since 1934 as the result of Senate Bill 0179.

Suffolk Racecourse hosted the last live thoroughbred racing in Massachusetts in June 2019. Since Suffolk Downs closed operation, only Plainridge Park Casino has hosted live horse racing. However, new regulations have revived hopes that thoroughbred racing could return sometime in 2023.

Besides retail horse betting at Plainridge Park, you can also bet on horses via online racebooks. Luckily, all our top three MA sportsbooks have full-fledged racebooks. Whether you want to bet on the Kentucky Derby or any significant horse racing events, BetUS, Bovada, and BetOnline have you covered.

Politics Betting in Massachusetts

Betting on politics is one of the biggest features of offshore sportsbooks in Massachusetts. No locally licensed MA sportsbook applications will offer odds on election betting. Bovada offers the best odds for US elections, particularly US presidential election. The site currently offers +260 odds on Biden’s re-election in 2024.

Religion Betting in Massachusetts

Massachusetts bettors can even wager on unique phenomena like religion and weather via the top MA sports betting sites. For example, XBet, one of our top 10 MA sportsbooks, allows you to bet on things like “Who will become the next Pope?”

Popular Massachusetts Sports Teams You Can Bet on

You can bet on all these professional and college sports teams, such as the NCAA tournament in Massachusetts:

Major League

  • New England Patriots (football)
  • Boston Celtics (basketball)
  • Boston Red Sox (baseball)
  • Boston Bruins (hockey)
  • New England Revolution (soccer)

Minor League

  • Worcester Red Sox (baseball)
  • Mass Warriors (football)
  • Mass Wolves (basketball)
  • Boston Pride (hockey)
  • Boston Cannons (lacrosse)

College Sports

  • Boston College Eagles (football, basketball)
  • Harvard Crimson (football, basketball)
  • Holly Cross Crusaders (football, basketball)
  • UMass Minutemen (football, basketball)
  • Merrimack Warriors (football, basketball)
  • Boston University Terriers (basketball)
  • Northeastern Huskies (basketball)
  • UMass Lowell River Hawks (basketball)

New Massachusetts Online Sportsbooks

While three top offshore sportsbooks have almost hijacked the Massachusetts sports betting market for the last few decades, a few new operators have made their presence felt. XBet is one of those new MA sports betting sites and a welcome addition for the keen sports bettors in the Bay State.

Launched in 2013, XBet has become the most popular sportsbook for live betting in Massachusetts. This top Massachusetts site is also known for unique betting lines, such as betting on religion and weather.

More recently, MyBookie also unveiled its top-notch sports betting services in 2014. This sportsbook operator is ideal for experienced Massachusetts players looking to win huge contests based on their sports betting knowledge.

What to Look for When Choosing the Best Massachusetts Betting Site?

We prepared a checklist for you to see when choosing the best Massachusetts betting site:

Reviews: Read reviews about the MA site to know if it’s worth joining. Leading gambling reviewing sites like LetsGambleUSA offer expert reviews of every significant sports betting site, including the three MA online sportsbooks. You can read their detailed reviews on our site and various independent reviewing sites.

You can also read customer reviews to complement your research for the best MA online betting site.

Licensing Information: Always check the site’s license before making an initial deposit. Only join a MA site after you’re satisfied that a reliable authority properly licenses the site. For example, Panama Gambling Authority and Curacao eGaming Authority are two of the most trusted regulatory authorities in the online gambling space.

Promotions: You should also compare the shortlisted Massachusetts sports betting sites for better promotions and bonuses. For example, if you’re looking for the best welcome bonus site in Massachusetts, BetUS sportsbook will offer you up to $2,500 in welcome bonus.

Accessibility: Always look for updated sites that don’t restrict your gambling choices. The MA site you join must be accessible at any time and from anywhere. Luckily, all our top three Massachusetts sites are 100% optimized for mobile users. So, whether you’re an iOS phone or Android smartphone user, you can place a mobile bet from the comfort of your home or anywhere else.

Odds Pricing: It’s always a good idea to do comparison shopping when looking for the best online sportsbook in Massachusetts. An ideal way is to check the odds the two sites offer. For example, if the site you’re going to join offers -110 on Patriots, and the competitor site is offering -120, you have picked the right site. In the former case, you will put $110 down to win $100, while the competitor site offers worse odds where you will have to put down $120 to win $100.

Deposit and Withdrawal Methods: It is preferable to join those Massachusetts sites with expansive banking options. The last thing we want is to see you join a site only to find it does not offer your preferred payment methods. With 27 deposit and 22 withdrawal methods, BetOnline offers the most comprehensive banking methods in the Bay State.

Customer Support: Look for available customer support options when joining an online sportsbook in Massachusetts. You may need it, and a responsive customer support system will make your sports betting experience more enjoyable. Email, phone, and live chat options are the essential customer support channels to look for.

Massachusetts Sports Betting Revenue

On February 15, the Massachusetts Gaming Commission released figures for January 31, the first day of the legal Massachusetts sports betting operation. The state’s three retail sportsbooks took in nearly $511,000 in sports betting handle on the first day of legal sports betting.

Three casino sportsbooks at Plainridge Park Casino, MGM Springfield, and Encore Boston Harbor Casino combined for negative gross sports betting revenues of -$9,524. However, the Bay State generated $9,861 in tax receipts for one day of legal wagering.

State lawmakers have long projected that Massachusetts could bring as much as $60 million in tax revenue from sports betting.

Sports Betting Taxes in Massachusetts

  • MA online sportsbooks are taxed at 20%, and retail sportsbooks are taxed at 15% of their adjusted gross revenues (AGR).
  • MA sports betting revenues are allocated to the following funds: 45% to the General Fund, 27.5% to the Gaming Local Aid Fund; 17.5% to the Workforce Investment Trust Fund; 9% to the Public Health Trust Fund; and 1% to the Youth Development and Achievement Fund.
  • MA online sports betting bill calls for retail or online sportsbooks to begin operations under a temporary sports betting license for a $1 million fee. The operators will have to pay $5 million for a permanent license, renewable after five years.

Banking Methods in Massachusetts

Massachusetts bettors can deposit and withdraw using the following banking methods:

Credit and Debit Cards

Although legal Massachusetts sports wagering sites don’t offer credit card deposits, residents can still deposit with credit and debit cards using our top Massachusetts sports betting sites.

You can deposit using your Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and Discover Card.

BetOnline allows all four credit card deposits and withdrawals. The minimum deposit requirement with BetOnline credit/debit cards is $25, and the maximum is $5,000. The only downside is that BetOnline charges a 9.75% fee on credit card deposits.

Bitcoin and Cryptocurrencies

Cryptocurrencies are the most popular banking method among gamblers, allowing you to bet online anonymously in Massachusetts. All our top three MA sites accept Bitcoin for deposits and withdrawals. While BetUS is one of the best Bitcoin online sportsbooks, BetOnline is ideal for other crypto deposits.

BetOnline allows 17 altcoin deposits and withdrawals, making it one of the best altcoin online sportsbooks. The minimum and maximum deposits with BetOnline altcoin deposit are $20 and $100,000, respectively. In addition, BetOnline allows up to $500,00 via Bitcoin deposits.

Wire Transfers

Wire transfer is also available across our top MA sportsbooks, with BetOnline allowing both wire transfer deposits and withdrawals. However, BetOnline has a higher minimum deposit requirement of $1,000. There is no maximum deposit limit.

E-Wallets

Although no leading offshore sites offer popular e-wallets to US-based customers, you can still have e-wallet deposits and withdrawals in Massachusetts. Bovada currently boasts a monopoly over e-wallet banking via its MatchPay – an umbrella platform that includes popular e-wallets like PayPal, Apple Pay, CashApp, Chime, Venmo, and Zelle.

All you need is to create a MatchPay account. The minimum deposit requirement at MatchPay is $20, and the maximum deposit requirement is $1,000.

Legal Sports Betting in Massachusetts Vs. Neighboring States

Massachusetts is one of the most competitive legal sports markets in New England. The Bay State is bordered by New Hampshire, Vermont, Rhode Island, Connecticut, and New York. Except for Vermont, all four neighboring states are legal sports betting states.

New Hampshire and Rhode Island are close markets based on a 51% revenue-sharing formula. More recently, in January 2022, New York became the nation’s largest online sports betting market. The Empire State also charges a whopping 51% online sports betting revenue, which is far higher than New Jersey’s 13% rate.

With a 13.75% tax deduction on sports betting, Maryland is the only other competitive sports betting market, besides Massachusetts, in the New England region.

Massachusetts Sports Betting FAQ

Is online sports betting legal in Massachusetts?

Yes, online sports betting has been legal since August 2022 but will not be live until March 10, 2023, the tentative launch date.

Is there a no-deposit sports bonus in Massachusetts?

Unfortunately, none of our top three MA online sportsbooks offer a no-deposit sports bonus.

When did Massachusetts legalize online sports betting?

Massachusetts online sports betting became officially legal after Gov. Charlie Baker signed HB 5164 on August 22, 2022. On August 1, 2022, the state legislature approved a sports betting bill after five years of effort.

Do offshore sportsbooks accept players from Massachusetts?

Yes, leading offshore sportsbooks like BetUS and BetOnline accept players from Massachusetts. If you’re 18 and older, you can sign up with one of the top MA online sportsbooks to bet on your favorite sporting event.

Can I play daily fantasy sports in Massachusetts?

Yes, daily fantasy sports (DFS) were legalized in Massachusetts in 2016. Residents can play PrizePicks, Monkey Knife Fight, DraftKings, or FanDuel to participate in DFS sports contests.

Is BetUS legal in Massachusetts?

BetUS has been available to Massachusetts bettors since 1994. This top offshore site is licensed by the Curacao eGaming Authority to operate in the Bay State.

Is DraftKings legal in Massachusetts?

DraftKings is legally available in Massachusetts as a DFS operator. The Boston-based company has also obtained a license to run sports betting operations in the state.

Is Bovada legal in Massachusetts?

Bovada is licensed by Curacao to operate in Massachusetts and 44 other US states.

Is BetOnline legal in Massachusetts?

BetOnline is also one of the largest online betting sites available in Massachusetts and operates on a Panama license.

Is FanDuel legal in Massachusetts?

FanDuel is a legal DFS and sports betting operator in Massachusetts. However, the operator is not taking online bets, as legal online wagering is yet to go live in the Bay State.

Is MyBookie legal in Massachusetts?

MyBookie is a new online sportsbook that runs its operation in Massachusetts on a Curacao license.

What is the minimum sports betting age in Massachusetts?

While the state law allows bettors aged 21 and more to bet online, our top three Massachusetts offshore sports betting sites accept Massachusetts bettors aged 18 and above to place online bets on professional and college sports in the state.

Who regulates online sports betting in Massachusetts?

The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) regulates all sports betting activity in the state.

Are online casinos legal in Massachusetts?

Online casinos are currently not legal in the Bay State. However, you can still play your favorite online casino games using real money at the top Massachusetts online casinos based offshore.

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