Massachusetts Sports Betting

Massachusetts launched its retail sports betting industry in January 2023, with online operators going live two months later. The state saw massive successes in its first two calendar years, generating nearly $250 million in tax revenue in that span.

With this introduction to Massachusetts sports betting, we’ll provide a brief overview of the online and retail sportsbooks available in the state. We will also lay out the history of the industry in MA and explain how to get started with sports gambling.

Best Massachusetts Sportsbooks

Below is our ranking of the online sportsbooks in Massachusetts (1-7). These rankings were based on many factors including user experience, bonus frequency and generosity, retail presence in Massachusetts, sports market coverage, and more.

DraftKings Sportsbook MA

DraftKings Sportsbook Massachusetts is far and away the industry leader, which makes sense given its hometown roots. The company launched in Boston in 2012 as a daily fantasy sports (DFS) operator, and its sports betting platform has been dominant across the United States since the Supreme Court overturned The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA).

We’re big fans of DraftKings’ in-play betting market coverage, which provides good depth across niche and mainstream sports and leagues. DK also has many odds boosts, parlay profit boosts, and bonus bet promotions available daily.

Pros:

• Loads of daily promos sent via email and push notifications
• Excellence in live-betting market depth and coverage
• Highly intuitive mobile app

Cons:

• Customer support is only available via chat and email (no phone). AI Chatbot will redirect you to email support if it can’t answer the question on its own.
• Odds in niche markets have additional juice in DK’s favor, to a greater degree than at other bookmakers in MA.
• Withdrawal times are decent but could be improved

Bettor In Green’s Opinion: The organization and layout of DraftKings’ platforms make both options very user-friendly. This is a solid sportsbook for novice sports bettors, though returning players will certainly enjoy what DK has to offer as well.

Caesars Sportsbook MA

Caesars Sportsbook Massachusetts is somewhat of a “high-roller” option for sports betting, with many of its promotional offerings requiring significant financial investment upfront to secure the maximum benefits. It is not uncommon for Caesars to run second chance bets or deposit matches that can award more than $1,000 in platform credits; most other operators cap their rewards between $200 and $500 in bonus bets.

Another feature that sets Caesars apart is the ability to live-stream NFL games on the web and through the mobile app. We’re also big fans of the bookie’s loyalty program, which offers a mutli-faceted approach to benefits that offer sportsbook bonuses and non-gambling-related perks alike.

Pros:

• Live-streaming of many events, especially NFL games
• Early cashout available for many sports and markets
• Caesars offers an award-winning rewards program

Cons:

• Desktop site isn’t as user-friendly as the mobile app
• Welcome bonuses and odds boosts can lack promotional value at times, requiring hefty upfront cost, or on lines that don’t merit inclusion on a betting slip
• Customer support wait times are a bit longer on average than at competing sportsbooks

Bettor In Green’s Opinion: Caesars’ lucrative welcome bonuses have a considerable appeal, and the loyalty program ensures regular users continue to get tangible benefits regardless of bankroll size.

BetMGM Sportsbook MA

The first sportsbook in our rankings to boast a retail presence in Massachusetts, the MGM Springfield casino made a natural entry point into the state, and after DraftKings and FanDuel, the online bookie boasts the third-largest revenue in the state.

BetMGM Sportsbook Massachusetts is one of the top operators for placing futures wagers, with odds posted almost immediately following the conclusion of a given sports season or awards presentation. A solid rewards program is another key component in BetMGM’s rating.

Pros:

• Timing, lines, and odds for futures betting set the curve for most other operators
• Strong retail presence to complement the online operations in MA
• Early cashout is widely available

Cons:

• Day-to-day bonuses aren’t offered as frequently as they are at other MA sportsbooks, though the rewards program helps to offset some of that difference
• BetMGM had the second-longest average customer support wait times of any sportsbook we tested
• The bookie seems quicker to impose limits on bettors who are consistently hitting on large wagers

Bettor In Green’s Opinion: BetMGM is a strong online and retail option for Massachusetts gamblers, and it should provide good betting value when odds shopping for the most favorable lines.

Fanatics Sportsbook MA

Fanatics Sportsbook MA evolved out of PointsBet, which had secured a Massachusetts license but hadn’t yet rolled out the product before the former purchased its North American gambling permits. Before entering the sports betting industry, Fanatics was a successful sports merchandising and apparel manufacturer.

With the installation of the FanCash program, bettors can earn loyalty bucks for each wager made on the app. FanCash can then be spent on betting bonuses or making memorabilia purchases at Fanatics-affiliated e-tailers.

Pros:

• FanCash allows flexibility in use of bonus credits
• Mobile app has a stylish, eye-catching design and is easy to use
• Fanatics has live-streaming for select NFL matchups

Cons:

• Operates in an app-only capacity
• Mid-tier sports market availability across Massachusetts sportsbooks
• Customer support interface can be tricky to access and navigate

Bettor In Green’s Opinion: The lack of a browser-based option or retail bookie brings our overall Fanatics rating down a bit, but the app remains a solid overall option.

FanDuel Sportsbook MA

FanDuel boasts the second-largest sports betting handle among MA sportsbooks, spurred by its DFS rivalry with DraftKings. It has the highest-rated mobile app in the industry, and its web-based platform is a reliable option as well.

Another area where FanDuel Sportsbook MA thrives is in same game parlay (SGP) offerings, with many pre-crafted options available daily as well as a depth of available props that is second to none. However, FanDuel’s limited scope of promotions leads to a slide down our rankings board.

Pros:

• Top-rated mobile platform
• Broad array of props to increase SGP opportunities
• Fast and easy withdrawal process

Cons:

• Does not offer a rewards program
• Customer support is not available via phone call
• Daily profit boost promos have lower caps than other sportsbooks in MA

Bettor In Green’s Opinion: FanDuel’s platform is outstanding for SGP wagers, though it can run parallel to our behind competitors in moneyline and spread markets. It’s a solid introductory sportsbook that should certainly be a part of your rotation.

ESPN Bet MA

ESPN Bet hasn’t seen the successes that were expected after PENN Entertainment partnered with the “Worldwide Leader in Sports” to replace Barstool as the face of its sports betting platform. While content from ESPN’s on-air talent has helped to generate registrations, the betting handle and gambling-related revenue haven’t seemed to follow.

We enjoy using ESPN Bet’s mobile app but feel the aesthetic and navigability don’t quite match up on the browser platform. The PENN Play Rewards Program redeems the rating a bit, but ESPN Bet has some work to do to keep pace with others in the Commonwealth.

Pros:

• Offers a rewards program
• Many pre-crafted SGPs, all of which include a ticker for the number of users who have added those parlays to their bet slips
• App is becoming integrated with other ESPN products to help smooth out the user experience

Cons:

• Website falls behind the quality of the mobile app
• Support chat is only accessible through the app
• Doesn’t offer alternate lines for prop bets, limiting bettor flexibility

Bettor In Green’s Opinion: As an important note, ESPN does not generate odds, nor does it send inside information to sportsbooks before releasing it to the general public. ESPN Bet has a lot of potential, but we’d like to see some improvements now that the bookie has had some time to develop and expand.

Bally Bet MA

Lastly, Bally Bet was our lowest-rated Massachusetts sportsbook. The gambling platform was shut down for several months in the summer of 2023 to overhaul the platform, and while there were some key improvements, the bookie feels lackluster and incomplete.

Bally Bet does not offer the same in-depth coverage bettors can get at other MA sportsbooks, and the app can still be clunky at times. Combine all that with the slowest average payout times in the state and you’ve got a sportsbook that should only be used when it offers more favorable odds than its competitors.

Pros:

• Customer support is available 24/7
• Bonus bets have longer terms to use than other bookies (most competitors have bonus bets that expire after a week if unclaimed, while Bally Bet’s tend to expire after 28 days)
• The simplistic interface is uncluttered, which can be an asset to new bettors who are learning the ropes of online sports betting

Cons:

• Limited number of available sports and markets
• Slowest payout times of any sportsbook in Massachusetts
• Smallest list of available banking methods

Bettor In Green’s Opinion: On the whole, there are some key flaws keeping Bally Bet from reaching its full potential. We do not expect it to become part of your regular rotation of sports betting apps.

How to Bet on Sports in Massachusetts

At each of the seven online sportsbooks in the state, the process of placing a wager is largely the same. Here’s how to bet on sports in Massachusetts using a mobile app or web browser.

1. Register for a sportsbook: If you need advice on where to begin, check out our sportsbook review pages. Not only will they provide comprehensive details about the operator, but they’ll also cover bonus information, available sports, links to the signup pages, and more. To register, you’ll need to provide (at minimum) your legal name, home address, phone number, email address, date of birth, and the last four digits of your social security number.
2. (Optional) Download the mobile app: Mobile apps are a convenient way to place your bets from anywhere in the state, provided you have an internet connection or data plan. Geolocation technology will be used to verify you are within state borders, so make sure your location settings are enabled!
3. Research your bets: Betting on a whim is something we always discourage; only place a wager if you have some background knowledge of the game, the teams, and the matchups. Bettor In Green posts daily cheat sheets to analyze player props for NFL, NHL, MLB, and NBA action, all of which can be used to help you make smarter decisions with your bets!
4. Fund your account: You’ll need to make a real-money deposit before a sportsbook will accept your wager, even if you’re only planning to use bonus credits when placing your bets. As a general rule, withdrawals will be faster if you’re using the same methods for both deposits and withdrawals.
5. Decide on a wager amount: The stake size for each bet is up to you, but it should always be an amount that is within your means. Never gamble more than you can afford to lose!!
6. Pick your bets: Next, scroll through the menus to find the wagers you want to play and click/tap on the ones you want to add to your betting slip. Then decide whether you’re going to play each line individually or parlay them together (remember, you must win each leg of a parlay for the bet to be scored as a win!).
7. Submit your ticket: When you’ve completed Step 6, click or tap “Submit” to place your wager. The sportsbook will then need to approve your selections (which takes a few seconds). After that, the slip will appear in the “My Bets” section of your app or browser interface.
8. Await the results: Finally, once your bets have settled, be sure to collect any winnings from your bets!

Trending Now in Massachusetts Sports Betting

Here’s what’s trending in the world of Massachusetts sports betting:

• September 23, 2025 – In August in Massachusetts, DraftKings accounted for over 50% of the online wagering market by taking in $275.9 million of the state’s $537.4 million total handle.
• September 16, 2025 – Robinhood has filed a lawsuit against the Massachusetts Attorney General, arguing the state’s regulations violate the Commerce Clause by restricting its ability to offer event-contracts to residents.
• September 12, 2025 – Massachusetts Attorney General Andrea Joy Campbell has filed a lawsuit against Kalshi, alleging that its sports event contracts amount to illegal sports wagering under state law—operating without a Massachusetts Gaming Commission license, under-21 access, lack of required consumer protections, and seeking to block its offerings in the state.
• September 7, 2025 – The New England Patriots, under new head coach Mike Vrabel, fell 20-13 at home to the Las Vegas Raiders in their season opener, as Geno Smith threw for 362 yards while rookie QB Drake Maye and New England’s offense struggled after halftime.
• August 29, 2025 – A state audit revealed that between July 2020 and June 2023 the Massachusetts Gaming Commission failed to pre‑approve sports‑betting ads—which targeted minors and problem gamblers and omitted a helpline—lacked training documentation for GameSense agents, and handled employee settlements with inadequate transparency.
• August 28, 2025 – Massachusetts legislators are considering House Bill H.4431, which would legalize online casino games under the state Gaming Commission’s regulation while also banning unregulated sweepstakes gaming and imposing strict safeguards on age, deposits, marketing, and problem gambling protections.
• August 20, 2025 – Massachusetts casinos generated $99.5 million in gross gaming revenue in July, marking a 1.8% increase from June, with Encore Boston Harbor leading ($60.1 M), MGM Springfield next ($24 M), and Plainridge Park contributing $15.3 M—almost all from slots.
• August 17, 2025 – MGM Springfield’s workforce remained steady at 1,553 employees in Q2 2025, while the number of minors intercepted on the gaming floor plummeted by 85% year-over-year to just 11.
• August 6, 2025 – The Massachusetts Gaming Commission has scheduled a public meeting for September 22, 2025, to continue discussions on sports betting limitations, focusing on how operators manage player restrictions and whether winning or losing behaviors influence these limitations.
• July 31, 2025 – The Massachusetts Gaming Commission fined DraftKings $450,000—the largest penalty of its kind—for allowing 1,160 impermissible wagers totaling $83,667.92, funded by credit card deposits from 218 customers, and failing to rectify the issue despite multiple self-reports over nearly a year.

Legal Status of Sports Betting in Massachusetts

Massachusetts legalized sports betting in August 2022 with the passage of House Bill 5164. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) took on oversight of sports betting activities in the state and approved retail and online operators.

Under state law, you must be at least 21 years old to participate in sports gambling. This requirement is the standard across most of the United States.

Additionally, while betting on collegiate athletics is allowed, you won’t be able to wager on any in-state teams unless they are participating in a tournament. In-play wagers will be accepted, though player props are prohibited.

History of Sports Betting in Massachusetts

Below is a brief history of sports betting in Massachusetts.

• May 2018: The Supreme Court overturns the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) declaring the Act unconstitutional. This reversal allowed individual states to decide whether to allow sports betting rather than impose a federal ban.
• August 2022: The Massachusetts legislature passes House Bill 5164 (formally called An Act to Regulate Sports Wagering), legalizing online and in-person sports betting in the Commonwealth. Gov. Charlie Baker signs the bill almost immediately thereafter.
• November 2022: The Massachusetts Gaming Commission receives 15 Sports Wagering Operator license applications prior to the submission deadline. State law allows for
• December 2022: Boston Harbor Casino, MGM Springfield, and Plainridge Park Casino receive Sports Betting Operator Licenses from the MGC.
• January 2023: Retail sports gaming launches in Massachusetts.
• March 2023: Massachusetts goes live with online sports betting.

List of All Online Sportsbooks in Massachusetts

Here is a full list of all online sportsbooks in Massachusetts:

• Bally Bet Sportsbook
• BetMGM Sportsbook
• Caesars Sportsbook
• DraftKings Sportsbook
• ESPN Bet Sportsbook
• Fanatics Sportsbook
• FanDuel Sportsbook

Additionally, these sportsbooks previously operated in Massachusetts but have since shut down or rebranded:

• Barstool Sportsbook: Rebranded as ESPN Bet Sportsbook in November 2023
• Betr Sportsbook: Shut down its Massachusetts operations in February 2024
• WynnBET Sportsbook: Closed its mobile operation in Massachusetts in February 2024, though it retained its retail presence

List of All Retail Sportsbooks in Massachusetts

In addition to the online options above, here is a list of the retail sportsbooks in Massachusetts where you can participate in person:

• Encore Boston Harbor (WynnBET Sportsbook): 1 Broadway, Everett, MA 02149
• MGM Springfield (BetMGM Sportsbook): 1 MGM Way, Springfield, MA 01103
• Plainridge Park Casino (Plainridge Park Sportsbook): 301 Washington St, Plainville, MA 02762
• Raynham Park Sportsbook (Awaiting a sportsbook partnership after Caesars backed out, currently an OTB location): 1958 Broadway, Raynham, MA 02767

Promotions and Bonuses at Massachusetts Sportsbooks

Massachusetts sportsbook promos and bonuses are a major appeal to sports bettors, helping to bring in new players and rewarding returners for their continued use of the platform. Here are a few of the most popular and widely available promos you’ll find at Massachusetts sportsbooks.

• Bonus bets: Bonus bets are a form of betting credit typically offered at a preset increment, though at times, they may be disbursed as flexible credits (this will vary by operator). This bonus type enables you to make a wager without using cash funds from your bankroll, though most sportsbooks will allow you to use bonus bets in tandem with real-money wagers to increase your profits on a win.
• Second chance bets: Often promoted as a “no-sweat bet,” second chance bets will only grant you a bonus if your qualifying wager settles as a loss. That way, if you lose, you’ll get a “second chance” to win using credits that were equal to your initial stake, though you should know the value of the stake isn’t included in the payout of a winning second chance wager.
• Bet/Get offers: Bet/get offers award betting credits or other perks after a bettor makes a nominal wager (oftentimes $5 or $10) in any market. Unlike the second chance bet, bet/get promos will award the funds automatically instead of waiting for the qualifying wager to settle.
• Deposit matches: Deposit matches supplement your bankroll with bonus credits when you fund your account. Typically, you’ll receive a dollar-for-dollar match rate up to a certain threshold, though we’ve seen these rates range from 25% to 200%.
• Odds boosts: Odds boosts increase the “juice” in the user’s favor so they have a higher profit on winning wagers. Occasionally, odds boosts promos can be included in parlay wagers to further multiply the profits of successful bets.
• Profit boosts: Unlike odds boosts that only apply to a single line, profit boost promos enhance the payout of all winning wagers within a given time period (typically 24 hours). For example, if you profited $400 and had a 25% profit boost token active, your new profit amount would be $500 when collecting your cash funds.

How to Redeem Promo Codes at Massachusetts Sportsbooks

Promo codes aren’t nearly as prevalent as they were five years ago, with many online sportsbooks utilizing opt-in promos instead. When registering for a sportsbook, the “promo code” section is typically reserved for referral codes to help track affiliate signups.

With that in mind, for those sportsbooks in Massachusetts that still offer promo codes and referral codes, the steps to redeem them look like this:

1. Find the eligible code. Be sure to check the terms and conditions so you don’t try to use an expired code.
2. Open the registration form. NOTE: If you’re using a referral code, you may need to use a specific link that will automatically input the code for you. Should that be the case, make sure you’ve used that link, then skip to Step 5.
3. Begin filling out the registration form and find the field for a promo code.
4. Copy and paste the promo code into the appropriate field so you don’t input it incorrectly.
5. Complete the rest of the registration form as instructed and submit the sign-up info.
6. Make a real-money deposit. Be sure to check the terms and conditions of the promo offer so any minimum requirements can be met with your transaction.
7. Satisfy any applicable terms and conditions (such as making a minimum deposit or placing an eligible wager then waiting for it to settle).
8. Collect the bonus funds after any applicable terms and conditions are satisfied.

Mobile Sports Betting in Massachusetts

Mobile sports betting in Massachusetts accounts for the biggest chunk of sports betting handle in the state. Online operations can account for as much as 98% of betting handle in a given month with the majority of online wagers placed through a mobile app.

For that reason, it is imperative that sportsbooks provide a rock-solid mobile sports betting experience. Frequent bonuses, consistent performance without crashing or geolocation issues, and a smooth user interface are all important factors that can distinguish between a good and great betting app.

Below are the app store ratings from the Apple App Store and Google Play Store for each Massachusetts online sportsbook. These ratings are accurate as of March 2025.

Taxes on Sports Betting Winnings in Massachusetts

You must pay taxes on your sports betting winnings in Massachusetts, meaning you’ll need to account for them on your state and federal returns. Massachusetts has a flat 5% tax rate on sports betting winnings in addition to the 24% federal rate.

You’ll be able to deduct losses on your return as well, as long as the amount you’re deducting does not exceed your winnings. We recommend keeping a detailed record of your wins and losses in addition to and W-2G forms you receive from sports betting operators.

Responsible Gambling in Massachusetts

“Responsible gambling” is a term you’ll notice in every betting commercial, mobile app advertisement, and publication from regulated Massachusetts sportsbooks. The term is used to cover all actions taken by both betting companies and individual bettors so that any and all gambling is conducted legally and safely.

All betting activity carries some degree of risk, so being proactive about minimizing that risk is necessary for responsible gambling. Bettor In Green always encourages our readers to set limits on their gambling accounts (not just money limits but time limits as well), and to educate themselves about the warning signs of compulsive gambling behaviors.

The following responsible gambling resources are available to Massachusetts bettors and their loved ones:

• Birches Health: https://bircheshealth.com/locations/massachusetts
• Gamblers Anonymous: 888-GA-HELPS, https://gamblersanonymous.org
• Massachusetts Council on Gaming and Health: 617-426-4554, www.macgh.org
• Massachusetts Gambling Self-Exclusion Program Information: https://massgaming.com/about/voluntary-self-exclusion/
• Massachusetts Problem Gambling Helpline: Call: 800-327-5050, Text: GAMB to 800327, Chat: gamblinghelplinema.org
• National Problem Gambling Helpline: Call: 1-800-GAMBLER, Text: 800GAM, Chat: 1800gamblerchat.org

One of the most important resources above is the gambling self-exclusion program, which allows individuals to voluntarily prohibit themselves from participating in online and retail betting activities. Those in the program are blocked from accessing or attempting to access an online gambling account and can be charged with trespassing and other penalties for entering or attempting to enter a gambling facility.

The extreme nature of the program requires careful consideration, but those who apply for the list tend to speak very highly of the program’s effectiveness. Bettor In Green strongly encourages individuals at risk of developing a gambling compulsion to apply for the program, and for those who are currently in the program to stick with it!!

Future of Sports Betting in Massachusetts

One of the most immediate steps in the future of sports betting in Massachusetts is resolving the status of Raynham Park Sportsbook. The facility was originally set to partner with Caesars to launch a retail bookie, but Caesars backed out of that arrangement, leaving Raynham Park in need of a sportsbook partner.

In the meantime, Raynham Park is operating as an off-track betting facility, though the addition of a retail operation would provide a sizable boost to OTB revenue.

Already soaring through lifetime betting handle numbers, Massachusetts has an outside chance of cracking the Top 10 States list in 2025. Massachusetts ranks 13th as of February 2025, but it realistically could catch Tennessee to move up the rankings (getting past Michigan and Ohio to make the Top 10 would be a challenge).

Conclusion

Massachusetts has done an excellent job of using sports betting to generate tax revenue, surpassing several states that have taken in even larger betting handles. As of February 2025, Massachusetts has out-generated Michigan (10th in lifetime handle), Indiana (ninth), Arizona (seventh), Colorado (sixth), and Nevada (third).

The state’s sports betting industry is performing quite well and should continue to see success in 2025 and beyond.

Now that you’ve learned a bit more about the available sports betting options in Massachusetts, it’s time to dig a little deeper and see which sportsbooks might be a good fit for you. Check out our sports betting review pages for a more extensive look at each operator and to help secure the best available welcome bonuses.

Good luck, have fun, and always gamble responsibly!!

FAQ

How does Massachusetts handle sports betting disputes?

Massachusetts handles sports betting disputes by allowing its bettors to file a complaint with the Massachusetts Gaming Commission’s Sports Wagering Division. Once a complaint is filed, the Commission will investigate to determine if anything improper occurred and will adjudicate any necessary actions to remedy problems that may occur.

Are there any age verification processes for sports betting in Massachusetts?

Yes, there are age verification processes for sports betting in Massachusetts. Online operators will require you to submit your legal name, date of birth, and the last four digits of your social security number to verify that you are of legal age to participate in sports betting activities. Retail sportsbooks will require you to have a state-issued photo ID before you’ll be allowed to enter.

What are the benefits of betting at a licensed sportsbook in Massachusetts?

The benefits of betting at a licensed sportsbook in Massachusetts include stronger protections for your personal and financial information, faster payout times, and access to legal ramifications if operators fail to abide by state laws and regulations. Offshore sportsbooks operate outside the state’s jurisdiction, so they can engage in shady practices to keep more of your money, conduct unfair gambling, and evade legal responsibilities. Avoid unregulated books at all costs!!

How can I self-exclude from sports betting activities in Massachusetts?

You can self-exclude from sports betting activities in Massachusetts by applying for the voluntary exclusion program. The application is free to download, and there is no cost to participate. We strongly encourage those at risk of developing a gambling compulsion to consider voluntarily self-excluding from gambling in Massachusetts.