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Pennsylvania Sports Betting: Best PA Sportsbooks Oct 2024

Betting is live in Pennsylvania

More than a dozen PA sportsbooks are currently operating in the state. Pennsylvania sports betting is here to stay and our experts at Bookies.com have reviewed the best PA betting sites you can trust and the promotions they offer.

Verified Check Mark Offers Verified on October 5th
1
Must be 21+ to participate. T&Cs apply. Play Responsibly. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-522-4700, CT (888) 789-7777, IA 1-800-BETS-OFF, MA 1-800-327-5050, VA 1-888-532-3500
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Must be 21+ to participate and present in PA. Gambling problem? Call or Text 1-800-GAMBLER. Deposit required. Paid in Bonus Bets. Bets wager excluded from returns. New Customer only. T&Cs Apply.
3
Must be 21+ to participate. T&Cs apply.
4

Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Loses
Promo Code: BOOKIES

Visit BetMGM.com for T&Cs. Must be 21+. PA Only. New Customer Offer. All promotions are subject to qualification and eligibility requirements.Rewards issued as non-withdrawable bonus bets. Bonus bets expire in 7 days from issuance. If you or someone you know has a Gambling Problem, help is available, Call 1-800-GAMBLER.
5
Must be 21+ to participate. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, KY, MI, NJ, OH, PA, IL, TN, VA, VT), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), 1-800-522-4700 (WY), or visit www.1800gambler.net (WV). GamblingHelpLineMA.org or call (800) 327-5050 for 24/7 support (MA). Call 1-877-8HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).
6
Must be 21+ to participate. T&Cs apply.
7
Must be 21 to participate. T&C apply.
8

$1,000 First Bet Reset
Promo Code: BOOKIES

Must be 21+ and present in AZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA, or WV. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (CO, IL, KS, KY, LA, MD, MI, NJ, OH, PA VA, WV). Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP (AZ). Call 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA). Call 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), Call (800)-327-5050 or gamblinghelplinema.org in MA. Call or text REDLINE: 800-889-9789 (TN).

Top PA Sportsbooks

Our three top PA sportsbooks are BetMGM, DraftKings and TwinSpires. All three provide PA bettors with a top selection of betting lines and payment options, solid bonus offers and player-friendly mobile betting apps. A closer look at all three PA operators:

👑 BetMGM PA Sportsbook

The online division of MGM Resorts International and sports license partner of Hollywood Casino Morgantown is all-in in Pennsylvania – BetMGM is the official sports betting partner of the NFL teams Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia 76ers. BetMGM Pennsylvania offers a bet $10, get $200 bonus and a comprehensive menu of sports and betting lines. BetMGM Pennsylvania sportsbook offers several daily promotions including odds boosts and parlay boosts.

Aside from the sportsbook, the latest BetMGM Casino match deposit bonus gives new players in PA a great welcome offer: A 100% deposit match bonus worth up to $1,500, plus a $50 casino bonus bet.

👑 DraftKings PA Sportsbook

One of the most recognizable names in sports betting is among the leaders in market share among Pennsylvania betting sites. It’s the official sports betting and daily fantasy sports partner of the Philadelphia Eagles. DraftKings Pennsylvania offers bettors a Bet $5 and Get $150 if you win. PA license partner is The Meadows Racetrack & Casino.

👑 TwinSpires PA Sportsbook

Churchill Downs-owned operator was formerly known as BetAmerica until rebranding to TwinSpires, its popular pari-mutuel division. Partnered in PA with Presque Isle Downs & Casino, the TwinSpires Pennsylvania sportsbook offers a huge number of in-game wagering opportunities and prop bets on every major sport. The PA bonus offer is a $1,000 first bet.

PA Sportsbooks in Detail

Pennsylvania is a competitive sports betting marketplace despite a high taxation rate (36%) on mobile sports betting operators. Bettors can choose from more than a dozen PA sportsbooks, all of which are available on desktop and mobile version totally free to download.

A brief look at all PA online sportsbooks:

Caesars Sportsbook Pennsylvania

Iconic gambling brand continues to aggressively expand online. Recently completed the purchase of giant global sports operator William Hill and is rebranding those online sportsbooks to Caesars. Offers Pennsylvania bettors a $1,000 First Bet offer. The Caesars mobile app, known as the Liberty App, has wowed users at Google Play and the App Store, and for good reason. It is pleasing to the eyes, makes accessing the cashier and customer service easy, and the navigation allow you to make your bets without a fuss.

BetMGM Pennsylvania Sportsbook

The BetMGM PA mobile sports app has been aggressively expanding and has drawn praise for bring easy to use and navigate. Considered among the best Pennsylvania betting apps, BetMGM Pennsylvania offers lines on all major sports and features include an early cash-out option that allows players to settle bets before a game ends, plus odds boosts and overtime insurance.

DraftKings Pennsylvania Sportsbook

The national powerhouse remains one of the most popular due to strong grades for speed, design and bonus offers. It offers a massive variety of betting options and solid bonus incentives. It features an industry-leading DraftKings PA sports betting app that allows for easy navigation, quick deposits and withdrawals, and low minimum wagers. Consistently rated one of the best mobile platforms by users.

TwinSpires Pennsylvania Sportsbook

The TwinSpires PA sportsbook app makes it seamless to switch back and forth from sports betting to racing and online casino. Despite its horse racing pedigree and well known horse racing options, its mobile sportsbook if a force to be reckoned with as well, covering all major markets.

  • Claim the TwinSpires PA Promo Code

FanDuel Sportsbook Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania leader in online betting handle and revenue is a leading national player in sports wagering and daily fantasy sports. The popular player-friendly FanDuel PA sportsbook app makes for seamless wagering experience with easy navigation and plenty of daily promotions such as odds boosts and same-game parlays.

BetRivers Sportsbook Pennsylvania

Both this brand and SugarHouse are owned by Rush Street Interactive and share similar platforms. Each offers PA bettors a bonus offer with only a 1X playthrough requirement, the lowest in the market, making for fast and easy bonus money redemptions. Even though the BetRivers PA mobile betting app gets rated below many peers at the App Store, those who use it rave about its simplicity - for first-time users it is a breeze to download and start wagering on.

  • Claim the BetRivers PA Promo Code

FOX Bet PA Sportsbook

Powered by online sports betting firm The Stars Group and owned in part by Fox Sports, which uses its personalities to make selections and for promotions. It is easy to find the most popular sports and trending bets along with significant odds boosts on the FOX Bet app as navigation is an absolute breeze. One of the highest rated sports betting apps out there.

Unibet PA Sportsbook

The European-based operator offers clean user experience and easy-to-navigate, the Unibet app brings the most popular sports along with a huge menu of betting lines from less-popular niche sports, such as rugby, cycling and Aussie Rules Football. Offers multiple promotions in combination with the Philadelphia Eagles, a Unibet sports betting partner.

  • Claim the Unibet PA Promo Code

Betway PA Sportsbook

The Euro-based operator is making significant inroads into the U.S. after purchase of online gaming company Digital Gaming Corp. Plenty of in-play betting options on the Betway PA highly rated sports app for PA bettors and free access to a massive amount of statistical information on nearly every sport. The app is well designed, easy to navigate and makes cashing out a snap.

  • Claim the Betway PA Promo Code

PointsBet Pennsylvania Sportsbook

January 2022 saw PointsBet Pennsylvania being awarded sports wagering licence by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board and a month later an Australian-based operator started serving the users from the state. They can all benefit from generous welcome offer, daily odds boosts and a user-friendly website.

Parx Pennsylvania Sportsbook

Offers PA bettors a $500 first bet upon first deposit and huge number of sports and betting markets. Parx PA sportsbook makes it easy to switch back and forth between sports betting and casino games, Parx also offers bettors a helpful sports wagering guide that explains key terms and the most popular bet types.

Barstool Sportsbook Pennsylvania

Popular media and sports brand owned by Penn National Gaming launched its first Barstool sportsbook in Pennsylvania and has now expanded to more than a half-dozen states. Offers selections from Barstool personalities and provides odds boosts on those games.

Wind Creek Pennsylvania Sportsbook

Recent entrant to the PA sports betting market is owned by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians after purchase of Sands Bethlehem. Partnered with Betfred and launched in late 2020, the Wind Creek PA sportsbook offers PA bettors a convenient shared wallet with sports betting and online casino.

Best Sportsbooks in Pennsylvania

Caesars Pennsylvania SportsbookBest Welcome Offers
ESPN Bet Pennsylvania Promo CodeNewest PA Sportsbook
BetMGM Pennsylvania SportsbookBest Markets & Odds
DraftKings Pennsylvania SportsbookBest User Experience & Promotions
FanDuel Pennsylvania SportsbookFastest Payouts & Best Odds Boosts
BetRivers Pennsylvania SportsbookBest Desktop Experience
PointsBet Pennsylvania SportsbookVariety of Markets

Bonuses & Promotions at PA Sportsbooks

With a plethora of PA betting apps to choose from, there is plenty of competition for your sports betting business. Nearly all PA sportsbooks offer some form of bonus or promotion, especially to new customers.

Here are some of the more common types of bonuses offered. Some are for a limited time; others can change daily.

  • First-time deposit offer: When you sign up for an account and make your first deposit, the operator will match the full or partial amount of your deposit. Often, the bonus amount must be wagered within a certain timeframe. Some PA sportsbooks may offer reload bonuses for existing accounts, though not at 100%.
  • first bet: After signing up, make your first bet and the PA sportsbook will match the amount of the wager in your account if you lose. That can be a great way to double your bankroll on your opening day.
  • Free bet: A cash bonus to bet as you choose, often with a requirement that you must wager a certain amount to redeem the bonus or place the bet within a certain timeframe.
  • Odds boost: These give favorable odds on selected games. If the Philadelphia Phillies are listed at +200 odds in a game against the Los Angeles Dodgers, for example, the PA sportsbook may boost the odds to +250 for Phillies bettors.
  • Parlay insurance: An increasingly popular offering in which you can get your money back if all but one of your parlay plays hit. Typically, parlays must include at least four games and big favorites (-200 or higher) are excluded.
  • Loyalty programs: Many online sportsbooks in Pennsylvania offer some kind of rewards program. Generally, the more you wager, the greater the rewards in the form of cash, points, hotel stays or other prizes.

NEW: Ontario Sports Betting Is Now Live!


PA Sports Betting Bet Types Explained

  • Moneyline: A bet on a team to win outright, straight up, based on moneyline odds set by the bookmaker. There is no point spread. If the Philadelphia 76ers are -180 to beat the Boston Celtics (+130), a bettor must wager $180 to win $100 on the favored 76ers, or $100 to win $130 on the underdog Celtics.
  • Parlay: Instead of betting on just one game, a parlay joins bets on two games or more. All selections must win for a parlay to cash. The more teams in your parlay, the higher the odds and tastier the payout. A three-team parlay with each game at -110 pays close to +600 together, while a four-team one offers odds near +1200 (a $100 winning bet would earn $1,200 in profit).
  • Spread: A team is favored to win by a certain a number of points or goals. Bettors can choose the underdog or favorite with their respective odds. The spread evens the odds so both teams offer the same risk. The Philadelphia Eagles may be -5 at home against the Dallas Cowboys (+5) – the spread offers incentive to pick an underdog.
  • Futures: A wager on a team or player, with the results to be determined at a later date. Examples of NFL futures bets are wagering on a team to win the Super Bowl before or during the NFL season. An NHL futures bet would be on the Flyers to win the division or the Stanley Cup.
  • Teasers: Teasers allow a bettor to adjust a point spread for reduced odds. Teasers are often a strategy used for parlays. For example, the Philadelphia Eagles are 8-point favorites over the Pittsburgh Steelers. In a 6-point teaser, the bettor could select the Eagles -2 or the Steelers +14.
  • Over/Unders: Often referred to as the total, this involves betting on the number of points or goals scored in a game, choosing either over or under the line provided by the operator.
  • Round Robin: Similar to a parlay in that it involves multiple bets, but less risky in that not every team has to win. In a three-team round robin, you construct three different two-team parlays and if two of the teams win, you get paid. The round robin offers less risk (but less reward) than traditional parlays.
  • In-game: Live betting has exploded in popularity the last few years. It involves betting on a game after it has already started and includes a load of options, from adjusted point spreads to real-time prop bets, such as how many runs will be scored in a particular inning of an MLB game. Online PA sportsbooks use computer algorithms to set in-game wagering odds and the action moves quickly.

Pennsylvania Sports Betting Markets Offered

🏈 Football BettingNFL Betting, CFL, NCAA
Baseball BettingMLB Betting
🏀 Basketball BettingNBA Betting, WNBA, NCAA, EuroLeague, NCAAB
🏒 HockeyNHL
🏎️ MotorsportsNASCAR, IndyCar, Formula 1
SoccerMLS, European Premier Leagues, Champions League
GolfPGA Tour, LPGA Tour, European PGA Tour and others
🎾 TennisATP, WTA
🥊 Combat SportsBoxing, MMA
🏇 Horse RacingMultiple tracks

PA sports betting laws also have few limitations on eligible betting options, which means Keystone State bettors can wager to their heart’s content on the Philadelphia Eagles, Philadelphia Phillies, Philadelphia 76ers, Philadelphia Flyers, Pittsburgh Steelers, Pittsburgh Pirates, Pittsburgh Penguins and all the NCAA Division I college football and basketball programs, including the Penn State Nittany Lions and Pittsburgh Panthers.

PA Sports Betting Events in 2024

With teams in all of the major U.S. pro sports leagues, there is plenty of Pennsylvania interest and wagering action on the biggest betting events. The NFL is the No. 1 wagering event. In 2021, Pennsylvania bettors wagered $53.6 million on Super Bowl, an increase of nearly 75% from the previous year, according to Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board figures.

The NBA Finals and Stanley Cup playoffs are top betting events in Pennsylvania, with the state home to top contenders in both leagues.

PA has no restrictions for college sports betting, making the NCAA Tournament and College Football Playoffs major wagering events. Fueled by March Madness, PA sportsbooks handled more in sports wagers in March 2023 than in any of the next four months.

Other major sports events for PA bettors in 2023-24 are the NFL and college football seasons, World Series, NASCAR and IndyCar races, pro golf and tennis events and horse racing’s Breeders’ Cup.

How to Sign Up and Place a Sports Bet in Pennsylvania?

The process of signing up and betting in Pennsylvania is simple:

  1. ✅ Select a sportsbook of choice. The best way to make that selection is to spend time on various online PA sports betting sites to determine which you feel most comfortable with. Signing up with more than one PA sportsbook allows you to claim multiple bonus offers and compare odds and prices.
  2. ✅ Click on ‘Register’ or ‘Join Now’ and answer the questions to set up an account. Bettors must be 21 or older. You will be asked to provide information such as name, address, contact number, last four digits of Social Security number (to verify age and identity). You will also be asked to create a username and password.
  3. ✅ When your account is established, it’s time to provide wagering funds. PA online sportsbooks offer a wide range of deposit options. Many PA sports betting sites allow initial deposits of $10 or less.
  4. ✅ Make your first wager. You must be physically located inside Pennsylvania when placing a bet.

PA Sports Betting Deposits and Withdrawal Options

PA sportsbooks should make deposits and withdrawals as quick and hassle-free as possible. The most popular deposit options:

Credit cards/Debit cards: Nearly all Pennsylvania online sportsbooks take Visa and MasterCard credit and debit cards. Not all card companies allow transactions with PA online casinos and PA sportsbooks. Even if legal in your jurisdiction, some banks and financial institutions incorrectly flag the payments. When they do work, funds immediately transfer to quick play. Some credit and debit cards may also add fees, treating the transaction as a cash advance.

Play+: This option was created solely for accounts at PA online casinos and PA sportsbooks. It’s a virtual prepaid card that can be funded online by credit card or bank account to make instant deposits and cash out – while playing online. Most PA online sportsbooks allow you to apply from the account page. Some ATMs will let you withdraw cash from the Play+ account.

PayPal: The most popular e-wallet in the U.S., PayPal allows you to transfer funds from your PayPal account to an online sportsbook account in Pennsylvania. Setting up a PayPal account is simple and can be funded with a credit/debit card, too.

Bank transfer/ACH: Bank transfers allow PA bettors to establish a direct connection with a player’s checking account for an instant transaction. This practice is widely accepted and allows for an easy reload of your account if necessary.

Neteller/other e-wallets: Along with PayPal, Neteller is another popular example of an e-wallet, which uses secure bank or credit card information to allow for easy deposits at PA online sportsbooks.

PayNearMe: Players fund their account with cash at 7-Elevens, CVS pharmacies and Family Dollar stores. You can deposit without a bank account.

Cash at casino cage: Still the preferred means of payment for brick-and-mortar operators, cash isn’t typically an option for online PA sportsbooks or an online casino in Pennsylvania, besides through debit card accounts.

Withdrawals can be requested at any time and generally require a 24-48 hour approval process. Some PA sportsbooks may require verification (copy of driver’s license, etc.) before processing your first withdrawal. Most (but not all) deposit methods can also be used for withdrawals.

Features of Top Pennsylvania Sportsbooks

Features you can expect to find at PA sports betting sites:

✔️ Intuitive User Interface

Each PA sports betting site is a little different. Find the one that is easiest for you to navigate, provides quick access to specific sports and betting lines, and becomes more intuitive the more you use it.

✔️ Pennsylvania Sports Betting Odds

Finding value is a key to sports betting success. Lines and prices on specific games are generally similar at PA sportsbooks, but not identical, especially on games involving PA-based teams, which take more local action. Look for the PA sports betting sites that charge the lowest vigs on moneyline wagers.

✔️ Live Betting and/or Live Streaming

In-game wagers are placed after a game has started. Some PA online sportsbooks offers dozens or more of live wagering options per game, ranging from proposition bets to spreads and totals. Odds are adjusted in real time and the action moves fast. Some PA sportsbooks provide live streaming to follow the action.

✔️ Great Customer Service

If you have a question about your account or terms of a bonus offer, you should be able to contact your PA sportsbook at any time (via email or live chat) and expect a timely response and resolution. This is an area in which PA online sportsbooks can differentiate themselves.

How Do We Pick the Best Pennsylvania Sports Betting Sites?

Only the best, most reputable PA online sports betting sites are featured by Bookies.com. All online gambling sites are carefully reviewed for quality, user experience and other factors to assure PA online sports bettors have a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are the primary aspects of online sports betting sites reviewed by Bookies.com.

☑️ Regulation: Bookies.com won’t even consider a Pennsylvania sports betting site that isn’t regulated and licensed by state gambling regulators. It is imperative sports bettors use sites that aren’t only legal but have completed all inspection and testing mandates under Pennsylvania law. That includes impeccable payouts, fair lines and resources for problem gambling. A sports betting site in Pennsylvania that doesn’t meet all of these requirements (among others) is in violation of federal law.

☑️ Reputation: Once regulated, a worthy sportsbook for Pennsylvania sports betting must have a sterling reputation not just in Pennsylvania but in any other jurisdiction, foreign or domestic. Only sites that have earned that credibility with proven success are included in this review.

☑️ Accessibility: PA mobile sports betting is no good if players can’t consistently access a regulated site. All Bookies.com featured PA sportsbooks have a proven track record of dependable service from anywhere in the Keystone State with internet access.

☑️ Reliability: PA mobile sports betting sites (and their land-based partners) must be reliable. Players should have zero concern placing sports wagers, depositing funds or withdrawing winnings. Sports betting is legal in PA, but bettors should be wary to only use the best sites, such as those featured by Bookies.com.

☑️ Experience: Beyond the technical and legal requirements, Pennsylvania sports betting must create an enjoyable experience with betting lines and options for all the top sports and top-of-the-line customer service. Those factors, along with a user-friendly app or website interface, straightforward options for withdrawals and deposits as well as an enjoyable user experience overall, are required to be highlighted by Bookies.com.

☑️ Bonus Offers: Bonus offers are a key factor to consider for any PA online sportsbook and can include a deposit bonus when you sign up or free bets. Any reputable online sportsbook in Pennsylvania will not just have bonuses, but other offers that help them stand out from the crowd. A great way to judge an operator is by the quality of its bonus.

☑️ Payment: A customer needs to easily submit and withdraw funds. A quality PA online sportsbook has multiple deposit and withdrawal methods, including all the most common banking options such as Play+, PayPal, credit card, debit card and many more.

☑️ Variety: Variety is a key factor in Pennsylvania sports betting. A good online PA sportsbook has not just classic sports wagers like moneyline, point spreads or totals, but hundreds or even thousands of other bets on player props, futures and much more. Pennsylvania law permits an extensive list of betting options, and a strong PA mobile sports betting site will take full advantage of them.

Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Pennsylvania?

Yes. Online and retail sports betting in Pennsylvania were legalized in 2018. PA sports betting launched in May 2019. More than a dozen PA online sportsbooks are currently operating and about 90% of sports betting handle in the state is placed online.

The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PCGB) enforces Pennsylvania sports betting law and oversees online gambling in the state. The PCGB is responsible for ensuring the integrity of online sports betting, administers the licensing process and oversees PA programs that address problem gambling. The neighboring New York sports betting market is the most recent state to open in the Northeast since PA, with tons of New York sports betting apps rushing to the market opening.

Benefits of Legal Online Sports Betting in PA

Convenience, access and safety are among the biggest benefits of legal online sports betting in PA.

Online PA sports betting provides bettors across the state access to odds and wagering 24/7 on their smartphone or computer. There is no need to drive hours to a casino or retail sportsbook to place a wager.

The PGCB ensures your account and personal information are safe and secure. That’s not the case with offshore sports betting sites, which lack proper regulation and provide bettors no recourse if there’s a problem.

Top 5 Pennsylvania Sports Teams to Bet On

Philadelphia is one of only six cities that has won at least one championship in the NFL, MLB, NBA and NHL. The state is also home to several high-profile NCAA football and basketball programs.

Pittsburgh Steelers, Philadelphia Eagles

The Steelers are the oldest franchise in the AFC and among the most successful franchises in NFL history with six Super Bowl titles, tying the New England Patriots for the most in league history. The Steelers have a huge national following and enter the 2021 season having reached the postseason in five of the past seven seasons. The Eagles won the Super Bowl in the 2017 season and reached the postseason three of the past four years.

Philadelphia Phillies, Pittsburgh Pirates

Pennsylvania’s two MLB teams have been mostly rebuilding in recent years. The Phillies haven’t reached the playoffs since 2011 but are contenders in the National League East. The Pirates, whose all-time greats include Honus Wagner and Roberto Clemente, are in the process of three consecutive last-place finishes in the NL Central and haven’t won a World Series since 1979.

Philadelphia 76ers

Tradition-rich franchise was the No. 1 seed in the NBA Eastern Conference during the 2020-21 NBA playoffs but lost to the Atlanta Hawks in the conference semifinals. With a strong roster led by 7-footer Joel Embiid (28.5 ppg), the Sixers are 7-1 odds to win the Eastern Conference in 2021-22 and 15-1 to win the NBA title.

Pittsburgh Penguins, Philadelphia Flyers

The two NHL teams have combined to win seven Stanley Cups, with the Penguins winning back-to-back titles in 2016 and 2017. The Flyers won consecutive titles in 1974-75 but haven’t won one since. The Penguins won the East Division in 2020-21 but lost to the New York Islanders in the first round of Stanley Cup playoffs. The Flyers missed the playoffs two of the past three seasons.

Penn State, Villanova

Pennsylvania sports betting allows wagering on college athletics and games involving in-state teams. Penn State is a long-time college football power with two national championships and plays in the second largest facility (Beaver Stadium, capacity 106,572) in college football. Villanova has won the NCAA basketball championship three times, most recently in 2018. Coach Jay Wright is in his 20th season and has molded the Wildcats into perennial NCAA Tournament contenders.

Why Pennsylvania Sports Betting Online?

Aside from the convenience factor, online wagering provides several other advantages. Among them:

➡️ Compare odds: Unlike in-person sports betting, online wagering allows you to be in two places at once. Comparing odds allows bettors to lock in the best possible value.

➡️ In-game wagering: The menu of in-game wagering opportunities continues to grow, and bettors can now choose between hundreds of options per game. Conversely, in-person wagering is pretty much restricted to pre-game lines and a few other limited options.

➡️ Bonus offers: Welcome bonus offers are mostly geared to new account holders but reload and reduced juice bonuses are often available to existing players. Signing up with more than one PA sportsbook allows bettors to claim multiple bonuses.

PA Sports Betting History

For centuries, Pennsylvania sports betting stuck with its puritanical, anti-gambling roots and avoided nearly all forms of legalized gambling. But developments in Pennsylvania’s Northeastern and Midwestern neighbors has compelled the Keystone State to not just accept gambling but embrace it warmly as sports betting revenue continues to climb.

📅 2004: legalizes horse racing, slots and electronic table games, finally opening the doors to gambling.

📅 2010: The state opens its 12th casino, becoming one of the nation’s largest gambling markets in the nation.

📅 2015: State Rep. Rick Kotik and Rob Matzie co-sponsor a bill that would legalize sports betting in Pennsylvania. It fails, but notice is served.

📅 2017: Matzie offers a more in-depth bill regarding sports betting to help the state deal with crushing debt. Governor Tom Wolf signs the bill into law on Oct. 30. All PA sports betting needs now was approval on the federal level.

📅 2018: Seven months after Pennsylvania legalizes sports betting, the Supreme Court sides with New Jersey and Gov. Chris Christie, striking down the federal sports gambling ban. Hollywood Casino submitted the first paperwork to open a sportsbook in August.

📅 2019: SugarHouse launches the first online sportsbook in Pennsylvania in June. PA sports betting is now legal and all operators are fully live and legal. Sign up today!

📅 2021: Record betting volume with $776 million in handle in October 2021

📅 2022: New record in January with $794 million in total bets

📅 May 2023: The 5th state to pass the $21 billion in all time sports betting handle



 

Pennsylvania Sportsbooks FAQ

Is PA Sports Betting Legal?

Yes. PA Sports betting became legal in 2018 and PA sportsbooks launched in May 2019. You can now bet on sporting events at a number of online sportsbooks in the state.

Are PA Sportsbooks safe?

Yes, PA sportsbooks are safe, but only as long as they are licensed and regulated by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. Offshore based sports betting sites attempt to work around state and federal laws and are not safe or recommended.

What do I need to create a PA sportsbook account?

Bettors must be at least 21 years of age, have an internet connection and provide some personal information, such as name, address, contact info and create a username and password. This is similar to laws in most states in the US.

How will an online sportsbook know my location?

PA sportsbooks use geolocation technology to accurately determine where all wagers are being placed. Bets made from outside PA are automatically denied access. You will only be able to place a bet from inside a state where sports betting is legal.

Will I need to be a PA resident to bet online?

No. A PA sportsbook account can be set up from anywhere. But you must be physically located inside Pennsylvania when placing a wager.

About the Author

Chet Fussman for Bookies.com
Chet Fussman
Chet Fussman, a former horse racing writer and longtime sports editor of the Florida Times-Union in Jacksonville, is a poker and blackjack player and frequent sports bettor.