Massachusetts Sports Betting
After years of waiting, Massachusetts sports betting is finally here! Six online sportsbook apps are now live.
DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, WynnBET and Barstool Sportsbook are currently taking bets as the NCAA Tournament reaches the Sweet 16. Many of these platforms are offering great Massachusetts sports betting promos to new users.
Other companies will be added to the mix in the coming months. At full capacity, Massachusetts could feature as many as 15 mobile sportsbooks.
Retail sports betting already launched in the state last month, and bets can be placed at three casinos — Encore Boston Harbor, MGM Springfield and Plainridge Park Casino.
Best Massachusetts sports betting apps for 2023
As more information becomes available, we’ll include it here.
Massachusetts sports betting updates
- March 23: It is announced that Massachusetts expects to release its first month of online sports betting revenue numbers on April 18. That data will include separate revenue totals from all six MA online sportsbooks, but will only be numbers from launch date, March 10, to March 31.
- March 23: During an open MGC meeting, it was announced that under current interpretation of MA sports betting regulations, online sportsbooks cannot write off promotional credits when filing their state taxes.
- March 22: Despite its growing popularity, Esports betting is currently not allowed in Massachusetts. And according to MGC spokesperson Thomas Mills, none of the state’s six operating online sportsbooks have requested the ability to offer it so far.
- March 21: Suffolk Downs, one of two horse racing simulcast facilities in Massachusetts, announces it is looking to partner with DraftKings’ horse betting platform, DK Horse, when it launches in May.
- March 20: According to GeoComply, devices and accounts with a known history of fraud attempted more than 5,000 geolocation transactions over Massachusetts sports betting launch weekend (March 10-12).
- March 16: PlayMA projects that Massachusetts bettors could wager more than $120 million on March Madness games.
- March 15: The MGC announces that in their first full month of operation, Massachsuetts retail sportsbooks brought in $25.7 million in total wagers.
- March 14: During launch weekend March 10-12, GeoComply identified 8.1 million geolocation transactions by 406,400 player accounts in Massachusetts.
- March 11: CEO Joey Levy announces that micro-betting platform Betr now aims to launch in Massachusetts in April.
- March 10 – Massachusetts online sports betting launches! Six online sports betting apps are now available: DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, WynnBET, and Barstool Sportsbook.
- March 8 – The first major professional sports betting partnership in Massachusetts is made, as BetMGM inked a sports betting deal with the Boston Red Sox.
- March 8 – PlayMA projects that in its first year of sports betting, MA online sportsbooks could generate $4.2 billion in bets. The online market will be live for 10 months in 2023.
- March 7 – PlayMA projects 87% of sports betting in Massachusetts will take place online.
- March 2 – According to Eilers & Krejcik Gaming, an independent consulting firm in the gambling space, Massachusetts sportsbooks will need to own at least 7-8% of the sports betting market in order to become profitable.
- March 1 – PlayMA projects that the Massachusetts sports betting market could handle $5.7 billion in bets annually when the market reaches maturity. Based on 2023 projections, that would make Massachusetts the eighth-biggest sports betting market in the US at full maturity.
Massachusetts sports betting news
Is sports betting legal in Massachusetts?
Yes. The state legalized sports betting last summer, and the first legal bets were accepted at Massachusetts casinos in January 2023. Both full-service casinos and the state’s slot casino are now home to sports betting options.
Under the MA sports betting law, retail casinos can partner with up to two online sports betting operators. As of now, casino sports betting partners include:
- Encore Boston Harbor: WynnBET and Caesars Sportsbook
- MGM Springfield: BetMGM Sportsbook
- Plainridge Park Casino: Barstool Sportsbook and Fanatics Sportsbook
MA mobile sports betting is also live. Massachusetts sports fans can now place their bets on six online sportsbook apps: DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, WynnBET, and Barstool Sportsbook.
Under current law, as many as 15 MA online sports betting apps can be available in MA. So far, 11 mobile licenses have been approved, but PointsBet withdrew its application and will not launch in Massachusetts. Betr plans to go live sometime in the next month, while Bally Bet and Fanatics Sportsbook will launch in May. Betway will launch in January 2024.
The MA sports betting law is broken down as follows:
- Each of the three casinos in Massachusetts can have up to two online sportsbooks on their licenses, for a total of six.
- Each horse racetrack/simulcast facility in the state can have one license, for a total of two.
- The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) retains the authority to issue the remaining seven licenses as it sees fit.
The MGC has awarded five of those remaining seven untethered licenses to: DraftKings, FanDuel, Bally Bet, Betr and Betway. BetMGM, WynnBET, Caesars Sportsbook, Barstool Sportsbook and Fanatics Sportsbook all have tethered licenses connected with one of the state’s casinos.
Snapshot of MA sports betting
Here are some quick facts about Massachusetts sports betting:
| Launch status: | Retail sports betting launched on Jan. 31, 2023. Online sportsbooks went live on March 10. |
| Available formats: | Mobile sportsbook apps are available in both iOS and Android formats. |
| Number of licensed online sportsbooks: | Six launched on March 10. Ten will be available by January 2024. In total, as many as 15 are allowed. |
| Number of retail sportsbooks: | As many as five. |
| Sportsbook tax rates: | 20% on online sports betting, 15% on retail sports betting |
Massachusetts sportsbook partnerships and locations
More than 40 sports betting companies applied for one of the 15 online sportsbook licenses available under Massachusetts law. The table below shows the ones that have received approval thus far.
| 💰 Sportsbook | ✍️ Application Status | 📲 Mobile Launch Date | 🏢 Retail Sportsbook Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | Approved | March 10, 2023 | N/A |
| BetMGM | Approved | March 10, 2023 | MGM Springfield |
| Caesars Sportsbook | Approved | March 10, 2023 | Raynham Park (expected to open in spring 2023) |
| Barstool Sportsbook | Approved | March 10, 2023 | Plainridge Park Casino |
| WynnBET | Approved | March 10, 2023 | Encore Boston Harbor |
| FanDuel | Approved | March 10, 2023 | N/A |
| Betr | Approved | Late March or April, 2023 | N/A |
| Fanatics Sportsbook | Approved | May 2023 | N/A |
| Bally Bet | Approved | May 2023 | N/A |
| Betway | Approved | January 2024 | N/A |
Online sportsbooks live in Massachusetts
MA online sports betting apps take the sports betting scene to the next level in Massachusetts. Sports fans in the state now have plenty of options to choose from when placing their wagers.
Six mobile sportsbook apps are currently live. They are: DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, WynnBET and Barstool Sportsbook.
Let’s take a closer look at each platform that is now live in Massachusetts:
MA launch date: March 10, 2023
Review: DraftKings MA Sportsbook
DraftKings Massachusetts
DraftKings Sportsbook is the closest thing that Massachusetts residents have to a hometown brand. It was founded in Boston and maintains its headquarters in Beantown to this day.
The sportsbook app itself is one of the most innovative on the market. Its betting carousel aims to provide a custom betting experience, and DraftKings was the first major US sportsbook to offer the now-ubiquitous cash-out option.
Overall, DraftKings has one of the best sportsbook apps out there, and Massachusetts sports fans should enjoy using it in their state.
MA launch date: March 10, 2023
Review: FanDuel MA Sportsbook
FanDuel Massachusetts
FanDuel is already known to Massachusetts residents due to its history as a daily fantasy sports (DFS) platform in the state. Now, FanDuel figures to be one of the top sportsbook apps in the Bay State.
The online sportsbook stands out with its wide selection of player props. It was also the first US sportsbook to broadly offer Same Game Parlays.
Finally, FanDuel offers noteworthy navigation and ease of use, along with competitive odds. It is especially known for offering generous odds on underdogs.
MA launch date: March 10, 2023
Review: BetMGM MA Sportsbook
BetMGM Massachusetts
BetMGM is the online wing of MGM Resorts, the international gambling company that counts MGM Springfield as one of its properties.
The online sportsbook offers a good amount of flexibility through its option for customers to edit aspects of their open bets. This can include adding legs, changing out existing legs, or even increasing the amount of a bet. The feature dovetails with the standard cash-out option, meaning you have more control over open bets than you do at most other online sportsbooks.
You can also bet with BetMGM in person, as there is a retail BetMGM Sportsbook at MGM Springfield. It launched on Jan. 31.
MA launch date: March 10, 2023
Review: Caesars MA Sportsbook
Caesars Sportsbook Massachusetts
Caesars Sportsbook is the representative of the casino giant of the same name. There are few legal sports betting locations in the US where Caesars has yet to launch, and Massachusetts has now joined the party.
One of the notable aspects of Caesars is its bonuses and promotions. Perhaps in a nod to the brand’s opulent identity, it offers new and existing customers access to an array of promotions.
Caesars Sportsbook launched in Massachusetts as one of the two online sportsbooks available under Encore Boston Harbor’s license. It also plans to launch a retail sportsbook at Raynham Park later in 2023.
MA launch date: March 10, 2023
Review: WynnBET MA Sportsbook
WynnBET Massachusetts
WynnBET Sportsbook is a relatively new option to US bettors, with a debut in September 2020 in New Jersey. However, Massachusetts is now the 10th state to welcome a launch from the online book. Residents may have already gotten a taste of what WynnBET has to offer through its retail location at Encore Boston Harbor.
WynnBET Sportsbook itself remains a work in progress, but the app is one of the smoothest and fastest on the market, thanks to its partnership with GAN. You also can find a wide variety of live betting options.
As WynnBET shares corporate parentage with Encore Boston Harbor, it will operate courtesy of one of the casino’s two license slots for online sportsbooks.
MA launch date: March 10, 2023
Review: Barstool Sportsbook MA
Barstool Sportsbook Massachusetts
Barstool Sportsbook offers sports fans a unique way to get in on the action. Known for its unique content and special promos, Barstool offers sports fans in Massachusetts plenty of options when placing their bets.
You’ll find a large promotions banner on the homepage of the site to ensure you never miss out on an offer. You also have the option to customize your profile by adding your betting preferences. This includes your favorite sports and leagues to wager on.
There is also a retail Barstool Sportsbook at Plainridge Park Casino in Plainville.
Where can I bet on sports in Massachusetts?
Betting on sports in Massachusetts is available both online and in-person.
Retail sportsbooks in Massachusetts
Three Massachusetts casinos are now taking sports bets. They are MGM Springfield, Encore Boston Harbor and Plainridge Park Casino.
At full capacity, Massachusetts could feature up to 15 mobile sports betting apps. So far, 10 have been approved and six have launched. Right now, you can bet on sports online in Massachusetts using DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, WynnBET and Barstool Sportsbook.
Can you bet on sports in Boston?
Yes. You can bet on sports in Boston at Encore Boston Harbor Casino. It is the newest of the three Massachusetts resort casinos. The casino sits on a 33-acre piece of land on the eastern bank of the Mystic River. In fact, it is merely 5 miles from central Beantown and is easily accessible across the Alford Street Bridge.
Can you bet on sports in Worcester?
Yes. You can bet on sports in Worcester, but only online. At this time there is not a retail casino or retail sportsbook in Worcester. Six mobile sportsbook apps are available right now, and more will be added to the mix in the coming months.
Can you bet on sports in Foxborough?
Yes. Plainridge Park Casino is now accepting sports wagers, and it is located just south of Foxborough and Gillette Stadium. This means that if you are going to a New England Patriots game and want to bet on sports, you can stop by Plainville to place your bets at Plainridge Park.
Can you bet on sports in Springfield?
Yes. Springfield is home to MGM Springfield Casino, which began taking sports bets earlier this year. The casino is located in the Metro Center of Springfield, and encompasses 125,000 square feet of space. In addition to sports betting booths and kiosks, there are more than 2,500 slot machines, dozens of table games, a poker room and keno.
Can you bet on sports in Raynham?
Yes. You can bet on sports online in Raynham right now, and in-person betting may become available soon. Pending approval from the MGC, Caesars will open a retail sportsbook at Raynham Park, a simulcast horse betting facility 30 miles south of Boston.
Massachusetts sportsbook promotions
Now that MA mobile betting apps are live, Massachusetts bettors have access to a variety of promotions at legal online sportsbooks. Here are the main types of sportsbook promos in Massachusetts that are available:
- No deposit — No deposit bonuses require only that you register for an account. The sportsbook will then add site credits or bet vouchers into your account without requiring that you put forth any of your own money.
- Deposit — Deposit bonuses match all or a portion of your deposit amount as additional bonus funds or site credits in your account.
- Odds boosts — Odds boosts increase the amount of potential payout you can realize on certain wagers. The sportsbook app will designate which wagers qualify for a boost, generally increasing payouts for winning bets between 15% and 35%.
- Rewards programs — Earn points when you wager and redeem the points for various perks and benefits. Depending on the app, you may also be able to use the points to purchase items from a bonus store.
Be sure to read the fine print on any bonus offer you entertain. Look out for playthrough requirements with huge multiples, as they can make it quite difficult to convert bonus dollars into withdrawable cash.
How to download, sign up and bet online in Massachusetts
No matter the online sportsbook you choose, the procedure to sign up and start betting is mostly be the same, as the books don’t want a steep learning curve. Here’s what to do:
- Download the app. The first thing to do is access the online sportsbook of your choice via one of the above links. Then select the download link for your device format, follow the instructions and install the app onto your computer, phone or tablet.
- Register for a new account. Select the registration or sign-up button. You will then need to submit your personal information, like your name, date of birth, email address, phone number, Social Security number and login details.
- Deposit money. After creating your account, head to the cashier section of the app and choose a deposit method. You will not be able to use a credit card to deposit. You should also take care to choose a method that you don’t mind using for withdrawals. Don’t forget to claim any welcome bonuses that are available.
- Place a wager. Once you have money in your account, go back to the main lobby and look for a wager you like. Press the button for your desired wager, and monitor the progress on your bet slip.
How to make a withdrawal. Once you’re ready to cash out, head back to the cashier and choose the option to withdraw. You may need to withdraw via the same method as you deposited, or you can use one of the other methods. However, if you happen to have bonus money or site credits, you will not be able to withdraw the value of those funds until you fulfill their playthrough requirements. Many withdrawals will process on the same day.
Who can bet on sports in Massachusetts?
You need to be 21 years of age or older to bet on sports in Massachusetts. In addition, in order to bet at a Massachusetts online sportsbook, you need to be located within state lines.
The state officially legalized sports betting in August 2022 when Gov. Charlie Baker signed off on H5164, or, as it is styled, the Massachusetts Sports Wagering Act. Here are some of the main rules and regulations:
| Legal age | 21 or older |
| Online betting | Yes |
| Remote registration | Yes |
| Restrictions | It is illegal to wager on in-state college teams unless they are playing in a tournament. You cannot deposit money into a sportsbook account via credit card. |
| Taxes on winnings | 20% on online sports betting; 15% on retail sports betting |
Popular Massachusetts sports teams to bet on
Massachusetts has long been a hotbed for famous and prestigious sports franchises. All four of the state’s major professional teams have won championships at least once this century. Thus, these teams figure to be popular items in the state’s growing sports betting landscape.
There are also several college teams in Massachusetts that would be popular wagering options. However, Massachusetts law only allows betting on these teams if they are participating in tournaments, so they will mostly not be available. However, March Madness betting in Massachusetts will be available.
Here are the most popular sports teams for Massachusetts bettors:
- New England Patriots (NFL)
- Boston Celtics (NBA)
- Boston Red Sox (MLB)
- Boston Bruins (NHL)
- New England Revolution (MLS)
- Boston College (NCAA)*
- Harvard University (NCAA)*
* During tournaments only
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Massachusetts sports betting history
Although Massachusetts has a history with legal gambling stretching back nearly 100 years, the period arguably with the most upheaval and change is right now. Here is a brief timeline of Massachusetts’ recent history with gambling, particularly with regard to sports betting.
- 2016 — The first indication that sports betting might be a viable legal activity occurs with the legalization of daily fantasy sports in Massachusetts. Given that a primary DFS pioneer, DraftKings, already calls Boston home, legal DFS play in the state likely seemed inevitable.
- 2019 — Lawmakers file the first major bill to legalize sports betting. However, S201 fails to clear the Senate Ways and Means Committee.
- 2021 — After a one-year hiatus from the issue, lawmakers return with two sports betting bills. However, like their predecessor in 2019, neither one gains much traction in the Massachusetts Legislature.
- 2022 — The Massachusetts Senate passes an amended H3993 and sets up negotiations with the state House to reach agreement on a bill. The bill moves to Gov. Charlie Baker’s desk after receiving approval in both chambers, and Baker signs it into law in August.
- Jan. 31, 2023 — Retail sports betting launches in the state’s three casinos in January.
- March 10, 2023 — Mobile sports betting in Massachusetts launches in March.
Resources:
Massachusetts Sports Betting FAQs
Yes! Massachusetts online sports betting is now live. You can bet using six MA mobile betting apps: DraftKings, FanDuel, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, WynnBET and Barstool Sportsbook. More are on the way.
Yes. DraftKings Sportsbook MA has received a license to offer its services in the Bay State. DraftKings Massachusetts does not have a retail location in the state, but the DraftKings mobile betting app is now live in Massachusetts.
Yes! If you prefer to place your bets in person, you can do so at three Massachusetts casinos: MGM Springfield, Encore Boston Harbor or Plainridge Park Casino.
The Massachusetts Gaming Commission (MGC) is the regulator for all gambling activity in the state, including sports betting. Any and all MA sports betting sites and platforms wishing to enter the Massachusetts market must first gain approval from the MGC.
No. You do not need to be a Massachusetts resident to use any sportsbook apps or the retail sports betting facilities in the state. You simply need to be of age and inside the state lines — which includes up to three miles off the Massachusetts shore.
No. Each sportsbook app employs geolocation technology to confirm that bettors are within Massachusetts. This technology is quite accurate and is calibrated to err on the side of caution. In other words, it’s more likely that you’ll be denied service incorrectly while inside Massachusetts than it is that you’ll be able to place a wager from outside state lines.
Sports fans in Massachusetts now have access to plenty of welcome bonuses. Popular types of welcome bonuses include deposit bonuses, bonus bets, and first bet insurance. For example, over at Caesars MA, you can get your first losing bet on Caesars refunded up to $1,500 when you click the link on this page.