Top 8 Maryland Online Sports Betting Sites – Compare the Best Betting Apps & Sportsbooks in MD

Maryland officially legalized sports betting when Governor Larry Hogan signed HB 940 into law in May 2021. The first retail sportsbooks opened for business later that year, but bettors had to wait until November 2022 for online sports wagering to begin. However, it was worth the wait, as there are now lots of exciting online sportsbooks in the Old Line State.

Our complete guide to Maryland online sports betting will help you discover the best sportsbooks in the state. We have also explained the legal situation and discussed the professional and college teams you can bet on, including the Ravens, Orioles, and Terps. Read on to learn more about the best MD sportsbooks, the generous bonuses they offer, and how to get started with them today.

Best MD Sportsbooks for Each Bettor Type

Timeline for Sports Betting in Maryland

• April 2023: The Maryland sports betting handle increased by 12% month-on-month to $385.9 million in March, while revenue was up 15%, according to figures from the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency.
• December 2022: The first full month of Maryland online sports betting results in total bets of over $475 million being placed, exceeding budgeted amounts.
• November 23, 2022: Online sports betting finally launches in Maryland, 18 months after HB 940 was signed into law.
• May 18, 2021: Governor Larry Hogan signs HB 940, legalizing sports betting in Maryland. Responsibility passes to the Maryland State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency to ensure online and retail sports betting launches.
• February 2021: HB 940 is presented to the House. This bill proposes to legalize online and retail sports betting with a flat tax rate of 15%. HB 940 is passed by both the House and the Senate.

Best Maryland Online Sports Betting Sites

All of the best online sports betting sites in the US provide great betting options, secure banking, generous bonuses, and other perks. We have filtered only the licensed operators for MD and what differentiates them. We will go through the top Maryland options in more detail so that you can quickly find the perfect fit.

1. DraftKings – Best Overall Sportsbook in Maryland

• Website: draftkings.com/md-sports-betting
• Payout Time: 1-3 days
• Established: 2012
• Headquarters: Boston, MA

Our Verdict: 9.7/10

DraftKings is a household name across the US thanks to its Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) platform, which has thousands of customers in Maryland. In 2018, DraftKings launched its online sportsbook, which is now available in more than 20 states. It was initially powered by Kambi, one of the world’s leading software providers.

In 2020, DraftKings merged with SBTech and a special purpose acquisition company (SPAC) before listing on the Nasdaq. This SPAC deal boosted its cash balance, allowing it to invest heavily in promotions and improvements to the sportsbook. DraftKings then migrated to in-house software created by SBTech, a rival to Kambi, meaning it now offers a unique user experience.

DraftKings is now the second-largest online sportsbook in America by market share. Its DFS business is still going strong, and the company offers online casino gaming in some states too. DraftKings Sportsbook Maryland launched in November 2022, and it has already built up a large player base in the state.

DraftKings is the official betting partner of the NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, UFC, and PGA Tour and offers a wide range of betting options for these sports and many more. You can find single-game bets – including spreads, totals, moneylines, and props – plus live bets, futures, and same-game parlays for the most popular sports, with generous betting lines pre-game and in-play.

There is a good range of payment options at DraftKings, with DraftKings, MasterCard, PayPal, Play+, ACH, online banking, gift cards, wire transfers, and cash by barcode available for deposits. It has a minimum deposit of $5, which is lower than rival MD sportsbooks and large deposits are available for VIP players too. The sportsbook process deposits instantly, and withdrawals take one to three business days, depending on the method selected.

You can contact the DraftKings customer support team 24/7 via email. You can also leave DraftKings a phone message, and the team will get back to you, or send a message over social media. DraftKings provides an FAQ section on its desktop site and app for general questions. However, it would be great to see 24/7 live chat and phone support introduced in the future.

New customers are normally offered a “bet and win” or “bet and get” bonus at DraftKings in Maryland. The current bonus is a “Bet $5, Get $150” offer. Alternatively, anyone that signs up in Maryland can claim DraftKings’ 20% deposit match bonus up to $1,000, although it has 25x release requirements. There are also regular offers for existing players, including free-to-enter pools, which offer the chance to win bonus bets.

Sections Overview:

• Bonuses: 9.0/10
• Desktop Experience: 9.6/10
• Mobile Experience: 9.6/10
• Registration Process: 9.8/10
• Account Verification: 9.7/10
• Payment Methods: 9.3/10
• Sportsbook: 9.7/10
• Customer Support: 9.7/10
• Responsible Gambling: 9.8/10

DraftKings bonuses & promos:

2. Barstool – Excellent social media services

• Website: https://www.barstoolsportsbook.com/
• Payout Time: 3-5 days
• Established: 2020
• Land-Based Partner: Live! Casino & Hotel in Hanover
• Headquarters: New York, NY

Our Verdict: 9.6/10

Barstool Sports has been producing popular sports content since 2003. Founder Dave Portnoy established the brand as a print newspaper, which he distributed at subway stations and street corners in Boston, but it has expanded to become a huge multimedia empire. The brand has a very large and dedicated following, known as “Stoolies,” who enjoy the irreverent content and the humor.

In 2020, industry giant Penn Entertainment purchased a large stake in Barstool, and it quickly launched Barstool Sportsbook. The brand has proved popular among Stoolies and general bettors, with a reputation for large bonuses and lots of boosts. It is now available in more than a dozen states, and it has an online casino in some states too.

Kambi powers the Barstool online sportsbook. It offers more than 300 betting options on big games, and it typically covers between 15 and 25 different sports. You’ll also find plenty of moneylines and prop bets for NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MMA, NASCAR, golf, and much more. There are also plenty of niche sports like Aussie rules football and volleyball too. Barstool will soon migrate to in-house software created by its theScore Bet subsidiary, so it will be interesting to see how comprehensive the new sportsbook is.

Like most online sportsbooks, Barstool Sportsbook has a partnership in place with Play+, so you can sign up for a branded prepaid card. You can also use other popular US payment methods like Visa, MasterCard, PayPal, ACH, and wire transfers.

Barstool made its name with its presence on social media, and you can contact the customer support team through Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. You can also use live chat 24/7 to request a follow-up call.

If you register with Barstool Sportsbook, you can claim a first bet bonus worth up to $1,000. You must deposit at least $10 to claim this promotion and make your bet at odds of -200 or longer. If it loses, you will get the money back as a bonus credit, with a 1x wagering requirement. Barstool also offers deposit match bonuses and boosts for existing customers.

Sections Overview:

• Bonuses: 9.4/10
• Desktop Experience: 9.5/10
• Mobile Experience: 9.4/10
• Registration Process: 9.6/10
• Account Verification: 9.7/10
• Payment Methods: 9.1/10
• Sportsbook: 9.3/10
• Customer Support: 9.5/10
• Responsible Gambling: 10.0/10

Barstool bonuses & promos:

3. FanDuel – The best range of bonuses in Maryland

• Website: md.sportsbook.fanduel.com/
• Payout Time: 2-5 days
• Established: 2009
• Partnership: Washington Commanders
• Headquarters: New York City, NY

Our Verdict: 9.5/10

FanDuel established itself as a leading provider of DFS contests after launching in 2009. Flutter Entertainment, the largest online gambling operator in the world, purchased the brand in 2018 and quickly launched FanDuel Sportsbook. It is now the most popular online sportsbook in the USA, and it is also the market leader in Maryland. FanDuel launched a retail sportsbook at Live! Casino in the Washington-Baltimore corridor in 2021, followed by its online sportsbook in November 2022.

The competitive odds, superb user experience, and large bonuses helped FanDuel fight off fierce competition to claim market leadership in the Old Line State. It still offers DFS contests too, along with an online racebook and a TV network.

You can find betting lines for more than 20 sports at FanDuel, from popular leagues like the NFL and NBA to niche sports like volleyball and cricket. You’ll find moneylines, totals, point spreads, props, and same-game parlays for hundreds of events. You can also use cash out to get early payouts on in-play events. It offers live streaming of several sports, and it is one of the best sportsbooks for in-game betting.

FanDuel offers various trusted payment options, including Visa, MasterCard, Discover, Play+, PayPal, Venmo, ACH, online banking, and PayNearMe. You can also visit FanDuel’s retail sportsbook at Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland and make fast deposits and withdrawals from your online account at the casino cage. Withdrawals take around an hour, and the fastest methods include debit card payouts, Play+, PayPal, and Venmo.

You’ll find most of the answers to commonly asked questions in FanDuel’s FAQs, but you can also get in touch using live chat, email, and social media. Support is available 24/7, with live chat responses usually instant.

New players can claim a No Sweat First Bet worth up to $1,000 as a welcome bonus. If you lose your first bet, FanDuel will refund you with bonus bets. You can also earn up to $50 in bonus credits by referring a friend, while there are loads of odds boosts and recurring promos on particular bets like parlays.

Sections Overview:

• Bonuses: 9.4/10
• Desktop Experience: 9.7/10
• Mobile Experience: 9.8/10
• Registration Process: 9.5/10
• Account Verification: 9.6/10
• Payment Methods: 9.1/10
• Sportsbook: 9.7/10
• Customer Support: 9.7/10
• Responsible Gambling: 9.8/10

FanDuel bonuses & promos:

4. BetMGM – Best for betting odds

• Website: sports.md.betmgm.com/
• Payout Time: 0-5 days
• Established: 2018
• Partnership: Washington Nationals
• Headquarters: Jersey City, NJ

Our Verdict: 9.5/10

BetMGM was created as a partnership between casino operator MGM Resorts International and online gambling giant Entain. It launched in New Jersey five years ago, and it is now live in more than 20 states. BetMGM launched a retail sports betting lounge at MGM National Harbor in Maryland back in December 2021, and the online sportsbook went live the following year.

This sportsbook has earned a reputation for offering a huge range of markets, a generous loyalty program, and a slick desktop platform. It uses Entain’s in-house software, and it provides features such as live MLB, NBA, NHL, tennis, and soccer streaming. BetMGM also runs the country’s No. 1 online casino and a lively poker room, but they are not yet available in Maryland.

There are more than 20 sports to bet on at BetMGM, with plenty of betting options for popular leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL. There are also competitive odds for smaller sports like lacrosse and snooker. You can bet on alternate lines, props, one-game parlays, futures, and live markets.

You can use Visa, MasterCard, Discover, American Express, Skrill, PayPal, PayNearMe, Play+, ACH, online banking, instant banking, or cash at MGM National Harbor to make deposits at BetMGM. Payouts are available via most of those methods too. The withdrawal process is also slower than at many competitors, taking 2-5 days, but you can speed it up by selecting Play+ or PayPal. MD players can also visit the BetMGM retail sportsbook at MGM National Harbor Casino for quick payouts.

BetMGM tries to ensure its excellent, extensive FAQ support service can address any questions. If the FAQs do not answer your queries, live chat, and email support are available 24/7 to help with any issues. No telephone help service is available for customers wanting to speak to a service agent.

New players at BetMGM Maryland can place a first bet up to $1,000, knowing if it loses, the sportsbook will give them their stake back in bonus credits. There are also plenty of existing player promos to enjoy, including profit boosts, bonus bets, and Select Your Squad, which offers regular bonuses on your favorite NFL and NBA teams.

BetMGM allows all customers to join its MGM Rewards program. You can earn points for betting and use them to redeem prizes like bonus bets and perks at MGM Resorts venues, such as MGM National Harbor, Borgata in New Jersey and Bellagio, Mandalay Bay, and MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

Sections Overview:

• Bonuses: 9.5/10
• Desktop Experience: 9.6/10
• Mobile Experience: 9.7/10
• Registration Process: 9.6/10
• Account Verification: 9.7/10
• Payment Methods: 9.1/10
• Sportsbook: 9.6/10
• Customer Support: 9.6/10
• Responsible Gambling: 9.6/10

BetMGM bonuses & promos:

5. Caesars – Offers NFL live streaming and large promos

• Website: https://caesars.com/sportsbook-and-casino/md/
• Payout Time: 1-2 days
• Established: 1996
• Land-Based Partner: Capital One Arena, Washington Capitals
• Headquarters: Reno, NV

Our Verdict: 9.2/10

Caesars Sportsbook offers Marylanders large bonuses, fast payouts, and a user-friendly betting experience. Parent company Caesars Entertainment – a Las Vegas-based business that owns Caesars Palace, Horseshoe, Harrah’s, Tropicana, and Eldorado – purchased William Hill in 2021. It rebranded the William Hill app and website as Caesars Sportsbook that year.

It is now the fourth-largest sports betting brand in the United States, after FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM. Caesars launched a retail sportsbook at Horseshoe Casino in Baltimore in 2021, and the online sportsbook went live in December 2022. It has earned praise thanks to its generous loyalty program, accessible desktop site, and its recently launched live NFL streaming service.

Caesars Sportsbook offers betting lines on all popular US sports and is one of the best MD platforms for same-game parlay bets. It covers around 20 sports, with a strong selection of options on football, basketball, baseball, and hockey. The sportsbook also allows customers to stream Sunday Night Football games through its new “Watch and Bet” service.

Popular payment methods like PayPal, ACH, online banking, Play+, PayNearMe, Visa, Mastercard, and Discover are all available at Caesars Sportsbook. Most withdrawals at Caesars are faster than at other MD sportsbooks, taking one or two days at most. It processes payouts via PayPal and Play+ three times daily, and the funds arrive that same day. You can also visit Horseshoe Casino in downtown Baltimore and withdraw using the casino cage cashier.

You can receive customer service at Caesars Sportsbook through a variety of channels, including phone support, live chat, and email. A descriptive FAQ section covering most areas too. The live chat and helpline are also available 24/7.

Caesars Sportsbook’s welcome bonus is the largest in Maryland. It provides a first-bet offer worth up to $1,250. If your first bet loses, you will get the money back in the form of a bet credit, with a 1x wagering requirement. You will also receive 1,000 loyalty program points via this welcome bonus, which is named Go Full Caesar.

You can then continue to earn Caesars Rewards points each time you place a bet. It offers more than 50 odds boosts on a typical day, and additional promos include profit boost tokens, bonus bets, prize draws, and insurance bonuses.

Caesars Sportsbook’s welcome bonus is the largest in Maryland. It provides a first-bet offer worth up to $1,250. If your first bet loses, you will get the money back in the form of a bet credit, with a 1x wagering requirement. You will also receive 1,000 loyalty program points via this welcome bonus, which is named Go Full Caesar.

You can then continue to earn Caesars Rewards points each time you place a bet. It offers more than 50 odds boosts on a typical day, and additional promos include profit boost tokens, bonus bets, prize draws, and insurance bonuses.

Sections Overview:

• Bonuses: 9.7/10
• Desktop Experience: 9.3/10
• Mobile Experience: 9.2/10
• Registration Process: 9.4/10
• Account Verification: 9.5/10
• Payment Methods: 9.2/10
• Sportsbook: 9.3/10
• Customer Support: 9.4/10
• Responsible Gambling: 9.5/10

Caesars bonuses & promos:

6. BetRivers – Excellent rewards program

• Website: md.betrivers.com/
• Payout Time: Between 24 and 72 hours
• Established: 2019
• Headquarters: Chicago, IL

Our Verdict: 9.0/10

BetRivers is owned by Chicago-based casino operator Rush Street Interactive, which runs the Rivers Casino estate. It launched in Pennsylvania in 2019, and it is now available in more than a dozen US states. BetRivers has been available in Maryland since 2022. It offers a retail sportsbook at Bingo World in Baltimore alongside the website and mobile app.

This online sportsbook is also powered by Kambi, so it currently offers the same odds and user experience as Barstool. However, it has invested in additional features, including live streaming of certain sports, instant payouts, and loads of bonuses, which distinguishes it from Barstool, Unibet, BetParx, and other sportsbooks that use Kambi software.

You can bet on dozens of sports at BetRivers, including popular leagues such as MLB, NFL, NHL, NBA, and MLS. There are also lots of other sports, with a wide variety of pre-game and in-play markets. BetRivers is the official betting partner of Jai Alai and offers extensive markets for this sport. There are more than 200 betting markets on most big games.

All of your favorite payment methods are available at BetRivers, with providers like PayPal, Visa, and Mastercard allowing you to make instant deposits. You can use PayPal, Play+, eCheck, and online banking for deposits and withdrawals. Payouts are instant, thanks to the company’s automated RushPay system.

BetRivers offers 24/7 customer support, and you can get in contact via email, and live chat. A help center and FAQ section are available, covering most of the common questions customers ask.

You can claim a $500 second-chance bet by signing up with BetRivers. It gives you back your stake back as a bonus bet if your first wager loses. The sportsbook also rolls out new bonuses every week, including bonus bets, profit boosts, contests, and odds boosts. You can also join the iRush Rewards program and earn points, which are redeemable for bonus bets.

Sections Overview:

• Bonuses: 9.4/10
• Desktop Experience: 9.3/10
• Mobile Experience: 9.2/10
• Registration Process: 9.5/10
• Account Verification: 9.6/10
• Payment Methods: 9.0/10
• Sportsbook: 9.3/10
• Customer Support: 9.5/10
• Responsible Gambling: 9.6/10

BetRivers bonuses & promos:

7. PointsBet – The most innovative sportsbook features

• Website: md.pointsbet.com
• Payout Time: 1-3 days
• Established: 2019
• Headquarters: Denver, CO

Our Verdict: 9.1/10

PointsBet is an Australian company that launched in its home market back in 2017. It expanded into the United States in 2019, and it is now live in 14 states. PointsBet opened a retail sportsbook at Riverboat Casino on the Potomac in 2021, followed by an online sportsbook in December 2022.

This operator is renowned for offering the widest range of betting options in Maryland. They include regular fixed-odds markets and PointsBetting, which is like financial spread betting. Additional features include stats, previews, partial and full early cash-out options, boosts, line movement data, and much more. It runs on in-house software, giving it a unique user experience.

In April 2023, it transpired that the company was trying to sell its US operations. It has retained the services of Moelis & Company, a New York investment bank, to facilitate the sale, but no concrete bids have come in yet.

PointsBet offers more than 140 fixed-odds betting options on most big sports events. If you can’t find a market you want to bet on, use the Name a Bet feature and ask the PointsBet oddsmakers to price it up for you. PointsBet provides a “Lightning Bets” feature that lets you place fast in-play bets, such as what will happen on the next drive in the NFL or the next minute in basketball. You can then explore PointsBetting, which offers a huge range of unique markets.

You can make deposits at PointsBet using bank cards, bank transfers, ACH, and PayPal. However, withdrawals are only available with bank transfers and ACH, usually taking one to three days. Most rival MD sportsbooks offer more banking options and quicker payouts.

PointsBet provides 24/7 customer support in English and Spanish across live chat and email. You can also get in touch using Twitter. Customers can use the on-site FAQ page for immediate answers to common questions.

New players in Maryland can claim five $50 second-chance bets after registering with PointsBet. This is pretty appealing to budget bettors, who can spread their bankroll over a few different bets rather than committing to one massive wager. PointsBet previously offered additional bonuses for existing customers, but they are no longer available.

Sections Overview:

• Bonuses: 8.8/10
• Desktop Experience: 9.2/10
• Mobile Experience: 9.1/10
• Registration Process: 9.5/10
• Account Verification: 9.5/10
• Payment Methods: 9.3/10
• Sportsbook: 9.2/10
• Customer Support: 9.3/10
• Responsible Gambling: 9.5/10

PointsBet bonuses & promos:

8. Betfred – Outstanding customer support

• Website: https://md.betfredsports.com/
• Payout Time: 2-5 days
• Established: 1967
• Headquarters: Warrington, UK

Our Verdict: 8.9/10

Betfred has been a major player within the UK sports betting scene for more than 50 years. Brothers Fred and Peter Done founded the business in 1967, and they built up a large chain of retail betting shops before launching a website.

The company expanded into the US in 2020, when it launched a subsidiary in Las Vegas. It is still a relatively small sportsbook compared to established rivals like FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM, but it offers several interesting points of difference. They include sharp odds, appealing bonuses, and an excellent software platform. Betfred opened a retail sportsbook at Long Shot’s, an off-track betting parlor in Frederick, MD, before launching its online sportsbook in 2022.

The range of sports available at Betfred is broad, with all of the most popular US events covered. However, you will find more options at some of the more prominent US sportsbooks. It offers spreads, moneylines, totals, props, parlays, futures, live bets, and other options. There is no same-game parlay builder, but you can create SGPs within the bet slip.

Customers can deposit funds at Betfred using MasterCard, Visa, Play+, PayNearMe, bank transfer, and ACH. Unfortunately, there aren’t any e-wallets available. The sportsbook will process withdrawals in two to six days, with Play+ and bank transfer transactions the fastest.

Betfred customer support is considered market-leading in the UK, and this high quality has been brought over to the US. You can contact the support team through phone, live chat, email, and Twitter. Customer support agents are knowledgeable, courteous, and eager to help. Unfortunately, it is not available 24/7, but you can access support from 11 am – 12 am ET Monday through Thursday and 11 am – 2 am on Friday to Sunday.

New customers who register with Betfred in Maryland can claim up to $1,111 in bonus bets when they deposit and bet $50. You’ll get a $111 bonus after placing this initial wager, and the sportsbook will pay back up to $200 in any net losses weekly for your first five weeks. The sportsbook also has a decent range of existing player offers, including odds boosts.

Sections Overview:

• Bonuses: 9.4/10
• Desktop Experience: 9.2/10
• Mobile Experience: 9.1/10
• Registration Process: 9.4/10
• Account Verification: 9.4/10
• Payment Methods: 9.1/10
• Sportsbook: 9.4/10
• Customer Support: 9.3/10
• Responsible Gambling: 9.5/10

FanDuel bonuses & promos:

Maryland Sports Betting Overview

• 🧑‍⚖️ Retail Sports Betting Launch Date: December 9, 2021
• 🧑‍⚖️ Online Sports Betting Launch Date: November 23, 2022
• ✅ Licensed Sportsbooks: Barstool, Betfred, BetMGM, BetRivers, Caesars, DraftKings, Fanatics Sportsbook, FanDuel, Pointsbet
• 💵 Legal Wagering Options: Moneylines, points spreads, totals, parlays, same game parlays, futures, teasers
• ❓ Legal Gambling Age in Maryland: 21+
• 🏈 Sports to Bet On: NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, soccer, tennis, golf, NASCAR, MMA, college sports, boxing
• 🏦 Permitted Banking Options: Visa, MasterCard, Neteller, PayPal, Bank and Wire Transfers, Play+, PayNearMe, Skrill
• 📝 Maryland Gambling Regulator: Maryland State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency

How to Place a Bet in Maryland

Now that online sports betting in Maryland is legal, placing a bet couldn’t be easier. Follow our step-by-step guide below to place your first online bet anywhere in the state.

1. Click the links on this page to visit one of our recommended Maryland betting sites.

2. Create your account by providing your name, date of birth, address, phone number, and the last four digits of your Social Security number.

3. When you have completed the registration process, click on the cashier button to make your first deposit. You can choose your preferred payment method and how much money to add. Be sure to meet any terms and conditions for the welcome bonus you claim.

4. Return to the main screen of the Maryland sports betting app and find the sport you want to bet on. Add a game or market to your bet slip, select your stake, and confirm your wager.

5. If you have backed a winner, you can easily withdraw by returning to the cashier section, choosing to withdraw, and following the sportsbook’s instructions.

6. Most MD sportsbooks will ask you to verify your account before withdrawing. You can do this by providing a copy of a photo ID and proof of address.

Before using a Maryland betting site on your mobile, you will need to enable your device location’s setting and allow the sportsbook operator to verify that you are within state borders. If not prompted to do so when signing up, go to your phone or tablet’s settings and allow the Maryland betting app to track your location.

Maryland Betting Apps on Mobile

Banking Methods Available in Maryland

Online sportsbooks in Maryland offer a range of payment options that make it easy for bettors to deposit and withdraw funds like Visa and Mastercard. Most sites also accept e-wallets like PayPal and Skrill, which are popular thanks to the fast withdrawal times on offer.

Several Maryland sports betting apps, such as BetMGM, DraftKings, and FanDuel, offer prepaid card deposits through Play+ and PayNearMe which can be bought and topped up in retail stores like 7-Eleven and Walgreens. For larger amounts, deposits can be made via bank transfers, wire transfers, and Automated Clearing Houses (ACH).

Who is Eligible to Bet in Maryland?

Anyone 21 or older can gamble in Maryland as long as they are within the state’s borders. MD sportsbooks will request to use your device’s geolocation services to prove you are playing where it’s legal.

While these rules mean many people can wager, some people are excluded by their profession. For example, if you’re employed or associated with a professional or college sports team or governing body, you cannot place sports bets in Maryland. Similarly, people with access to non-public information about a sports team are precluded from placing sports bets (for example, an independent medical examiner), as are those employed by the MLGCA. Finally, certain criminal records may prevent people from betting at a state or federal level.

Latest Maryland Sports Betting Updates

Sports betting in Maryland was legalized in May 2021. Six months later, the first retail sportsbook opened with the BetMGM Sportsbook in the MGM National Harbor Casino on December 9, 2021. Almost a full year passed until the Maryland online sports betting market launched on November 23, 2022. Now both markets have launched, attention will turn to which operators will try to claim one of the 60 online licenses available.

Maryland Sports Betting Background

You can date sports betting in Maryland back over 100 years, with pari-mutuel wagering legalized in 1920. Horse racing in Maryland has always been particularly prominent, with the Preakness Stakes, a triple crown event, being held at Preakness Racetrack.

Given the links between Maryland and sports betting, it was unsurprising when the state expressed interest in legalizing MD sports betting following PASPA’s repeal. However, while the state is known for being progressive in its attitude towards sports betting, Maryland’s regulators have a reputation for being extremely thorough. This led to delays in the launch of the sports betting market as the regulator undertook an extensive study into gender and ethnic-based inclusion in the industry.

Future of Maryland Sports Betting

Maryland has the potential to be one of the most exciting sports betting markets in the US, with 60 online sportsbook licenses available. Only a fraction of these licenses have been taken by operators, meaning MD will have a variety of options in the future.

Maryland boasts the highest median income in the US, meaning that MD sportsbooks have a lot of disposable income to compete for. We expect new and exciting entrants into the online sportsbook market over the coming months.

On the retail Maryland sports betting side, there are plans to open retail sportsbooks at professional sports teams’ stadiums. For example, there are plans for sportsbooks to open at M&T Bank Stadium and Oriole Park at Camden Yards soon.

Maryland Sports Betting Locations

Casinos

Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland

• Address: 7002 Arundel Mills Circle, Suite 7777, Hanover, MD 21076
• Website: https://maryland.livecasinohotel.com/
• Phone number: (443) 842-7000
• Operator: FanDuel

Live! Casino & Hotel Maryland is a multi-function complex offering over 300 hotel rooms, a concert venue, and a casino with almost 4,000 slot machines, 200 table games, and 50 poker tables. FanDuel Sportsbook opened on the site on December 10, 2021. Sports bettors can enjoy watching every sport on the 100-foot media wall and watch games from comfortable lounge seating. Customers can place bets at any time from 24-hour kiosks, as well as at betting windows.

Horseshoe Casino Baltimore

• Address: 1525 Russell Street, Baltimore, MD 21230
• Website: https://www.caesars.com/horseshoe-baltimore
• Phone number: (844) 777-7463
• Operator: Caesars

The Horseshoe Casino Baltimore boasts a Caesars Casino that stretches to over 120,000 square feet, meaning visitors have access to over 1,600 slot machines. The Caesars Sportsbook is located on the casino’s first floor and gives customers an immersive betting experience with huge video walls. The casino and sportsbook are located right next to M&T Bank Stadium and Oriole Park at Camden Yards, so the atmosphere can be electric after Orioles and Ravens games spill out into the streets. You can bet using one of the 20 betting kiosks in the sportsbook.

MGM National Harbor Casino

• Address: 101 MGM National Avenue, Oxon Hill, MD 20745
• Website: https://mgmnationalharbor.mgmresorts.com/en.html
• Phone number: (844) 646-6847
• Operator: BetMGM

The MGM National Harbor Casino is an entertainment complex in Maryland right near the border of Washington D.C. and Virginia. BetMGM opened the first retail sportsbook in Maryland on December 9, 2021, and if you visit, you’ll find a 110-foot video screen and wall-to-wall stadium-style seating.

Maryland Lottery Locations

The Maryland Lottery was established in 1973 and is regulated by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA). MLGCA also regulates casinos and sports betting in the Old-Line State. Despite this, there are no current plans to allow the 4,400 plus lottery retailers in Maryland to offer sports betting facilities.

Off-Track Betting and Stadium Locations

Maryland is one of the premier locations for horse racing in the US, so it is no surprise that off-track betting is legal. There are eight off-track betting locations in the state, including many casinos supporting retail sportsbooks.

In terms of stadium betting, there is a Fanatics Sportsbook open at FedEx Field, home of the Washington Commanders. The Baltimore Ravens and Baltimore Orioles are expected to launch retail sportsbooks at stadiums in Baltimore in the near future.

Maryland Responsible Gambling Resources

Maryland offers sports bettors a state-wide exclusion policy, letting players ban themselves from all casinos in the state. Additionally, all sportsbook apps offer tools to help you manage your gambling following regulations from the MLGCA. You’ll find options like cool-off periods from betting and deposit limits with our recommended Maryland sports betting sites.

In addition to responsible gaming resources offered by casinos and sportsbooks, there are external resources that can provide support for responsible gambling. The Maryland National Council on Problem Gambling and the Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling both offer support to problem gamblers and their families.

Teams to Bet on in Maryland

Pro Sports

Baltimore Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens are one of the newest teams in the NFL, playing its first season in 1996. The Ravens have earned a reputation for high-quality drafting, selecting Pro Football Hall of Famers Jonathan Ogden and Ray Lewis in its first draft. This pair helped propel the team to a Super Bowl in 2001. Another future Hall of Famer, Ed Reed, was selected in 2002 and formed the backbone of the second Super Bowl win in 2013. The Ravens play in the AFC North Division at the M&T Bank Stadium.

Washington Commanders

While the Washington Commanders are closely linked with the District of Columbia, the team plays home games in Landover, Maryland. The franchise has had only one playoff win since 2000 but has previously won three Super Bowls under the coaching of Joe Gibbs. The Commanders compete in the NFC East and play home games at FedEx Field.

Baltimore Orioles

The Orioles compete in the highly competitive American League East Division, playing at Camden Yards. Times since the mid-1980s have been tough for Orioles fans, with more lows than highs. Older Orioles fans will remember the glory days from the mid-1960s to the mid-1980s when the team won three World Series and three further American League Pennants.

College Sports

Coppin State University Eagles

The Eagles compete for Coppin State University in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, sponsoring 14 varsity teams. These include six men’s teams and eight women’s teams. Despite the program having an all-time winning record of .259, the Eagles baseball team made the NCAA Men’s Tournament for only the second time in 2022.

Loyola University Maryland Greyhounds

Loyola University Maryland is represented by the Loyola Greyhounds in the Patriot League. The Greyhounds have enjoyed success in both lacrosse and soccer, with the school’s only NCAA National Championship coming in lacrosse in 2012. The Greyhounds lacrosse team enjoys a fierce rivalry with its close neighbors, the Johns Hopkins Blue Jays.

University of Maryland Terrapins

One of the powerhouses of the competitive Big Ten Conference, the University of Maryland Terrapins has won 32 NCAA National Champions across all sports. The Terps have claimed national titles in men’s and women’s basketball, as well as multiple championships in men’s and women’s lacrosse.

The school also boasts an impressive list of alumni, producing multiple first-round draft picks in the NFL and NBA drafts.

University of Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks

The Hawks represent the University of Maryland, Eastern Shore, in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. The Hawks won Division 1 National Championships in women’s bowling in 2008, 2011, and 2012. Outside of this, the school has had limited success across the other 14 varsity sports it supports.

Morgan State University Bears and Lady Bears

There are 13 varsity teams supported by Morgan State University, all playing under the Bears and Lady Bears’ names. The Baltimore school is best known for its football team and its rivalry with the Howard University Bison. This is one of the most highly regarded football games between two HBCU schools, with Morgan State leading the all-time series 46-38-3.

Mount St. Mary’s University Mountaineers

Mount St. Mary’s University is represented by 22 varsity teams that compete primarily in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference. The Mountaineers have seen postseason competition in men’s and women’s basketball in recent years, with the women’s team hoping to pick up its first postseason win soon.

United States Naval Academy Navy Midshipmen

Playing in the appropriately named Patriot League, the United States Naval Academy Navy Midshipmen won five National Championships between 1945-1964. However, the school is best known for the Army-Navy football game that signifies the close of the college football series.

Towson University Tigers

The Colonial Athletic Association plays host to the Towson University Tigers, which excels in lacrosse like many other MD schools. While the Tigers have not won a national title in the sport, the program has finished runners-up. The school plays most games at the Johnny Unitas Stadium, named after the famous quarterback who the University employed shortly before his death in 2002.

University of Maryland Baltimore County Retrievers

More commonly known as the UMBC Retrievers, the school has 17 varsity games competing in the America East Conference. While the school hasn’t seen much success, it had a moment in the spotlight in the 2018 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament, when the Retrievers became the first #16 seed to beat a #1 seed, defeating the Virginia Cavaliers.

How Does Maryland Compare to Other States

Market Coverage

Maryland sportsbooks offer a large and mostly unrestricted range of sports for betting. You’ll find plenty of markets if you’re a fan of niche sports like lacrosse or major league sports, you’ll find plenty of markets.

Unlike many states, Maryland has no restrictions on college sports, so you can bet on in-state college teams and place prop bets on college athletes. In fact, the only restricted betting markets in Maryland are on high school sports and non-sporting events, such as the Academy Awards.

Competitive Odds & Prices

Most of the biggest sportsbooks in the US have a presence in Maryland, ensuring that customers have access to some of the best odds in the country. Competition for sportsbook customers is highly competitive, so sportsbooks that offer poor odds will be left behind quickly. Additionally, large sportsbooks offer the same odds across the country, so BetMGM Sportsbook customers in Maryland will have the same odds and prices as people in Nevada or New Jersey.

Gambling Revenue

Sportsbooks are charged a flat tax rate of 15% on sports betting revenue. Online sports betting launched in Maryland at the end of November 2022, and the first two full months after the launch saw over $400 million being placed in bets. February will undoubtedly be even higher due to the Super Bowl, with March also likely to be strong due to March Madness.

Maryland has the same tax rates as Illinois, and while Illinois has double the population, this established market regularly posts total bets of $750 million to $1 billion. If Maryland continues to operate at half of the level of Illinois, taxes raised for the state of Maryland could be around $30 million for $40 million for the full year.

Betting Taxes

As with all US states, Maryland bettors must pay taxes on winnings from gambling sites. All MD sports betting winnings must be declared to the IRS, and you must complete a W-2G form for winnings greater than $600. You will only be liable to pay tax if you end the year in profit, as losses can be deducted from wins.

In addition, Maryland has a specific requirement for sportsbooks to hold taxes on winnings greater than $5,000. If you are a resident, 8.75% of your winnings will be collected as income tax, with 7% for non-residents.

Who Oversees Sports Betting in Maryland?

The Maryland State Lottery and Gaming Control Agency oversees sports betting in the Old Line State. The MLGCA is supported by The Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC), which determines the appropriate license for each applicant prior to the MLGCA ruling on the license.

The MLGCA is an independent government agency that was founded in 1973 to oversee the State’s plans to launch a lottery. Since then, the MLGCA has expanded into oversight of casinos in November 2008 and sports betting in May 2021. The MLGCA is made up of a seven-member panel, and the Governor makes appointments after Senate consultation.

Best Sports Betting Site Maryland

With many Maryland online betting operators launching in the state since legalization, there are plenty of great platforms for MD bettors to try. One operator stands out, however. DraftKings MD provides an easy-to-use platform with a great range of sports betting markets. Its Maryland betting app is perfect for novice bettors, with many how-to guides to get you started, face ID verification, and exclusive mobile bonuses.

Click any link on this page to be directed to the site, sign-up, and claim a welcome bonus.

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