2025 Sports Betting Laws by State: Legal Status and Pricing Overview

Most U.S. states have legalized or are actively considering legalizing sports betting.

Sports betting has rapidly expanded across the United States since the landmark 2018 Supreme Court decision that ended the federal ban. This has opened doors for many states to regulate and authorize sports wagering, both in retail locations and online. However, the legal framework varies widely by state, with some allowing full access and others maintaining strict limitations or outright prohibitions. This guide breaks down the current sports betting laws by state for 2025, helping you navigate where and how you can legally place your bets.

Key Insights

• Sports betting operations may be retail-based or online/mobile, depending on state regulations.
• As of 2025, 38 states plus Washington D.C. have legalized sports betting in some form, including single-game wagers.
• Legal betting conditions vary, with some states imposing age limits, betting caps, or restrictions on in-state teams.

Understanding Sports Betting

Sports betting involves predicting outcomes of sporting events and placing wagers accordingly. Beyond mainstream sports like football and basketball, bettors can wager on horse racing, auto racing, and even non-sporting events such as political elections or award shows.

Common bet types include spread bets (betting on point margins), prop bets (predicting specific in-game occurrences), totals or over/under bets (betting if combined scores surpass a threshold), and moneyline bets (picking the outright winner with odds-based payouts).

Sportsbooks facilitate betting either through physical locations such as casinos and racetracks or via online and mobile platforms. While Nevada was historically the only state with legal sports betting, the 2018 Supreme Court ruling empowered states nationwide to legalize and regulate the market.

Important Reminder

Sportsbooks structure odds to ensure profitability over time, meaning the house always holds an advantage. Gambling carries inherent risks, and bettors should wager responsibly.

State-by-State Legal Landscape in 2025

According to the American Gaming Association, 38 states and Washington D.C. have legalized sports betting, offering consumers legal access either in retail venues, online, or both. Missouri has legalized betting but has not yet launched operations. Meanwhile, 11 states continue to prohibit sports betting, although legislative efforts in states like Texas signal potential change.

Even in states permitting sports betting, restrictions often apply. For example, in North Carolina, New Mexico, North Dakota, Washington, and Wisconsin, only tribal casinos may offer betting, with no online sportsbooks available. Some states restrict wagers on local college teams or limit betting to specific events. Age requirements range from 18 to 21 years depending on the jurisdiction.

Online Sports Betting Availability

Out of the 38 states plus D.C. that have legalized sports betting, 29 allow online and mobile betting platforms, reflecting growing consumer demand for convenient wagering options.

States Where Sports Betting Remains Illegal

As of 2025, sports betting remains prohibited in Alabama, Alaska, California, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Minnesota, Oklahoma, South Carolina, Texas, and Utah, although some are considering legislation to change this status.

Federal Legal Context

The 2018 Supreme Court decision repealed the federal ban on sports betting, enabling states to individually regulate the activity. There is no federal law legalizing sports betting nationwide, so state laws govern the legality and regulation of sports wagering.

Final Thoughts

Understanding your state’s sports betting laws is essential before placing any wagers. Legal frameworks and restrictions vary widely, and while sports betting can be entertaining, the odds favor the house. Always gamble responsibly and only wager amounts you can afford to lose.

Support for Gambling Issues

If you or someone you know struggles with gambling addiction, contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 or visit ncpgambling.org/chat for confidential support.

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