Sports betting in New Jersey has become a major part of the state’s entertainment culture since legalization took hold in 2018. As one of the first states to allow online sportsbooks after the fall of PASPA, New Jersey helped shape the national conversation around legal sports wagering.
Last updated: 22 July 2025, 09:30AM
Today, there are over a dozen active platforms in the state, giving bettors access to a wide range of apps, odds, and features. From longtime players like DraftKings and FanDuel to newer names entering the market, choosing where to bet can feel overwhelming.
This page takes a closer look at the best New Jersey betting sites available today, based on key factors that matter to local bettors. Check out our updated picks for legal sportsbooks in NJ and place your first bets today.
We evaluate only licensed NJ sportsbooks using strict criteria that matter to bettors. Our process focuses on practical factors that directly impact your betting experience, such as trust, fair terms, site performance, and support.
Below, we outline the key standards used to rate the best New Jersey sports betting sites accurately:
A sportsbook must be fully licensed by the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement to be considered. This ensures it operates within the state’s legal framework and provides recourse for disputes. Unlicensed operators are excluded, regardless of how competitive their odds or bonuses may appear.
All included betting platforms use SSL encryption to protect financial and personal data. Beyond technology, we also look at security policies, 2FA authentication, and handling of account access issues. Any platform with a history of data breaches or weak security practices fails our evaluation.
A good welcome bonus can make a difference, but only if the terms behind it are reasonable. That’s why we dig into the details—things like wagering requirements, payout caps, and time limits—to separate high-value offers from the ones that overpromise. Bonuses that create more hurdles than help are filtered out.
Consistently competitive odds make a real difference over time, especially for frequent bettors. We compare odds across major sports and markets to see who gives the best value. NJ online sportsbooks that delay payouts or frequently alter lines without transparency are flagged.
No one wants to fight the interface just to place a bet. We assess how each sportsbook performs on both mobile and desktop, focusing on speed, layout, and ease of navigation. Platforms that lag, crash during peak events, or make basic functions difficult to find are not recommended.
Effective support should be easy to access and actually solve problems. We consider the availability of live chat, phone, and email support, as well as resolution times for account and payment issues. Limited contact hours or unresponsive help centers hurt a sportsbook’s ranking.
New Jersey’s regulated sports betting market took shape in mid‑2018, following the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn PASPA. That ruling opened the door for the state of New Jersey and all other states to legalize online sports wagering.
Today, the industry is overseen by both the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement and the Casino Control Commission, which work together to enforce strict standards for fairness and player protection. Here’s the timeline of how online betting at NJ sportsbooks became legal:
May 14, 2018 – Supreme Court strikes down PASPA, clearing the way for states to legalize online sports betting.
June 11, 2018 – NJ Legislature approves sports betting, signed into law by Governor Phil Murphy.
June 14, 2018 – First in-person wagers placed at Monmouth Park.
August 2018 – Online sportsbooks launch, starting the mobile betting era.
June 2024 – Senate advances S‑3080, targeting a ban on player‑specific college prop bets.
New Jersey residents and visitors aged 21 and above can legally place sports bets as long as they are physically within state boundaries. As of 2025, 14 online sportsbooks are live in the Garden State, alongside 12 retail sportsbooks operating at casinos and racetracks.
While major leagues and bet types are widely available, New Jersey law still prohibits bets on in-state college teams, such as Rutgers, as well as any collegiate events held within the state. Recent legislation has also restricted certain college player prop bets to protect amateur athletes further.
February 26, 2025: Governor Murphy proposed raising online sports betting and iGaming taxes from 13 to 25 to boost state revenue.
May 2025: New Jersey’s monthly handle surpassed $1 billion again, generating roughly $102.5 million in gross revenue, a 30% rise compared to May 2024.
June 25, 2025: NJ Lawmakers raised the sports betting tax rate from 13 to 19.75, aligning with iGaming, adding $402.4 million to state revenue for public programs
If you win money betting on sports in New Jersey, you're responsible for paying both federal and state taxes. The IRS requires a 24 federal tax on payouts over $5,000, and the state taxes all winnings at a flat rate of 3. All Winnings must be reported when filing your annual tax returns using IRS Form W-2G or Schedule 1.
For operators, New Jersey imposes a 19.75 tax on online sports betting revenue and 9.75 on retail sportsbook revenue. These funds are allocated to state programs and regulatory costs.
NJ sportsbooks compete aggressively for customers with attractive promotional offers. Smart bettors understand these bonuses can enhance their bankroll, but not every bonus is as good as it sounds. Here's what you need to know about the best New Jersey betting bonuses and promotions:
Most NJ sportsbooks greet new users with straightforward welcome offers like FanDuel's"Bet $10, Get $200 in Bonus Bets." You'll receive the promotional credits whether your initial wager wins or loses, making these particularly attractive for beginners.
However, bonus funds usually expire within seven days and carry minimum odds requirements.
A typical deposit match in New Jersey offers varying percentages. BetMGM currently provides a 20 deposit match up to $1,500 in sports bonuses, while other sportsbooks offer 100 matching up to $500.
These bonus funds act as additional betting power, which usually comes with a “rollover” requirement, meaning you’ll need to bet it multiple times before withdrawing.
Risk-free bets remove the sting of beginner's bad luck by refunding losing first wagers as site credit. bet365 offers up to $1,000 in bonus bets if your first bet loses. While this promotion softens the blow, don’t mistake it for cash.
You’ll still need to win again within seven days to receive any money, and your stake won’t be refunded. Remember, it's a safety net, not a payout.
Daily odds boosts enhance specific betting lines, turning a +150 underdog into +180 or improving a -110 spread to +100. NJ online sportsbooks like DraftKings and Caesars enhance odds on select markets, often player props or moneylines, so that you can win more on the same stake. The downside is their temporary nature and limited selection.
This promo gives you bonus funds simply for signing up, with no deposit required. Top NJ betting sites occasionally offer $10 to $25 in site credit to help you start betting right away. It’s a hassle-free way to try the platform before committing real money. If you are looking to make the most of this limited credit, you should stick to straight bets.
The best New Jersey sports betting sites know how to keep regular players engaged. Many offer loyalty programs where you earn points for every bet you place. Over time, those points can lead to bigger bonuses, exclusive promos, and even perks tied to casino rewards. The more you play, the more you get back.
Wagering in New Jersey closely follows the sports calendar, with betting peaks shifting as new seasons begin. Certain sports consistently drive betting activity across the state, thanks to local teams, national attention, and rewarding promos. Below are the most bet-on sports at NJ sports betting sites:
Giants and Jets fans know heartbreak, but they still contribute to the massive betting volume every fall. The best NFL betting sites in NJ offer deep markets on point spreads, player props, and same-game parlays. With the Giants making progress under new coaching, local fans have leaned into futures and moneyline plays, especially during early matchups when underdogs can offer better value.
Once the snow starts falling, Knicks and Nets games become absolute goldmines for New Jersey bettors. Player props get a major boost during rivalry games like the Knicks vs the Nets, particularly when games take place at the Barclays Center. The best betting sites in New Jersey often feature odds boosts tied to local stars.
Consider live betting when momentum shifts quickly, especially in second-half totals or comeback spreads.
Come spring, baseball takes over with daily betting options that appeal to both long-term and casual players. Yankees fans, accustomed to postseason expectations, often explore World Series futures early, while those backing the Mets focus on pitching matchups.
On sportsbooks in New Jersey, bettors lean toward strikeout props, team totals, and inning-specific markets throughout the 162-game grind.
In 2024–25, the Devils bounced back to a solid 42–33–7 record under Sheldon Keefe, thanks to elite penalty killing and captain Nico Hischier’s 35-goal performance. This turned them into a serious betting option at New Jersey sports betting sites, especially during playoff pushes. Bettors often look at puck lines, team totals, and goalie saves, particularly in back-to-back games where fatigue can impact scoring.
College betting in New Jersey comes with clear restrictions. New Jersey online sportsbooks are not allowed to offer wagers on in-state college teams like Rutgers or Seton Hall, or on any games played within the state.
Still, March Madness remains a major draw, with bettors focusing on spread bets and high-seed matchups involving national programs like Duke, UNC, or Kansas.
Tennis is one of the few sports offering nearly nonstop betting action. Bettors in New Jersey often target majors like Wimbledon and the US Open, but there’s solid value for money in ATP 250s and Challenger events. Surface type plays a major role in tennis outcomes, with many players showing clear strengths on clay or hard courts but inconsistency on grass.
Daily Fantasy Sports has been fully legal in New Jersey since 2017, making it a regulated, skill-based betting option with oversight from the Division of Consumer Affairs’ Fantasy Sports Unit. NJ betting sites like DraftKings, FanDuel, Underdog, and PrizePicks host daily and weekly contests across major leagues such as the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and PGA.
DFS differs from traditional sports betting by focusing on player performance instead of odds. Players build lineups within a salary cap, and prizes are based on how well the picks perform. With no season-long commitments and a minimum age of 18, DFS is a flexible option that attracts interest from both casual and seasoned players.
New to online betting in New Jersey? Here’s a fast, beginner-friendly guide to placing your first legal wager:
1. Choose a Legal NJ Sportsbook: Select a reputable platform from the ones listed on this page. Licensed sites not only offer secure betting but also protect your funds, adhering to the New Jersey laws.
2. Sign Up and Verify Your Identity: Now, create your account with basic details and upload a valid ID. Top New Jersey betting sites require verification to confirm you’re 21+ and located in-state.
3. Enable Location and Deposit Funds: Allow geolocation so the site can confirm you’re inside NJ. Then, fund your account using PayPal, online banking, or a card; most sites accept a minimum deposit of $10.
4. Claim a Bonus and Place Your Bet: Next, look for welcome offers like bonus bets or deposit matches. The best NJ sportsbook platforms let you bet on your favorite teams with added value.
5. Win and Withdraw Securely: If your bet wins, you can cash out using your preferred method, such as bank transfer, e-wallet, or debit card. Payouts are quick and hassle-free on licensed New Jersey sportsbooks.
In 2024, New Jersey's mobile sports betting market experienced significant growth, with a total handle of $12.77 billion and revenue surpassing $1.09 billion. Such numbers are no joke, this shows how passionate NJ residents are when it comes to their favorite sport and predictions related to it. Here are our top picks for the best NJ Mobile Sports Betting apps:
FanDuel Mobile Betting App: Known for its intuitive interface, FanDuel excels at live betting and seamless cross-sport parlays.
BetMGM Sportsbook App: Stands out with Lion’s Boosts and the handy Edit My Bet feature to tweak wagers after placing them.
DraftKings NJ App: Offers a wide range of same-game parlays, teasers, and top-notch cash-out options for maximum control.
Licensed NJ sportsbook apps are available for download through the App Store, Google Play, or directly from sportsbook websites.
New Jersey didn't just legalize sports betting, it revolutionized it. As one of the first states to embrace online wagering, the Garden State has built a competitive sports betting market that sets the standard for the entire nation.
Sure, recent tax increases and tighter laws around college betting show there's still room for the market to find its perfect balance. But with over a dozen licensed platforms competing for your attention, New Jersey bettors have never had more options or better protection.
If you're ready to get started, our expert-vetted list of top New Jersey sports betting sites is the perfect place to begin. Explore secure platforms, grab a promo that fits your style, and start placing legal bets.
New Jersey Sports Betting FAQs