Pennsylvania has been a legal sports betting haven since 2018, with online betting launching in May 2019 under the regulation of the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. Today, the state offers a wide range of options, from retail sportsbooks to nearly a dozen licensed online platforms. With major operators like FanDuel, BetMGM, and ESPN BET in the mix, PA bettors have access to some of the best in the business.
Last updated: 29 July 2025, 08:06AM
Here, we break down the best Pennsylvania sports betting sites, what sets each apart, and which bonuses are worth claiming. Whether you're betting from Philly, Pittsburgh, or anywhere in between, our regularly updated list of top PA sportsbooks is built to help you bet smarter and safer. Let’s kick things off with a look at it below.
Only operators that meet strict benchmarks for safety, fairness, and usability are included in our best PA sportsbook rankings. We assessed several key factors that impact the betting experience, including legal compliance and odds consistency. See the full criteria below:
We only recommend sportsbooks licensed by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. Legal oversight ensures fair play, dispute resolution channels, and regulatory compliance. If a platform isn’t legally approved to operate in PA, it doesn’t make the cut, no exceptions.
Strong data protection, verified payment systems, and built-in responsible gambling tools are must-haves. The PA sportsbooks we recommend use bank-grade encryption, secure transaction protocols, and verified ID checks, so that your account and funds are protected at all times.
Promotions are evaluated based on transparency, actual betting value, and ease of redemption. Sites offering inflated bonus amounts with unclear rollover rules or hidden restrictions are rated lower. A quality promo should offer a measurable edge, not just serve as marketing bait.
We compare odds across top PA sportsbooks to identify those that consistently offer better prices. This includes pregame lines, live odds, and props for key markets like the NFL, NBA, and NCAA football. Even a small difference in odds can significantly impact long-term betting returns.
The best sports betting sites in Pennsylvania are easy to navigate, fast-loading, and reliable across devices. We test them on both desktop and mobile to make sure everything works as it should.
We examine the number of sports, bet types, and live betting markets available to PA residents. Operators on our list provide diverse bet types, deep in-game options, and full coverage, especially in a state with a strong pro and college sports presence.
Sports betting in Pennsylvania became legal when Governor Tom Wolf signed House Bill 271 on October 30, 2017, setting the framework just before the federal ban on sports wagering was lifted. The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision on May 14, 2018, overturning PASPA, cleared the way for Pennsylvania to become one of the first states to offer legal sports betting after the repeal.
The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board (PGCB) regulates the industry, ensuring that all betting activities meet strict standards for safety and fairness. Here are the key milestones that shaped the market’s growth:
October 30, 2017: HB 271 signed, authorizing sports betting once permitted by the federal government.
May 2018: The U.S. Supreme Court overturns PASPA, officially allowing Pennsylvania to move forward.
November 2018: Retail sportsbooks open, with Hollywood Casino at Penn National placing the first bets.
May 28, 2019: PlaySugarHouse launches the state’s first online sportsbook, marking the start of mobile betting.
2020–2024: More sportsbooks join the market, including BetMGM, Caesars, PointsBet, ESPN BET, Fanatics, and Bet365.
Today, Pennsylvania offers bettors both retail and online sportsbook options through more than a dozen licensed platforms. You must be at least 21 years old and physically located within the state to place bets.
While betting on professional and college sports is permitted, player-specific props for college teams are prohibited, and wagering on high school sports, esports, political events, and entertainment contests is not allowed.
April 22, 2025: Pennsylvania posted a record $575 million in gaming revenue for March, despite sports betting revenue dropping 40.7% compared to last year. The overall gaming market remains strong despite sports fluctuations.
May 21, 2025: April’s sports betting handle in Pennsylvania reached an estimated $711.6 million, up 10.1% from April 2024’s $646.1 million, showing steady growth in betting activity across the state.
In May 2025, Pennsylvania introduced HB 953/SB 1404 to target unregulated online sweepstakes and betting apps, emphasizing efforts to keep sports betting within the state’s legal and secure framework.
Pennsylvania bettors face a 3.07% state tax on all sports betting winnings, regardless of size. The IRS taxes all gambling income, issuing a W-2G form for wins of $600 or more (300 times the bet).
All gambling income must be reported on your federal tax return, regardless of the amount. If you itemize deductions, you can offset winnings with gambling losses, up to the amount of your winnings.
For winnings over $5,000, the IRS withholds 24. Operators like FanDuel pay a 36 tax on revenue to the state.
Pennsylvania's sportsbooks offer a variety of bonuses designed to add value; however, understanding their terms and utilizing them effectively is crucial. Here’s a breakdown of standard PA betting bonuses and promotions available, how they work, and what bettors should look out for:
These are the most common starting point for new bettors in Pennsylvania. Typically, you’ll see offers like “Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets.” You receive site credit regardless of whether your first bet wins or loses. These bonuses typically expire within a week and can’t be withdrawn directly. Always check minimum odds and eligible markets before claiming to avoid losing the bonus value.
With a deposit match, sportsbooks match a percentage of your first deposit—commonly 100% up to $250. For example, a $100 deposit earns $100 in bonus funds. These come with rollover requirements, usually 5x the bonus amount. Bettors should review expiration dates and eligible bet types, as matched funds aren't immediately withdrawable and must be played through.
If your first wager loses, sportsbooks may refund it as bonus bets, up to $500. For instance, a losing $100 bet could return $100 in site credit. The refund can’t be cashed out and often expires within seven days. Winnings from bonus bets usually exclude the original stake, so returns may be smaller than expected.
Most sportsbooks in Pennsylvania offer loyalty programs where you earn points for every wager. These points unlock rewards like bonus bets, parlay insurance, or cashback. Some platforms tie into broader casino or hotel loyalty systems. While regular bettors benefit most, casual users may find perks limited unless they wager frequently over time.
Odds boosts raise potential payouts on select bets, like moving a line from +100 to +120. These are time-sensitive and usually tied to local teams or big games. There are no rollover requirements, but max bet limits apply. Bettors should act fast and confirm eligibility, as boosted odds often expire within hours.
Pennsylvania sports fans don’t just cheer, they bet smart. With powerhouse franchises and competitive sportsbook markets, the state offers deep action across leagues. From college Saturdays to primetime NFL games, here’s where Pennsylvania bettors focus their attention:
The NFL dominates betting activity statewide, especially with Eagles betting lines and Steelers odds in PA, generating a major handle each week. Both teams consistently compete, keeping moneyline and spread betting sharp. Platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings PA feature exclusive promos and same-game parlays every Sunday.
Pro tip: monitor injury reports—player props often shift fast on game day.
From Embiid’s MVP campaigns to playoff heartbreaks, the 76ers' futures in PA always attract heavy action. Spreads and points props move fast, especially on back-to-back game days. PA sportsbooks like FanDuel usually boost Philly games and offer solid Same Game Parlay value. Always check who’s resting—NBA load management often creates surprise betting opportunities. If you bet live, pace yourself—momentum swings fast in hoops.
While the Flyers are in a rebuilding phase, they remain a strong draw for fans loyal to hockey betting in Pennsylvania. Puck line and total goals markets are especially popular across the Keystone State. Bet365 PA is particularly known for its daily “Bet Boosts”, providing excellent value for fans on marquee matchups.
Tip for bettors: Watch for backup goalie announcements. These often slip under the radar but can shift money lines and open up unexpected value. You can see this at all of the top US NHL sportsbooks.
Phillies fans bet with heart and history. Their recent playoff runs have made total runs, player props, and strikeout markets extra popular. Sportsbooks like Bet365 are known to boost odds for Phillies games, especially during division matchups. Look for weather-adjusted totals at Citizens Bank Park, as it's one of MLB’s most hitter-friendly stadiums and often inflates over/under lines.
Penn State betting in PA takes off every fall, especially when the Nittany Lions face their rival teams. While college sports betting is legal in the state, in-state player prop bets are strictly prohibited.
DraftKings frequently offers promotions during bowl season and the NCAA March Madness tournament. If you’re betting on rivalry games, locking in lines early can help you grab the best value.
In Pennsylvania, particularly in Philadelphia, combat sports betting remains a popular interest among PA residents. Bettors often target method-of-victory and round props for better payouts than moneylines. Sportsbooks like FanDuel and BetMGM PA push fight-night offers, making it easy to find value if you time your bets right.
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) has been legal in Pennsylvania since 2017, with contests launching in 2018 under state regulation. The Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board oversees licensed operators like DraftKings, FanDuel, and Boom Fantasy. PA sports betting sites host a range of DFS games across pro and college sports, offering daily and weekly lineup contests.
In DFS, you draft a roster of real athletes, like picking an NFL quarterback or an NBA forward, and earn points based on their in-game stats. Contests vary in terms of entry fees, payout sizes, and formats, making it easy to find something that fits your budget and skill level.
To get started, create an account with a licensed DFS sportsbook, deposit funds, and choose a contest. Be sure to check for beginner-friendly options and play responsibly.
Getting started with online sports betting in Pennsylvania is simple when you know what to expect. Follow this quick guide to set up your account, verify your identity, deposit funds, and place your first real-money wager confidently.
1. Choose a licensed sportsbook from our list
Start by selecting a legal sports betting site in Pennsylvania from the operators listed on this page. Every sportsbook we feature is safe and thoroughly vetted by our experts.
2. Create an account
To create an account, click “Sign Up” or “Register” on the sportsbook site and provide your full name, date of birth, home address, the last four digits of your Social Security number, and a valid email address and password.
3. Verify your identity
Next, you must upload a valid photo ID, such as a driver’s license or state-issued ID. This is required by Pennsylvania law before you can deposit or place bets. You must also be physically located inside Pennsylvania. Sportsbooks will confirm this using geolocation technology on your phone or browser.
4. Deposit funds
Now, head to the cashier or deposit section on the home page. Select your preferred payment method, such as a credit or debit card, PayPal, online banking, or a prepaid card. Enter the amount you want to deposit and confirm the transaction.
5. Place a wager
Browse the available sports and events. Select a game, choose a betting option (like spread, moneyline, or total), enter your wager amount, and confirm your bet. Once placed, your wager will appear in your bet slip or active bets section.
A range of licensed sports betting apps in PA are available for download on iOS and Android devices. Leading operators like FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars, and BetRivers provide fully functional PA sportsbook apps with features like live streaming, DFS, and real-time betting.
These apps enable users to place bets while streaming live games, making it easier to wager and follow the action simultaneously. To begin, download the app from the App Store or Google Play and complete the sign-up process. Here are the key features to look for before choosing a sportsbook app:
Live betting with updated odds and streaming
Early cash-out options during live games
Mobile-only sign-up offers and rewards
Simple account setup and fast navigation
The best PA betting apps in 2025 also offer mobile-exclusive promotions like “Bet $5, Get $150” or “No Sweat First Bets.” These bonuses are activated during registration and give new users extra value right from the start.
Pennsylvania continues to offer one of the most robust legal sports betting markets in the U.S. With leading brands like FanDuel, DraftKings, ESPN BET, and more battling for your attention, PA’s sports betting scene is a goldmine of bonuses, sharp odds, and next-level features.
While tax rates on winnings are higher than those in neighboring states, the sheer variety of betting options, live streaming, and promos more than make up for it.
Thanks to strict PGCB regulation, PA bettors enjoy fair odds, fast payouts, and top-tier mobile apps. So why wait? Browse our vetted list of the best Pennsylvania sportsbooks to find the site that fits your betting style and get started with confidence.
Pennsylvania Sports Betting FAQs