Online sports betting in Maryland is a fairly new gambling activity, having become legal in November 2022. However, it quickly gained popularity among residents, as they could place real money wagers at any time and place. This also means that they can use their knowledge and a bit of luck to make a profit.
There are currently a total of 11 Maryland sports betting sites offering their services in this state. To find the best operators, check out our list of top-rated sportsbooks. You’ll find it right below these segments.
How Do We List the Best Maryland Sports Betting Sites
On our page, we don’t just list every legal sports betting site that operates in this market. We always examine every single platform while following a strict review procedure. This process involves checking the most important attributes needed for a top-quality gambling experience. Below, you’ll read about these features in question.
Reputation & Trustworthiness
We always begin reviewing an online sportsbook by checking its reputation in Maryland and the US. This is where we examine the owner, their background, and past experiences. That way, we get to know who we are dealing with. Additionally, we read numerous customer reviews to find out its trustworthiness.
License and Security
Although MD legalized sports betting, the operators we evaluate must have a valid license issued by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency. This indicates that it follows the latest industry standards and obeys strict rules. Next, we make sure that it utilizes the latest 128-bit SSL encryption software.
Bonus Offers
Every sports betting platform we list must have a variety of bonuses and promotions. The available offers must be very rewarding and target different types of bettors. Also, they must come with favorable T&Cs, such as low wagering requirements.
Types of Bets
Lastly, the operator should have various betting markets in every major competition. This is where we access numerous events to check the list of wagering options to provide our readers with the best options to bet on sports in Maryland. Besides the popular markets, our team of experts also check if there are any special types available.
Sports Betting Laws and Regulations in Maryland
Governor Larry Hogan signed HB 940 in May 2021, after which sports betting officially became legal in the state. However, retail sportsbooks began working on December 9th, 2021. As for online and mobile platforms, they started on November 23rd, 2022. This answers the question, “Is sports betting legal in Maryland.”
According to the sports betting legislation, the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA) is the state’s official gambling regulator. This authority can license up to 60 online operators and oversee their activities and launches in Maryland.
Now, there is also the Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC). This state body reviews sports betting license applications before approval by the regulator. At the moment, only 11 Maryland sportsbooks are operating legally in this territory.
Any person physically present in this state and over 21 can legally place bets on any of these online platforms. Here, you can wager on all kinds of sports, including the most popular ones in the US.
Among them are also eSports and college games, which aren’t always legal in other states. On the other side, you’re not able to place bets on the following events:
High school and youth sports
Politics
Entertainment award shows
Maryland Sports Betting Tax Details
In the state of Maryland, you have to pay a tax of between 2% and 5.75%, depending on your income level. Meanwhile, licensed operators are required to pay the state 15% of their gross revenue.
The accumulated funds are in use to help public education programs under the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund. In August 2024, the state surpassed $100 million in total tax revenue since December 2021.
Betting Bonuses and Promos
The best Maryland online sports betting sites always feature at least a few highly generous promotions. These offers are perfect for both new users and existing members looking to boost their account balance.
But it’s very important to have a wide variety of bonuses in stock. That way, the operator will target different types of bettors and reward them with unique prizes. Below, you’ll find the most common kinds of Maryland sports betting promos.
Welcome Bonus
This is the most popular type of betting promo that only rewards new users. You can claim it with your very first deposit, after which the operator will give you a match bonus or free bets, depending on the offer. Some other sign-up offers even provide cashback, which typically attracts high rollers. Regardless of the reward, make sure to read the T&Cs before you apply.
Risk-Free Bet
A risk-free bet, also known as a second chance wager, is a type of offer that returns your losing stake. This is the perfect bonus if you want to experiment and place some riskier bets on MD sportsbooks. You’ll often find risk-free bets as welcome promos as they are perfect for attracting new customers.
Deposit Match Bonus
Another popular sports betting promotion involves matching your initial deposit with a certain percentage at legal online sportsbooks in Maryland. It always comes with a maximum bonus amount and a minimum qualifying deposit or bet. You’ll also need to meet wagering requirements in order to withdraw your winnings.
No Deposit Promo
Every bettor is fond of a no-deposit bonus since it represents a risk-free betting option. This popular form of promotion gives out a reward without asking for any money beforehand. The prizes you receive can be either bonus funds or free bets, but you’ll still need to clear the rollover requirements, which are always part of such offers.
Loyalty and VIP Programs
Top MD online sports betting sites offer loyalty and VIP programs that go beyond traditional promotions. You can collect points that lead to exclusive benefits and privileges by depositing and wagering on sports. These rewards enhance your betting experience, especially when it comes to betting on professional sports.
Popular Sports to Bet on at Maryland Sportsbooks
Every reputable Maryland sports betting platform has a large list of competitions. They range from the biggest leagues in the US and the world to certain smaller events. This means that they are capable of pleasing every type of bettor that joins the website.
However, we should note that some sports do attract more gamblers than others. Below, we’ll reveal and write a few words about the most popular competitions in Maryland.
Football (NFL)
Maryland is home to some of the most passionate football fans in the US. Naturally, they enjoy placing bets on MD professional sports teams, like the Baltimore Colts and Baltimore Ravens, among other NFL teams.
These teams have large fan bases in the state, with many bettors choosing to wager at Fanatics Sportsbook as it has a partnership deal with the Commanders. Others prefer Caesars, as it sponsors the Ravens and is a leading sportsbook in Maryland. But overall, there are plenty of online betting locations for them to choose from.
Bettors can take their pick from a variety of bets, which include futures and props, which are extremely popular markets at the moment on MD betting sites.
Basketball (NBA)
Although this state doesn’t have a professional team that competes in this major league, many locals choose to place bets on the Washington Wizards. This team originates from Washington, D.C., which is just out of reach for most Marylanders. However, that shouldn’t be an issue as sports betting in the state has been legalized, and you can place bets from the comfort of your home.
There are 11 online sportsbooks available for bettors to place NBA wagers, offering a wide selection of markets. Some of the most popular options include moneyline, point spread, totals, futures, props, halftime lines, and parlays.
Baseball (MLB)
Baseball is yet another popular sport in Maryland, where fans follow the games of two big teams—the Baltimore Orioles and the Washington Nationals.
The Orioles partnered with SuperBook Sports, but the operator decided to leave the state. On the other hand, the Nationals have a sponsorship deal with BetMGM, where bettors can wager using a variety of options. They may even find bigger odds and special bonuses when the Nationals are playing.
When wagering on MLB games, future and prop bets are legal in Maryland sports betting sites. This is good news for all gamblers who like these sorts of markets.
Hockey (NHL)
Hockey attracts the interest of many fans in Maryland despite being somewhat less popular than other major sports. This state doesn’t have a professional NHL team, so they support the Washington Capitals, who play their home games in the bordering state of Washington, D.C.
It’s a strong team that has won several trophies over the years, including the 2017/18 Stanley Cup. Because of their glorious days in the past, Maryland residents often place futures on this team. Others find excitement and interest in player or team props, which also come with pretty big odds.
You should know that the Capitals have a sponsorship deal with Caesars Sportsbooks. Because of that, the operator may offer some enhanced odds or other promos on this NHL side.
College Sports
Since betting on college events is legal and much admired among sports gamblers, the unpredictable nature of most of these competitions makes them perfect for wagering.
You’re free to place bets on any NCAA Division I game, including the local Maryland sides. Among the best college sports teams are the following:
Maryland Terrapins
Coppin State Eagles
Navy Midshipmen
Morgan State Bears
Mount St. Mary’s Mountaineers
Each state university has several teams that compete in the NCAA Division I leagues. However, usually, every single one of them focuses on up to a few sports. As such, the Terrapins and the Midshipmen are best in football, while the Eagles, Bears, and Mountaineers are great in basketball.
It’s worth noting that you cannot place college player props when wagering on these events. Apart from that, you’re free to choose from all other available markets while online sports betting in Maryland.
Tennis
Finally, we have tennis, a sport that generates millions of fans from all around the globe. In Maryland, residents usually follow the big tournaments such as the Grand Slams, with the US Open being by far the most popular one.
Fans and bettors tend to support local stars such as Frances Tiafoe and Sophie Chang. We should mention that Tiafoe is one of the best tennis players to come out of this state. He managed to win three singles titles so far and even ranked 10th in the world in June 2023.
Die-hard local tennis fans often back Tiafoe with futures. The odds of him winning a tournament are pretty big at Maryland online sportsbooks, which is good for bettors.
Local Sports Betting Sponsorships
While watching a local Maryland sports team, you may notice sportsbook brands at the arenas and stadiums due to the frequent partnership deals signed between both sides. In the table below, we’ll reveal the most important sponsorship deals you need to know about.
Betting Site
Local Partner
Year
Description
Caesars Sportsbook
Baltimore Ravens
2021
Naming rights throughout the club level of M&T Bank Stadium; brand exposure on all LED boards across the stadium
Daily Fantasy Sports in Maryland
Maryland was one of the first US states to legalize Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS). It passed the necessary laws back in 2012, which classified them as non-gambling contests. This also meant that anyone could offer DFS without a registration or a licensing fee.
However, in 2021, the state imposed new rules which required registration with the regulator. They must also pay a 15% fee on their revenues. Today, the MLGCA authorizes over a dozen operators to offer these activities on their websites.
You’ll find many of the best Maryland sports betting online platforms mentioned here, allowing you to engage in DFS on all major sports like the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL.
During these contests, the operator will provide a salary cap allowing you to pick players from any team. This also includes the local teams that compete in the big competitions. However, keep in mind that top players are more expensive than the rest.
Once you pick your squad, follow the daily or weekly contests that will start according to the game’s schedule. Now, each player will receive a specific number of points, and if your total score surpasses that of your competitors, you’ll collect a hefty prize.
Maryland Betting Apps
Mobile sports betting has become a big trend in the US and globally. As a result, every legal Maryland sports betting has developed its own mobile app. These apps are available to iOS and Android users to please more customers.
You can find a download link on the sportsbook’s official website. You can also search for Maryland betting apps on the App Store or Google Play Store.
These apps offer a more pleasurable betting experience. Forget about wagering from a mobile or desktop browser. You can access these applications with one simple touch. On them, you’ll find the same sports and events as the PC/laptop sportsbooks.
They even come with the same markets, bonuses, payment methods, customer support, and other services. It’s worth mentioning that some top operators may even offer special bonuses only to their app users.
How to Place Real-Money Bets in Maryland?
If you don’t know how real money sports betting in Maryland works, you shouldn’t worry. Here, we’ve listed all the necessary steps to simplify the process for you:
Join a Maryland sportsbook: The first step requires registering a betting account at one of the Maryland sportsbooks. We advise you to pick from the operators listed on this page.
Make a deposit: Next, you should deposit some funds to wager with real money. You can do that inside the “Cashier” section, where you must pick from the available payment methods.
Choose a game to bet on: Browse the available sports events and decide which game to bet on. Make sure to pick a competition you follow and know well about.
Select a betting market: Check the entire list of betting markets and pick the one you like to use on your bet. Avoid all options that are too complex or unfamiliar to avoid placing an impossible wager.
Place the bet: Finally, type the amount you want to use as a stake and confirm the bet. Now, sit back, relax, and wait for the sports event to end to see if you’ve won.
Unlock Big Wins at Maryland Sports Betting Sites
Maryland officially legalized sports wagering in 2022, opening the doors to some of the best sportsbook brands that offer gambling on all major sports, college events, and esports.
The future of betting in the state looks promising, and as the market continues to grow, more Maryland sports betting sites will launch, offering improved bonuses, promotions, payment methods, and mobile apps. If you’re looking to navigate this shift, allow us to offer some help with our carefully curated list of top-rated operators.
FAQ
Both retail sports betting and online sports betting have been legal in Maryland since 2021 and 2022, respectively. But you can only wager on such events if you’re at least 21.
Yes, college sports betting is legal in this state, allowing bets on college events, including local teams. However, you cannot place player prop bets on Maryland betting sites.
Yes, there are plenty of legal MD betting apps available in Maryland. In fact, every licensed operator has an application that you can use for sports wagering.
Almost all Maryland sportsbooks offer sports betting welcome bonuses to new users. You can only claim them using your first deposit, which will lead you to a match bonus or a free bet.
According to the sports betting bill, only individuals over the legal betting age of 21 can place wagers in Maryland. However, you don’t have to be a resident; you must be on state territory.
Yes, you are free to bet on all Maryland-based teams. This also includes college teams that compete in NCAA Division I.
Esports betting is legal and extremely popular among bettors in Maryland state. However, you should know that not every online sportsbook covers such events.
