One of the key factors contributing to Pennsylvania’s successful sports betting industry is the availability of options for bettors. With both retail and online sports betting options, operators were eager to launch in this state.
Online sports betting has consistently been the preferred method of wagering in Pennsylvania, with 13 online sportsbooks currently offering their services. And with the potential for more to come, the trend is likely to continue.
Here are the current online sportsbooks available in Pennsylvania, featuring some well-known names in the industry:
- Barstool Sportsbook
- BetAmerica Sportsbook
- Betfred Sportsbook
- BetMGM Sportsbook
- BetPARX Sportsbook
- BetRivers/PlaySugarHouse Sportsbook
- Betway Sportsbook
- Caesars Sportsbook
- DraftKings Sportsbook
- FanDuel Sportsbook
- FOX Bet
- PointsBet Sportsbook
- Unibet Sportsbook
While online sportsbooks are the preferred choice for most bettors, there are also excellent retail options available. Retail betting can be found at casinos and racetracks throughout Pennsylvania.
One advantage for sports bettors in Pennsylvania is the presence of popular casinos within the state. In addition to sports betting, these casinos also offer traditional casino games:
- Harrah’s Philadelphia
- Hollywood Casino at Penn National
- Live! Casino & Hotel
- Mohegan Sun Pocono
- Mount Airy Casino
- Parx Casino
- Presque Isle Downs
- Rivers Philadelphia
- Rivers Pittsburgh
- South Philadelphia Race & Sportsbook
- The Meadows Casino and Racetrack
- Valley Forge Casino
- Wind Creek Casino
Key Regulations and Rules
To participate in Pennsylvania sports betting, individuals must be physically located within the state and at least 21 years old. Account creation is necessary before placing a bet, and bettors must remain within state borders while wagering.
The governing body responsible for regulating this industry is the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, which enacts laws to oversee operations. These laws are designed to benefit both bettors and sportsbooks, resulting in a wide variety of betting options.
One advantage for Pennsylvania bettors is the ability to wager on in-state college teams, which is not allowed in all states. This expands the range of betting possibilities and increases revenue for the state.
In addition, sportsbooks operating in Pennsylvania must pay a 36% tax to the state, significantly higher than the national average for the U.S. industry.
Popular Sports and Events to Wager on in Pennsylvania
The sports betting industry in the United States offers a wide variety of options, including international events. However, local teams tend to be the main focus for bettors, and Pennsylvania sportsbooks prominently feature in-state teams.
Pennsylvania boasts a strong sports culture with several popular teams. In addition to professional leagues, bettors can also wager on in-state college teams, which is unique to this state.
The NFL is the most popular league for sports betting, with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia Eagles holding a strong presence in Pennsylvania. The Steelers have a storied history while the Eagles have a fiercely loyal fan base.
Another popular league among bettors is the NBA, where the Philadelphia 76ers represent the state. While not as successful as fans would like, this team still garners a significant following.
For MLB fans, the Philadelphia Phillies and Pittsburgh Pirates are the teams to watch in Pennsylvania. Currently, the Phillies have a better chance at winning a World Series title, but both teams have had successful runs.
Hockey betting may not be as popular as other sports yet, but the Philadelphia Flyers and Pittsburgh Penguins have a devoted fan base in the state. With exciting games, these teams help drive interest in hockey betting.
Thanks to Pennsylvania’s regulations allowing for college team betting, schools like Penn State University and Villanova University also contribute to wagering activity. These popular teams provide more options for bettors in this state.
Tips for First-time Bettors in Pennsylvania
Sports betting can be a lucrative endeavor, but it requires careful planning and strategy. Without a solid plan, it’s easy to get caught up and potentially lose money. To help you succeed as a first-time bettor in Pennsylvania, here are some tips to keep in mind.
First and foremost, establish a bankroll management plan before placing any bets. This should include determining how much you will deposit and how much you will use for each bet.
Additionally, seek out betting previews and predictions from various sources. It’s always helpful to gather multiple opinions before making a decision, even if you feel confident in your own research.
Lastly, discipline is crucial when it comes to sports betting. Know when to sit out on certain days and avoid chasing losses. With these tips in mind, you can increase your chances of success as a bettor in Pennsylvania.
How Betting Became Legal in Pennsylvania
Unlike most states that began the process of legalizing sports betting after the federal ban was lifted, Pennsylvania had already taken steps towards legalization in 2017. A bill was passed and quickly led to the launch of sportsbooks.
Although Bill H 519 was responsible for legalizing sports betting in Pennsylvania, it was part of a larger package aimed at increasing tax revenue. After being signed into law by Governor Tom Wolf in December 2017, the state awaited approval from the US Supreme Court.
The first retail sportsbooks opened in November 2018, followed by the launch of online sportsbooks in May 2019. Despite the delay, there were already numerous options available for bettors to choose from.
