Louisiana Sports Betting: Best Louisiana Sportsbooks April 2024

Residents from 55 parishes in the Pelican State can bet online right now and take advantage of promos and bonuses from eight leading sportsbooks, with more on the horizon. On this page, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the best Louisiana sportsbooks and bonuses in 2024.

How We Rated the Top Louisiana Sports Betting Sites

We sign up and start betting on every single platform. This hands-on experience is crucial to gain a real understanding of the sportsbooks, learning the practical elements like navigating bonus terms and capturing the unique vibe of each site. We believe direct insights are the only ones worth reading.

Our review process is extensive, and all of our reviewers spend at least two hours of focused research in each of these six areas:

• User Experience: We dive into the user experience, assessing the visual appeal, ease of use, friendliness for beginners, and overall navigation across different platforms and devices - desktop and mobile.

• Feature Analysis: We thoroughly analyze everything on offer at each site, including the range of available sports, the depth of betting markets, live wagering options, the performance of mobile apps, and educational resources like betting guides. We pay special attention to any features that are unique to the sportsbook, like free-play games or special types of betting.

• Promotions: We opt-into all welcome bonuses, guiding new users on how to claim them and how valuable they are. We also test out the ongoing promotions, loyalty schemes, and additional incentives so our readers can always make the most of the platform they choose.

• Payment Processes: Each payment method, for both deposits and withdrawals, is personally tested by a team member to evaluate processing time, user friendliness, transaction fees, and more.

• Customer Support: We reach out to customer support using predetermined questions to measure their response efficiency and helpfulness, and we also analyze the helpfulness and organization of their FAQs and help sections. A live chat is always a massive bonus for us and the best option to get a fast response.

• Responsible Gambling: We highly value sportsbooks that actively promote responsible betting, including offering tools and resources for self-regulation and links to external support. Self-exclusion and reality checks are both important tools.

Post-review, our editorial team conducts regular updates and checks, dedicating five hours each month to ensure the information remains accurate and reflective of the sportsbooks' current state.

Why Trust Us?

Simply put, our reviews are grounded in genuine betting experiences and a thorough knowledge of online gambling. Our team has spent decades in the world of online betting, giving us a deep understanding of how sportsbooks work. We have tried and tested, lost and won, and have gained all of the knowledge and experience to help our readers navigate online sportsbooks, avoid common mistakes and make the most out of their wagers.

This hands-on experience shapes every review and article we write. 

Closer Look at the Best Online Sportsbooks in Louisiana

1.Caesars Sportsbook

Best for: Extensive variety of bets

Caesars Sportsbook is all about great betting variety and great rewards. If you like having a lot of options and enjoy real life casino perks, Caesars is a great fit. 

It's easy for beginners to get the hang of, but there's plenty for the pros too. Caesars has a huge selection of sports and bets, and their odds are some of the best around.

The sportsbook's welcome bonus is straightforward but good: if you lose your first bet, you get up to $1,000 back in bonus bets. The real star is the Caesars Rewards program. When you bet, you earn points which you can swap for cool stuff like bonus bets or real life benefits at Caesars resorts, like cheaper hotel stays or food vouchers. It's a sweet deal if you're into Caesars' stuff or planning to visit their hotel resorts in the future.

Pros

• Intuitive interface with easy navigation

• Diverse betting markets

• Exclusive member offers

Cons

• Limited live streaming options

• No live customer support chat

Find more details in our in-depth Caesars review.

• WSN rating: 4.3/5

• Sign up offer: $1,000 First Bet on Caesars - Promo Code: WSN1000

• App rating: 4.6/5 (iOS); 4.3/5 (Android)

2. FanDuel Sportsbook

Best for: Mobile app

FanDuel is a standout choice in Louisiana, especially for its top-notch app and attractive welcome bonus. If you're new to betting or a seasoned pro, FanDuel's mobile platform is designed to be both user-friendly and comprehensive.

Their welcome offer is pretty sweet – bet just $5 on a moneyline, and you get $150 in bonus bets providing your first bet wins. It's a deal that appeals to all kinds of bettors, from smaller casual betting fans to more experienced ones. 

FanDuel isn't just about the bonuses, though. They've got solid odds, a wide range of markets, and pound-for-pound, the best app in the whole US sports betting industry. It's become a popular and trusted name in the US, known for being a secure and reliable platform. All-in-all, FanDuel is easy to use, fun, and has a welcome bonus that's hard to beat.

Pros

• One of the better welcome bonuses

• Highest-rated mobile app

• Refer a Friend promo

Cons

• No live chat support

• Rewards program could be improved

Check out our in-depth FanDuel review for more information.

• WSN rating: 4.8/5

• Sign-up offer: Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets

• App rating: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.7/5 (Android)

3. BetMGM

Best for: Discounts at MGM Resorts

BetMGM is ideal for Louisiana bettors who want a wide range of betting options and love a good rewards program. If you like having plenty of betting options and simultaneously scoring perks, BetMGM hits the mark. With an extensive selection of sports and the opportunity for unique prop bets, it caters to all kinds of bettors.

BetMGM has a solid welcome bonus. You'll get up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets. The MGM Rewards program is a real gem here. You earn points for every bet you place, which can be exchanged for benefits like bonus bets or exclusive perks at MGM Resorts. This makes betting with BetMGM not just fun but also potentially very rewarding, especially if you enjoy the MGM hospitality experience.

Outside of that, we’re big fans of both the software and the deep variety of betting markets. Prop bets, in particular, are a real strong point, and you can regularly bet both team and player props for major sports at BetMGM that you won’t find anywhere else in the US. 

Pros

• Solid welcome bonus of $150

• Rewards program is great both online and at in-person MGM resorts

• Live chat support

Cons

• Ongoing promos & engagement could be improved

• Betting history is not tracked

You can read our full BetMGM Review here for more details.

• WSN rating: 4.4/5

• Sign-up offer: Get Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets!

• App rating: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.2/5 (Android)

4. BetRivers

Best for: On-running promos

BetRivers is perfect for beginners in Louisiana, offering a straightforward and user-friendly platform. If ease of use and helpful promotions are what you're looking for, BetRivers is the way to go.

The platform is simple to navigate, both on desktop and mobile, although the Android app could use some tweaks. Browsing different sports, finding specific games, and placing bets are all very smooth.

New users can claim a second chance bet bonus worth up to $500, if their first bet loses.

BetRivers really shines with its on-going promotions, ideal for bettors who like to bet on different sports regularly. With a variety of offers like Same Game Parlay bonuses and parlay insurance, it keeps the betting experience diverse and financially rewarding. BetRivers really offers numerous chances to make the most of each wager.

Pros

• Great ongoing promotions

• User-friendly interface 

• Live chat support

Cons

• The news feed is quite busy and distracting

• Android mobile app is below industry standard

Discover more in our in-depth BetRivers sportsbook review.

• WSN rating: 4.1/5

• Sign-up offer: $500 in Bonus Bets 

• App rating: 4.4/5 (iOS); 3.5/5 (Android)

5. bet365

Best for: International sports coverage

bet365 is a great match for Louisiana bettors who love having a wide selection of international sports and value top-notch streaming options. If you're into competitive odds and a variety of global sports, bet365 has you covered. Their platform might be a bit complex for beginners, but it's packed with features that seasoned bettors will appreciate.

The advanced streaming options are a highlight, allowing you to watch live sports as you bet. While bet365 doesn't offer a loyalty program, their sign-up offer more than makes up for it.

With high app ratings on both iOS and Android, bet365 is a solid choice for diverse and immersive sports betting in Louisiana.

Pros

• Broad range of international sports

• Competitive odds

• Advanced streaming options

Cons

• A little complex for beginners

• No loyalty program 

Discover more in our in-depth bet365 sportsbook review.

• WSN rating: 4.5/5

• Sign-up offer: $1,000 Safety Net Bet OR $150 in Bonus Bets- Promo Code: WSN365

• App rating: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.6/5 (Android)

Full List of Legal Sportsbooks in Louisiana

Check out the full list of Louisiana sportsbooks below:

1. FanDuel 

2. BetMGM 

3. Caesars 

4. BetRivers 

5. bet365

6. ESPN BET

7. PointsBet 

8. DraftKings 

9. ClutchBet

Louisiana Online Sports Betting Sites

Louisiana Retail Sportsbooks 

Is Sports Betting Legal in Louisiana?

Sports betting is legal in Louisiana, with a unique approach that sets the state apart from the other legal US states. In Louisiana, it's up to each parish to decide whether to allow sports betting. This localized decision-making has led to a varied sports betting landscape across the state.

The journey to legal mobile sports betting in Louisiana reached a milestone on Jan. 28, 2022, with the launch of mobile sportsbooks by six operators. Caesars Sportsbook accepted the first bet in this new era.

In the future, Louisiana is expected to see significant growth in its sports betting market, with plans for up to 20 physical sportsbook locations and 41 online betting platforms.

How to Get Started

Getting started with sports betting in Louisiana is straightforward, although there are a couple of key steps to follow. Here's a simple guide for beginners to help you out:

1. Select a Licensed Sportsbook: First and foremost, choose a legal and licensed sportsbook in Louisiana. There are plenty of offshore sites that will accept you wherever you live. Don’t trust them! Stick to licensed options like the ones recommended on this page for safety and legality.

2. Create an Account: Registration is fairly standardized across sportsbooks in Louisiana. You'll need to provide personal details such as your name, date of birth, email address, phone number, address, and Social Security Number. 

3. Claim Your Welcome Bonus: Before finalizing your sign-up, you may need to take steps to claim your welcome bonus. Some sportsbooks require a promo code to activate the bonus, while others just require a deposit. Our reviews provide detailed information about these offers and how to claim them.

4. Deposit Funds: Now that you’re all set up, you’re ready to deposit some money to bet with. Head over to the cashier section, where you'll find various payment methods. Remember, some sportsbooks may require a minimum deposit to qualify for the welcome bonus, so be sure to check the terms.

5. Place Your First Bet: Browse through the sportsbook menu to find your preferred sport and explore the available games and betting markets. Once you've decided on a bet, add it to your virtual betslip, enter your stake, and confirm your bet.

Louisiana Sportsbook Promos

Louisiana's sportsbooks feature a variety of welcome offers to attract new users, each with its own unique appeal. Here's a rundown of the most common types of bonuses you'll encounter in the state:

Bonus Bet Bonuses

This type of promotion is popular among Louisiana sportsbooks, including FanDuel. When you sign up and place your initial bet, the sportsbook awards you bonus bets to use as you see fit. These bonus bets work like betting vouchers – if you win using a bonus bet, you receive the winnings minus the initial stake amount. It's important to be aware of any terms attached, such as expiration dates and wagering requirements on the winnings from these bonus bets. Sometimes, your initial bet needs to win to trigger your bonus bets.

Second Chance Bets

Offered by sportsbooks such as BetMGM and Caesars in Louisiana, Second Chance Bets act as a safety net for your first wager. If your initial bet doesn’t result in a win, the sportsbook refunds it up to a certain amount in bonus bets or site credit. This kind of bonus takes away some of the risk when you start out in sports betting.

Deposit Match Bonuses

Some Louisiana sportsbooks may offer a deposit match bonus, where your first deposit is matched to a certain limit, enhancing your initial betting potential. The matched amount is usually provided in bonus bets or site credit, which needs to be wagered before you can withdraw it.

No Deposit Bonuses

While less common, no deposit bonuses are an attractive offer for new bettors. They provide a small amount of site credit or a bonus bet simply for signing up, without requiring any personal funds to be spent. This type of bonus typically offers a modest amount, like a $10 or $20 bonus bet, to get you started.

What Mobile Sportsbooks Are Available in Louisiana?

Louisiana's sports betting landscape offers a diverse range of mobile sportsbook apps. Whether you're at a game or on the go, these apps provide a convenient way to place bets in the Pelican State. Here's a list of our top picks, complete with their official app ratings:

1. FanDuel - 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.7/5 (Android)

2. bet365- 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.6/5 (Android)

3. BetMGM - 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.2/5 (Android)

4. Caesars Sportsbook - 4.6/5 (iOS); 4.3/5 (Android)

5. BetRivers - 4.4/5 (iOS); 3.5/5 (Android)

What Betting Markets Are Available in Louisiana?

In Louisiana, sports betting offers an excellent variety of markets, reflecting the state's passion for sports. There's a wealth of betting options that suit everyone, from beginners to seasoned punters.

Here's an overview of the main types of betting available in Louisiana:

Moneylines

This is a straightforward bet on who will win a game. Moneyline bets are popular for their simplicity. The odds determine the payouts, with negative odds indicating favorites and positive odds for underdogs.

Example:

• New Orleans Saints (-135)

• Atlanta Falcons (+115)

Here, -135 means you'd need to bet $135 on the Saints to win $100, while a $100 bet on the Falcons at +115 could win $115.

Point Spreads

Point spread betting is about predicting the margin of victory, with a spread set to even out the perceived strength difference between teams. You bet on whether the favorite will exceed the spread or whether the underdog will keep the game closer than the spread or win.

Example:

• LSU Tigers +6.5 (-110)

• Alabama Crimson Tide -6.5 (-110)

A bet on LSU means they need to lose by 6 points or fewer or win the game to cover the spread. To win a bet on the Crimson Tide, they would need to win by 7 points or more. 

Totals (Over/Under)

Totals betting involves wagering on the combined score of both teams, with a set line to bet over or under. It's a good way to bet on how a game will pan out without worrying about who wins or loses.

Example:

• Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns vs. Coastal Carolina Chanticleers

• Over 58.5 (-110)

• Under 58.5 (-110)

Bettors decide if the total score will be over or under 58.5 points. Just like point spread betting, the odds of both sides tend to start at around -110 with totals. 

Prop Bets

Prop bets are on specific game events or player performances that don't necessarily determine the game's outcome. They can add an element of fun and detail to betting.

Example:

• Zion Williamson Total Points: 

• Over 24.5 (-120)

• Under 24.5 (+100)

Here, you can bet on whether Zion will score more or fewer than 24.5 points in the game. Other popular props include layups, runs in the MLB and passing or rushing yards in the NFL. 

Parlays

Parlays in Louisiana allow bettors to combine multiple bets into a single wager. To win a parlay, each of the individual bets within it must be successful. Parlays are particularly popular among sports bettors for their high payout potential, but they also carry a higher risk. For example, a bettor might create a parlay combining the outcomes of an LSU football game, a New Orleans Pelicans basketball game, and a New Orleans Saints NFL game. The loss of any single bet means the loss of the entire wager.

Futures

Futures bets in Louisiana involve wagers on future events, like predicting the winners of championships or player awards well in advance. These bets often come with longer odds but they keep the excitement alive throughout a season or tournament. A classic example would be placing a bet at the beginning of the season on the LSU Tigers to win the College Football Playoff National Championship. This type of bet allows fans to stay engaged and hopeful throughout the season as they follow their team's progress. 

Live Betting

Live betting, also known as in-play betting, is available in Louisiana and lets bettors place wagers on games as they unfold. The odds change dynamically based on the current score and events happening in the game. This type of betting is particularly engaging due to its fast-paced nature, requiring bettors to make quick decisions as the game progresses.

What Can’t You Bet On in Louisiana?

Here's a summary of betting restrictions in Louisiana:

• High School Sports: Wagering on high school sports events is not permitted.

• College Sports Prop Bets: Prop bets on college athletes and teams are prohibited.

• Non-Sports Events: Betting on events like political outcomes or entertainment awards is not legally allowed.

• Esports: Currently, betting on esports is not authorized in Louisiana.

Betting on College Sports in Louisiana

Betting on college sports is legal in Louisiana, home to several prominent NCAA Division 1 programs. Here are some of the notable teams in the state:

• LSU Tigers: A powerhouse in multiple sports, especially known for their football and basketball programs.

• Tulane Green Wave: Competes in various sports, including football and basketball, with a strong fan following.

• Louisiana Ragin' Cajuns: Represents the University of Louisiana at Lafayette, competing fiercely in sports like football and basketball.

• Louisiana Tech Bulldogs: Known for their competitive sports teams, particularly in football and basketball.

Betting on individual college games, including those involving the above teams, is popular among sports bettors in Louisiana. Futures betting on NCAA championship outcomes is also a common market. 

However, it's important to note that prop betting on college sports, including bets on specific team and player performances, is not permitted in Louisiana. These regulations aim to preserve the integrity of collegiate sports while still allowing fans to enjoy betting on their favorite college teams.

Louisiana Sports Betting Facts

How Does Louisiana Online Sports Betting Compare to Other States?

Louisiana's online sports betting scene stands out in the region, particularly when compared to its neighbor, Mississippi. Louisiana boasts a comprehensive mobile betting experience, offering eight licensed sportsbooks with a variety of options for bettors. This contrasts starkly with Mississippi, where mobile betting is confined to on-property use at casinos, limiting its accessibility. 

Louisiana's approach, allowing individual parishes to decide on sports betting legalization, is unique in the US, further distinguishing it from other states with legal sports betting. 

Louisiana has registered $4.5 billion in handle since sports betting was legalized in the state. This is considerably more than Mississippi’s $2.3 billion (although the sports betting industry there is retail only) and enough to rank 15th overall in the US, just behind Maryland at $5 billion.

Louisiana's slightly higher mobile betting tax rate (15%) contrasts with large sports betting states like Michigan's 8.4% and Arizona's 10%, suggesting a more aggressive taxation approach. This information reflects Louisiana's (steady but not massive) growth, but the Pelican State still has a long way to go in comparison to those other, more mature markets.  

Louisiana Sports Betting Updates

Louisiana has witnessed significant developments in its sports betting landscape. Here is a timeline highlighting the major milestones and updates in Louisiana’s sports betting journey:

• April 4, 2024 - The Louisiana Gaming Control Board is banning prop bets on individual college athletes.

• March 25, 2024 - The Louisiana Gaming Control Board announces a 20% month-over-month decline in February sports betting handle. Louisiana's handle falls below $300 million for the first time in five months.

• March 1, 2024 - Louisiana House Bill — HB. 473 — proposes bump to sports betting promotions deduction limit to increase overall taxable revenue. 

• Feb. 22, 2024 - Louisiana sports betting handle dropped to $346.3 million in January, down 8.8% month-over-month.

• Jan. 30, 2024 - ClutchBet launches its online sportsbook in Louisiana.

• Jan. 26, 2024 - bet365 launches a free-to-play fantasy contest in Lousiana and four other states. The prize pool for each game is $25,000.

• Dec. 20, 2023 - Louisiana sports betting handle reached $356.4 million in November, beating the previous record set in October by 15%.

• Nov. 21, 2023: bet365 joins the Louisiana sports betting market, expanding the state's online sportsbook options.

• Nov. 14, 2023: ESPN BET debuts in Louisiana, offering online and mobile sports betting.

• Nov. 2, 2023: ESPN BET announces its upcoming launch in Louisiana, adding to the state's growing online sports betting scene.

Is Daily Fantasy Sports Legal in Louisiana?

Yes, Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) are legal in Louisiana. This followed a legislative decision allowing DFS operators like DraftKings and FanDuel to offer their services in the state.

Sports Teams in Louisiana

Louisiana is renowned for its passionate sports culture, with several professional and college teams playing a pivotal role in the state's sports scene. These teams have loyal fan bases and are a major draw at Louisiana sportsbooks. Below are some of the most prominent teams in the state:

• New Orleans Saints (NFL) - The Saints, Louisiana's pride in the NFL, have a fervent fan base. They achieved their greatest triumph in the 2009 season, winning Super Bowl XLIV. The victory was a significant moment for the team and the state, symbolizing a rebound from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina.

• LSU Tigers (NCAA Football) - Representing Louisiana State University, the Tigers are a force in college football. They have won multiple National Championships, with recent success in the 2019 season. The Tigers are known for their intense games against SEC rivals and have produced numerous NFL players.

• New Orleans Pelicans (NBA) - As Louisiana's representative in the NBA, the Pelicans have been part of the league since 2002. While they haven't clinched an NBA championship yet, they have had several playoff appearances, most recently in 2022. The team has become a hub for young talent, looking to make a significant impact in the league.

Louisiana Sportsbook Partnerships

There are some notable partnerships in Louisiana between sportsbooks and sports teams:

1. Caesars Sportsbook and New Orleans Saints (NFL): This partnership includes exclusive betting options and promotions tailored for Saints fans.

2. BetMGM and New Orleans Baby Cakes (MiLB): Although not as prominent as partnerships with major league teams, BetMGM's association with the Baby Cakes represents a growing interest in minor league sports.

3. FanDuel and LSU Tigers (NCAA): FanDuel's partnership with LSU Tigers, one of the premier college sports programs in the country, allows them to engage directly with a large fan base in collegiate sports, particularly in football and basketball.

Getting Help: Responsible Gambling in Louisiana

Louisiana offers a variety of resources and support for individuals facing challenges with gambling or those seeking more information on responsible gambling practices.

The Louisiana Association on Compulsive Gambling is a key resource in the state, providing valuable information, support, and counseling services. They can be reached at 1-877-770-STOP (7867), offering confidential assistance. Their services include helplines, treatment programs, and educational materials to help understand the nature of problem gambling.

Self-exclusion programs are available in Louisiana, both through individual sportsbooks and a state-level option. These programs allow individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from gambling activities and facilities, promoting a healthier approach to gambling

Sportsbooks in Louisiana also implement various tools and measures to encourage responsible gambling, including:

• Customizable Deposit/Withdrawal Limits: Bettors can set their own deposit limits to manage their gambling budget effectively.

• Reality Check Services: This proactive approach by sportsbooks involves regular check-ins with customers to ensure they maintain control over their gambling activities. 

• Cool Off Periods: Similar to self-exclusion, but less formal, cool off periods allow customers to temporarily block access to their betting accounts.