Best Maryland Sportsbooks & Sports Betting Apps (July 2024)

Right now, in Maryland, there are 12 legal online sportsbooks up and running. On this page, we’re covering everything that you need to know about sports betting in Old Line State, including our top recommendations for the best bonuses to kickstart your Maryland sports betting journey.

🥇 Our best Maryland sportsbook in July 2024 is BetMGM 🥇

How We Rated the Top Maryland Sports Betting Sites

At WSN, our approach to rating sportsbooks relies on a single guiding principle: personal experience. We know that the only way to truly understand a platform is through first-hand interaction and experience. We thoroughly test and delve into each platform’s features to understand how they work, plus their strengths and weaknesses, before writing our reviews.

Our specialists are asked to dedicate at least 2 hours to exploring each of the following six areas:

1. User Experience: We begin with registering and exploring the platform for ourselves. This hands-on experience lets us assess how well it works and its overall design. We check its ease of use, speed, and how it looks. We also try it on various devices, including desktop and mobile.

2. Features: We thoroughly delve into all the available sports and betting markets. Ideally, we like to see a variety of options. Additionally, we like to see unique features such as cash-out, live betting, picking services, and Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) options.

3. Promotions: We actively participate in all available promotions. This allows us to understand their worth, how they operate, and any T&Cs. Along with a generous welcome bonus, we like to see ongoing promotions and a rewarding loyalty scheme. We understand the importance of a platform that rewards its bettors.

4. Deposits and Withdrawals: We value platforms that have a variety of payment methods, whether traditional options such as bank transfer and credit/debit cards, as well as modern alternatives like cryptocurrencies and e-wallets. We test each method out, accessing their processing times, any limits, or fees.

5. Customer Support: We directly interact with each of the customer support options, evaluating speed, helpfulness, and responsiveness. Platforms that provide multiple contact options, including live chat, phone, email, and social media, especially receive our praise.

6. Responsible Gambling: We hold sportsbooks in high regard when they prioritize responsible gambling practices. This includes in-house tools like session reminders and daily limits, in addition to helpful links or contact numbers to external organizations for additional guidance.

After this process, we have a team of post-publication editors that are required to commit a total of 5 hours per month to ensure that this content is accurate and reflective of any updates to the sportsbooks.

Why Trust Us?

Ultimately, at WSN, our main objective is to be a reliable and trustworthy source of information for our readers. We achieve this through a combination of hands-on testing and honest feedback. We always strive to make it clear both what we like about a sportsbook and where we think it can improve. 

Our expertise has developed along with the industry since we have been involved in the world of US sports betting since the beginning. Over the years, our active involvement has been crucial in forming a deep understanding of the ins and outs of how the betting world works. At the end of the day, we strive to help you make well-informed decisions and have a smooth betting experience.

Closer Look at the Best Online Sportsbooks in Maryland

1. Caesars Sportsbook

Best for: Loyalty scheme

In the US, Caesars is a legacy name that is renowned for entertainment and hospitality, as well as its fantastic sportsbook. If you are looking for an excellent sports betting platform with a strong reputation, then Caesars is the ideal choice for you. 

Caesar’s homepage is simple and clearly organized, but it also exudes sophistication reflective of the brand. New players are welcomed with the opportunity to claim back up to $1,000 if they lose their initial wager. It is a great choice, whether you are an inexperienced bettor looking for a second chance or a seasoned gambler searching for a new platform to explore.

Caesar’s standout feature is its loyalty scheme, which generously rewards bettors for their dedication. In fact, as part of the welcome package, you will receive 1,000 Tier and Reward Credits to kickstart your progression. With each bet that you place, you will earn credits. The best part is the way the rewards program interacts with other Caesars products and services. Based on the tier level, you can earn benefits, including hotel discounts, free stays, complimentary room upgrades, and dining rewards. 

Customer service is another strength, with a helpful and responsive team to answer any queries. Conveniently, there are several options to contact an agent, whether via live chat, phone number, email, or social media.

Discover more in our detailed review of Caesars Sportsbook.

💰Sign-up offer: $1,000 First Bet on Caesars with the promo code WSN1000.

Caesars Sportsbook Ratings

⭐ WSN Rating: 4.3/5

⭐ Apple App Store: 4.6/5

⭐ Google Play Store: 4.3/5

⭐ Trustpilot: N/A

Claim Your Caesars Sportsbook Bonus 

2. BetMGM Sportsbook

Best for: Welcome bonus

Aside from being a well-established brand, BetMGM has become a titan in the betting industry. If you are on the hunt for a reputable sportsbook that really rewards its users, then look no further than BetMGM.

In the US market, BetMGM sets itself ahead of competitors by offering the most generous second-chance bonus. Newcomers can get up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets. For deposits and withdrawals, you can choose from a healthy range of 11 payment options.

On the platform, there is an extremely deep range of sports and betting markets to explore. Additionally, BetMGM has an impressive live betting service, where you can watch games live while being provided with detailed statistics and other updates. When it comes to the user interface, the platform is a breeze to navigate and has the look and feel of a classic sportsbook.

Bettors can benefit from MGMRewards, where you receive points with every bet placed. These points can be used to claim bonus credits, which in turn unlock exclusive rewards that utilize MGM resorts. A few of the best prizes offered include luxury dinners, trips, and hotel stays. For any questions, customer service is accessible through various methods, such as 24/7 live chat, phone, email, or social media. 

Explore our comprehensive review of BetMGM Sportsbook here.

💰Sign-up offer: Get Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets! with the promo code WSNMGM.

BetMGM Sportsbook Ratings

⭐ WSN Rating: 4.4/5

⭐ Apple App Store: 4.8/5

⭐ Google Play Store: 3.6/5

⭐ Trustpilot: 1.2/5

Claim Your BetMGM Sportsbook Bonus 

3. FanDuel Sportsbook

Best for: Mobile App

FanDuel is undeniably one of the top sportsbooks in Maryland by a few metrics. So if you are in search of the best all-round betting platform in MD, this app is for you.

Let’s start with its mobile app, which, in my opinion, is one of the best out there. It ticks all the boxes I want from mobile sports betting - it’s easy to use and beginner-friendly but never feels basic or boring. Instead, the design is slick and fun to use, with no bugs or digital dead ends, which can sometimes happen when desktop sportsbooks are converted to an app.

I can definitely say that I am a huge fan of the FanDuel Sportsbook welcome bonus package too, which consists of $200 in bonus bets just for signing up and placing your first bet of $5 on the moneyline and winning it. It’s a great offer, encouraging careful and considerate betting.

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

💰Sign-up offer:  Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets.

FanDuel Sportsbook Ratings

⭐ WSN Rating: 4.8/5

⭐ Apple App Store: 4.8/5

⭐ Google Play Store: 4.7/5

⭐ Trustpilot: 1.3/5

Claim Your FanDuel Sportsbook Bonus 

4. Crab Sports

Based on our experience, Crab Sports offers a sleek and user-friendly platform that goes beyond what you might expect from a Maryland-exclusive sports betting site. If you are a mobile user, Crab Sports offers a solid app on both iOS and Android. We have spent some time testing the app on iPhone 14, and it delivered a smooth betting experience without lags or glitches.

One thing to highlight is that the live betting options add excitement, allowing users to place bets as the action unfolds. Crab Sports offers a decent variety of trusted payment methods, making it pretty straightforward to deposit and withdraw funds in acceptable time frames.

Crab’s welcome bonus is insurance on your first bet. Players who sign up place their first bet of any amount up to $500 at odds of -120 or longer will be awarded a Free Bet if their first bet loses. If the bet wins, the player no longer qualifies for the promotion.

» Check out our complete review of Crab Sports Sportsbook.

💰Sign-up offer: $500 First Bet Insurance

🤩 Promo Code: WSNCRAB

Crab Sports Sportsbook Ratings

⭐ WSN Rating: 4.2/5

⭐ Apple App Store: 3.4/5

⭐ Google Play Store: 2.8/5

Claim your Crab Sports Bonus 

5. DraftKings Sportsbook

Best for: All-round platform

DraftKings is a name that has quickly become synonymous with online sports betting in the US, establishing itself as an industry leader. If you want an all-around excellent platform, from bonuses to mobile compatibility, then DraftKings is the go-to choice.

When you sign up, you get a fantastic welcome bonus - you can bet $5 and get $150 in Bonus Bets. This offer is easy to claim because the only requirement is to place a $5 bet on any market.

Keep an eye on the promotions page for other ongoing bonuses that are regularly updated to match popular events and championships. Always worth checking to see if there's something that catches your interest.

Bettors can easily make deposits and withdrawals with a selection of 13 payment methods. In fact, you only have to make a minimum deposit of $5, which is the lowest in the industry.

All of this can be enjoyed by DraftKing’s dedicated mobile app, which provides a seamless and cutting-edge betting experience. Users clearly agree that it is an excellent platform, as the app boasts a 4.8/5 on the App Store and a 4.7/5 on the Google Play Store.

Find out more in our in-depth DraftKings Sportsbook review.

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

DraftKings Sportsbook Ratings

⭐ WSN Rating: 4.8/5

⭐ Apple App Store: 4.8/5

⭐ Google Play Store: 4.6/5

⭐ Trustpilot: 1.3/5

Full List of Legal Sportsbooks in Maryland

The full list of all 12 legal online sportsbooks that are available in Maryland is here:

• Betfred Sports

• BetMGM

• betPARX

• BetRivers

• LetsBetMD

• Caesars Sportsbook

• Crab Sports

• DraftKings

• ESPN Bet

• Fanatics Sportsbook

• FanDuel

• SuperBook

Maryland Online Sports Betting Sites

Maryland Retail Sportsbooks

Is Sports Betting Legal in Maryland?

Yes, online sports betting is legal in Maryland as of Nov. 23, 2022, and there are currently a total of twelve platforms. Retail sports betting began the previous year on Dec. 9, 2021.

In 2020, a referendum was held where voters opted for the legalization of sports betting in Maryland. After this, legislation was drafted, and in May 2021, Governor Lawerence J. Hogan Jr signed HB 940 into law. The following months marked the preparation for the launch of online sports betting. Finally, seven online sportsbooks were approved and going live on Nov. 23.

How to Start Betting in MD

It is pretty simple to get started at an MD sportsbook, but for beginners, we have explained the exact process. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to register and make your first bet.

1. Select a licensed sportsbook. Firstly, choose a reputable platform that is regulated and licensed to operate in Maryland. This guarantees the protection of your personal and financial information. For Maryland bettors, we recommend DraftKings, Caesars, and BetMGM as top choices.

2. Register your account. When registering, you will be asked for your personal information, such as name, email, date of birth, and address. This is a mandatory procedure for betting sites.

3. Verify your identity. Some platforms will ask you to complete an identity verification process, for security reasons. This involves the submission of relevant documents such as your ID. 

4. Claim your welcome bonus. Sportsbooks will have a welcome bonus to attract bettors to join their site. It is a valuable opportunity to boost your first bet and enjoy the perks. Unless it is a no-deposit bonus, you will have to deposit and wager a qualifying amount. Always make sure you read the terms and conditions beforehand, and head to our reviews to get all the details on how to claim your bonus.

5. Deposit money. If you wish to place a bet or claim a bonus, you will need to deposit money into your account. Our top sites have several payment methods to choose from, including bank cards, transfers and e-wallets.

6. Make your first bet. Explore the sportsbook’s menu and find your preferred type of bet. We go into more detail on these different betting markets in MD below. Click the bet to add it to the virtual bet slip, type in your stake and you’re good to go. 

7. Withdraw your winnings. If your bet is successful, you can enjoy your winnings and withdraw them using your selected payment method. The processing time is dependent on the platform and chosen payment option.

Maryland Sportsbook Bonuses

After signing up for a sportsbook, bettors are eligible for a welcome bonus that acts as a great introduction to the platform. Below, we have listed the typical bonuses offered. Prior to claiming a welcome bonus, you should review the T&Cs to be aware of any requirements. 

Bonus Bet

A Bonus Bet is an extra incentive that is given after a bettor’s initial deposit or wager. It is basically a kind of voucher and is frequently given by the sportsbook as a welcome bonus. For example, DraftKings is currently offering $200 in bonus bets after depositing and betting $5. It is a great option for bettors who don’t want to spend a lot of money up front. 

Second Chance Bets

A Second Chance Bet is a kind of safety net bonus since it allows you to claim back a portion or all of your initial bet. The sportsbook will refund you up to a certain amount in bonus bets if you lose your initial wager. After signing up at Caesars, you can claim a $1,000 second-chance bet.

Deposit Match Bonuses

A Deposit Match Bonus is an offer where the sportsbook will match a percentage or the entirety of your deposit in bonus bets, up to a specified limit. In essence, the more you deposit, the more you benefit from this bonus. Although less common than the previously mentioned bonuses.

No-Deposit Bonuses

A No-Deposit Bonus does not need any deposit or wager on your end, it is entirely free. All you have to do is register and you can receive the bonus. Typically, these bonuses are smaller bonus bets, ranging from around $10 to $20.

What Mobile Apps Are Available in Maryland?

Each of our recommended sportsbooks has a high-quality and well-designed app. Mobile compatibility is crucial for sports betting, providing unbeatable convenience and accessibility. Bettors can effortlessly place bets, check odds, and manage their accounts from anywhere.

Take a look at the best sportsbook apps in Maryland:

1. DraftKings - 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.6/5 (Android)

2. BetMGM - 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.3/5 (Android)

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

What Betting Markets Are Available in Maryland?

Sportsbooks in Maryland offer a wide selection of sports and markets. It is important to understand the various betting markets if you are looking to participate. The specific betting markets offered vary between different platforms, but we have explained the most popular options below:

Moneyline

A moneyline bet is a common wager which involves predicting which side will win in a game or event, it is as simple as that. Positive odds are representative of the underdog, while negative odds show the favorite. Take a look at this example:

• Baltimore Ravens (+170)

• San Francisco 49ers (-205)

Here, the 49ers are the favorite which means that you would have to make a bet of $205 to win $100, which results in a payout of $305 if they win. For the Baltimore Ravens, you would need to make a bet of $100 to make a profit of $170. If they are successful, your total payout would be $270.

Point Spreads

A point spread bet levels the playing field. Instead of betting on the outcome, you wager on the margin of victory. The sportsbook assigns a point spread which makes up for the perceived difference in quality between the two teams. To win a bet, your chosen team must cover the spread of points. Take a look at this example:

• Baltimore Ravens +4.5 (-110)

• SF 49ers -4.5 (-110)

If you bet on the Baltimore Ravens, they would have to win by 5 points or more. If you bet on the 49ers, they need to either win the game or simply avoid losing by 5 points. 

Totals

With a totals bet, you are predicting whether the combined score of both teams will be over or under a specific number set by the sportsbook. It is also called an Over/Under bet for this reason. It can look like this:

Baltimore Ravens vs. SF 49ers

• Over 45 (-110)

• Under 45 (-110)

Futures

A future bet is when you place a bet on an event or championship that is set to take place considerably into the future, such as before a season starts. For instance, if you are convinced that the Washington Commanders will be successful in the Super Bowl, you can make a future bet before the season kicks off. Betting on the winners of the NBA championship, Stanley Cup or Masters in golf are all examples of futures bets.

Prop Bets

A prop bet focuses on a specific aspect or occurrence within a game that is not always related to the overall outcome. Prop bets allow bettors to make predictions on various individual or team performances, stats, or other specific events during the game. Common examples include the number of touchdowns scored in a football game, or three-pointers for a basketball game.

Parlays

A parlay is formed by combining multiple bets onto a single ticket. To win a parlay, you must be successful in each of the bets. If one fails, then the entire parlay is lost. While this type of bet has the opportunity for higher payouts, there is also increased risk. A teaser bet allows you to modify point spreads or totals in your favor by a predetermined number of points, however the potential payout is lower than that of a regular parlay. 

Live Betting

Live betting allows you to place bets on a sporting event as it is happening. Unlike traditional betting, where you bet before the event begins, live betting offers the chance to make bets in response to real-time developments in the game. You can find dedicated live betting sections in many Maryland sportsbooks, where regularly updated odds can be found. Some platforms will also livestream the game and have detailed statistics to help inform your wagers.

What Is Not Legal to Bet On in Maryland?

Sports betting in Maryland is subject to the following restrictions:

• Politics: It is illegal to bet on any political events.

• Entertainment Ceremonies: It is not permitted to wager on any awards ceremony, such as the Academy Awards.

• High school sports: It is forbidden to bet on any high school-level events or games.

Betting on College Sports in Maryland

Yes, college sports betting is legal in Maryland. Maryland has a dynamic and thriving collegiate sports scene, and now residents can wager on their favorite teams and events.

The full list of NCAA Division 1 College Programs is here:

• Coppin State Eagles

• Loyola Greyhounds

• Maryland Terrapins

• Maryland Eastern Shore Hawks

• Morgan State Bears and Lady Bears

• Mount St. Mary’s Mountaineers

• Navy Midshipmen

• Towson Tigers

• UMBC Retrievers

Maryland Sports Betting Facts

How Does Maryland Online Sports Betting Compare to Other States?

Since sports betting was legalized, Maryland has reported $5 billion in total handle. This positions it as the 14th largest US state based on sports betting handle. In terms of population, Maryland is the 19th largest state, with 6.1 million residents. 

Maryland’s total betting handle is a pretty standard amount for the state of its size. Kansas, for instance, also legalized sports betting in 2022 and has a total handle of 2.3 billion with a population of 2.9 million. Legal sports betting in Ohio launched in January 2023, and the state has a total handle of 5.9 billion, but has a much bigger population of 11.7 million. However, it must be taken into account that retail sports betting was legalized the year before online sports betting in Maryland. 

Maryland has a flat tax rate of 15%, which is also pretty average compared to other states. For example, Nevada has a low tax rate of 6.75%, while Michigan has one of 8%. In comparison to higher states like New York or Pennsylvania, with tax rates of 51% and 36%, respectively, Maryland’s tax rate is somewhere in the middle.

Unlike other states, betting on esports and college sports has been legalized in Maryland. Several states, like New Jersey and New York, have not allowed betting on in-state college sports.

Maryland Sports Betting Updates

After the overturning of PASPA, Maryland took a few years to legalize online sports betting, driven by a referendum in 2020. After the law was passed, it took no time for several sportsbooks to launch. Below is a detailed timeline of the key events: 

• July 1, 2024- LetsBetMD launches in Maryland. The Bee-Fee-powered sports betting platform is the 12th such product to enter the Old Line State.

• June 10,2024 - Maryland sportsbooks record their second-highest monthly revenue profits ever, taking in more than $50 million in May.

• May 22, 2024 - Plans to redevelop the Pimlico Race Course could reportedly include a retail sportsbook.

• May 15, 2024 - Maryland Gov. Wes Moore signs a new bill to renovate Pimlico Race Course for $400 million. The 149th Preakness Stakes will take place at Pimlico on May 18.

• May 8, 2024 - The state announces that Maryland sports betting handle rose to $536.7 million in March, up 21.2% from February and 39% year over year.

• April 24, 2024 - Because online casino legalization in Maryland requires approval from voters, the state cannot legalize online casino gaming until 2026. The state failed to pass any iGaming legislation during the 2024 legislative session.

• April 11, 2024 - Maryland sportsbook see March rebound despite the state's poor NCAA tournament showing.

• April 10, 2024 - Maryland lawmakers passed a bill that clears up the future of horse racing in the state. The state will now take over ownership of Pimlico Race Course and consolidate horse betting to that track.

• April 9, 2024 - The proposal that would have authorized voters to legalize real money Maryland online casinos failed, closing the iCasino door until 2027. 

• March 18, 2024 - Maryland House passes iGaming bill in time for "crossover day" and now heads to the state Senate, which has until April 8th to make a decision. 

Can You Play Daily Fantasy Sports in Maryland?

Yes, DFS is legal in Maryland as of 2012. Residents of Maryland can access both DraftKings and FanDuel’s DFS platforms.

Sports Teams in Maryland

Maryland has several major league teams, which contribute to the state’s thriving and passionate sports culture. The state is also particularly known for its enthusiasm for college sports.

• Baltimore Orioles - This MLB team has a storied and rich history, dating back to 1954. They have won three World Series titles in 1966, 1970, and 1983. Currently, the Orioles’ home stadium is Oriole Park at Camden Yards. 

• Baltimore Ravens - The Ravens are a successful NFL team that has won two Super Bowl championships in 2000 and 2012. Valued at $2.98 billion, they rank as the 33rd most valued sports franchise in the world.

• Washington Commanders - The Commanders play at FedExField, located in Landover, Maryland. Formed in 1932, the team has a longstanding legacy within the NFL. They have three Super Bowl championships under their belt, as well as two NFL championships from before 1970. In 2024, the Commanders are set to move to Riverdale Park on the University of Maryland’s campus.

• Washington Wizards - Although now located in Washington DC, the team was previously known as the Baltimore Bullets. They possess one NBA championship from 1978.

Maryland Sportsbook Partnerships

Maryland has a few successful major league teams, each has had its own partnership with sports betting operators over the past couple of years.

• Fanatics have partnered with the Washington Commanders. It was the first sportsbook operator to open a retail sportsbook within an NFL stadium. This took place at FedEx Field, home of the Washington Commanders.

• In 2021, Caesars Sportsbooks became the premier sports betting partner of the Baltimore Ravens, announcing a 5-year deal. 

• SuperBook announced a multi-year partnership with SuperBook in August 2022, opening a retail sports lounge at Oriole Park in Camden Yards. 

Getting Help: Responsible Gambling in Maryland

The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission is a founding member of the Maryland Alliance for Responsible Gambling. MARG was created to promote responsible gambling and provide resources to tackle the issues of problem gambling in Maryland.

Here are a few of those useful responsible gambling resources:

• Maryland Center of Excellence on Problem Gambling 

• Maryland Council on Problem Gambling 

• National Council on Problem Gambling

• Gamblers Anonymous International Maryland Hotline: (855) 222-5542

• Gam-Anon Family Group: (888) 230-1123

Many Maryland sportsbooks have specific tools to help manage your betting:

1. Deposit/bet limits - Users can establish predefined limits for the amount of money that they intend to deposit or wager.

2. Time based controls - This allows users to regulate their session durations, with the sportsbooks sending you reminders.

3. Self-exclusion - Bettors can choose to exclude themselves permanently or for a specified period to control their habits.