Massachusetts Sports Betting: Best MA Sportsbooks [April 2024]

March 10, 2023 marked a significant milestone in Massachusetts with the launch of legal online sports betting, and the Bay State now has seven sportsbooks open for business. 

This page is our in-depth look at sports betting in Massachusetts, detailing how to sign up, place bets, and claim your welcome bonuses right now.

How We Rated the Top Massachusetts Sports Betting Sites

Our assessment of Massachusetts sports betting platforms is grounded in extensive, hands-on experience, meaning our reviews are detailed and authentic. At the end of the day, we are not only reviewers. We are also sports betting fans, and our reviews reflect what we find important in a platform from the perspective of a user. We ask our experts to dedicate at least two hours of research to each of the following six criteria:

1. User Experience: We dive into the software of each sportsbook to get a full understanding of the platform and how it operates. Our evaluation includes the ease of navigation, clarity of information, and the overall betting process. We pay particular attention to how intuitive and user-friendly each platform is for bettors of all experience levels. We also use multiple devices to test both the desktop version of the platform and the mobile applications on both iOS and Android. 

2. Features: Our team explores the variety of features offered by each sportsbook. This includes the sports betting market available, the live betting interface, the functionality of the mobile app, and plenty more. 

3. Promotions: We go through the process of claiming each sportsbook's welcome bonuses, ongoing promotions, and special offers like odds boosts. We take into account how easy these offers and promos are to claim, as well as any important terms and conditions.

4. Deposits and Withdrawals: We test all the methods of depositing and withdrawing funds to evaluate their efficiency and convenience. This includes reviewing transaction speed, ease of process, and any associated fees. Before signing up for any of these platforms, we want our readers to have clarity regarding their banking options. 

5. Customer Support: We engage with the support team of each sportsbook. This includes an assessment of the support channels available, the quality of the help, and, of course, the information available in the FAQ and Help sections.

6. Responsible Gambling: We assess each sportsbook's commitment to responsible gambling. This is based on the presence of links to support sites and in-house tools like deposit and spending limits and self-exclusion that promote safe betting practices.

Not only do our writers rigorously research each of the previously mentioned sections, but they are also cross-referenced by our editors and confirmed across every site. Five hours per month are dedicated to post-publication accuracy checks. 

Why Trust Us?

Trust in WSN.com is built on a foundation of real-world betting experience and a deep understanding of the online gambling industry. Our insight is the product of decades immersed in the world of online betting. This long-term exposure means we're not just familiar with how to navigate modern sportsbooks; we’re experts. We’ve dealt with every type of bonus and all the fine print, used every type of payment method, and waited through all the withdrawal periods. We have made all the mistakes along the way, so you don’t have to. 

This experience is poured into each review and piece of content on WSN.com. We pride ourselves on seeing things others might miss and conveying what we find in a straightforward, no-nonsense manner.

Closer Look at the Best Online Sportsbooks in Massachusetts

1. DraftKings

Best for: Low deposit limits

DraftKings has been at the forefront of online sportsbooks in Massachusetts since sports betting was legalized. If you are looking for top-notch betting options and odds supported by user-friendly software and a highly-rated mobile app, DraftKings will suit you perfectly.

DraftKings' standout feature is its Massachusetts sign-up offer, with no promo code needed to claim the bonus. Bet $5 and get $150 in Bonus Bets. This attractive welcome bonus is a great incentive for newcomers who want to try a riskier play. DraftKings has a wide range of banking options, which include credit and debit cards, PayPal, and even Venmo, with a minimum deposit of just $5.

DraftKings also offers various on-running deals and offers, like NFL parlay boosts and NBA moneyback specials. These regular promotions keep the betting experience fresh and engaging for all sports fans. The only real downside is a lack of live customer support chat, which we know can be a big factor when trying to sort out a problem related to money. However, they do have endless articles answering all FAQs and provide a customer support form, so you can still get in touch.

All-in-all, DraftKings checks almost every box and is a great place for sports betting in Massachusetts. 

Pros

• $1,000 No-Sweat Bet

• $5 minimum deposit is friendly to lower-stakes bettors

• Excellent mobile app

Cons

• No live chat support

• The desktop site feels a little busy

Check out our in-depth DraftKings Sportsbook 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); 4.6/5 (Android)

2. BetMGM

Best for: Perks at MGM Resorts

BetMGM stands out at the top for the sheer variety of betting options in Massachusetts. If you’re looking for a massive selection of sports to bet on, including some great parlay options, BetMGM is second to none. 

This sportsbook not only provides a vast selection of bets but also one of the most attractive welcome bonuses in the industry. New users can get up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets. The MGM Rewards program further enhances BetMGM's appeal, offering special perks at MGM resorts and events, which is a great bonus for bettors who also enjoy resort experiences. 

Additionally, BetMGM’s customer support is great, with 24/7 live chat ensuring that help is always at hand. The mobile app is very sleek and nice to use. One drawback, however, is there is currently no way to track your betting history, which can be helpful for regular bettors. 

Pros

• A strong $150 welcome offer

• Incredible rewards program

• Live chat support

Cons

• Fewer than average regular promos

• No betting stats history

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); 4.3/5 (Android)

Full List of Legal Sportsbooks in Massachusetts

You can see the full list of all legal sportsbooks in Massachusetts below. This list does not include Bally Bet, which is expected to launch in late 2023, and Betway, which is expected to launch in early 2024. 

1. DraftKings

2. BetMGM

3. Betr

4. Caesars Sportsbook

5. ESPN Bet

6. Fanatics Sportsbook

7. FanDuel

8. WynnBet

Massachusetts Online Sports Betting Sites

Massachusetts Retail Sportsbooks

Is Sports Betting Legal in Massachusetts?

Yes, Sports betting in Massachusetts is legal. This was confirmed by the signing of House Bill 5164 by former Governor Charlie Baker on Aug. 10, 2022. This milestone moment came swiftly, a mere ten days after the Sports Betting Conference Committee reached a consensus to introduce legal wagering in Massachusetts. 

The rollout of legal sports betting kicked off with the opening of retail betting at three major Massachusetts casinos on Jan. 31, 2023. This significant development marked a new era for sports enthusiasts and bettors in the state. The progression continued with the launch of online sports betting platforms on March 10, 2023. 

How to Get Started

Betting on sports in Massachusetts, both in-person and online, is straightforward and relatively simple. Here's a step-by-step guide to getting started:

1. Select a legal and regulated Massachusetts sportsbook: This choice should be informed by thorough research, including reading reviews from trusted sources. Pay attention to aspects like bonuses, software, and the variety of bets offered. Check out our list of recommended sites in MA above for a breakdown of how they compare.

2. Register for an Account: Whether you choose to register in person or online, Massachusetts betting requires you to provide essential contact information and personal details. This includes your phone number and address the necessary steps to get started with a sportsbook app in the state.

3. Claim your welcome bonus: Sports betting platforms all offer attractive bonuses, especially for newcomers. Common types include second-chance bets, deposit match bonuses, and no-deposit bonuses. Remember to understand the terms associated with each bonus before proceeding, and follow the instructions carefully to claim it.

4. Fund Your Account: To place bets, you'll need to deposit funds into your sportsbook account. Massachusetts sportsbooks offer various funding methods, including ACH transfers and digital payments like PayPal. However, it's important to note that credit card deposits are not permitted. There may also be a qualifying deposit required to redeem your welcome bonus; so keep that in mind during sign-up.

5. Place Your Bets: The platform's menu lists all the markets and sports you can bet on. Scroll down, select your bet, add it to your digital betslip, and lock in your bet by typing in the amount you plan to wager.

6. Withdraw Your Winnings: Now go to the cashier, select your preferred payment method, and enjoy your winnings. Depending on the sportsbook or your chosen withdrawal method, you might encounter a wait while your request is processed. Review the terms and conditions carefully to make informed decisions about withdrawing your funds so you know what to expect in advance.

Massachusetts Sportsbook Promos

Promos and bonuses at sportsbooks play a crucial role in attracting new bettors, offering a range of incentives to try out their services. Let’s get into the different types of bonuses you might encounter: 

Deposit Match Bonus

A deposit bonus is a signup bonus where the sportsbook matches some or all of your first deposit. The extra money comes in the form of site credit or bonus bets, which need to be used to place wagers before they can be withdrawn. There may be additional terms and conditions attached, like wagering requirements and expiry dates. 

Bonus Bets

A Bonus Bet is like a free voucher to place a bet. Many sportsbooks hand out a certain number of bonus bets in exchange for signing up and making a qualifying deposit. DraftKings sign-up is very attractive, by spending $5 you get $200 in bonus bets.

No Deposit Bonus

In this case, the sportsbook will offer you some site credit or bonus bets with no need to deposit any money yourself first. All you need to do is register for an account. 

Second Chance Bets

Ideal for newcomers, this is like a safety net for your first bet. If your first bet doesn’t lead to a win, the sportsbook refunds your stake up to a specified maximum. This refund is typically in the form of bonus bets or site credits, which you can use for future wagers. Caesars is the cream of the crop for this type of promo, with your initial bet from $5 to $1,000 being totally refundable if it results in a loss.

Refer-a-Friend 

A Refer a Friend bonus is a promotion that benefits both you and a friend when you get them to sign up for a sportsbook. In BetMGM's case, when you refer someone and they sign up, both of you can choose from a variety of bonuses - such as receiving a sports betting bonus, each with up to $100. What makes BetMGM’s program particularly nice is the ability to refer up to 20 friends per month. 

Sport Specific Promos

Sportsbooks often feature a variety of sports-specific promotions tailored to current sports seasons and events. These offers can include odds boosts, parlay specials, and unique prop bets designed to add a bit of excitement during different seasons. Major leagues like the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and college basketball are all regular sources of on-running promos. 

What Mobile Sportsbooks Are Available in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, there are seven active and approved mobile apps for legal sportsbooks. If you like gambling on the go, we have chosen two in particular that we rate above the rest; here they are: 

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

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

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

4. ESPN Bet - 4.9/5 (iOS); 4.5/5 (Android)

What Betting Markets Are Available in Massachusetts?

In Massachusetts, sports bettors can find a rich selection of betting markets. The competitive landscape, with multiple sportsbooks operating in the state, ensures a good variety of betting options for the public.

Here’s an overview of the main types of betting available in Massachusetts:

Moneylines

This is a straightforward, traditional bet, predicting which team will win a game. Check out the example below:

• Boston Red Sox (+130)

• New York Yankees (-150)

It helps to think about Moneyline odds in terms of $100 increments. A bet on the Red Sox to win here would win you $130 for a payout of $230. If you bet $150 on the Yankees, you would win $100 for a payout of $250. 

Point Spreads

In point spread betting, you're betting on the margin of victory. The sportsbook sets a spread that reflects the estimated difference in strength between the two teams. This type of bet requires the favored team to win by a certain margin, or the underdog to lose by less than this margin or win outright. Here’s a quick example:

Celtics vs. Lakers

• Celtics -5.5 (-110)

• Lakers +5.5 (-110)

To win a bet on the Celtics here, they need to win the game by 6 points or more. To win a bet on the Lakers, they just need to not lose by 6 points or more. 

Totals (Over/Under)

Totals betting involves wagering on the combined total score of both teams in a game. The sportsbook will set a line and you bet on whether you think the total scoreline of the game will be over or under the sportsbook’s line. Here’s an example:

Boston Bruins vs. New York Rangers Game Total:

• Over 5 (-110)

• Under 5 (-110)

Like point spread betting, the odds on both sides tend to be around -110. 

Prop Bets

Proposition bets, or prop bets, focus on specific events within a game that don’t necessarily relate to the final outcome. These bets can be on the team as a whole or a specific player’s performance. For an NFL game, a prop bet might be on the total passing yards of the quarterback. For example, 

New England Patriots vs. Miami Dolphins

Prop Bet: Mac Jones Total Passing Yards

• Over 250.5 (-110)

• Under 250.5 (-110)

You can also find props on corners in soccer, layups in the NBA, strikeouts in MLB, and plenty more. 

Parlays

A parlay combines multiple bets into one. To win a parlay, all individual bets within it must be correct. Parlays offer higher payouts but come with increased risk. 

Parlays can be made up of all the different types of bets mentioned before. A bettor could create a parlay by combining a wager on the Boston Celtics to win, the Red Sox to hit over a certain number of runs, and the New England Revolution to score first in their soccer match. 

Futures

Futures bets are placed on events that will be decided in the future, for example, a bet could be on the Boston Bruins to win the Stanley Cup, or on the New England Patriots to win the Super Bowl at the start of the season. These bets offer longer odds and can be placed well in advance of the event. They spice up the season before it starts.

Live Betting

Live betting is exactly what it sounds like: it allows you to place bets during a game, as it happens in real time. It’s an exciting way to bet because odds change in real-time based on the game's progress, offering a much more engaging watching experience. 

For example, during a live Boston Celtics game, bettors could place a bet on who will score the next basket, or the Celtics to outscore the opponent in the next quarter.

What Can’t You Bet On in Massachusetts?

Here's a rundown of what is not permitted in Massachusetts sports betting:

1. High School and Youth Sports: Betting on these is not legal.

2. Local College Teams: You can't bet on them unless they're playing in a big multi-state tournament like March Madness.

3. Judge-Decided Olympic Events: Like gymnastics or skating.

4. Chess: Omitted from the list of legal betting sports, as provided by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission.

5. Cornhole and Jai Alai: Also omitted

6. Esports: Possibility in the future, but for now, not available in Massachusetts.

Betting on College Sports in Massachusetts?

Yes and no. You can bet freely on teams from colleges in other states.

When it comes to betting on local college teams, there's a specific rule in place. 

You're not allowed to place bets on these teams during regular games or seasons. However, an exception is made when these teams participate in large, multi-team tournaments. It's only during these tournaments that bettors can legally back their local college teams. 

Massachusetts Sports Betting Facts

How Does Massachusetts Online Sports Betting Compare to Other States?

Massachusetts may have joined the sports betting scene later than some states, with online betting going live in March 2023, but it's catching up quickly. With up to 15 online sports betting licenses available, including seven standalone ones, bettors are set to have a decent variety of platforms to choose from. 

This is more than a relatively similar-sized state, New Hampshire, which only allows for five mobile sportsbook operators. However, the industry is not on the same level as states like New Jersey and Ohio, which have 16 and 20 different online sportsbooks already, compared with Massachusetts' 8.

From March to November 2023, betting operators in Massachusetts received almost $3.3 billion in total bets. 

The tax structure in Massachusetts is noteworthy – while retail sportsbooks have a 15% rate, online sportsbooks (where the majority of bets come from) face a 20% tax on revenue. This is relatively high, with the average tax rate for online betting around 15% among states with legal sports betting. This has the potential to impact the odds and promotions offered by sportsbooks in MA. Also unique to Massachusetts is the prohibition on credit card deposits for sportsbook accounts, a move aimed at promoting responsible gambling. 

Massachusetts Sports Betting Updates

The path to legal sports betting in Massachusetts has been intricate and lengthy. Here’s a timeline of the major events:

• April 2, 2024 - The Massachusetts Gaming Commission is reportedly planning to hold a public meeting to scrutinize how sports betting companies are marketing to gamblers.

• March 28, 2024 - The Massachusetts Gaming Commission will reportedly begin asking sports betting operators about wager limits before deciding whether to change regulations.

• March 21, 2024 - Gov. Maura Healey appointed Jordan Maynard as interim chair of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission. Former chair Cathy Judd-Stein retired March 21.

• March 20, 2024 - $530.3 million was bet on sports in Massachusetts in February, resulting in $51.8 million of sports betting revenue. This was the seventh time in 12 months the Bay State passed $500 million in online wagers.

• March 18, 2024 - Dean Serpa was named the new executive director of the Massachusetts Gaming Commission. He replaced interim chair Todd Grossman. Serpa was a deputy chief of staff for former Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker.

• March 15, 2024 - Top Massachusetts sports betting regulator is upset with Bally's delayed sports betting launch, which is still unclear at this time. 

• March 4, 2024 - PrizePicks will switch to peer-to-peer Arena games on March 8 after reaching a deal with Massachusetts regulators to alter daily fantasy sports (DFS) offerings.

• Feb. 8, 2024 - BetMGM faces a MA hearing regarding banned prop bets on college athletes.

• Feb. 2, 2024 - WynnBET intents to exit Massachusetts on Feb. 23.

• Jan. 26, 2024 - Betr set to leave Massachusetts on Feb. 16, 2024.

Is Daily Fantasy Sports Legal in Massachusetts?

DFS is legal in Massachusetts and has been since the state passed a law regulating the activity in 2016. Both DraftKings and Fanduel’s DFS platforms are available in MA. 

According to the regulations, DFS companies need to get a license from the Massachusetts Gaming Commission. Players must be 18 or older and not working for a DFS company to take part.

Sports Teams in Massachusetts

Massachusetts is a sports-loving state with a rich history in professional sports, spanning the NBA, MLB, NFL, MLS and the NHL. The state’s teams are a big draw at local sportsbooks. Here's a look at some of the most beloved teams in Massachusetts:

• New England Patriots - The Patriots, playing in the NFL, are a powerhouse with six Super Bowl victories to their name. They've been a dominant force in football, especially in the 2000s and 2010s under the leadership of coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady.

• Boston Celtics - One of the most storied franchises in the NBA, the Celtics have a record 17 NBA Championships. They boast a rich history with legends like Bill Russell and Larry Bird and continue to be a major player in the league.

• Boston Red Sox - In Major League Baseball, the Red Sox have a passionate fan base. Their history includes nine World Series titles, with a notable victory in 2004 that broke the 'Curse of the Bambino', a championship drought that lasted 86 years.

• Boston Bruins - The Bruins are one of the Original Six teams in the NHL and have won the Stanley Cup six times. Their history is filled with notable players like Bobby Orr and Ray Bourque.

• New England Revolution - As a prominent team in Major League Soccer, the Revolution have been runners-up in the MLS Cup five times and continue to be a strong contender in the league.

Massachusetts Sportsbook Partnerships

Massachusetts has begun to see partnerships between sportsbooks and professional sports teams. 

There is one notable sponsorship in MA. The exclusive collaboration between the Boston Red Sox and BetMGM Sportsbook. Such alliances are expected to grow as the sports betting market in Massachusetts expands and more operators look to build brand recognition and customer loyalty.

Getting Help: Responsible Gambling in Massachusetts

In Massachusetts, there's a strong focus on responsible gambling, with various measures in place to help protect residents. For an in-depth look at how the state approaches this, you can check out the Massachusetts Gaming Commission's dedicated page on responsible gambling.

Here are some key resources available in Massachusetts for responsible gambling:

1. PlayMyWay: This is a handy, free budgeting tool designed specifically for bettors in Massachusetts. It sends automatic notifications to help players stay within their pre-set spending limits.

2. National Gambling Hotline: For immediate support, gamblers can reach out to this confidential, 24/7 helpline at 1-800-522-4700. It's a lifeline for anyone needing advice or support related to gambling.

3. Gamblers Anonymous: A well-known support network, Gamblers Anonymous offers regular meetings across Massachusetts. These gatherings provide a platform for sharing experiences and receiving support in dealing with gambling problems.

4. Voluntary Self-Exclusion: For those seeking to take a break from gambling, Massachusetts offers a self-exclusion program. Bettors can voluntarily exclude themselves from gambling for a minimum of six months. After the exclusion period, one must undergo reinstatement training with a gambling professional before being allowed to gamble again.