When you sign-up through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more >
Sports betting is legal in Michigan
Sports betting is legal in Michigan, having been officially sanctioned in December 2019. On this page, we will be covering everything you need to know about the best sportsbooks in the Wolverine State and point you towards the best bonuses that you can claim today.
🔥 Claimed by 144 people this week!
No bet-throughs required
Lots of sport-specific promos
Promo code 'WSN1000'
$1,000 First Bet on Caesars
21+ | T&Cs Apply. Gambling problem? Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER.
Free play options
Special contests for newbies
Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets
21+ | Terms and conditions apply
🔥 Claimed by 138 people this week!
Promo Code "WSNMGM"
Boosted parlays with enhanced odds
Impressive range of bets
Get Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets!
21+ | T&Cs apply. *Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Add’l terms.
🔥 Claimed by 43 people this week!
Great payment and customer support
Access to fantasy sports with one account
Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets Instantly
21+ | T&Cs apply
Wide range of betting options
Top notch customer service
Promo Code 'SPORTS'
$500 Bonus Bet
21+ | VA only | Gambling problem? Call 1-800-532-3500
Our process in rating Michigan sports betting sites is grounded in our own thorough analysis. We immerse ourselves in each platform, dedicating a minimum of two hours to explore each of the six aspects below before we begin to write up our review. This approach lets us understand the platforms from a user’s point of view and allows us to include our own experience, as well as the crucial data we found - like bonus terms and conditions, for instance.
For each sportsbook evaluation, our experts focus on these six features:
User Experience: We invest a lot of time in navigating each site's interface, including testing on different devices. This involves assessing the ease of placing bets, the clarity of information, and overall navigation, both on desktop and mobile apps.
Features: We explore the full range of betting options, including the depth of sports markets, live betting interfaces and tools like parlay builders, and mobile app functionality. This detailed analysis can take several hours as we aim to understand the quality of the betting experiences offered.
Promotions: Our team opts into both welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions, dedicating time to understanding the accessibility and appeal of these offers and the ease with which bettors can claim them, plus any terms and conditions to be aware of.
Deposits and Withdrawals: Testing all financial transaction methods is a big part of our review, often spanning a couple of weeks. We focus on transaction speed, ease of process, and any associated fees, providing bettors with a transparent view of financial operations. For each method, we follow the deposit and withdrawal process from start to finish.
Customer Support: We evaluate the effectiveness and availability of support channels, including testing live chat support, sending emails to the support team, and speaking to the sportsbook on the phone, if possible.
Responsible Gambling: We favor sportsbooks that commit to responsible gambling, paying close attention to the presence of tools like deposit limits and self-exclusion features.
Our editorial team also invests five hours monthly in post-publication checks to keep our reviews current and reliable. Each of our reviews is an outcome of research and hands-on testing, often extending over several weeks to ensure our readers are getting nothing but accurate, up-to-date knowledge.
You can count on our reviews because we've been in the sports betting game for a long time. Our team at WSN.com isn't just made up of writers. We're seasoned bettors who've been placing online bets since the early days of the internet. We've seen the evolution of sportsbooks firsthand and have a deep, practical understanding of the industry.
We're not just reporting facts; we're sharing our betting experience with you, from user to user. This approach allows us to uncover details that others might overlook. So, when it comes to sportsbooks, you can trust our reviews to be honest, thorough, and, most importantly, informed by real bettors just like you.
Best for: Mobile app
FanDuel shines in Michigan for its easy-to-use app and solid welcome bonus. If you want a betting platform that's great for both newbies and pros, FanDuel has you covered.
The new player bonus is fantastic. You'll receive $150 in bonus bets when you place a $5 moneyline bet, and if it wins, it's all yours. The winning and the bonus bets.
As a reliable and consistent platform, FanDuel delivers on various fronts, including odds, markets, and diverse bet types. With a strong presence in the US market, FanDuel has become a trusted and secure platform. FanDuel is a great place to start sports betting in Michigan, with such an easy to use app and a nice welcome bonus, it's a perfect start.
Most popular sportsbook in the US
Great mobile app
Refer a Friend bonus
No live support chat
Rewards program could be better
Check out our in-depth FanDuel 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); 4.7/5 (Android)
Best for: Rewards club
Caesars Sportsbook stands out in Michigan for live betting, daily deals, and a deep range of betting markets. If a top-notch betting experience with lots of options is what you’re after, Caesars is a top pick.
The welcome bonus comes with a money-back guarantee of up to $1,000 for your first lost bet. Plus, it's paired with the outstanding Rewards program.
Caesars gives you 1,000 Tier and Reward Credits as part of the welcome offer to kick things off. With Caesar Rewards, you earn redeemable credits regardless of whether you win or lose, which can be used for a variety of prizes. This includes discounted room rates at fifty different destinations across the country. This rewards program is one of the best on the market.
Caesars also has a user-friendly interface and is easy to navigate through the selection of sports offerings. The odds are also some of the most competitive in the country. It's a very consistently engaging platform and its overall quality keeps it as a top choice.
Great loyalty program
$1,000 Second Chance offer upon sign-up
Well-designed website and app
No live support chat available
Ongoing promotions could be improved
Find more details in our in-depth Caesars review
WSN rating: 4.3/10
Sign-up offer: $1,000 Second Chance Bet using Promo Code WSN1000
App rating: 4.6/5 (iOS); 4.3/5 (Android)
Best for: Discounted stays at MGM Resorts
BetMGM is a go-to sportsbook in Michigan for its wide range of betting options, deep selection of sports, and excellent rewards program. If diverse betting is your thing, BetMGM is the spot for precise and varied wagers.
The platform features an attractive welcome bonus, allowing new users to receive up to $150 in Bonus Bets after wagering just $5. Similar to Caesars, BetMGM offers the MGM Rewards program, providing exclusive perks at MGM resorts and events. For anyone looking for a holiday down the line, you can make your bets count on either of these platforms and get in on these rewards.
BetMGM's customer support is excellent, offering 24/7 live chat assistance - which is a big plus. However, it's important to note that the platform currently lacks tracking features for betting history.
$150 Welcome Bonus
One of the best rewards program
They have live chat support
Ongoing promos need to be more prominent
No stats on your betting history
You can read our full BetMGM Review for more details.
WSN rating: 4.4/5
Sign-up offer: Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets
App rating: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.2/5 (Android)
Best for: Low deposit limits
DraftKings is a big name in US sports betting, known for its wide range of bettor-friendly promotions. If you're into extras like NFL parlay boosts and NBA refunds, DraftKings keeps things interesting.
Their welcome offer is great. New users can activate this offer without a promo code, and are eligible or the no-sweat first bet of up to $1,000. The platform also provides a variety of payment options, including credit/debit cards, PayPal, and Venmo, with the convenience of a minimum deposit of just $5.
With its user-friendly interface and highly regarded mobile app, DraftKings makes sports betting accessible and straightforward. The integration of different betting services into one platform ensures a seamless and comprehensive betting experience.
Great $200 Welcome Bonus
Just $5 minimum deposit
Modern mobile app
AI chat support
Platform is cluttered with options other than sports betting
Check out our full DraftKings review for more details
WSN rating: 4.8/5
Sign-up offer: No Sweat First Bet up to $1,000
App rating: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.6/5 (Android)
Best for: Odds
SI Casino, from the Sports Illustrated family, brings a user-friendly online gambling experience to Michigan. If you're after a beginner-friendly platform with an intuitive layout, both on desktop and mobile for iOS and Android, SI Casino is a solid choice.
The casino provides a range of betting options, and we love its 100% Deposit Match up to $100 promotion, which allows new players to start out strong.
While the platform excels in user accessibility and diverse betting choices, it currently lacks live-streaming capabilities, which is something we expect to see developed in the future.
SI Casino supports various payment methods for deposits and withdrawals, ensuring a smooth transaction process. Customer support is comprehensive, with multiple contact options including a detailed FAQ section and most importantly a live chat. Overall, SI Casino is a promising new player in Michigan's online gambling scene, combining the legacy of Sports Illustrated with a modern betting platform.
Beginner friendly
Live chat support
Fantastic odds
The live betting experience could be improved
The BetFeed feels a little gimmicky
Check out our in-depth SI Sportsbook review for more information.
WSN rating: 4/5
Sign-up offer: 100% Deposit Match up to $100
App rating: 4.0/5 (iOS); 4.1/5 (Android)
Best for: PointsBetting
PointsBet stands out in Michigan's sports betting scene with its unique PointsBetting system. If you're looking for a betting experience where payouts shift significantly based on game outcomes, unlike traditional betting, PointsBet offers just that.
The platform is also recognized for its live same-game parlay feature, unique to North America, adding a dynamic layer to live betting. Other features include a well-organized interface for upcoming events and an efficient cash-out option. The mobile app, available for iOS and Android, is also very easy to use.
PointBets is definitely worth checking out. It's a complete platform that may not offer players the same level of bonuses or promotions as some rivals, but it does provide a different experience through its PointsBetting system. This unique style of betting is specific to PointBets and is definitely worth a try for anyone looking for a more diverse style of wager.
Unique PointsBetting system
Live streaming
Great customer support
Lacking ongoing promotions
Not the best bonus options
Check out our in-depth PointBets review for more information.
WSN rating: 4.5/10
Sign-up offer: PointsBet currently doesn't offer any bonuses
App rating: 4.7/5 (iOS); 4.0/5(Android)
Best for: Live betting section
Golden Nugget Michigan offers a combined sports betting and casino experience, all under one account. If you want to combine sports betting and online gaming it’s ideal, although hardcore sports bettors might find the casino ads overwhelming.
The sportsbook covers a wide range of sports, from major leagues to international sports, offering popular bets, including moneylines, point spreads, and totals, along with an extensive selection of prop bets and futures. Golden Nugget Michigan also boasts great promotions, including risk-free bets and parlay boosts. The welcome offer is straightforward but powerful. When you make your first bet, Golden Nugget will match your stakes, giving you up to $250 in bonus bets.
The promotions are regularly updated, but they do come with specific terms and conditions, especially regarding the transfer of bonus funds between the sportsbook and casino sections.
Banking options at Golden Nugget Michigan are varied and convenient for deposits and withdrawals. This combination of a user-friendly platform, wide betting options, and attractive promotions makes the Golden Nugget Sportsbook a top choice for online sports betting and casino gaming in MI.
Great usability on site and app
Amazing live betting section
Casino games will appeal to some bettors
Casino heavy advertisements
Some bonuses are restricted to casino only
Our in-depth Golden Nugget review contains more information.
WSN rating: 4/5
Sign-up offer: Get up to $250 Bonus Bet
App rating: 3.1/5 (iOS); 3.4/5 (Android)
Best for: On-running promos
BetRivers Michigan is known for its approachable sports betting platform, great for beginners on both desktop and mobile. With ongoing promotions and a strong mobile app, it's a welcoming spot for newcomers. If you're into deals like parlay bonuses and insurance and a sign-up offer that covers losses up to $500, BetRivers keeps it interesting and cost-effective.
BetRivers Michigan stands out for its ease of use, making it a top choice for beginners while still offering enough depth to satisfy experienced bettors. The sportsbook's mobile app is quite reliable on IOS. However, there is a lot of room for improvement on Android, as it can be quite buggy and frustrating to use.
The platform's promotions, combined with its user-friendly interface and diverse betting options, make BetRivers Michigan a solid choice for sports bettors in the state.
Beginner-friendly software
Great ongoing promotions
Includes live chat support
Newsfeed takes away from the betting
Android app needs work
You can read our in-depth BetRivers review for a lot more information.
WSN rating: 4.1/5
Sign-up offer: Second Chance Bet up to $500 Bonus Bet
App rating: 4.4/5 (iOS); 3.5/5 (Android)
Check out the full list of sportsbooks in Michigan below:
Caesars Sportsbook
FanDuel Sportsbook
DraftKings Sportsbook
BetRivers
BetMGM
WynnBET
SI Sportsbook
ESPN BET
PointsBet
betPARX
Golden Nugget
Eagle Casino & Sports
FireKeepers Sportsbook
Four Winds
Online Sportsbook | Retail Partner | Mobile App | Online Casino | Launch Date |
---|---|---|---|---|
FanDuel | MotorCity Casino Hotel | ✓ | ✓ | January 22, 2021 |
Caesars Sportsbook | Turtle Creek Casino and Hotel | ✓ | ✓ | January 22, 2021 |
BetMGM | MGM Grand Detroit | ✓ | ✓ | January 22, 2021 |
DraftKings | Kings Club Casino | ✓ | ✓ | January 22, 2021 |
SI Sportsbook | Island Resort & Casino | ✓ | x | September 7, 2022 |
PointBets | Northern Waters Casino Resort | ✓ | ✓ | January 22, 2021 |
Golden Nugget | Ojibwa Casino - Marquette | ✓ | ✓ | January 22, 2021 |
BetRivers | Little River Casino and Resort | ✓ | ✓ | January 22, 2021 |
WynnBET | Kewadin Casinos | ✓ | ✓ | January 22, 2021 |
ESPN BET | - | ✓ | x | Nov. 14, 2023 |
betParx | Gun Lake Casino | ✓ | ✓ | Prelaunch |
Eagle Casino & Sports | Soaring Eagle Casino | ✓ | ✓ | April 18, 2022 |
FireKeepers Sportsbook | FireKeepers Casino | ✓ | ✓ | July 12, 2021 |
Four Winds | Four Winds Casino | ✓ | ✓ | Feb. 15, 2021 |
Sportsbook | Retail Partner | Address | Phone Number | Launch Date |
---|---|---|---|---|
FanDuel | MotorCity Casino Hotel | 2901 Grand River Ave, Detroit, MI 48201, United States | +1 866-782-9622 | March 12, 2020 |
Caesars Sportsbook | Turtle Creek Casino and Hotel Leelanau Sands Casino | 7741 M-72 East, Williamsburg, MI 49690800.922.2WIN 2521 NW Bayshore Drive, Peshawbestown, MI 49682 | +1 800-922-2946 +1 800-922-2946 | Sept. 18, 2020 |
BetMGM | MGM Grand Detroit | MGM Grand Detroit, 1777 3rd Ave, Detroit, MI 48226, United States | +1 877-888-2121 | March 11, 2020 |
DraftKings | Kings Club Casino | 12140 West Lakeshore Drive Brimley, Michigan 49715 | +1 888-422-9645 | TBD |
SI Casino | Island Resort & Casino | W 399 US-2, Harris, MI 49845, United States | +1 800-682-6040 | Sept. 10, 2020 |
PointBets | Northern Waters Casino Resort Little Caesars Arena | N5384 US-45, Watersmeet, MI 49969, United States 2645 Woodward Ave, Detroit, MI 48201 | +1 906-358-4226 +1 313-471-7000 | Dec. 7, 2021 |
Golden Nugget | Ojibwa Casino - Marquette | 105 Acre Trail, Marquette, MI 49855, United States | +1 906-249-4200 | TBD |
BetRivers | Little River Casino and Resort | 2700 Orchard Hwy, Manistee, MI 49660, United States | +1 888-568-2244 | July 17, 2020 |
131 Sportsbook & Lounge | Gun Lake Casino | 1123 129th Ave, Wayland, MI 49348 | +1 269-792-7777 | August 2020 |
Ascend Sportsbook | Soaring Eagle Casino | 6800 E, 6800 Soaring Eagle Blvd, Mt Pleasant, MI 48858 | +1 989-775-5777 | April 4, 2022 |
Barstool Sportsbook | Greektown Casino | 555 E Lafayette St, Detroit, MI 48226 | +1 313-223-2999 | March 11, 2020 |
River Rock Sportsbook & Grill | Little River Casino | 2700 Orchard Hwy, Manistee, MI 49660 | +1 866-466-7338 | July 17, 2020 |
Dacey's Sportsbook | FireKeepers Casino | 11177 East Michigan Ave, Battle Creek, MI 49014 | +1 877-352-8777 | June 1, 2020 |
Stage 131 Sportsbook & Lounge | Gun Lake Casino | 1123 129th Ave, Wayland, MI 49348 | +1 269-792-7777 | Oct. 3, 2020 |
Yes, sports betting is legal in Michigan. The state took a significant step towards legalizing sports wagering when Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed House Bill 4916 on Dec. 20, 2019. This legislation paved the way for both retail and online sports betting within the state. Michigan saw its first retail sportsbook opening, the FanDuel Sportsbook, at MotorCity Casino in March 2020. The expansion continued with the launch of online sports betting platforms on Jan. 22, 2021.
Getting started with sports betting in Michigan is a straightforward process, thanks to the state's legalization and support of both online and retail sports wagering. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you begin your betting journey in Michigan:
Choose a sportsbook: Start by exploring the various legal sportsbooks available in Michigan. Our sportsbook reviews can guide you in selecting the one that best suits your preferences. Consider factors like the range of betting options, promotional offers, customer support quality, and the efficiency of financial transactions.
Online registration: Registering for an online sportsbook in Michigan is quick and easy. Just enter your personal details on the sportsbook's website or app. The entire process should only take a few minutes.
Claim your bonus: Michigan sportsbooks all offer promotional bonuses for new users. During registration, you might need to enter a promo code to access these offers or opt in in some other way. If you sign up via our links, we can help you with this.
Deposit funds: To start betting, you’ll need to deposit funds into your account. After registering, you’ll be directed to the sportsbook’s banking section. Choose a deposit method that works best for you from the available options.
Select your bet: Familiarize yourself with the popular betting types in Michigan, such as point spreads, moneyline bets, Over/Under (totals), props, and futures. Take advantage of live betting options offered by many Michigan sportsbooks, leveraging real-time data for better time wagering.
Start betting: Click on your chosen bet to add it to the digital bet slip. Type in your stake, and click the Confirm button to lock in your bet.
Withdraw winnings: If your bets are successful, withdrawing your winnings will follow a similar process to depositing. Processing and withdrawal times vary between sportsbooks, so be aware of each platform's specific policies and procedures.
By following these steps, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable sports betting experience in Michigan.
Here's an overview of the most common types of welcome offers you'll find in Michigan:
Sportsbook | Sign Up Offer | Promo Code |
---|---|---|
FanDuel | Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets | Click to claim |
Caesars Sportsbook | $1,000 Second Chance Bet | Click to claim and use promo code WSN1000 |
BetMGM | Bet $5, Get $150 | Click to claim |
DraftKings | No Sweat First Bet up to $1,000 | Click to claim |
SI Casino | 100% Deposit Match up to $100 | Click to claim |
Golden Nugget | Get up to a $250 Bonus Bet | Click to claim |
BetRivers | Second Chance Bet up to $500 Bonus Bet | Click to claim |
Bonus bets are a little like betting vouchers. In this type of offer, you place an initial bet and receive bonus bets to use on the platform. With bonus bets, you typically receive the winnings but not the stakes.
Caesars Sportsbook provides a "Second Chance Bet" up to $1,000. If your first bet is unsuccessful, they refund it up to the specified limit in the form of bonus bets or site credit. It’s essentially a risk-free start to your betting journey.
SI Casino Offers a "100% Deposit Match up to $100". This bonus doubles your initial deposit, enhancing your betting potential right from the start. Deposit match bonuses are usually credited as bonus bets or site credit, which you need to use for placing wagers before withdrawal.
No deposit bonuses provide new bettors with a small amount of site credit or a bonus bet simply for signing up, with no requirement to spend any personal funds. Normally, you’ll get a small bonus bet worth around $10 or $20.
Michigan's sports betting scene has a variety of mobile sportsbook apps. Betting on mobile is a huge part of online sports betting in MI, especially live betting. Here’s a list of our favorites with official ratings:
FanDuel: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.7/5 (Android)
DraftKings: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.6/5 (Android)
BetMGM: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.2/5 (Android)
PointsBet: 4.7/5 (iOS); 4.0/5 (Android)
Caesars Sportsbook: 4.6/5 (iOS); 4.3/5 (Android)
SI Sportsbook: 4.0/5 (iOS); 4.1/5 (Android)
Golden Nugget: 3.1/5 (iOS); 3.4/5 (Android)
BetRivers: 4.4/5 (iOS); 3.5/5 (Android)
ESPN Bet - 4.9/5 (iOS); 4.5/5 (Android)
Michigan has an excellent and varied selection of betting markets available. Check out our guide below.
A moneyline bet is a straightforward wager on which team or player will win a game. The odds assigned to each side dictate the payout. The favorite is represented with negative odds, indicating a higher likelihood of winning, while the underdog has positive odds, reflecting a lower chance of victory but offering a larger payout for a successful bet.
Here’s an example:
Detroit Pistons (+150)
Chicago Bulls (-170)
In this case, the Bull’s odds of -170 means you would need to place a wager of $170 in order to win $100, for a total payout of $270. The Pistons are the underdogs, and a $100 bet on them would win $150 for a total payout of $250.
This bet focuses on the margin of victory. A point spread is established to even out the perceived strength difference between the two teams. You place your bet on whether the favorite will win by more than the spread or if the underdog will lose by a smaller margin (or even win outright).
Here’s an example:
Detroit Lions +4.5 (-110)
Green Bay Packers -4.5 (-110)
To win a bet on the Lions, they just need to avoid losing by 5 points or more - anything else is a win for your bet. To win a bet on the Packers, they need to not only beat the Lions, but do so by at least 5 points.
Totals betting, also known as over/under, is a wager on the combined score of both teams in a game. The sportsbook sets a number, and bettors decide whether the total points will be over or under that number. It's a popular bet for those who prefer to focus on the overall flow of the game rather than the outcome of the match.
Here’s an example of how it might look:
Michigan Wolverines vs. Ohio State Buckeyes
Over 50.5 (-110)
Under 50.5 (-110)
Prop bets are wagers on specific events or occurrences within a game that may not directly affect the final outcome. These can be team-based or individual player performances and allowing bettors to focus on particular aspects of the game. Statistical performances like rushing yards, layups, and yellow cards are all popular prop markets.
Here’s an example:
Miguel Cabrera Total Hits: Over 1.5 (-120), Under 1.5 (+100)
A parlay is a multi-bet, where several individual wagers are combined into one. For a parlay to win, all the individual bets within it must be successful. This type of bet is attractive for its potential for high payouts, but it also carries a higher risk since the failure of any single bet results in the loss of the entire parlay.
Futures bets are wagers placed on events way down the line in the future, such as championship winners or end-of-season awards. These bets often involve longer odds and can provide excitement throughout a season or tournament.
An example would be betting on the Detroit Red Wings to win the Stanley Cup.
Live betting, or in-play betting, allows bettors to place wagers on games already in progress. The odds fluctuate in real time based on the current score and game events. Live betting adds an element of excitement and requires quick decision-making, as the odds can change rapidly.
Some platforms in Michigan offer different styles of betting specific to the sportsbook. An example of this is PointsBetting, offered exclusively by PointsBet. It's a high-risk, high-reward format where your winnings or losses aren't fixed but vary based on the accuracy of your bet in relation to the game's outcome.
For example, if you bet $10 on the Detroit Lions at -7 (-110) against the Chicago Bears at +7 (-110), your payout depends on how much the Lions exceed or fall short of this spread. If the Lions outdo the spread by 10 points, you win 10 times your bet ($100). Falling short by 3 points means losing 3 times your stake ($30).
Here’s a quick list of what you can’t bet on in Michigan:
High School Sports: Betting on high school sports is prohibited in Michigan.
Politics: No betting is allowed on political events, including U.S. presidential elections.
Esports: Esports betting is not authorized in Michigan, except at the Little River Casino Resort.
In Michigan, betting on college sports is fully permitted, enabling residents to wager on games from local universities, including the University of Michigan and Michigan State. This legal allowance covers a range of collegiate sports, from football to basketball.
Michigan Sports Betting Quick Facts | |
---|---|
Online launch date | March 11th 2020 |
Legal betting age | 21 |
Retail tax rate | 8.4% |
Online tax rate | 8.4% |
Retail sportsbooks | 15 |
Online sportsbooks | 14 |
Betting on College Sports | ✔️ |
Online casino | ✔️ |
Online poker | ✔️ |
In terms of both tax rates and betting handle, Michigan compares quite well to most states. Michigan's sports betting landscape has rapidly evolved since its launch in March 2020. Comprising both retail and online betting, the state boasts over 15 retail sportsbooks and betting kiosks and 14 legal online apps. New Jersey, the second largest sports betting market by handle in the US, has just a couple more, with 16 online books.
Michigan has set an 8.4% tax rate on sports betting revenue, which is lower than many other states, including Michigan’s neighbor Indiana at 9.5% and New Jersey at 13%.
Uniquely, Michigan allows betting on college sports, which includes local programs and adds more depth to the betting options available. Michigan’s total sports betting handle was $4.81 billion in 2022, just ahead of Indiana at $4.47 billion. However, the Michigan Gaming Control Board has recently updated its rules to limit fantasy sports betting. Specifically, it prohibits proposition selection or fantasy contests that have the effect of mimicking proposition selection.
Here's a look at the key milestones in the state's sports betting history:
Feb. 13, 2024 - Michigan unveils the new primary problem gambling hotline 1-800-GAMBLER.
Feb. 8, 2024 - Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer earmarks $4 million for Compulsive Gambling Prevention Fund and more to target illegal offshore sportsbooks.
Jan. 20, 2024 - PredictionStrike, Stake.us, and VGW ordered to cease operating illegally in Michigan due to violations of the Lawful Gaming Act, the Lawful Sports Betting Act, the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, and the Michigan Penal Code.
Jan. 19, 2024 - Michigan records $600 million sports betting handle in December, the third straight record breaking month for the state.
Jan. 9, 2023 - Michigan Wolverines defeated the No. 2 Washington 34-13, winning the College Football National Championship.
Dec. 28, 2023 - MI sports betting handle reached a record high of $584 million in November. However, the state collected only $1,180,415 in taxes, the third-lowest monthly total of the year.
Dec. 4, 2023 - Workers at Detroit’s MGM Grand ended a 47-day strike by ratifying a new contract.
Nov. 17, 2023 - PrizePicks daily fantasy app is available again in Michigan.
Nov. 14, 2023: ESPN Bet launched in Michigan.
Oct. 25, 2023: Michigan sees a massive increase in its September sports betting handle, jumping to $457.7 million from August’s $228.4 million.
Sept. 4, 2023: Daily fantasy sports operators face scrutiny as Michigan legislators review rules prohibiting sports betting-like contests.
Aug. 31, 2023: FOX Bet ceases its operations in Michigan, advising customers to transfer their balances to PokerStars for continued play.
June 22, 2023: Although Michigan’s retail betting market sees an uptick in May, the overall betting handle drops nearly 10% compared to the previous year.
April 7, 2023: Controversy arises over a sports betting partnership between Caesars Sportsbook and Michigan State University, highlighting the evolving dynamics of sports betting in the state.
Dec. 5, 2022: Expansion of Michigan's sports betting market with new entrants like Eagle Casino & Sports and SI Sportsbook, contributing to a total betting handle of over $4.8 billion by year's end.
Aug. 16, 2022: SI Sportsbook commences online operations in Michigan.
June 23, 2022: BetMGM launches its private live dealer studio in Michigan.
May 23, 2022: Michigan joins the multistate poker compact, allowing online poker with players in Delaware, Nevada, and New Jersey.
April 14, 2022: Eagle Casino & Sports becomes Michigan's 15th online sports betting platform.
Jan. 22 2021: Official launch of online sports betting in Michigan, with major operators like DraftKings and FanDuel entering the market.
March 12, 2020: The first legal sports bets are placed in Michigan's retail casinos, Greektown Casino-Hotel and MGM Grand Detroit.
Dec. 20, 2019: Governor Gretchen Whitmer signs HB 4916, legalizing sports betting and daily fantasy sports contests in Michigan, setting the stage for both retail and online sports betting.
May 14, 2018: The US Supreme Court overturns PASPA, enabling states like Michigan to consider legalizing sports betting.
March 11, 2018: Legislative developments concerning online gaming, impacting future sports betting discussions.
Nov. 5, 1996: Passage of the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act, allowing three Detroit casinos, marking a significant step in Michigan's gambling landscape.
June 28, 1993: Legalization of pari-mutuel betting in Michigan, expanding the state's gambling options.
Nov. 13, 1972: Establishment of the Michigan state lottery, initiating the state's journey into regulated gambling.
In Michigan, daily fantasy sports (DFS) are legal and well-regulated. Fans aged 18 and older can participate in DFS contests across the state.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board oversees the regulation of fantasy sports, ensuring a safe environment for players. All DFS operators in Michigan are required to obtain licenses from the board, adding to the legitimacy of fantasy sports activities within the state.
Michigan is a hub for professional sports, featuring teams in major leagues such as the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL. Let's explore some of Michigan's most prominent teams attracting action at MI sportsbooks:
Detroit Lions (NFL): The Lions, though yet to secure a Super Bowl victory, hold a special place in the hearts of Michigan's NFL fans. Their notable achievements include four NFL Championship wins pre-Super Bowl era, the last being in 1957.
Detroit Pistons (NBA): In the NBA, the Pistons have a storied history, including three NBA Championship wins. Infamous for their tenacity and strong team play, especially during the late 1980s and early 2000s, the Pistons continue to be a significant name in NBA circles.
Detroit Tigers (MLB): The Tigers, representing Michigan in Major League Baseball, have won the World Series four times. With a history dating back to 1901, they are one of the American League's eight charter franchises.
Detroit Red Wings (NHL): In the NHL, the Red Wings stand out with a remarkable 11 Stanley Cup victories. They are one of the Original Six teams of the league and have a rich history of success and influential players.
All of Michigan’s major league teams have signed partnerships with sports betting brands.
The Detroit Pistons finalized their partnership with both FanDuel and DraftKings in late 2020. This deal marked a first in the industry, as the Pistons became the first professional team to have sponsorship agreements with two major sports betting companies.
The Detroit Lions have sponsorship agreements with both BetMGM and WynnBET, while the Detroit Tigers and the Red Wings are official gaming partners of FanDuel through an agreement that includes Motor City Casino.
Michigan places a strong emphasis on responsible gambling, offering several resources to assist residents in managing their gambling activities. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has a dedicated section for this purpose. Here's a brief overview of the key resources available in Michigan:
Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline: This toll-free, confidential helpline is available 24/7 for Michigan residents seeking immediate help with gambling issues. The helpline number is 1-800-270-7117, staffed with trained counselors who provide discreet and professional assistance.
Gamblers Anonymous: A renowned support network, Gamblers Anonymous facilitates regular meetings in various locations across Michigan. These meetings serve as a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and receive mutual support for gambling-related challenges.
Michigan Department of Health and Human Services ‘Get Help’ Page: This online resource offers comprehensive information and tools for those struggling with problem gambling. It includes links to various support services and educational materials to help individuals understand and address gambling problems.
Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program: Michigan provides a self-exclusion option for residents who wish to take a controlled break from gambling. This program allows individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from gambling activities for a set period, offering a practical step towards recovery.
For more details on these resources and other related programs, visit the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services website.
Tiernan is a keen sports fan and loves nothing more than betting on the latest soccer games and exploring the world of US sports.
More info on Tiernan Allen
© Rebel Penguin ApS 2024 (a subsidiary of Gaming Innovation Group Inc.)
We support responsible gambling. 21+ Only. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-Gambler.
WSN.com is run by iGaming Cloud Inc (a Gaming Innovation Group Subsidiary) and is registered with the New Jersey
Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) under affiliate vendor ID
89744,
with the Indiana Gaming Commission (IGC) under certificate of registration number SWR-000148, approved by
the
Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board as a gaming service provider, under certificate registration number
117656-1,
possesses a Vendor Minor sports betting license from the Colorado Limited Gaming Control Commission (account
number 94414163), granted a vendor registration number VR007603-20-001 by the Michigan Gaming Control Board,
an
interim Sports Wagering Supplier license, under license number SWS 066, issued by the West Virginia Lottery
Commission, a sports betting vendor registration, under registration number #100400, issued by the Director
of
Gaming Licensing and Investigations of the Virginia Lottery to operate in the State of Virginia, and a
Vendor
Registration issued by the Sports Wagering Committee of the Tennessee Education Lottery Corporation.
Advertising disclosure: WSN contains links to online retailers on its website. When people click on our
affiliate links and make purchases, WSN earns a commission from our partners, including ESPN and various
sportsbooks.