Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Missouri?

Despite the current legal stance against it, Missouri is actively exploring the potential of sports betting, with an initiative petition campaign underway aimed at placing the legalization question before voters in 2024. This leaves the question of legalization in the hands of the Missourians, but we can expect to wait until at least 2025 before we see any implemented change in legislation.

Best Social Sportsbooks in Missouri

Have a look at sweepstakes-style sportsbooks available in Missouri. Our team here at WSN has curated a selection of social sportsbooks listed below. If you'd like to learn more on the subject, feel free to find more information through our detailed reviews of Fliff Social Sportsbook and Sportzino.

Missouri Sports Betting Overview

What Is The Current Sports Betting Landscape In Missouri

Despite significant progress, sports betting in Missouri is not legal. The journey toward legalizing sports betting has been a slow and winding road, dotted with legislative efforts that, so far, haven't reached their destination.

The most recent attempt in 2023 saw House Bill 556 cruise through the House but then hit a speed bump in the Senate, where time ran out for discussion. This bill had the potential to significantly change the game in Missouri, proposing a partnership model that would allow both casinos and professional sports teams to offer online sports betting.

Looking ahead to 2024, optimism hasn't faded, with two new bills, Senate Bill 824 and Senate Bill 852, already filed and waiting in the wings. SB 824 is leaning towards a digital future, offering online sports betting only and a 10% tax on gross gambling revenue, but also including the possibility of video lottery terminals for in-person gambling. On the other hand, SB 852 is aiming for a broader horizon, embracing both the online the traditional retail wagering on excursion gambling boats, along with a 12% tax on gross gaming revenue.

However, the path to legalization is strewn with obstacles. Time constraints within legislative sessions and debates over the nitty-gritty details, like how much tax should be levied and how casinos and sports teams should be involved, have repeatedly stalled progress. Despite these challenges, the continued push for new legislation signals a strong desire within Missouri to join the ranks of states that have opted to legalize sports betting.

When Is Sports Betting Expected To Launch in Missouri?

The most promising avenue for sports betting fans might be a direct appeal to the voters in 2024. Plans are in motion to introduce an initiative on the November ballot, giving Missourians the power to push sports betting across the finish line themselves. If this initiative finds success, we could see Missouri gearing up for a sports betting launch in 2025 at the earliest. 

Missouri Sports Gambling Updates

The journey towards legalizing sports betting in Missouri has been marked by various legislative efforts and public campaigns. 

Here's a chronological timeline detailing the progress from recent developments back to initial proposals:

• Feb. 28, 2024: Momentum builds as the pro-team-led sports betting initiative secures 100,000 of the required 180,000 signatures for November's ballot.

• Feb. 14, 2024: Over 431,000 attempts to access legal sportsbooks are blocked in Missouri during Super Bowl 58, highlighting the absence of a legal betting market.

• Feb. 12, 2024: House Bill 2331, aiming to authorize event wagering at state casinos and via betting apps, passes another Missouri House Committee.

• Feb. 2, 2024: HB 2331 receives approval from the Missouri House of Representatives Special Committee on Public Policy.

• Jan. 26, 2024: Missouri's professional sports teams consider dropping the betting ballot bid if legislative bills pass, signaling a potential shift in strategy.

• Jan. 15, 2024: FanDuel and DraftKings each contribute $250,000 to support a petition drive for legal sports betting in Missouri.

• Jan. 4, 2024: Lawmakers file SB 852 and SB 824, both advocating for legal Missouri online sports betting.

• Nov. 22, 2023: A coalition of Missouri's professional sports teams initiates a campaign for a ballot vote to legalize sports betting.

• Sept. 9, 2023: The Missouri Secretary of State receives four petitions aiming to legalize both retail and online sports betting.

• May 15, 2023: The legislative session ends without the Senate discussing HB 556, delaying sports betting legislation.

What Sportsbooks Are Expected To Launch in Missouri?

1. FanDuel Sportsbook

Best for: Top-tier Mobile App 

Having used all the major US sportsbooks over the years, I've found FanDuel to stand out, particularly because of its mobile app. If seamless mobile navigation and an intuitive betting experience are what you're after, FanDuel effortlessly meets those needs. 

I’m a big fan of FanDuel's diverse range of promotions, which has significantly enhanced the value of my betting. Whether it's the seasonal offers or the bonuses tied to significant sports events, there's always something that adds value.

One area that FanDuel does lag behind a little is the loyalty program, which is just not at the same level of the those at the likes of BetMGM and Caesars

Despite this area needing some polish, my recommendation for FanDuel remains strong. Its user-friendly interface and mobile app, coupled with a wide array of betting options and promotional offers, places it at the top of the list of US sportsbooks. 

Find more information here in our FanDuel review.

• 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)

Pros

• Great ongoing promotions

• Most popular sportsbook in the US 

• Best mobile app

Cons

• Loyalty program needs work

• No phone support 

2. DraftKings Sportsbook

Best for: Intuitive Platform

From exploring various betting platforms, DraftKings has notably stood out for its intuitive interface. If you're aiming for a sportsbook that melds straightforward navigation with a rich and diverse betting experience, DraftKings is a clear frontrunner. 

From my initial use, the platform felt tailored for efficiency amid a wide range of features and options, making it a solid choice for anyone venturing into sports betting but also DFS, betting guides and articles, and in-play betting.

One major draw of DraftKings is its low minimum deposit of just $5, which lowers the barrier for new bettors to get started. This simple feature makes it really beginner friendly, allowing new bettors to dip their toes in the water without a lot of financial risk. 

The absence of live streaming has been a slight letdown, limiting the dynamism of live betting a little. It’s an area that DraftKings could look to improve.

Visit our DraftKings review for more info. 

• WSN rating: 4.8/5

• Sign up offer: Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets Instantly

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

Pros

• Low deposit limit of $5

• Mobile betting is great

• Comprehensive platform

Cons

• Live streaming isn’t available

• AI live chat support

3. BetMGM

Best for: Rewards Program

BetMGM has become one of the best sportsbooks in the US, especially for its expansive betting selections and loyalty program. If you’re looking for the best rewards, including in-person benefits at luxury casinos, BetMGM is a great choice. 

I love the MGM Rewards loyalty program, which ranks as one of the best I've encountered. The real-life rewards extend beyond the digital realm, offering tangible benefits at MGM resorts around the country, from free meal vouchers to hotel discounts. Every time you spend money on any BetMGM product or service, online or offline, counts towards your rewards. This aspect, combined with the extremely comprehensive betting options, makes BetMGM not just a betting site but a rewarding experience.

Overall, I love BetMGM for its combination of very detailed betting options and excellent real life rewards.

Take a look at our BetMGM review 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)

Pros:

• Fantastic selection of betting markets

• One of the best loyalty programs

• Real life rewards 

Cons:

• Ongoing promotions are lacking

• No betting history analytics

4. BetRivers

Best for: Beginner Friendly

For me, BetRivers’ user-friendliness immediately stands out. If you're navigating the betting world for the first time, BetRivers offers a smooth introduction, making it my platform of choice for ease of use.

BetRivers isn’t trying to reinvent the wheel with its software. Instead, it just presents its good range of betting options in a simple and easy to understand way. Signing up and placing bets is very intuitive, for players of all skill levels.

Another thing that really stands out to me about BetRivers is their ongoing promotions. The regular stream of odds boosts and deals make betting more fun and can lead to bigger wins, which has kept me coming back to see what they have next. It's a great way to make the most out of every bet.

On the downside, their Android app doesn't work as well as it does on iPhones. It can be slow and not as easy to use, which is frustrating when I'm trying to place bets quickly, especially during live games. It's something I hope BetRivers can fix because it does affect the overall betting experience on mobile for Android users. BetRivers has proven to be a reliable choice for getting started in sports betting, easy to use, with great customer support and beginner-friendly features.

Check out our in depth BetRivers Review here. 

• WSN rating: 4.1/5

• Sign up offer: $100 Bonus Bet

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

Pros:

• Frequent promotions

• 24 hour live customer support

• Great for beginners

Cons:

• Android app isn’t the best

• Not the deepest betting markets

5.Caesars Sportsbook

Best for: Real Life Benefits

Similar to BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook instantly grabbed my attention for its loyalty program. If a comprehensive sportsbook that rewards frequent play is what you're after, Caesars is my joint-top choice.

What I appreciate most about the Caesars loyalty program is that it offers not just betting benefits but also perks that extend into real-world rewards. This system encourages not only continued betting online, but also loyalty to the Caesars brand. Every time you spend money in a Caesars hotel or resort, you earn reward points, which can be cashed in for online betting offers. The same is true the other way around: the points you earn online can be used for discounts at in-person resorts.

I’m a fan of the design of the platform too, which makes it nice and easy to locate and place a wide range of different bets. 

Here is our detailed Caesars Sportsbook review for more information.

• WSN rating: 4.3/5

• Sign up offer: $1,000 First Bet on Caesars

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

Pros:

• Lots of sports and bet types

• Excellent loyalty program 

• Really sleek design 

Cons:

• Ongoing promotions need to be more regular

• AI live chat

Nearby Betting States

Missourians eager for sports betting have convenient options nearby, thanks to legal frameworks in neighboring states. Of the eight states bordering Missouri, seven—Kansas, Iowa, Illinois, Kentucky, Tennessee, Arkansas, and Nebraska—have legalized sports betting. Oklahoma stands out as the sole neighbor, maintaining a stance similar to Missouri's, where sports betting has yet to be legalized.

Missourians eager to wager on sports will need to venture to neighboring states. In 2024, Kansas and Illinois will be the prime destinations, boasting six and seven online sportsbooks, respectively, offering a great selection for Missouri residents seeking varied betting experiences across state lines.

What Sports Will You Be Able To Bet On in Missouri?

If sports betting does eventually get through the courts, Missourians will have plenty to bet on: 

NFL

The Kansas City Chiefs, a team rich in history and success, have clinched the Super Bowl title on four notable occasions. Their victories span across decades, starting with Super Bowl IV in 1969, followed by a triumphant win in Super Bowl LIV in 2020. The team continued their dominance by securing the Super Bowl LVII title in 2023 and added another feather to their cap with Super Bowl LVIII in 2024. It’s Patrick Mahomes' world right now in the NFL, and we’re all living in it. 

Notably, the Chiefs were also part of the first-ever Super Bowl in 1966, showcasing their longstanding status in the league. This illustrious history, marked by recent achievements under the leadership of Mahomes, positions the Chiefs as a premier team for sports betting fans in Missouri. Mahomes' era has been particularly remarkable, featuring six consecutive AFC Championship Game appearances and four Super Bowl appearances, resulting in three Super Bowl victories. 

When legal sports betting makes it to Missouri, you can be certain that local sportsbooks will dream up all kinds of promos and offers for the Chiefs and Mahomes. Read more about NFL promotions here. 

NBA

Although Missouri lacks an NBA team, the state's fans engage deeply with the sport, being close to iconic teams like the Chicago Bulls and the Oklahoma City Thunders. The league's extensive schedule, star-studded teams, and dynamic playoff series ensure that basketball fans have ample occasions for wagering, from regular-season games to the finals. US sportsbooks routinely come up with NBA promotions, especially when the Playoffs roll around. Check out the latest NBA promotions information here. 

MLB

The St. Louis Cardinals, one of MLB's most storied franchises, continue to be a focal point for baseball enthusiasts in Missouri. With a lineup featuring notable players like Paul Goldschmidt, who won the MVP award in 2022, and Nolan Arenado, known for hitting for the cycle in 2022, the Cardinals continue to be a major player in the sport. The team's rich history, including multiple World Series titles and individual accolades, makes them a perennial favorite for MLB betting. Find more information on MLB promos here. 

NHL

The NHL offers thrilling opportunities for sports betting, with the St. Louis Blues being Missouri's beacon in the league. Their Stanley Cup victory in 2019 invigorated the state's hockey fans, showcasing the Blues' capability to compete at the highest levels. Betting on the Blues, especially during critical matches and the playoffs, provides fans with engaging wagering options. The Stanley cup is one of the most bet-on events in US sports, and always creates a range of interesting promos at US sportsbooks. See more on the latest NHL promos. 

UFC

Missouri has made significant contributions to the UFC, with fighters like "Iron" Michael Chandler and Tyron "The Chosen One" Woodley hailing from the state. Chandler, with a record of 23-8-0, has proved his prowess with multiple TKO victories from 2019 to 2022. Woodley, holding a record of 19-7-1, has also demonstrated exceptional skills, with his recent fights involving a mix of submissions (SUB) and decisions (DEC), underscoring the state's influence in the UFC. 

The popularity of betting on UFC fights has exploded in recent years, with the ability to analyze fighters' styles, histories, and matchups adding an exciting dimension to viewing mixed martial arts events. Find out more about how to bet on UFC. 

What Wager Types Will Be Available in Missouri?

Moneyline Bets

A bet on the moneyline is a straightforward wager on which team or player will win a specific game or event. Each side is given odds that determine the payout for the bet, reflecting their likelihood of winning.

Here’s a quick example:

• Kansas City Chiefs -150

• Denver Broncos +130

To understand moneyline odds, I also like to think in terms of $100 increments. In this example the Chiefs are the favorites, and betting $150 on them would win you $100 for a total payout of $250. Betting $100 on the Broncos, the underdogs, would win $130, resulting in a $230 payout.

Point Spreads

Point spread betting involves betting on the margin of victory in a game. The favorite must win by more than the set number of points, while the underdog must lose by fewer than that number or win outright.

Here’s an example:

• St. Louis Cardinals -1.5 (-110)

• Chicago Cubs +1.5 (-110)

Here, the Cardinals need to win by 2 or more runs for a bet on them to pay out, while the Cubs can lose by 1 run or win the game for a bet on them to succeed. The idea behind point spread betting is to make up for the difference in quality between the teams, creating a more even bet. For that reason, the odds are generally around -110 for both sides. 

Totals (Over/Under)

Totals betting, or an over/under bet, is a wager on the combined score of both teams in a game. The winners and losers are irrelevant. The sportsbook sets a line of points and you simple bet on whether the total will be over or under that number.

Here is how it may look:

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos

• Over 48.5 (-110)

• Under (48.5)

Betting "over" means you believe the combined score will be 49 or higher. Betting "under" means you think it will be 48 or less.

Again, the odds are around -110 for both sides, although that can change depending on the betting action. 

Futures

Futures bets are wagers placed on events that will happen in the future, like which team will win the championship at the end of the season.

Here’s an example:

• Missouri Tigers to win the NCAA Football National Championship: +8000

A successful $100 bet would return $8,100, reflecting the long odds. Futures can be placed at any point throughout the season, but people often like to place them at the beginning of the championship. The odds tend to be pretty attractive, especially when you bet early, since a lot of things need to go your way over a longer period of time to win a futures bet. 

Prop Bets

Proposition bets, or prop bets, are wagers on specific occurrences within a game that don't directly relate to the final outcome. Usually, this involves either a player or the team’s performance in certain statistical categories, like layups in the NBA or rushing yards in the NFL. The format tends to mirror over/under bets.

For example:

Kansas City Chiefs vs. Denver Broncos

• Patrick Mahomes to throw over 2.5 touchdowns (-140)

• Patrick Mahomes to throw under 2.5 touchdowns (+120)

You can bet on Mahomes throwing 3 touchdowns (over) or fewer (under). 

Parlays

A parlay combines multiple bets into one, requiring all individual bets to win for the parlay to pay out, offering higher rewards but increased risk.

Betting on the Kansas City Chiefs to win, the St. Louis Blues to win, and the total in the Cardinals game to go could form a parlay. The odds on each of those three bets would be multiplied together, for a very juicy payout if successful. The more legs you add to a parlay, the better the odds. 

Teasers

Teasers are a type of parlay that allows you to adjust point spreads in your favor, reducing risk but also diminishing potential payouts.

A teaser might allow you to add 2 points to the spread in two games, making it easier for each side you bet on to cover the spread.

Live Betting

Live betting involves placing bets on games already in progress, with odds that change in real time based on the action.

For example, you could bet on the Missouri Tigers to make a comeback win when they're down at halftime, with attractive odds reflecting the live situation. Many US sportsbooks even stream live sports right on their platform, making it easier to bet live. 

Expected Betting Restrictions in Missouri?

As Missouri looks forward to embracing sports betting, it's important to understand that not every market will be open for wagering. Certain areas are likely to be restricted, ensuring that betting practices adhere to legal and ethical standards. 

Here's a brief overview of potential restrictions:

• Politics: Betting on political events, including election outcomes, is typically off-limits. This helps maintain the separation between political processes and gambling activities.

• Esports: While rapidly growing in popularity, esports betting may face specific regulations or outright restrictions, especially concerning events involving minors. This is kind of a gray area and an evolving situation at US sportsbooks, with different states adopting different rules. 

• Entertainment: Markets related to the entertainment industry, such as award show results (e.g., Oscars, Grammys), might not be available for betting. This restriction aims to prevent any potential conflicts of interest and maintains the focus on sports.

• High School Sports: To protect young athletes and ensure the integrity of amateur sports, betting on high school sporting events will likely be prohibited.

• College Sports: This is another area that varies a lot state by state. Sometimes betting on NCAA is banned outright, sometimes you can’t bet on in-state teams or events only, and sometimes you can’t bet on player props or other specific bets. It remains to be seen how Missouri will approach college betting. 

Is Daily Fantasy Sports Legal in Missouri?

Yes, Daily Fantasy Sports is available in Missouri. The landscape of DFS operates within a legal gray area, yet platforms like DraftKings, FanDuel, and Owner's Box remain accessible to players, each offering unique features that cater to different aspects of the DFS experience.

DraftKings DFS

Best For: Custom Contests

DraftKings stands out for its large selection of contests and the unique feature that allows players to create private leagues with their friends. This blend of competitiveness and community makes it a great choice for DFS in Missouri. Its user-friendly app, boasting high ratings, is a real joy to use whether you're scouting for players or setting up your next winning lineup. DraftKings caters to a broad range of sports preferences, making it a go-to for both seasoned fantasy sports veterans and those new to the game.

Claim your DK DFS Promo Offer.

FanDuel DFS

Best For: Beginners and Free Play Games

FanDuel is a great all rounder and the perfect place for beginners to start. By offering beginner-only contests and a variety of free play games that still offer the buzz of real cash prizes, FanDuel provides a perfect platform for learning the ropes. The wide range of contest types across dozens of sports means there's always something new to try, underpinning FanDuel's commitment to making DFS enjoyable for all levels of players in Missouri.

Don't Miss your FanDuel DFS Promo

Owner's Box DFS

Best For: Simplified Option

Owner's Box introduces a simplified, yet engaging approach to DFS with its SuperFlex and Lightning Lineups formats. Focusing on weekly contests or entire rounds of matches, it offers a distinct contrast to the more detailed contests found on other sites. The Lightning Lineups feature adds an element of chance and excitement, allowing players to build their roster with suggestions from the site, lock in favorites, or spin for new players.

Create your OwnersBox Account.

Is Fliff Legal in Missouri?

Yes, Fliff is legal in Missouri. 

Fliff operates as a social sportsbook, a platform where users can engage in sports predictions and contests without directly wagering real money. Instead, it uses a model where participants can use virtual currency for betting, which can sometimes be redeemed for real-world prizes, offering a fun and risk-free alternative to traditional sports betting. Sweepstakes casinos like Chumba Casino have exploded in popularity in recent years in the US, and Fliff is a sports betting equivalent.

Fliff is an ideal option for sports betting fans in Missouri, while they wait for legalization to come. The welcome offer of $100 in Fliff Cash and 600,000 Fliff Coins is a great way for new players to dive into the fun. 

With its user-friendly interface and a wide range of sports coverage, Fliff provides an engaging and social experience that's quickly gaining popularity among sports enthusiasts in Missouri and beyond.

Claim your Fliff Promo Offer.

Sports Teams in Missouri

Missouri loves its sports and, with teams in nearly all the major leagues, there's always a game to catch. Whether you're into baseball, football, hockey, or soccer, Missouri's teams have you covered.

• St. Louis Cardinals (MLB): The Cardinals have a long history of success the MLB, racking up eleven World Series titles. They're a team that keeps baseball fans in Missouri excited every season.

• Kansas City Chiefs (NFL): The Chiefs have a massive following thanks to their high-energy games and a Super Bowl victory that's still fresh in fans' minds. Football season is a special time for Chiefs supporters in Missouri right now, and Patrick Mahomes can do no wrong.

• St. Louis Blues (NHL): Hockey fans in Missouri have the Blues to cheer for, especially after their recent Stanley Cup win in 2019. Their games are known for being fast-paced and full of action.

• Sporting Kansas City (MLS):  Bringing soccer to the forefront in Missouri, Sporting KC has seen success in the MLS, capturing two MLS Cups and making soccer games a fun outing for families and fans.

• St. Louis City SC (MLS): As the newest addition, starting in 2023, St. Louis City SC is set to stir up the soccer scene even more in Missouri. There's a lot of excitement around what this team will bring to the table.

Why You Should Trust Us

Here’s the deal: we’re not just sitting on the sidelines. Instead, the team at WSN.com are all genuine sports fans, just like you. We’ve all been through the ups and downs of betting on sports, at sportsbooks all over the US and around the world.

Despite not being able to bet currently in Missouri, our insights come from years of cheering, analyzing, and winning and losing bets. This involvement in the sports world helps us understand what makes betting on sports truly enjoyable and worthwhile.

We have gone deep with personal testing of every platform on this page. We don’t just glance at their offers; we actively opt-in and test them out, placing bets and seeing how they handle payouts. This approach helps us understand everything from how easy it is to place a bet to how quick you get your winnings.

We only recommend sportsbooks that meet our high standards for reliability, user experience, and fairness. We focus on platforms that not only welcome bettors with bonuses but also offer top-notch betting experiences. Our aim? To make sure your sports betting journey is as thrilling and safe as possible.

Getting Help: Responsible Gambling in Missouri

In Missouri, if you or someone you know is facing challenges with gambling, there are resources and organizations ready to offer support. Here’s where you can find help:

• Missouri Alliance to Curb Problem Gambling: Provides resources and a 24-hour helpline for those seeking assistance with gambling issues. Call 1-888-BETS-OFF (1-888-238-7633) or visit 888betsoff.org for support.

• National Council on Problem Gambling: Offers a national helpline with confidential support and counseling from trained professionals. Reach out at 1-800-522-4700 or through their website at www.ncpgambling.org.

• Gamblers Anonymous: Find peer support and meetings in Missouri for problem gamblers looking for a community that understands their struggles. More information is available at www.gamblersanonymous.org.

Sportsbooks, where legal, usually provide tools to promote responsible gambling, including:

• Deposit Limits: Set a cap on how much money you can deposit during a specified period to manage spending.

• Reality Checks: Receive reminders of how long you’ve been betting, helping keep track of time spent on gambling activities.

• Self-Exclusion: Voluntarily exclude yourself from gambling for a set period or permanently to take a break.

• Cool-off Periods: Temporarily suspend your account for a short period to help regain control.

These tools and resources would likely be part of Missouri Sportsbooks’ commitment to ensuring a safe and responsible gambling environment for everyone.