Online casino gambling in the United States is a complex and rapidly evolving landscape. While only a select number of states have embraced legal online casinos, the momentum for expansion is undeniable. States like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan have demonstrated how regulated online gambling can drive economic growth and provide residents with secure, convenient gaming options. For players in states where online casino gambling remains restricted, the prospect of enjoying top-tier slots, table games, and enticing promotions remains a distant but promising possibility.
Understanding where online casino gambling is legal in the U.S. is crucial for both players seeking a safe gaming environment and policymakers considering the potential benefits of regulation. This guide breaks down the current legal landscape, the reasons behind state-specific restrictions, and the future of iGaming in America, offering expert insights grounded in years of industry analysis.
Online casino gambling is currently legal in six U.S. states, each offering unique regulations, operators, and gaming experiences. Below is an overview of these states and their online casino markets:
Connecticut legalized online casinos in 2021 but offers limited options with only two platforms: Mohegan Sun Casino (operated via a FanDuel partnership) and DraftKings Casino. While these platforms are backed by leading industry operators, the state lacks the variety seen in larger markets like Michigan or New Jersey.
Delaware was the first state to launch online gambling in 2013, pioneering the way for other states. However, it offers only three platforms—Delaware Park Online, Bally’s Dover Online, and Harrington Gaming Online—all operated through the Delaware Lottery’s iGaming platform. While functional, this limited variety leaves little room for competition.
Michigan entered the online casino market in 2021 and quickly became one of the most robust markets in the country. Hosting up to 15 licensed online casinos, players can enjoy popular platforms like BetMGM Casino, Caesars Palace Online Casino, and Golden Nugget Casino, among others. With a wide variety of games, including slots, table games, and live dealers, Michigan offers something for everyone.
New Jersey has been at the forefront of online gambling since its 2013 launch, hosting the largest number of online casinos in the U.S. As of early 2024, there are 29 platforms, including industry leaders like Bet365 Casino, Bally Casino, Virgin Casino, and Caesars Palace Online Casino. Players enjoy the widest game selection, generous bonuses, and a thriving competitive market.
Pennsylvania joined the online casino market in 2019, now offering the second-largest selection with 16 licensed platforms. Popular options include DraftKings Casino, BetMGM Casino, and state-specific platforms like Fanatics Casino and Borgata Casino. The game selection is extensive, with some platforms offering over 700 games.
Legalized in 2020, West Virginia has a smaller market but includes major operators like BetMGM Casino, DraftKings Casino, and FanDuel Casino. Players can access a variety of slots, table games, and live dealer options. While not as expansive as larger states, West Virginia’s market remains competitive.
State | Year Legalized | Top Operators | Market Size | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Connecticut | 2021 | DraftKings Casino, Mohegan Sun Casino (FanDuel) | 2 sites | Limited competition but high-quality operators. |
Delaware | 2013 | Delaware Park Online, Bally’s Dover, Harrington | 3 sites | Operated via the Delaware Lottery; limited variety. |
Michigan | 2021 | BetMGM, Caesars Palace, Golden Nugget, BetRivers | 15 sites | Extensive game selection and competitive bonuses. |
New Jersey | 2013 | Bet365, Bally, Virgin, Caesars Palace, DraftKings | 29 sites | Largest market; most operators and bonuses. |
Pennsylvania | 2019 | DraftKings, BetMGM, Fanatics, Borgata | 16 sites | Solid variety; second-largest U.S. market. |
West Virginia | 2020 | BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars Palace | 6+ sites | Smaller market but reputable operators. |
Several U.S. states are showing potential for legalizing online casino gambling in the near future. While progress varies by state, active discussions and legislative proposals signal promising opportunities for the expansion of the online casino market. Below is an overview of key states and their current status:
Colorado legalized sports betting in 2019, creating a foundation for potential online casino legalization. The state has seen previous legislative attempts, such as an online poker bill and a proposal from the Colorado Gaming Association, but these efforts have not yet succeeded. With major operators like DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM already active in the state through sportsbooks, online casinos may soon follow. Interest from stakeholders suggests Colorado could revisit the topic as early as 2024.
Illinois has shown increasing interest in online casino legalization, with Bill HB2239 introduced in early 2023 to establish an Internet Gaming Act. While the bill has stalled in the House Rules Committee, its introduction indicates significant momentum. Illinois already hosts a thriving online sports betting market, with platforms like BetMGM and FanDuel operating statewide, suggesting that online casinos could be a natural next step despite ongoing opposition from video gaming terminal operators.
Indiana has seen multiple attempts to legalize online casinos, including Senate Bill 417, which would have allowed state casinos and racetracks to offer online betting. Although these efforts have faced delays, they are expected to resurface soon. With sports betting legalized in 2019, Indiana is well-positioned to expand into iGaming. Future proposals may exclude online poker to address regulatory challenges, increasing the likelihood of passage.
Iowa is another state with strong potential for online casino legalization. A 2023 iGaming bill failed to pass due to time constraints, but the interest remains high. Support from major operators, such as Caesars Enterprise Services and Penn National Gaming, highlights the growing push for regulation. With mobile sports betting already legal since 2019, Iowa is considered one of the closest states to approving online casino gambling.
Maryland’s progress toward online casino legalization is gradual but promising. The state conducted a study to assess the benefits of online gambling and proposed a senate bill to gauge voter interest. While no immediate actions have been taken, Maryland’s established sports betting infrastructure and recent licensing expansions suggest online casinos could be a logical addition to the state’s gambling market.
New York represents one of the most significant potential markets for online casinos. Efforts to legalize iGaming have been led by Sen. Joseph Addabbo, who remains committed to advancing legislation. The state’s thriving mobile sports betting market, which generated $302.3 million in tax revenue in its first six months, demonstrates New York's capacity to lead the industry. With major operators like DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM already active, the legalization of online casinos could follow in the coming years.
State | Current Status | Key Developments |
|---|---|---|
Colorado | Online casinos illegal; sports betting legal (2019) | Failed attempts to legalize; strong interest from stakeholders for future efforts. |
Illinois | Online casinos illegal; sportsbooks active | Bill HB2239 introduced in 2023; pending further legislative action. |
Indiana | Online casinos illegal; sports betting legal (2019) | Senate Bill 417 proposed; likely to reintroduce legislation with modifications. |
Iowa | Online casinos illegal; sports betting legal (2019) | Failed 2023 legislation; strong support from major operators. |
Maryland | Online casinos illegal; sports betting legal (2020) | Conducted study; legislative interest in expanding gambling offerings. |
New York | Online casinos illegal; sports betting active | Strong tax revenue from sports betting; continued legislative efforts by Sen. Addabbo. |
The states listed below online casino gambling remains illegal, but players can still access sweepstakes casinos, which offer the chance to win real money prizes legally. As with many contentious issues, the decision to legalize online casinos has been left to individual states, a trend that is unlikely to change. This has led some players to turn to unregulated offshore casinos, which operate without proper oversight or player protection.
While optimism grows that more U.S. states will follow the lead of those that have already legalized online casinos, certain states, like Hawaii and Utah, remain firmly opposed to any form of gambling. As a result, residents in these states are unlikely to see online casino gambling legalized in the foreseeable future.