Maryland Sports Betting: Best Online Maryland Sportsbooks

Maryland sports betting has been available online and on mobile apps since 2022. Choosing among the best Maryland sportsbooks isn't easy, but with our comprehensive guides, you can stay updated on the latest news and claim over $4,000 in sportsbook offers.

Fact Checked by Blake Weishaar

Legal Maryland Sportsbooks 2024

Verified Offers Verified By Our Experts
1
Best Choice
Caesars Sports
Best Choice
Must be 21+ to participate. T&Cs apply.
2
Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Must be 21+ to participate & present in MD. In Partnership with MGM National Harbor. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Visit BetMGM.com for Terms & Conditions. US promotional offers not available in NY, NV, or Puerto Rico.
3
Must be 21+ to participate. T&Cs apply. Play Responsibly.
7
Must be at least 21 years old and physically located in MD to wager. Please play responsibly, for help visit mdgamblinghelp.org or call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Now that Maryland sports betting has officially launched, bettors can register with all of the sportsbooks listed above and take advantage of generous Maryland sportsbook promos available. 

 

Get to Know the Top Maryland Sportsbooks

Although there are currently 10 Maryland sportsbooks currently taking wagers, we believe 8 sports betting sites stand out above the rest. Here are our latest Maryland sportsbook rankings for March 2024:

🏆 Caesars SportsbookTop Ranked Maryland Sportsbook
🏆 BetMGMBest Maryland Sportsbook for New Bettors
🏆 FanaticsBest Maryland Sportsbook for Unique Features
🏈 DraftKingsBest Maryland Sportsbook Betting Interface
👍 FanDuel Most Trusted Maryland Sportsbook Brand
🎁 BetRiversBest East Coast Sportsbook Brand
🦀 Crab SportsThe Only Local Maryland Sportsbook
👑 ESPN BETBest Maryland Sportsbook for Ongoing Promos
Rankings Last Updated:March 19, 2024

As more Maryland sportsbooks launch moving forward, our experts will continue to reevaluate which betting operators earn the top spots on our list of the best operators in the state.

fanatics sportsbook maryland

Best New Maryland Sportsbook

The newest Maryland sportsbook in town is Fanatics Sportsbook Maryland. What's the best way to get new users to join your new sports betting platform? Create a promotion worth their sign up – and the apparel company turned operator does exactly with their Bet Anything Get Up to $1000 in Bonus Bets  Win or lose, you get a bonus bet equal to the amount of your wager. On top of that, the Fanatics experience promises to be innovative in comparison to its peers.

Fanatics Sportsbook Offer:

  • Bet Anything and Get Up to $1000

Top Features:

  • Great user experience - it tailors the display based on your betting history
  • One of the best rewards programs in the industry
  • Broad range of betting markets
Must be 21+ to participate. T&Cs apply. Play Responsibly.
Caesars Maryland Sportsbook

Best Overall Maryland Sportsbook

An iconic name in the gambling industry. Caesars Sportsbook Maryland gets the top spot on our list of best Maryland sportsbooks.

Not only does Caesars have a fantastic welcome offer, but you will also find daily ongoing bonuses to take advantage of as an existing customer. Combining this with an app that is easily navigated and has top-notch odds, it's easily one of our favorite options for Maryland online sports betting.

Caesars Sportsbook Offer: 

  • $1,000 First Bet

Top Features:

  • Industry-leading rewards program
  • Daily odd boosts
  • Referral program
BetMGM Maryland Sportsbook

Best MD Sportsbook for New Bettors

BetMGM Maryland offers a fantastic mobile betting experience and does a great job of featuring local sports for you to bet on. If there is an event related to any team in Maryland, you can almost guarantee you'll see it placed prominently on the BetMGM home screen.

The MGM brand has ties to legal gambling spanning several decades and is one of the most trusted operators in the space. Legal in over 20 states, BetMGM is a top choice for Maryland sports bettors, instilling confidence in their selection. The company was also the first official gaming partner of the Baltimore Ravens.

BetMGM Offer:

  • Up to $1500 in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Loses with BETMDCOM

Top Features:

  • Early Cash Out
  • Edit My Bet
  • BetMGM Rewards
Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Must be 21+ to participate & present in MD. In Partnership with MGM National Harbor. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Visit BetMGM.com for Terms & Conditions. US promotional offers not available in NY, NV, or Puerto Rico.
DraftKings Maryland Sportsbook

Best Maryland Sportsbook Betting Interface

The DraftKings Maryland Sportsbook is no doubt the go-to sportsbook for bettors looking for a wide variety of betting options and markets. This sportsbook does a great job of balancing a seemingly endless amount of Maryland sports betting options with a user-friendly interface. Because of that, the app is a great platform for new and experienced bettors alike.

If you're into player props, you'll find the most expansive prop markets here. If live betting is your thing, this operator leads the industry there as well with its lightning-fast response time and numerous wagering markets.

DraftKings Offers: 

  • Bet $5, Get $150
  • No Sweat Same Game Parlay

Top Features:

  • Daily free to play pools
  • Reignmakers
  • Solid ongoing promotions
FanDuel Maryland Sportsbook

Most Trusted Brand

The Maryland FanDuel Sportsbook is one of the leading operators in each state it is legal in and MD is no different.

Offering one of the most comprehensive betting experiences out there, you'll be hard-pressed to find many flaws here. The app is visually appealing, very easy-to-use, and is perfect for new and experienced bettors. If you play daily fantasy sports (DFS), you can link your accounts and share funds.

FanDuel Offer: 

  • Bet $5, Get $200

Top Features:

  • Boosted odds
  • Ongoing promotions (Dinger Tuesdays for MLB, odds boosts, free-to-play contests)
  • In-app live streaming
BetRivers Maryland Sportsbook

Best East Coast Brand Maryland Sportsbook

While the Maryland BetRivers Sportsbook new user promo offer may fall short of other bonuses in the state, BetRivers more than makes up for it with its ongoing specials.

As one of the lesser-known brands in the industry, bettors who don't give it a chance are missing out. This platform stacks up incredibly well with the bigger brands, offering competitive odds, easy-to-use app, and unmatched ongoing promos.  Available in more than a dozen states, this is by far one of our favorite Maryland sports betting options.

BetRivers Offer: 

  • 2nd Chance Bet up to $500

Top Features:

  • Daily ongoing promotions across multiple sports
  • Daily specials and boosted odds
  • Loyalty and VIP program

The Only Local Sportsbook in Maryland

If you are fan of staying true to local brands, look no further than Crab Sports in Maryland. This is the only local Maryland sportsbook brand and has gained an incredible reputation for offering a lot to bettors. The brand might be small, and only in Maryland, but it is sure mighty. You will find a well rounded platform with everything you might need to bet on your favorite games. The rewards program is very unique and gives you points that can be used on your favorite local brands. Don't miss this Maryland sports betting site!

Crab Sports Offer: 

  •  $500 First Bet Insurance

Top Features:

  • Excellent rewards program
  • Fun Free Pick'em Contests 
  • Competitive Odds
Must be at least 21 years old and physically located in MD to wager. Please play responsibly, for help visit mdgamblinghelp.org or call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Compare the Best Maryland Sportsbooks

While all Maryland online sports betting sites are undoubtedly worth the download, there are a few major factors to consider. For starters, it's important to ensure the sportsbook has a solid customer interface. Looking for wagers is where sports bettors spend the most time, so having solid odds and an easy-to-use platform is a must.

Also, having great customer service and an easy withdrawal process are key attributes of great legalized sports betting websites. Checking on user reviews will help you decide whether or not you want to give that sportsbook a try. Lastly, be sure to investigate the types of betting lines and odds and promotional offers from each one.

Other Maryland Sportsbooks to Consider

In addition to the top eight Maryland sports betting operators we recommend, there are currently five other sportsbooks live and taking action in Maryland:

Betfred MD

A well-known sportsbook in the UK and beyond, Betfred has been rapidly expanding in the booming US market since 2019. For Maryland bettors who are looking for expansive betting markets on international and niche sports would be crazy to not give Betfred Maryland Sportsbook a shot.

SuperBook MD

The SuperBook Maryland Sportsbook brings a well-established brand from Las Vegas to the palm of your hand. You can also enjoy an immersive sports experience at the newly-opened SuperBook Bar and Restaurant at Camden Yards.

Crab Sports Maryland

The latest Maryland sports betting site to launch, Crab Sports is the only online sportsbook local to the Old Line State. It will be interesting to monitor Crab Sports going forward to see how it is received by Maryland bettors and if it can carve out any sort of significant market share.

At the time of this writing, Crab Sports does not have an app and is only available as a desktop site.

Maryland Sportsbooks That Could Launch Soon

As noted earlier, Maryland online sports betting legislation allows for up to 60 mobile licenses. Currently, there are three additional providers who have been approved for licenses but have yet to launch. Those sportsbooks are Bally Bet, BetPARX, and Bee Fee, an online casino gaming software company. WynnBET was part of this group but has recently decided to cease operations in the majority of states where it was active. 


 

Maryland Sports Betting Latest News and Updates

Maryland sports betting is legal and online sportsbooks are officially live in the Old Line state. Below you'll find a list of additional news and the latest updates impacting Maryland sports betting.

  • 📆 March 4, 2024: Maryland sports betting bans all betting on college player props. MD sportsbooks officially removed related markets on the same day as the announcement.
  • 📆 Sept 24: 2023: Baltimore Ravens playoff chances dip slightly after an overtime loss to the Colts.
  • 📆 Sept 13, 2023: Maryland sports betting handle up 6% from July.
  • 📆 Sept 7, 2023: NFL 2023 Season kicks off. Bettors are expected to wager $250 million - $500 million in September alone. 
  • 📆 Sept 1, 2023: The Maryland Lotteryand Gaming Commission issues a sports betting license for a retail sportsbook to Canton Gaming. 
  • 📆 August 21, 2023: The Washington Commanders defeat the Baltimore Ravens 28-27, ending the Ravens streak of 24 straight preseason wins.
  • 📆 August 16, 2023: WynnBET withdraws its application to launch an online sportsbook in Maryland.
  • 📆 August 16, 2023: Fanatics Sportsbook Maryland has ended its beta testing and is now fully live for anyone within state lines to join and bet with.
  • 📆 August 8, 2023: PENN Entertainment and ESPN announced a partnership that includes rebranding the Barstool Sportsbook to an ESPN Sportsbook dubbed ESPN BET.
  • 📆 August 1, 2023: Maryland's 11 sportsbooks online handled $237.5 million in wagers in July. 
  • 📆 July 27, 2023: Maryland moves closer to allowing online casinos as the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Commission awarded a contract to The Innovation Group to study the impact of iGaming on the state.
  • 📆 July 13, 2023: Crab Sports, an online sportsbook with local ties to Maryland, is the 11th online operator to launch in the state. 

Each day our experts track updates breaking in the world of sports betting and list them here. Be sure to bookmark this page and check back regularly to stay up-to-date with the most important news surrounding sports betting in Maryland.

Is Sports Betting Legal in Maryland? 

Yes, Maryland sports betting is legal.  Gov. Larry Hogan signed HB 940 into law back in May 2021, which legalized sports betting, but the Maryland sports betting launch was delayed till late November of 2023 when mobile sportsbooks finally began accepting bets.

Can You Sports Bet in Maryland?

Yes, you can legally sports bet in Maryland. Maryland sportsbooks are available on mobile or in person at state casinos, off-track betting facilities, and other locations. Maryland sports bettors can place bets on all of the top sports leagues including the NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, college sports, and more.

What Sportsbooks are Legal in Maryland?

The legal sportsbooks in Maryland include ESPN BET, FanDuel, Caesars, DraftKings, BetMGM, BetRivers, Betfred, Fanatics, Crab Sports, and SuperBook. Also, BetPARX, Bally Bet, and Bee Fee have been approved to offer sports betting but have not yet launched in the Old Line State. There are even more sportsbooks awaiting regulatory approval after filing for applications.

Is Online Sports Betting Available in Maryland?

Yes, online sports betting is available in Maryland. It has been available in Maryland since November 23, 2022. This came more than a year and a half after sports betting legislation passed, allowing up to 60 online sports betting licenses. There are currently 10 MD online sportsbooks available and several others that are planning to launch at a later date.

Do All Maryland Sportsbooks Have Brand Ambassadors?

Local Maryland betting ambassadors have not been announced; however, we know some of the big sportsbooks will bring with their personalities to kick off game nights. Look out for Chris Johnson, a former Tennessee Titans Running Back, Comedian Jamie Foxx, actress Hallie Berry and more. 

Who Regulates Maryland Sports Gambling?

Maryland sports betting is licensed and regulated by the Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency (MLGCA), which also oversees the state’s six casinos and lottery operations. The Sports Wagering Application Review Commission (SWARC) also plays a role in the licensing process by reviewing sports betting applications prior to approval by the MLGCA. 

Where Can I Bet on Sports in Maryland?

You can bet on sports in Maryland using mobile sportsbooks or in person at casinos, off-track betting facilities and at FedEx Field near Washington, DC.

Can You Bet on Sports in Baltimore?

Yes, you can bet on sports in Baltimore at several locations in and near the city. The sportsbook at Horseshoe Casino Baltimore offers the closest Baltimore sports betting experience for Ravens fans, being located just down the street from M&T Bank Stadium. Bingo World, just a 15-minute drive from Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, also offers a Maryland retail sportsbook. Finally, the sportsbook at Live! Casino is a 20-minute drive from Baltimore.

Where are Maryland Sportsbooks Located?

Maryland sportsbooks are located on mobile platforms, in the state's casinos, FedEx Field, off-track betting facilities and at Bingo World in Baltimore. Retail sportsbooks are also planned at additional sports stadiums throughout Maryland.

Here is a list of all retail sportsbooks in Maryland:

🎰 Hollywood PerryvilleCasino
🎰 Horseshoe Baltimore Casino
🎰 Live! CasinoCasino
🎰 MGM National HarborCasino
🎰 Ocean DownsCasino
📺 Greenmount StationOff-Track Betting Facility
📺 Long Shot'sOff-Track Betting Facility
📺 Riverboat-on-the-PotomacOff-Track Betting Facility
🔵 Bingo WorldBingo Hall
🏈 FedEx FieldSports Stadium
🏈 M&T Bank Stadium*Sports Stadium
⚾️ Camden Yards*Sports Stadium

*Sportsbooks are not yet open

This map and list will be updated every time there is a new betting location for you to explore. 

How Many Sportsbooks Are in Maryland?

There are currently 10 mobile sportsbooks and 8 retail sportsbooks in Maryland. The number of online operators could grow to 60; whereas, retail sportsbooks could grow to 30 if all of the available licenses are granted. Although it is unlikely all of those licenses will be granted, this still positions Maryland as one of the most robust sports betting states.

Can You Bet in Person in Maryland?

Yes, you can place a bet in person while in Maryland if you're over the age of 21. Retail sportsbooks across the state are available to place an in-person bet. Most of Maryland's retail sportsbooks will be tied to a casino, but we could see in-person options at professional sports stadiums as well. 

Maryland Mobile Sports Betting

Most if not all licensed online sportsbooks will offer a Maryland betting app for its users. Users can navigate the operators' site or head to the Apple App Store and the Android Google Play Store and download the mobile version for their favorite Maryland sportsbooks. The apps are generally very similar to the websites in terms of usability and line offerings.

Retail Sports Betting vs. Mobile Sports Betting

Retail sports betting is when a bettor goes to a physical location to place action. Mobile betting is when a bettor can place action on their phone or computer. The pros of betting in person is a bettor can enjoy the sportsbook experience and pay cash. The pros of betting on a mobile device is that bets can be placed anywhere in Maryland.

News and Updates Impacting Maryland Sports Betting

Our staff of veteran gambling reporters keeps you up-to-date with the latest news on Maryland sports betting. We pride ourselves on bringing you breaking stories and analysis of all developments in the world of sports betting. You will find our latest news and updates for all things impacting betting below. Want more? Just click on the "view more news" button.

Legal Maryland Sports Betting Legislation Timeline

Betting was officially legalized in the state of Maryland in May of 2021. Below is a general timeline for sports betting legislation in Maryland:

  • 📅  November 23, 2022: Just five months after the first sports betting operator gets approval for a license, online Maryland sports betting officially launches.
  • 📅  June 23, 2022: As pressure mounts on Gov. Larry Hogan to get online and mobile sports betting in action this upcoming fall or winter, Fanatics becomes the first sports betting operator to get approval for a license.
  • 📅  Dec. 9, 2021: Gov. Larry Hogan placed the first official sports wager at the MGM National Harbor.
  • 📅  July 15, 2021: The Maryland Lottery and Gaming Control Agency approved rules for legal sports betting in Maryland.
  • 📅  May 18, 2021: Gov. Larry Hogan signs sports betting legislation into law. 
  • 📅  April 12, 2021: HB 940 passes through the Maryland State Legislature
  • 📅  Nov. 3, 2020: Maryland voters support sports wagering heavily in a general election ballot measure.
Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Must be 21+ to participate & present in MD. In Partnership with MGM National Harbor. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Visit BetMGM.com for Terms & Conditions. US promotional offers not available in NY, NV, or Puerto Rico.

MD Online Sports Betting Legislation

Maryland sports betting was officially legalized in the state in May of 2021. Initially, only retail sports betting was legalized immediately, but Maryland also granted licenses for online sportsbooks as well. Maryland voters heavily supported sports wagering in a 2020 general election ballot measure, and the groundwork was laid for legalizing online sports betting.

In January 2021, Maryland legislators reconvened to discuss the topic, and by May 18th, the bill was signed into law by Governor Larry Hogan. It is only a matter of time until all the licenses are distributed since online sports betting is legal in Maryland.

Maryland Sports To Bet On

Whether it's betting on the NFL, MLB, or college sports, Maryland sports betting includes all the major sports as betting markets launch.

  • NFL Betting In the US sports betting market, the NFL is always the league that generates the most handle, and Maryland sports bettors can now legally bet on the NFL. The NFL dominates Sundays and now there can be even more fun than just watching. Also, almost every Monday and Thursday night throughout the entire season has a primetime NFL game, so there is nonstop action throughout all 18 weeks. Maryland sports bettors certainly enjoy betting on the Football Team and the Ravens.
  • NBA Betting The NBA has action almost every night, and now sports bettors can place bets on the NBA in Maryland. The NBA is great to bet on since bettors can focus on player props such as total three pointers made for a player or over/under points scored. Maryland online sports betting allow bettors to place wagers on the Wizards, so all Maryland residents can enjoy betting on their instate team. The NBA is a popular league in the United States and the legal sports betting launch continues to grow the handle of bets on NBA games.
  • MLB Betting The MLB is another one of the top betting markets in the United States. It is expected that since Maryland has launched legalized sports betting, the handle of bets on MLB games will increase. The MLB is great to bet on since there are fun prop bets on games such as betting on if there will be a run in the first inning or a players total bases in a single game. Maryland residents can enjoy betting on the Washington Nationals as well as the Baltimore Orioles. Every fall, the MLB has its annual post season, so bettors in Maryland can enjoy taking action on these high profile baseball games.
  • NHL Betting The NHL is one of the prime sports in the US market and it is expected to grow as sports betting continues to be legalized throughout the US. The NHL is great to bet on since it is so fast paced and action packed. Bettors in Maryland can enjoy betting on NHL teams like the Washington Capitals and can also enjoy betting on big time games such as primetime events like the Winter Classic as well as the playoffs.
  • College Sports Legal sports betting in Maryland is unique to other states that have recently legalized sports betting since bettors can bet on in state collegiate teams. If a bettor wants to bet on the University of Maryland football team to win, a bettor in Maryland can. Collegiate sports is one of the most bet on sports in all of the US, so it is exciting that bettors in Maryland can also bet on college teams in the state.

Maryland Teams To Bet

With two NFL teams, one baseball team and some major college athletic programs littered throughout the state, there is a plethora of Maryland teams to bet on. Before you make the move, you will need to know how to bet on sports in Maryland.

  • Baltimore Ravens The Baltimore Ravens made their NFL debut in 1996. The Ravens play at M&T Bank Stadium and are key to the community of Baltimore and are beloved by most Maryland residents. The Baltimore Ravens won their first Super Bowl in the 2000 season and won another in the 2012 season. They are frequently in playoff contention under head coach John Harbaugh and transcendent quarterback Lamar Jackson. The Ravens play in the AFC North division and will be fun to bet on as residents watch each Sunday. Check back every week for updated Ravens Super Bowl Odds.
  • Baltimore Orioles The Baltimore Orioles are one of the most historic and recognized franchises in all of Major League Baseball. The Orioles play their home games at Camden Yards which is one of the longest-standing ballparks in America. The Orioles are rebuilding and had a winning season in 2022, and they will be fun to bet on as they continue to improve year in and year out. The Orioles play in the AL East division.
  • Washington Commanders The Washington Commanders, despite their name, actually play their home games at FedEx Field in Landover, Maryland. Washington is one of the proudest franchises in all of the NFL, even though the team has had a rough past three decades in terms of winning. The Washington Commanders plays in the NFC East division which has some of the most famous rivalries in football history.
  • Washington Wizards Formerly the Baltimore Bullets, the Washington Wizards play out of the Capital One Center in Chinatown, Washington DC. Their best years were in the 1970s and they won the NBA Finals in 1978. In the 2020-21 season they lost in the first round of the Playoffs to the 76ers. You would get long odds if you wanted to make a futures bet on the Wizards winning the Playoffs in 2023!
  • Washington Nationals The Nationals won the MLB National League East in 2012, 2014, 2016 and 2017. Each time they failed to make the World Series. That was the time to bet on momentum. In 2019 the Washington Nationals made it to the Series and defeated the Houston Astros to win their first ever World Series title.
  • Washington Capitals Maryland NHL bettors might want to try their luck with the Washington Capitals. The team used to play their home games in Maryland but have been seduced by the delights of the Capital One Center in Washington. The Capitals have 12 division titles under their belt and two Stanley Cup final appearances. The Caps lost the 1998 final but won it all in 2018. Numerologists might want to wait till 2038 before betting big on their next victory! For the rest of us Maryland’s legal online sportsbooks offer hundreds of different bets on every Capitals game.
  • D.C. United The Black and Reds have quite a record in Major League Soccer. They have a dedicated stadium built for 20,000 fans which opened in 2018. And they have a long standing rivalry with the New York Red Bulls. This all makes for a team that is fun to support. Every year they play the Red Bulls for the Atlantic Cup; excitement is intense and this year online betting is likely to be equally ferocious.
  • University of Maryland If the NBA doesn’t provide the success Maryland fans crave, there is always the NCAA. The Maryland Terrapins men’s basketball team plays in the Big Ten Conference and has achieved some of the best results of any college team. They were men's NCAA Tournament champions in 2002, and as March Madness approaches might well be worth a few wagers.
  • Georgetown University The Georgetown Hoyas don’t often face off against the Terrapins. Instead the Hoyas play in the Big East Conference. They won the National Championship in 1984 and have made the Final Four five times. The Hoyas have taken home the Big East Conference Tournament trophy eight times including in 2021. Teams that are on a roll always attract a lot of betting action. Whether you want to go with the roll or bet against you will find plenty of ways to do so in the new online Maryland sportsbooks.

Promotions & Offers At Maryland Online Sportsbooks

There are several sports betting promos offered to all users in Maryland.  These start with welcome promos and continue all year long. Users can also take advantage of pre-launch offers that are now available from a few of the larger Maryland sports betting sites.

  • Risk-Free Bets Risk-free bets is a common promotion offered in online sports betting. A risk-free bet is a promotion that allows a bettor to use site credit, or be refunded on a loss, when betting on a certain event. Most sportsbooks offer a large risk-free bet for a bettors first ever bet with its sportsbook. However, sportsbooks also randomly offer risk-free bets when they are looking to promote an event. The pros of risk-free bets are obvious - a bettor can place a bet and lose nothing if it loses. The only con is that sometimes the refund is issued in non withdrawal-able site credit. This means the loses are refunded, but they must be bet.
  • Deposit Match

    Another common promotion offered by a sportsbook is a deposit match. A deposit match is when a sportsbook issues the same amount of money a bettor deposits into their account. Normally, deposit matches are only valid for a first deposit. A pro of a deposit match is that a sportsbook will give a bettor free funds just for depositing, but a con can be that these funds may be only site credit and must be bet before they can be withdrawn.

  • Referral Bonuses A referral bonus is a promotion sportsbooks offer customers. Most sportsbooks give each bettor a unique link that ties to their account. This link can be sent to friends, family, or anyone who currently does not have an account with the sportsbook. If someone signs up for a sportsbook using a link you provided, that bettor would receive some cash to bet in the form of a referral bonus. Some sportsbooks issue the bonus to both parties, while others only give cash to the person who distributed their referral link.
  • Odds Boosts Odds boost is a type of promotion that increases the odds on a single event. Odds boosts happen relatively frequently, but they always care a maximum wager amount of $5-$50. Odds boost also happen more frequently on higher ticket events like playoff games of Pay-Per-View fights. An example of an odds boost would be if the Ravens are offered at -110 at every sportsbook to now +150 at whichever book is offering that odds boost.
  • Parlay Insurance A very frequently offered promotion in sportsbooks is parlay insurance. Parlay insurance is an offering from most sportsbooks that allows a parlay to lose one leg but still win. All parlay insurance is capped with a specified max bet as well as certain terms that need to hit. Parlay insurance is only valid for parlays in a single sport with four or more events included. The pros are you only need to hit three of four events to win, but the cons are this will cut into a larger payout and bettors cannot combine sports.

Why Sign Up For Multiple Maryland Sportsbooks

It is imperative for bettors to make accounts on all Maryland online sports betting platforms because each site will offer different promotions and odds on events. Placing a bet at better odds will make a bettor more money, and taking a bet at less vig will lose a bettor less money. Finding the best line available is one of the easiest, yet most often overlooked way for a bettor to gain an edge.

Get The Best Line

One of the easiest, yet often overlooked, way to gain value in the betting market is to download multiple Maryland online sports betting sites and shopping around for the best available line. While lines will often be very similar across most books, there is more value in taking a bet that is listed at -105 compared to -110. By having access to more Maryland sports betting sites, bettors can ensure they are getting the best line available to get the most value.

Bet Offerings

Not all sportsbooks offer the same events, and not all events have the same odds associated with them. Some betting sites use the same software to generate their odds, but not all sportsbooks do, so odds will differ from book to book. Also, not all sportsbooks offer the same bets in the live betting and futures market. Having multiple books will allow bettors to find different bets at better prices just by having multiple sports betting apps available to them.

Feel the Sportsbook

Before even creating an account and depositing money to a sportsbook, user can almost always play around with the user interface. This is great because it allows users to get an understanding of the odds and helps with navigating the website. It is encouraged that bettors take a look at all the operators available to them since there may be something avilable that is not offered elsewhere.

Sportsbook Rules

Betting sites are not uniform when it comes to how they grade events. Different books have different payout styles, odds, and maximum bets allowed on certain markets. For example, BetMGM pays golf props when there is a tie. Another example is a two-way market on a bet that isn't always offered that way. Bet365 offers a two-way market on no touchdowns scored in the NFL games, meaning a user can bet yes, there will be touchdowns, or no, there will not. This is important because, at a book like DraftKings where there is no two way market, they will refund any time touchdown bet if none are scored. But, since Bet365 offers a two way market, bets will not be refunded.

Another example is odds on bets like teasers. Some sportsbooks offer two-team six-point teasers at -120 while others offer it at -130. Over time, taking bets at -120 compared to -130 will make a bettor more money rather than paying an extra 10 cents in vig every time.

Available Sports Wagers At Legal Maryland Online Sportsbooks

Below you'll find a breakdown of the most popular bet types the top sportsbooks offer.

  • Moneyline Legal sports betting in Maryland give bettors the ability to bet the moneyline on sporting events. The moneyline is a bet on one team winning an event without any addition or subtraction of points. In most cases, one team will be the underdog and have positive odds while the other team will be the favorite and have negative odds. For example, if the Orioles are playing the Yankees and a bettor wants to bet on the Yankees to win straight up, they will bet the Yankees moneyline.
  • Parlays One form of sports wagering is paraly bets. A parlay bet is a bet that combines two or more bets into one. If a bettor takes a parlay, the odds of the parlay will be contingent on the combined odds of both straight bets. In order to win a parlay, all of the events need to win. For example, a bettor can parlay the Washington Commanders and the Baltimore Ravens to both win on an NFL Sunday, and if both teams win, that player will cash their parlay.
  • Totals Betting a total is a wager on the total final score of a game. Sportsbooks will offer a number for the final score of an event and it is up to the player to bet whether they believe the final score will be greater or less than the number posted. Totals are more common in higher scoring sports such as the NFL and the NBA, but they still exist for sports like the NHL and the MLB. An example of a total would be if the New York Knicks are playing the Washington Wizards, the total may be set at 202 points, and a bettor would place a wager on if the total final score will be greater or less than 202.
  • Point Spreads Betting against the spread is the most common from of sports betting. An example of a point spread would be if the Baltimore Ravens are playing the Cleveland Browns, the spread of the game may be Ravens -3. In order for a bet on the Ravens to cash, the Ravens need to beat the browns by more than three points. Spread betting is adding or subtracting points from one teams total and usually carry odds of -110.
  • Futures A future bet is a bet on an event that is happening later in a season. Future bets can be placed as soon as odds are posted for the next season, so as far as months in advance, but future bets can also be placed just a week or so in advance. An example of a future bet would be a wager on the Wizards to win the NBA championship. This bet can be placed on the first day of the season, or a during the NBA playoffs. However, depending on the team's situation at the time will dictate the odds offered on a futures bet.
  • Prop Bets Prop bets are short for proposition bets. Proposition bets are wagers on a players statistics for a game or an event going on in the game. For example, a prop bet on a player could be the over/under points for Kyle Kuzma. An example of a game prop would be the total number of field goals in the Ravens game. All professional sports leagues have prop bets offered and they are a great addition to the the legalized sports gambling landscape in Maryland.
  • Live Bets Live betting is placing a bet while an event is already in progress. If the Ravens game has started already, a bettor can place a prop bet, a total bet, an against the spread bet, or a moneyline bet on the contest. Live bets are great for a player looking to get an edge on an event that they did not like the closing total. For example, if the Baltimore Ravens are -7 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, and after the game starts, the line goes to Ravens -5, a live bettor can jump on that opportunity to get a better number.
  • Prohibited Bets At the moment, there are no prohibited bets in the state of Maryland. Other states with legalize sports betting have rules that bettors cannot bet on collegiate teams in the state, but Maryland has no such rule. This means that if a bettor wanted to watch the Maryland Terrapins basketball team at College Park, and take a bet on the game, a bettor can do that.

Other Maryland Betting Options

Sports betting is live in Maryland. Here are some other options and details on whether or not they are available. 

Daily Fantasy Sports

Maryland already has daily fantasy sports readily available. People 21 and older in Maryland can hop on and play daily fantasy sports right now.

Horse Racing

Horse racing tracks were automatically granted licenses for retail sports betting. Bettors in Maryland can go to a horse racing track and begin taking bets on horses.

Elections

No, it is not legal to bet on the election in Maryland. There is no option to bet on politics at all. This may change in the future, but for now, it is not legal.

Pop Culture Ceremonies

Bettors cannot bet on pop culture ceremonies legally in Maryland. While this could change, it is not expected at launch. These ceremonies could make for a tremendous market someday.

eSports

One of the newest betting markets around is betting on eSports. Bettors in Maryland can bet on online sporting events. eSports is quickly becoming an emerging market in the industry.

Maryland Sports Betting Licenses

Maryland sports betting law allows for 60 mobile sportsbook licenses, 47 retail sportsbook licenses and 3 reserved licenses in the case that a major professional sports team relocates to the state. Although Maryland online casinos are not legal yet, the law allows all 5 of Maryland’s retail casinos and major sports facilities to offer retail sportsbooks. 

Class A-1Casinos with >1,000 slots, racetracks, sports facilities
Class A-2Casinos with <1,000 slots
Class B-1Businesses with >25 employees, >$3 million in annual revenue
Class B-2Businesses with <25 employees, <$3 million in annual revenue

Class A-1 Licenses are allocated to casinos with more than 1,000 slots, racetracks and sports facilities. That means casinos MGM National Harbor, Live! Casino and Horseshoe Baltimore; stadiums M&T Bank Stadium, Camden Yards and FedEx Field; and racetracks Laurel Park and Pimlico are eligible for licenses. Class A-1 licenses cost an initial $2 million and $500,000 in annual renewals.

Class A-2 Licenses are allocated to casinos with fewer than 1,000 slots, meaning Hollywood Casino, Ocean Downs and Rocky Gap are eligible. Licenses cost $1 million initially and $300,000 to renew.

Class B-1 Licenses will go to businesses that employ more than 25 people and generate $3 million or more in annual revenue. Those businesses include the state’s off-track betting facilities, the Timonium Fairgrounds and Bingo World in Baltimore. B-1 license cost $250,000 to acquire and $50,000 for renewals. 

Class B-2 Licenses include organizations with fewer than 25 employees and less than $3 million in annual revenue. Licenses require $50,000 initial fees and $10,000 in renewals. 

Maryland Sports Betting Revenue Projection

State officials estimate Maryland sports betting could generate up to $20 million a year in tax revenue. Both lawmakers and the November 2020 ballot measure explicitly stated that the primary purpose of this revenue will be to fund public education. This is one of the ways sports betting can be beneficial to a state.

Why Maryland Will Be Huge for Betting

Maryland is home to the highest median household income in the United States. It also has 6 million residents; of which 3.7 million are over the age of 21. Next to Maryland is Washington D.C., which has legalized betting, but the options are not great. These demographics, plus sports teams like the Baltimore Orioles and Baltimore Ravens, make Maryland a sports betting haven. Industry experts suggest it might be one of the most lucrative markets in the U.S.

Legal Maryland Online Sports Betting Tax Rate

The tax rate on operators is 15% for major retail vendors as well as online sportsbooks. There is a secondary retail license given out which is taxed at 13%. However, 15% is a fair rate and is on par with most other states. To calculate how much you will owe in taxes, visit our Maryland gambling tax calculator. At the moment, the state with the highest tax rate is New York with 51%.

Deposit and Withdrawal from MD Sports Betting Sites

Bettors can deposit money into sports betting apps by credit card, PayPal, ACH, or check. It is safe to deposit money with online sportsbooks as they are trusted brands. Not all sportsbooks offer the same deposit options, so make sure to check the options before making an account.

It is also very important that sportsbooks payout winning bettors. Withdrawing funds takes longer than depositing. Sportsbooks generally have a 48-96 hour window for withdrawals to hit accounts.

VISAInstant Deposits1-5 Day(s) Withdrawals
MasterCardInstant DepositsNo Withdrawals
American ExpressInstant DepositsNo Withdrawals
VenmoInstant Deposits2-5 Day(s) for Withdrawals
PayPalInstant Deposits2-7 Day(s) Withdrawals
Bank Transfer1-3 Day(s) for Deposits3-7 Days for Withdrawals

How Maryland Sports Betting Compares to the Other Legal States

Maryland is set to give out a vast number of licenses to operators. This is great for the state's sports betting market since users will have a ton of options to get action down. Maryland will grant licenses to 60 operators, while New York only has 9. It's a simply process to sign up for an account for the apps. 

Should I Sign Up to an Offshore Sportsbook?

We would recommend avoiding offshore sportsbooks for a number of reasons.

  • ❌ Offshore sportsbooks are illegal in the United States.
  • ❌ Betting at one is a federal crime.
  • ❌ There is little regulation for some operators.
  • ❌ Your personal information might not be secure.
  • ❌ You might not be guaranteed any of your winnings.
  • ❌ You could lose your deposit money.

If that is not enough to convince you to avoid offshore sportsbooks, consider that your money goes out of the United States. By betting at regulated sports betting sites in Maryland, the money supports the local and national economy and children's education. 

Why Bet in Maryland

Sports betting sites are live in Maryland and bettors no longer have to cross state lines to wager. By keeping gambling dollars in state lines, initiatives through taxes can be set forth. For example, Maryland has a set 15% tax rate for sportsbooks. The taxes are going towards the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future Fund, a 10-year early childhood, and primary and secondary education funding and expansion plan. 

The Best Time of the Year Has Arrived - Bet Now in Maryland

Whether you are new to betting or have years of experience, now is the time to get into the action. Football season brings forth some of the most exclusive sportsbook offers, competitive odds, contests and more. Maryland sports betting sites are eyeing your bets. Sign up now to get all sorts of hot deals and more. 

Responsible Sports Gambling

Most sportsbooks have a responsible gambling section on their websites and apps. These are detailed sections with self-assessments for problem gaming as well as other resources. Other resources include the national problem gaming hotline.

Maryland Sports Betting FAQ

Author

Eric Pauly is a betting analyst with BetMaryland.com. He has used more betting apps than most people could name and has become a trusted source in the online sports betting industry.Eric's expert reviews of the top Maryland sportsbooks are as valuable as they come. He breaks down everything bettors need to know, from the top Maryland sportsbook promo codes to legislative updates in MD.

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