Sports betting launched in Michigan back on January 22, 2021. If you're over 21, you can sign up with a bookie and start placing your bets. But just a heads up: always go with a licensed Michigan sportsbook.Best Michigan Sportsbooks | Ranking All 16+ MA Betting Sites
Feeling a bit lost about which sportsbooks are licensed or overwhelmed by all the rules and regulations? No worries, you've come to the right place. I've pulled together a list of the best licensed sportsbooks and dived deep into the legal stuff, the history, the pros and cons, and more. Stick with me, and you’ll know everything you need to know about sports betting in Michigan.Best Michigan Sportsbooks | Ranking All 16+ MA Betting Sites
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Alright, I get it – you’re here for the good stuff, the best MI betting sites that I’ve personally tried, tested, and approved. No need to scroll to the end of this guide; I value your time too much for that. So, let’s dive straight in. Below, you’ll find a complete list of Michigan sportsbooks that I recommend.
Each one has been thoroughly tested and stands out not just for being licensed and secure, but also for offering highly competitive odds, a wide range of sports, generous bonuses, and much more. So if you’re wondering where to place your bets, trust me – you can’t go wrong with any of these sportsbooks.
All of the Michigan online sportsbooks I’ve recommended have passed my review process with flying colors and bring a lot to the table. However, some stand out in specific areas more than others. To help you choose one based on what’s most important to you, I’ve broken down my picks for the best in various categories. Check them out:
| Category | Sportsbook |
|---|---|
| 💰 Best Sign Up Bonus | BetMGM |
| 📈 Most Competitive Odds | DraftKings |
| 🏈 Biggest Choice of Markets | DraftKings |
| 🤝 Best Loyalty Promos | Caesars |
| 🎯 Best Same Game Parlays | FanDuel |
| 🆕 Newest Sportsbook | Fanatics |
| 📱 Best Mobile App | FanDuel |
| ⏳ Best for Live Betting | BetRivers |
| 💳 Most Trusted Payments | Fanatics |
| 💬 Best Support | DraftKings |
Previously, the US had some pretty tight rules against sports betting because of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA). This law basically banned sports betting nationwide. But things took a big turn in 2018 when the Supreme Court knocked down PASPA. This decision let each state make its own rules about sports betting. States like New Jersey, Delaware, Mississippi, West Virginia, and Pennsylvania wasted no time and legalized online sports betting the same year PASPA was overturned.
Michigan, however, didn’t jump on the bandwagon as quickly. It wasn’t until 2019, a year after PASPA got overturned, that Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed the Lawful Sports Betting Act, making sports betting legal in Michigan. The first in-person sports betting kicked off on March 11, 2020, at Detroit’s three commercial casinos. Then, on January 22, 2021, Michigan launched online sports betting, letting residents over 21 place legal bets through state-licensed sportsbooks. So, while some states rushed to legalize sports betting, Michigan took a more measured approach, starting with legislation in late 2019, moving to in-person betting in early 2020, and finally rolling out online betting in early 2021.
Since Michigan gave the green light to online sports betting in early 2021, the industry has been booming with no signs of slowing down. Just look at the numbers: Michigan’s total sports bets, or “handle,” hit an incredible $4.81 billion in both 2022 and 2023. Even in February 2024 alone, bettors threw down $415.8 million, marking a 16.4% jump from February the year before. These figures make it clear that online sports betting is not a passing trend in Michigan but a significant and growing industry that’s here to stay. To really get the full picture, let’s walk through a timeline of how sports betting evolved in Michigan and the key milestones along the way:
The Supreme Court of the United States strikes down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), allowing states to legalize sports betting.
Governor Gretchen Whitmer signs the Lawful Sports Betting Act into law, officially legalizing sports betting in Michigan.
Retail sports betting goes live in Michigan. The first legal sports bets were placed at MGM Grand Detroit and Greektown Casino.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) approves online sports betting rules.
Online sports betting officially launches in Michigan. A whole bunch of operators, like FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM, go live on day one.
On the third anniversary of the Lawful Sports Betting Act, Michigan reported over $3 billion in handle (total amount wagered) since launch, marking a significant milestone.
While Michigan sportsbooks offer plenty of advantages, there are also some downsides to be aware of. To ensure you manage your expectations correctly, I’ve listed the main pros and cons for you here.
Before we dive into the mini-reviews for my top recommendations, let’s check out the complete list of licensed sportsbooks in Michigan. This will give you a good look at all the options you’ve got.
Alright, now that you’ve got the scoop on all the legal and technical details, plus a list of the best Michigan online betting sites, you’re pretty much ready to jump in and start placing bets. But if you’re curious to learn more about the MI sportsbooks that I recommend, check out my detailed reviews for each one here.
BetMGM entered the scene on January 22, 2021, the same day that Michigan launched online sports betting. It’s quickly become a fan favorite, and it’s easy to see why. Not only does BetMGM offer some of the best odds across big leagues like the MLB, NBA, NFL, NHL, and NCAA, but it also has modern features that enhance the betting experience. Think live betting, live streaming, 24/7 live chat support, and a slick mobile app for both iPhone and Android users.
And let’s talk bonuses – this live streaming sportsbook has got them in spades. As a new player, you can get up to $1,500 in bonus bets if your first wager loses. Plus, the promotions page is always being updated with fresh deals, from bet insurance and parlay boosts to deposit match bonuses and more. All in all, BetMGM sportsbook really checks all the right boxes. Definitely worth a look if you’re into sports betting in Michigan.
FanDuel is a major player in Michigan’s sports betting scene, grabbing the largest market share at 38% in February 2024. Known across the U.S. as “America’s #1 Sportsbook,” FanDuel lives up to its reputation by offering top-notch odds on all the major sports – from football to basketball – and even some niche ones too.
What sets FanDuel apart, however, are its modern, user-friendly features. This includes reliable live chat support, a quick bet option, regular odds boosts, an intuitive bet builder, and one of the best betting apps. One of my favorite features is the player prop tracking in the app; it’s incredibly handy for monitoring your bets in real-time during games.
FanDuel doesn’t skimp on bonuses either. For instance, you can place a $5 bet and get $150 in bonus bets if you win. They also offer “no sweat bets,” giving you a refund in bonus bets if your wager doesn’t pan out. With such great odds and features, it’s no wonder FanDuel remains at the forefront of Michigan’s sports betting scene.
T&Cs and 21+ apply
BetRivers, a recognized name across the US, now operates legally in Michigan thanks to a license from the Michigan Gaming Control Board. The sportsbook launched in January 2021, and quickly became a favorite among Michigan’s sports bettors. What sets BetRivers apart? It’s not just the impressive odds on everything from NFL and NBA to niche sports like snooker and darts; it’s also the extra features that enhance your betting experience. Think live betting, streaming, a handy bet builder, early cashouts, and round-the-clock live chat support.
Their mobile app is a breeze to use on iOS and Android devices, and it comes packed with stats and analytics to help you place smarter bets. The bonuses are a major draw too. You start with a welcome bonus on your first deposit, and the promotions just keep coming – reload bonuses, free bets, and more. Plus, their iRush Rewards program is a real highlight, as you’ll get to benefit from exclusive bonuses and perks. So if you’re looking for a Michigan sportsbook that really delivers, BetRivers should be on your radar.
DraftKings has been a big name in Michigan’s sports betting scene since its launch on January 22, 2021 – the same day online sports betting kicked off in the state. By February 2024, it had a whopping 27% of Michigan’s market share, and it’s easy to see why. DraftKings has excellent odds on over 50 sports, including American favorites like basketball and baseball, as well as international ones like soccer, tennis, and golf. You can even dive into esports and daily fantasy sports, so there is something for every kind of betting enthusiast.
However, what really keeps DraftKings ahead of the competition is its commitment to innovation. It continually updates its offerings with better odds and bigger bonuses, not to mention cutting-edge features.
Alongside essentials like live betting, live streaming, and a bet builder tool, it introduces unique features such as the progressive parlay. This cool tool lets you win a parlay even if not all your picks are correct. Plus, the “How to Bet” section is a treasure trove, filled with detailed guides on strategies and odds, and even includes a betting calculator to help you practice with different scenarios and strategies. So all in all, DraftKings is clearly a top choice for anyone serious about sports betting in Michigan.
25x Deposit. T&Cs and 21+ apply
Fanatics may not be as well-known as some of the other big names out there, but it’s definitely a sportsbook worth paying attention to. Here’s a bit of its backstory: Fanatics swooped in and bought PointsBet for $225 million in June 2023 after outbidding DraftKings. This bold move shows they’re serious about making a mark, and so far, they’re nailing it, especially in Michigan.
What’s drawing people to Fanatics? It’s got outstanding odds on a wide range of sports and leagues, but that’s not all. The platform boasts features like 24/7 customer support, live betting and streaming, an easy-to-use bet builder tool, early cashouts, and excellent parlay betting options.
Another notable feature is the loyalty program. Whether you win or lose, betting on your favorite sports get you “FanCash” tokens. Rack up enough FanCash, and you can exchange them for bonuses and merch. With so much to offer, it only makes sense to include Fanatics on this list of the best sportsbooks in Michigan. If you haven’t checked it out yet, it’s definitely worth a look.
Caesars Sportsbook hit the Michigan sports betting scene on January 22, 2021, the same day mobile betting went live across the state. It’s been on the rise ever since, largely due to offering some of the best odds on a wide range of sports and leagues including the NBA, NFL, MLB, and more. Plus, Caesars stands out with features like 24/7 live chat support, a sleek mobile app, a useful bet builder tool, and the option for early cashouts. Their loyalty program is also a big plus.
You’ll get loyalty points on every bet, win or lose. Accumulate these credits, and you can redeem them for bonuses, sports tickets, luxurious getaways, and VIP experiences. Another feature I really like is the “How to Bet” section. Here, you’ll find detailed guides on placing bets, making deposits and withdrawals, and more. This ensures you have all the information you need for a smooth betting experience.
WynnBET has been through plenty of twists and turns since it launched in 2021. The Michigan operations were acquired by Caesars entertainment, meaning customers can continue to use WynnBET despite the company pulling out of several states including Arizona. They are a trusted brand with good sportsbook apps and offering fairly competitive odds. A wider choice of markets would make them more competitive though.
While the desktop site needs a bit of updating, ESPN Bet offers players in Michigan a really solid sportsbook app experience. The rebrand from Barstool Sportsbook to ESPN Bet was a big play in the legalized betting market and you’d expect a good showing from a leading media brand. You’ll find plenty to like here with all major sports available, an engaging live betting product and plentiful promotions.
betPARX MI offers a sleek, modern design to it’s sportsbook customers. The odds are fairly competitive although more promotions would be a positive for them moving forward. It’s not always possible of course, as these are expensive to run, but it’s an area of improvement alongside their live betting suite. For now, it’s a very solid Michigan sportsbook especially on the dedicated app.
The Golden Nugget is a well-known brand in the world of sports betting. Their Michigan sportsbook is a solid option for online bettors, especially if you are seeking a more simplistic design. There’s good coverage of the major events so betting on the biggest sports won’t be an issue but lower profile events may prove a little trickier.
Based in Mount Pleasant, Soaring Eagle Gaming are live with their own sports betting platform, exclusive to Michigan. They have apps for iOS and Android which seemingly hold up well under initial testing, including plenty of sports, even beyond the likes of the NFL, NBA and MLB. More payment methods would be an advantage but they could be added in time.
Another brand local to Michigan is Firekeepers Sportsbook. They’ve been online since July 2021 and offer wagering on desktop or mobile devices. There’s a good choice of payment methods and events to wager on, albeit payouts could be speedier in order to allow them to compete with the leading sportsbooks in Michigan. As you’d expect of a local book, there are fewer ongoing promotions than you’d expect at the leading national brands.
Having been in Michigan since 2007, it was no surprise when FourWinds launched their online sportsbook. The menu of sports isn’t the biggest on the market, but the major players are covered in a solid amount of detail. The website and apps are fine, but lack the sleek design or modern touches of the larger brands available to bet with in Michgian right now. As with many local brands, live betting opportunities aren’t as plentiful with FourWinds.
TwinSpires was a sportsbook brand run by Churchill Downs. Having initially launched in Michigan during 2021, they pulled out of MI in early 2022. The CEO of the parent company cited their struggles to turn a profit in such a competitive marketplace at the time.
Despite backing from Flutter Entertainment and being able to leverage one of the biggest media brands in North America, FOX Bet are no longer active in Michigan. The announcement came in July 2023 after the brand failed to make the desired impact across the country.
SI Sportsbook are the latest brand to announce they will be leaving the Michian marketplace. Having launched in 2022, partnering with Island Resort and Casino in the process, the company announced they would be winding down in MI and other states by the end of 2024. It remains to be seen if their operations will be taken over by another party.
Kicking off your sports betting experience in Michigan is a breeze and doesn’t take much time at all. If you’re 21 or older, just choose a licensed sportsbook from the recommendations I’ve listed right here on this page. Once you’ve picked one that you like the look of, you’re only a few steps away from getting in on the action:
That’s all there is to it. These steps are quick and easy to complete, which means you’ll be ready to start betting in no time.
Online sports betting officially launched in Michigan on January 22nd, 2021. That very day, several industry leading sportsbooks such as BetMGM, FanDuel, BetRivers, DraftKings, and Caesars started accepting bets from Michigan bettors. Since that initial launch, a number of additional sportsbooks have joined Michigan’s betting scene. Here’s some information about these new MI sportsbooks:
| Sportsbook | Licensed in Michigan | Launch date in Michigan | Active in Michigan | Additional notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WynnBET | Yes | 2021 | Yes | Owned by Wynn Resorts |
| Fanatics | Yes | 2023 | Yes | Acquired PointsBet |
| ESPN Bet | Yes | 2023 | Yes | Rebranded from Barstool |
| BetPARX | Yes | 2022 | Yes | Owned by Greenwood Gaming and Entertainment |
| Golden Nugget | Yes | 2021 | Yes | Owned by DraftKings |
| Eagle Casino and Sports | Yes | 2022 | Yes | Owned by Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort |
| FireKeepers Sportsbook | Yes | 2022 | Yes | Owned by FireKeepers Casino Hotel |
| Four Winds | Yes | 2021 | Yes | Owned by Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians |
| TwinSpires | Yes | 2021 | No | Stopped accepting sports wagers in Michigan |
| FOX Bet | Yes | 2021 | No | Closed in 2023 |
| SI Sportsbook | Yes | 2021 | No | Closing in late 2023 |
Sports betting laws in the US can be super confusing, especially since they change from state to state. So, if you’re unsure about what’s allowed in Michigan, don’t sweat it – it’s totally normal. The good news is that most sports are fair game for betting here, with very few restrictions. So, whatever sport you’re into, chances are you can place a bet on it. Here’s a quick rundown of the sports you can bet on in Michigan.
| Sport | Main leagues | Types of bets |
|---|---|---|
| Football | NFL, NCAA | Moneyline, Point Spread, Over/Under, Parlays, Futures, Props |
| Basketball | NBA, NCAA | Moneyline, Point Spread, Over/Under, Parlays, Futures, Props |
| Baseball | MLB | Moneyline, Run Line, Over/Under, Parlays, Futures, Props |
| Hockey | NHL | Moneyline, Puck Line, Over/Under, Parlays, Futures, Props |
| Soccer | MLS, EPL, La Liga, Serie A, Bundesliga, UEFA Champions League | Moneyline, Point Spread, Over/Under, Parlays, Futures, Props |
| Tennis | ATP, WTA | Moneyline, Set Betting, Over/Under, Parlays, Futures, Props |
| Golf | PGA, European Tour | Moneyline, Place Bets, Matchups, Futures, Props |
| Boxing | Various promotions | Moneyline, Round Betting, Method of Victory, Props |
| MMA | UFC, ONE Championship | Moneyline, Round Betting, Method of Victory, Props |
| Auto racing | NASCAR, Formula 1 | Moneyline, Podium Finish, Fastest Lap, Futures, Props |
| Esports | League of Legends, Dota 2, Counter Strike | Moneyline, Match Winner, Map Betting, Props |
In Michigan, you’ve got a lot of freedom when it comes to betting, with relatively few limitations on what you can place your bets on. That said, it’s wise to take note of some specific restrictions. Just like in the rest of the United States, putting money on high school sports is a no-go. This means no betting on your kid’s high school football game in the Great Lake State. Additionally, most non-sporting events, including popular awards shows and elections, are also off limits.
So, if you were hoping to wager on the Oscars or predict the next US president, you won’t be able to do it in Michigan. And while you can bet on college football sportsbooks, there are some limits there too. You can only place bets on NCAA Division I events, and betting on individual player performances is strictly prohibited, ruling out any player prop bets. So while Michigan does offer a wide range of betting options, it’s important to keep these restrictions in mind.
To legally take bets in Michigan, a sportsbook must first secure a license from the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB). This authority regulates all gambling activities in the state, including sports betting, online casinos, and lotteries. The licensing process involves the MGCB conducting thorough background checks on the sportsbook and its key stakeholders to ensure they meet state regulations.
Once these checks are cleared and the application is approved, the MGCB issues a license, allowing the sportsbook to operate legally in Michigan. But it doesn’t end there. Licensed sportsbooks continue to undergo regular reviews and audits by the MGCB and third-party firms like BMM Testlabs and Gaming Laboratories International (GLI). These audits ensure that the sportsbook’s platform and software remain fair, secure, and in compliance with state standards. So, when a sportsbook has a MGCB license, it’s a sign that it upholds the highest standards of safety, security, and fairness.
The Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) is clearly committed to promoting safe and responsible gambling within the state. To achieve this, the MGCB requires all MI sportsbooks to provide tools that make it easy for you to stay in control of your betting activities.
These tools include the ability for you to set your own betting limits, which helps you stick to a budget and avoid overspending. Additionally, Michigan online sportsbooks offer self-exclusion options, allowing you to voluntarily exclude yourself from betting activities for a period of time if you feel it’s necessary.
I’ve rated each of my top recommended sportsbooks in Michigan based on a variety of key categories. These include bonuses, the competitiveness of odds and lines, the user experience of their apps, the diversity of payment options, and the range of markets available, among others. Take a moment to review which online sportsbooks perform best in the areas you care about most. This will help you decide which sportsbooks might be best suited to your own preferences.
| Category | Ranking |
|---|---|
| Bonuses | 8/10 |
| Competitive Lines | 8/10 |
| App Experience | 9/10 |
| Payment Options | 8/10 |
| Market Variety | 8/10 |
| Support | 9/10 |
| Summary | 9/10 |
| Category | Ranking |
|---|---|
| Bonuses | 9/10 |
| Competitive Lines | 9/10 |
| App Experience | 9/10 |
| Payment Options | 8/10 |
| Market Variety | 8/10 |
| Support | 9/10 |
| Summary | 9/10 |
| Category | Ranking |
|---|---|
| Bonuses | 8/10 |
| Competitive Lines | 8/10 |
| App Experience | 9/10 |
| Payment Options | 8/10 |
| Market Variety | 8/10 |
| Support | 9/10 |
| Summary | 8/10 |
| Category | Ranking |
|---|---|
| Bonuses | 9/10 |
| Competitive Lines | 9/10 |
| App Experience | 9/10 |
| Payment Options | 8/10 |
| Market Variety | 9/10 |
| Support | 9/10 |
| Summary | 9/10 |
| Category | Ranking |
|---|---|
| Bonuses | 8/10 |
| Competitive Lines | 8/10 |
| App Experience | 8/10 |
| Payment Options | 8/10 |
| Market Variety | 8/10 |
| Support | 8/10 |
| Summary | 8/10 |
| Category | Ranking |
|---|---|
| Bonuses | 9/10 |
| Competitive Lines | 8/10 |
| App Experience | 9/10 |
| Payment Options | 8/10 |
| Market Variety | 9/10 |
| Support | 9/10 |
| Summary | 9/10 |
Yes, sports betting is totally legal in Michigan. It kicked off on March 11, 2020, with in-person betting at Detroit’s casinos, and online betting followed on January 22, 2021. Just make sure you’re 21 or older and only use licensed Michigan sportsbooks. This ensures you’re betting within the state’s regulations and enjoying a safe and fair experience.
Absolutely, Michigan betting sites are safe to use as long as they are licensed by the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB). These sites undergo rigorous checks and regular audits to ensure they meet high standards for security, fairness, and responsible gambling. Always look for the MGCB license to ensure you’re dealing with a legitimate sportsbook.
The best MI sportsbooks include BetMGM, FanDuel, DraftKings, BetRivers, and Caesars, among others. These sites stand out for their competitive odds, wide range of sports, generous bonuses, and user-friendly interfaces. They’ve all been thoroughly tested and approved, so whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned bettor, you can’t go wrong with any of these top-rated sportsbooks.
Several sportsbooks are legal in Michigan, including big names like BetMGM, FanDuel, DraftKings, BetRivers, and Caesars. Each of these sportsbooks has been licensed by the Michigan Gaming Control Board, ensuring they meet strict regulatory standards. Because of this, you can be sure that they all uphold the highest levels of safety, security, and fairness.
Yes, FanDuel sportsbook is legal in Michigan. It launched on January 22, 2021, the same day online sports betting went live in the state. Licensed by the Michigan Gaming Control Board, FanDuel offers a safe and regulated platform for betting on a wide range of sports. Known for its competitive odds and excellent mobile app, FanDuel is an excellent choice for sports betting in Michigan.
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