New York Sports Betting: Top Legal Online NY Sportsbooks and Apps

Jan 07, 2022

Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images

After a long wait that seemed like forever, mobile and online sports betting have finally been legalized in the Empire State.

Top Legal New York Betting Sites & Apps

While online sports betting has just been legalized in the state, there are some sportsbooks allowed to launch as soon as the bill became effective. That is because they already met the regulatory standards set by the New York Gaming Commission. These sportsbooks launched on January 8, 2022:

FanDuel Sportsbook
Caesars Sportsbook
DraftKings Sportsbook
Rush Street Interactive

These are leading sportsbooks when it comes to sports betting in the U.S., and are well-reputed by reviewers and bettors.

New York Online Sports Betting Sites & Apps

With the launch of online sports betting operators in New York, there are good apps and sites to choose from when it comes to placing wagers on sporting events. All four sportsbooks that have launched offer good quality websites and mobile applications to bettors, so it is a good idea to research the individual applications to see their pros and cons.

FanDuel NY Sportsbook

FanDuel Sportsbook has been offering its services to customers for over 10 years. It has established itself as one of the leading sportsbooks in the U.S. It has always been innovative and straightforward with its approach when it comes to sports betting, having a high-quality and immersive application, as well as a website.

FanDuel acted swiftly and added New Jersey to its online sports betting empire when PASPA was overturned by the U.S. Supreme Court. FanDuel has always been compared to DraftKings and has been delivering solid services in various competitive markets. It already had a physical presence in the Empire State before online betting was legalized by a bill in November, in the form of its official sportsbook of Tioga Downs, based in Nichols, NY.

However, it quickly announced its mobile application and website would be launching in New York. It is currently operational for mobile bettors residing in the state. FanDuel's app and website are popular among online bettors for a plethora of reasons, ranging from the simplicity of their interface, easy navigation and functionality, as well as its promotional offers and bonuses.

The FanDuel app has practically no "learning curve" when it comes to new bettors using it because it has no clutter, is minimal and responsive, rarely lags and has a good and interactive interface. Last but not least, its application is available on both Android and Apple devices, offering service no matter which mobile device a bettor uses.

FanDuel also has a very decent promotion ongoing right now for new users. It is in the form of a $1,000 risk-free bet for first-time bettors, allowing new bettors some confidence and experience while eliminating any risk of losing their money.

Risk-free bets are a classic method to break the ice for newbie bettors, and FanDuel does it right. Additionally, there is a specific promotion for FanDuel's New York launch—New users who sign up at FanDuel from New York receive for free $100 for wagering. This is a pre-live promo New Yorkers can take advantage of and get into online sports betting with FanDuel. Moreover, the operator's "daily boosted odds" offer is also decent.

Caesars NY Sportsbook

Caesars is one of the most well-reputed names when it comes to the U.S. sports betting landscape. The brand has established itself in the U.S. market and is always looking to expand its presence whenever a new market gets legalized. There were no surprises when Caesars announced they would be offering their online betting services to New Yorkers when it was announced online betting was coming to the state.

With the operator already having a physical presence in the state, after launching its top-notch application for online bettors, one cannot help but expect them to also become one of the leading names in the New York online sports betting landscape. Caesars gives its competitors a tough fight in almost every aspect a sportsbook can.

Caesars Sportsbook has highly competitive odds compared to the market, and also offers a decent amount of options when it comes to which sports a bettor can wager on. The application and website are carefully designed and are among the best available. The menu is very easy to navigate for the users, and help is offered when identifying the lines the user is looking for very quickly.

New Yorkers will appreciate the modesty and simplicity of the layout of the website and app, as well as the interface. However, more experienced sports bettors may feel disappointed with the lack of some options and markets on Caesars's online sports betting application and website section. However, there is certainly a sizeable betting audience who appreciate the simplicity and a more streamlined betting experience.

While the range of sports being offered are fairly substantial to keep most sports bettors entertained adequately, there is the chance more experienced and hardcore bettors would feel the limitations.

In addition to offering a variety of sports for bettors to enjoy, Caesars also offers a wide array of betting choices.

In addition, bettors also have the option of wagering on individual or smaller portions of games. For example, bettors can wager a parlay on the first half of a soccer game, or a Moneyline wager on just the second quarter of an NFL game. This offers more variety to bettors to keep them entertained and satisfied.

Also, there are relatively fewer limitations and restrictions when it comes to multi-bets, such as round robins and parlays. At Caesars, a bettor can include multiple sections of one game as legs of the same parlay wager.

DraftKings NY Sportsbook

DraftKings was one of the first sportsbooks to launch a legal online betting platform in the U.S. and is an established brand in the online sports betting landscape. It is making every effort to establish itself in the Empire State's landscape just as well.

The overall experience with sports betting at DraftKings is simple, fun and sleek. Navigation through the site is super easy as well as interactive, as DraftKings helps new users by walking them through the basics. Experienced bettors have no reason to be sad either, as DraftKings regularly offers enhanced odds on a wide variety of sports and betting markets in the U.S.

DraftKings already has a popular retail store in the state of New York, the del Lago Resort, which offers in-person sports betting on a wide variety of sports. The DraftKings Sportsbook online experience is immersive and entertaining, while still easy-to-navigate and clutter-free.

The odds offered by DraftKings are right in line with the competition, although some experienced bettors will feel that the bookmaker's fee, or the vig, is higher than the industry standard. However, DraftKings makes up for it by offering an impressive array of promotions and bonuses to new and seasoned bettors alike.

Its offerings are actually staggering, with bonuses such as a deposit-match bonus, an exclusive extra offer that awards $50 in free bets, a signup bonus, profit boost and enhanced odds.

Rush Street Interactive

Rush Street Interactive (RSI) is behind the BetRivers sportsbook. BetRivers is one of America's most trusted, respected and popular online sports betting websites. It is among the top-rated betting sites in Pennsylvania.

BetRivers has grown beyond its home state to be fully operational in many other states. BetRivers is a trusted and well-respected sports betting site in the U.S. online gambling market.

BetRivers is a well-respected and licensed sportsbook that offers a variety of bonuses and promotional codes. It is known for its bonuses and promo codes. These bonuses will increase your chances of winning the most from all your bets.

More Sportsbooks Coming

The above-discussed sportsbooks will not be the only ones offering services to New Yorkers. In November 2021, the following operators were conditionally approved by the New York State Gaming Commission, but they will need to meet certain regulatory requirements to become operational in the state in 2022:

BetMGM
PointsBet
WynnBET
Bally Bet
Resorts World

Sportsbooks such as FOX Bet, theScoreBet, Barstool Sportsbook and Bet365 will have to be patient when it comes to operating in New York. None were licensed in January as the state went live.

How to Pick the Best Sports Betting Sites in New York

Because mobile sports betting is only now going live in New York, there still needs to be a period of evaluation for the operators. However, since the four that have been approved to launch immediately operate in other states, it's possible to use that information to determine how they will rank in New York.

To properly ascertain the level of quality of a sportsbook, several factors have to be considered. The ease with which a player can sign up and navigate the platform are fundamental. It's also important to look at the speed and the quality of the site.

The odds compared to other sportsbooks is also important, as are welcome and repeat bonuses. Scrutinizing all of these details, as well as the platform's customer service, provides a clear picture of the quality of the operator. This, in turn, determines whether it is a legitimate and worthy site for sports bettors.

How to Start Betting in New York

Now that mobile sports betting is live in New York, it's time to place bets. The first step is to select one (or more) of the sportsbooks and register for an account. This will include having to supply certain personal data, such as name, address, phone number and social security number.

Once the account is registered and open, it needs to have funds added to it. The funding methods are determined by the individual sportsbook, but most accept credit and debit cards, PayPal, Play+, ACH and others. Note that, for credit cards, the credit card supplier may limit its cards and prevent them from being used for gambling deposits.

How to Place a Sports Bet in New York

Now is the best time to get familiar with the different types of bets. Don't assume you are familiar with the rules before placing a bet. It is always better to double-check all guidelines before placing a wager.

A budget is one of the most common mistakes novice sports gamblers make. It is important to remember you should not gamble what you can't afford.

It's a good idea to keep the wager amount at roughly the same level for each bet. Bettors can also get into trouble if they spot a "can't miss" bet. They are more likely to place a large amount of money on this line than they would on their regular bets. They are stuck if the bet doesn't pay.

After looking through the lines and finding what appeals to you most, it is time to place your wager. Clicking on the desired line will bring up a screen asking you whether you would like to place the wager as a straight bet or part of a teaser or parlay. If you only want to place this bet, you can choose "straight wager" to enter the amount you are willing to risk.

After you have entered your amount, you'll be notified about the payout for winning bets. Once you're satisfied, click "OK" or confirm bet and the rest is up to the teams.

Most Popular Sports to Bet on in New York

Across the U.S., football ranks highest in the sports betting industry. Both professional and college football are consistently popular. Pro and college basketball are next in line. However, among these four, the NFL and college basketball perform better. MLB follows closely behind.

Soccer (MLS) and hockey (NHL) are popular with bettors, as well, but only capture a small portion of the market.

New York Sports Teams to Bet on

There are a number of professional sports teams in New York. In the NFL, there are the New York Jets and the New York Giants. In MLB, there are the Yankees and the Mets. The New York Knicks and the Brooklyn Nets represent the NBA. In addition, New York is home to women's teams in the WNBA and NWSL.

In the NHL, the Rangers are based out of the state, as are the Islanders. There is also the New Jersey Devils. New York is also home to an MLS franchise, the New York Red Bulls.

College sports betting is allowed, as well. However, in-state college team betting is prohibited.

Other Sporting Events in New York to Bet on

The range of events bettors can target in New York is almost endless. Games from all the leagues' events are available, but there is also horse and greyhound racing.

Sports Betting Mistakes to Avoid in New York

It's easy to get caught up in the moment and make a mistake when placing a wager. However, there are certain things bettors should be aware of at all times. Always double-check the bet before confirming it. Maintain good bankroll management and stay disciplined.

Know which stats to use when placing a bet. Make sure they're accurate and are from a reliable source. Also, never chase losses. Cut your losses and move on.

New York Sports Betting Site Promotions

Competition induces operators to offer better promotions to entice bettors. This will be seen in New York, as well. Currently, DraftKings offers a $100 free bet with no deposit and a 20% deposit match. FanDuel has the same free bet, but with a $1,000 risk-free bet included. Caesars offers a first-bet match up to $1,001, and BetRivers has a deposit match up to $250.

New York & Sports Betting Law

The former governor of New York, Andrew Cuomo, signed the budget legislation for the 2022 fiscal year in April 2021. It included a plan for online sports betting. This made New York legal to allow mobile sports betting.

The new law contains several provisions that regulate mobile sports betting. It clarifies that online betting on sports is legal provided the bettor is physically present in New York at the time of transaction. The law restricts mobile sports betting to intrastate transactions by requiring that the bettor, casino and servers must all be located in New York. Additionally, college sports bettors can place wagers as long as there are no New York colleges involved, following patterns set in other states.

The regulation framework of the law focuses on "platform providers" who will offer online betting services. The law allows the State Gaming Commission to choose two platform providers for mobile sports wagering. This is done through a competitive bidding process.

If the Commission determines it is in the state's best interests, the Commission can permit additional mobile sports wagering operators. Additional operators will pay the same tax rate as the first two licensees. All applicants must submit a variety of information about their operation and anticipated earnings. All licensees will have to pay $25 million to the State. The operator's license must be renewed every 10 years.

New York Sports Betting FAQ

Is sports betting legal in New York?

Sports betting has been legal in New York since 2013, but the first retail sportsbooks didn't launch until 2019. As of January 2022, mobile sports betting is live.

Who regulates and oversees New York sports betting?

The New York State Gaming Commission regulates all aspects of gaming activity in New York.

Where can I bet on sports in New York?

There are a limited number of retail sportsbooks available in the state, but mobile betting is now available everywhere. Nearby New Jersey also has sportsbooks and mobile betting.