Since launching legal sports betting in 2021, Michigan has become one of the biggest markets in the US in terms of revenue and the number of sports betting apps available.
There are more than a dozen online sportsbooks in Michigan, many of which offer competitive sign-up bonuses for new sports bettors. Here’s a look at the current state of Michigan sports betting, the available apps and top sports betting sites for bettors.
Best Michigan sports betting sites and apps for 2022
Contents
What’s happening in Michigan sports betting right now?
- May 23, 2022 — The Michigan Gaming Control Board announced Michigan is now in the Multi-State Internet Gaming Association. Now, Michigan poker players can play against players in Delaware, Nevada, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
- May 17, 2022 — Michigan sportsbook took $396 million in April 2022, generating $32.6 million in revenue. While it is a dip from March, it is still a 44.4% increase compared to April 2021.
- May 5, 2022 — DraftKings closed on its acquisition of Golden Nugget Online Gaming. Both operators hold a Michigan license as DraftKings works to beef up its iGaming suite.
- May 2, 2022 — The Michigan Gaming Control Board posted fantasy contest operator license applications on its website. The initial operator license fee is $10,000 with an annual renewal of $5,000.
- April 18, 2022 — The Michigan Gaming Control Board reported a March sports betting handle of nearly $478 million. FanDuel led operators with $140.1 million in online bets.
- April 14, 2022 — Soaring Eagle Casino is now authorized for online sports betting and gaming with its Eagle Casino & Sports. The casino opened its retail Ascend Sportsbook earlier this month.
- April 6, 2022 — The Multi-State Internet Gaming Association accepted Michigan into the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement. Michigan poker players will be able to play poker against players in other states under the agreement, including Delaware, Nevada, New Jersey and Pennsylvania.
- April 4, 2022 — Across the Detroit River and Lake Huron, Ontario became the first Canadian province to launch commercial sports betting. Operators like BetMGM, PointsBet, Caesars and FanDuel launched on Day 1.
- March 31, 2022 — Soaring Eagle Casino & Resort in Mount Pleasant announced it will open its retail sportsbook on April 4. It will be the 13th retail sportsbook in the state.
- March 28, 2022 — The World Series of Poker announced WSOP.com is now live in Michigan. The website is already live in Pennsylvania, Nevada, and New Jersey.
- March 17, 2022 — Michigan sportsbooks took $423.8 million in bets during February, up from $325.6 million in February 2021. Sportsbooks generated $21.6 million in gross revenue but did shell out $26.5 million in promos.
- March 10, 2022 — Detroit casinos took $25.4 million in bets during February, with all three sportsbooks posting a loss. Detroit City FC partnered with Golden Nugget Sportsbook ahead of its first season in the USL Championship.
- March 7, 2022 — Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan told City Council members the online gaming taxes helped offset pandemic losses. Duggan also expects online sports betting and casino to contribute heavily to his “return to normal” budget in the 2023 fiscal year.
- March 2, 2022 — The Kalamazoo K-Wings of the ECHL announced a deal with FireKeepers Casino Hotel, which will include app downloading station at Wings Event Center. While Michiganders cannot bet on ECHL games, the league is working on a league-wide sportsbook sponsorship.
Michigan sports betting snapshot
| Is online sports betting legal in Michigan? | Yes. Online sports betting is legal in Michigan with 14 apps available in the state. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed the bill to legalize sports betting and online gambling in December 2019. Legal sportsbooks opened at casinos in 2020 but online sportsbooks didn't arrive until January 2021. |
| What sportsbook apps are legal in Michigan? | DraftKings, Caesars, BetMGM, FanDuel, PointsBet, and BetRivers to name a few. |
| What sports can I bet on in Michigan? | All major sports and leagues are available for betting in Michigan. In-state college betting is permitted as well as some entertainment bets such as the Oscars. |
| Who can bet on sports in Michigan? | You must be 21 or older and physically located in the state to bet on sports in Michigan. This is verified using geolocation software that all Michigan apps employ. Affiliated personnel cannot bet on their own team or sport. |
Comparing top sports betting apps in Michigan
If you’re looking to bet on sports online in Michigan, you have plenty of options. Depending on what you’re looking for, some sportsbooks might be better than others. You should make a note of what’s most important to you and compare those options against what each of the Michigan betting sites has to offer. Here are the top options in several key areas:
- Betting on the top games and events: DraftKings, FanDuel. If you like sticking to top sports like the NFL or college football or major events like the Masters or a UFC fight, the industry leaders are great places to play. DraftKings and FanDuel typically bring in the most wagers of any MI online sportsbooks.
- When you’re looking for something different: BetMGM, BetRivers. The best sportsbooks in the state tend to have a good selection of sports to choose from, but some offer a bit more. BetMGM and BetRivers have large menus to browse through, including sports that you won’t find at every book.
- Odds that are most likely on point: Caesars, PointsBet. While odds will vary on individual contests due to market action, Caesars and PointsBet are two books that consistently hit the right notes. PointsBet recently moved up in independent sports betting app ratings as reviewed by Eilers & Krejcik Gaming.
- Sportsbooks with rewards programs: Caesars, BetRivers. These two books have straightforward rewards programs that offer you points just for wagering on sports.
- Recurring promos and regular offers: Caesars, BetMGM. While sign-up bonuses are great, the same holds true for regular incentives for existing players. Caesars and BetMGM tend to have good recurring offers, as well as various daily odds boosts.
1. DraftKings Sportsbook
DraftKings delivers one of the smoothest platforms for Michigan sports bettors. It offers a host of features and a good live betting section, but a wider selection of regular promos would be good to see, as well.
- App rating: 4.9 (iOS), 4.7 (Android)
- Key takeaway: Lots of features from one of the biggest names in sports betting.
- Best feature: Betting pools
- Bonus offer: $1,050
2. BetMGM Sportsbook
BetMGM has a good variety of sports to bet on, ranging from the top games and events down to niche offerings like snooker and lacrosse. Navigation on the web is a little awkward in comparison to the app, but BetMGM regularly steps up with promos.
- App rating: 4.8 (iOS), 4.4 (Android)
- Key takeaway: Large selection of betting options.
- Best feature: Edit my bet
- Bonus offer: $1,000
3. Caesars Sportsbook
The Caesars name is already prominent in gambling circles, but the company has been going to great lengths to increase its sports betting presence. Regular promos, competitive odds and a wide selection of sports have helped it do so. The platform is a bit on the basic side, though, and customer service remains a work in progress.
- App rating: 4.6 (iOS), 4.4 Android
- Key takeaway: Competitive odds on a deep bench of sports.
- Best feature: Regular promos
- Bonus offer: $1,100
4. BetRivers Sportsbook
BetRivers is another sportsbook that has been expanding its national footprint. The site stands out with one of the best rewards programs in the industry. It also offers a good variety of sports and betting options, but there have been mixed reviews on the platform’s overall performance.
- App rating: 2.7 (iOS), 3.4 (Android)
- Key takeaway: Big menu and rewards program for betting.
- Best feature: iRush Rewards
- Bonus offer: $250
5. FanDuel Sportsbook
FanDuel receives high marks for a smooth betting platform with solid visual appeal. It is proving a favorite of both casual and experienced bettors, and recent innovations like same-game parlays and improvements to the prop betting layout have been popular. It could, however, stand to offer more recurring promos.
- App rating: 4.8 (iOS), 4.7 (Android)
- Key takeaway: Easy to use and lots of options.
- Best feature: Same-game parlays
- Bonus offer: $1,000
6. PointsBet Sportsbook
PointsBet offers competitive odds and lines, so the site has become a go-to for some seasoned bettors. And while it can boast PointsBetting as a unique attraction, the overall web and app appearance is a little drab.
- App rating: 4.7 (iOS), 4.5 (Android)
- Key takeaway: Careful attention to odds and lines.
- Best feature: PointsBetting
- Bonus offer: $2,000
New sports betting apps in Michigan
Michigan sports betting law calls for a total of 15 online sportsbooks. Since there are already 14 operating in the state, that leaves room for one more, with the Soaring Eagle Casino and Resort as the favorite to claim the spot. The Saginaw Chippewa Indian Tribe is the licensee for the Mount Pleasant property, which has plans in the works for both a retail and online sportsbook.
It hasn’t announced an exact launch date, but it could happen sometime in 2022.
How to get started with best Michigan sportsbook bonuses
Getting set up at a legal online sportsbook in Michigan generally is a quick process. When registering, you’ll enter some basic information before creating your account. On the bonus front, here are the current top five sign-up promos:
- DraftKings Promo Code: $50 free bet plus 20% up to $1,000 with an initial deposit.
- BetMGM Bonus Code: Your first bet is risk-free up to $1,000.
- Caesars Promo Code: First bet insurance up to a $1,100.
- BetRivers Bonus Code: First deposit match of 100% up to $250.
- FanDuel Promo Code: Risk-free first bet up to $1,000.
Before signing up to play with any new sportsbook, make sure that you have a full understanding of the terms of the bonus offer and use a bonus or promo code to activate the bonus. Here are some common promotional elements from top books:
- Deposit bonus: The sportsbook will match a percentage of your first deposit up to a certain amount. You’ll receive site credits that aren’t eligible for withdrawal until you meet the wagering requirement.
- Free bets: Any winnings that you obtain from using free bets will be yours free and clear, but the credit itself isn’t withdrawable.
- Odds boosts: A boost provides you with the chance to increase your winnings on select wagers, such as a specific moneyline or prop bet.
You’ll be able to download a Michigan sports betting app and have your account up and running in just a few minutes.
10 quick facts about Michigan sports betting
- Michigan officially legalized sports betting in December 2019.
- The first retail sportsbooks in the state opened their doors in March 2020.
- The online launch took place in January 2021.
- In the first 10 days of legal online wagering, bettors placed over $100 million in wagers.
- Michigan sportsbooks set a record for monthly handle with more than $514 million in December 2021.
- To legally bet on sports in Michigan, you must be 21 or older.
- State law allows you to wager on pro and college sports.
- There’s no wagering on high school sports or entertainment-related events, though the MGCB has allowed Oscars betting.
- There is no residency requirement for betting, but you must be within state lines to place any bets.
- Key league and team personnel may not wager on their own sports.
What to expect at a legal Michigan sports betting site
Legal retail sports betting made its debut in Michigan in 2020. The year itself was a challenging one, but promising signs still emerged for the state’s new industry. When online sports betting officially launched the following January, the full potential of the market became even more apparent.
Sports bettors across the state can now wager either online or via a sportsbook app. The Michigan Gaming Control Board provides oversight for the industry and protections for consumers. The state has evolved into one of the more gambling-friendly in the US, as online casino games and poker are legal, as well.
Latest Michigan sports betting news
Michigan Sports Betting Slow Season Starts In April
The slow season is hitting Michigan sports betting. Michigan bettors placed $396 million in April bets, according to a Michigan Gaming Control Board report this week. It was the first month to dip below $400 million since MI sportsbooks took $386.8 million in September 2021. The April handle was a 44.4% jump year-over-year. April was a […] Read More
BetMGM Sees Michigan Sports Betting Surge In March
Michigan sports betting saw a bump in action during March with the state’s two major colleges in the NCAA Tournament. Michigan sportsbooks took nearly $478 million in March bets, according to a Michigan Gaming Control Board report released Monday. That is a 12.8% increase from February’s $424 million. It was also a 24.6% increase compared […] Read More
Michigan Sports Betting Handle Falls For First Time In Six Months
Michigan sports betting handle was affected by a slow sports months but how did its performance stack up to other states? Read MoreMichigan sports betting law and regulations
While states became able to set their own laws on sports betting in the wake of a US Supreme Court ruling in May 2018, it took some time for things to get going in Michigan. Sports betting officially became law in the state in December 2019.
Retail sportsbooks began opening in March 2020, but they were quickly stymied by shutdowns due to the coronavirus pandemic. The online launch took place in January 2021 with a number of books debuting right out of the gate.
You must be 21 or older to legally bet on sports in Michigan. While you don’t have to be a resident to sign up and play online, you must be within state lines when placing bets. Here are some other key points of Michigan sports betting law:
- The state taxes sports betting revenue at 8.4%. In Detroit, commercial casinos pay an additional 1.25% city tax.
- Licenses cost $100,000. There’s an initial $50,000 application fee and an operating fee of $50,000 per year.
- Online sportsbooks have to partner with a land-based casino to be eligible to operate in the state.
Full list of legal sports betting apps in Michigan
Legal online sportsbooks made their debut in Michigan in January 2021. Many were available during the first month, but others trickled in afterward. There are now 14 Michigan sports betting apps. Here’s the complete list what’s currently available:
- Barstool Sportsbook
- BetMGM Sportsbook
- BetRivers Sportsbook
- Caesars Sportsbook
- DraftKings Sportsbook
- FanDuel Sportsbook
- FireKeepers Sportsbook
- Four Winds Sportsbook
- Fox Bet Sportsbook
- Golden Nugget Sportsbook
- Gun Lake Sportsbook
- PointsBet Sportsbook
- TwinSpires Sportsbook
- WynnBET Sportsbook
Popular sports to bet on in Michigan
Michigan boasts home clubs in all four major pro leagues, each of which has had its ups and downs through the years:
- NFL: Detroit Lions
- NBA: Detroit Pistons
- MLB: Detroit Tigers
- NHL: Detroit Red Wings
College sports are also a big attraction in Michigan. During college football and basketball seasons, the University of Michigan and Michigan State garner most of the attention. Plenty of smaller programs have loyal fan bases, as well, and Michigan doesn’t restrict betting on in-state teams.
Elsewhere at legal online sportsbooks, options such as soccer, golf, tennis, UFC and NASCAR generate a good deal of interest. For those who are looking to mix it up, many books also offer more niche contests like rugby and table tennis.
Betting is supposed to be on sports only, but the MGCB has also permitted Oscars betting. You may also see some props with an entertainment flair during the Super Bowl. As is the case in other states, you can’t bet on elections.
Michigan sports betting history
Beginning in 2015, the Michigan Legislature took its first steps toward legalizing internet gambling. Hopes were high when the landscape changed in 2018, but Gov. Rick Snyder ultimately vetoed a bill that would have made sports betting legal.
The debate continued into 2019, with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signing off on the Lawful Sports Betting Act in December of that year. The act was part of a broader package of bills that addressed lawful gambling as a whole.
Retail sports betting debuted in 2020, followed by online sports betting in 2021. Michigan has quickly grown into a top market for legal sports betting. Here are some of the key highlights on the path to getting there:
- 2017: The Lawful Internet Gaming Act passes through a committee in the Michigan Legislature, sparking optimism that the state will move forward with legal sports betting in the future.
- 2018: A bill that would have legalized sports betting makes it to the desk of Gov. Rick Snyder, but he vetoes it.
- 2019: The legalization debate continues throughout the year. It culminates in December when Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signs off on the Lawful Sports Betting Act.
- 2020: Retail sportsbooks open in March, but they must pause due to coronavirus restrictions. After a lull, business picks back up in August.
- 2021: Legal online sports betting debuts in January with $150 million in handle. Michigan closes out the year with two consecutive months above the $500 million mark.
Michigan sports betting FAQ
Is sports betting legal in Michigan?
Yes, it’s legal to bet on sports in Michigan either in-person or online. The first retail sportsbooks opened in 2020, with the online launch taking place the following year.
Where can I bet on sports in MI?
When sports betting officially became legal in the state in 2019, the law called for retail and online betting. For retail betting, you’ll find sportsbooks at several of the state’s casinos:
- FireKeepers Casino Hotel
- Four Winds Dowagiac
- Four Winds Hartford
- Four Winds New Buffalo
- Greektown Casino Hotel
- Gun Lake Casino
- Island Resort & Casino
- Leelanau Sands Casino
- Little River Casino and Resort
- MGM Grand Detroit
- Motor City Casino Hotel
- Turtle Creek Casino and Hotel
What’s the legal age for sports betting in MI?
You must be 21 or older to legally bet on sports in Michigan. An online sportsbook will verify your age when you create an account. If it has any trouble doing so during registration, you’ll receive notification from the sportsbook to provide supporting documentation.
Can you bet on horse racing in Michigan?
Yes, you can bet on horse racing in Michigan. Northville Downs is the only operating race track in the state. The venue features harness racing on select dates and regular simulcasting from other tracks. Betting with ADW providers such as TVG is also legal.
Are daily fantasy sports contests legal in MI?
Daily fantasy sports contests officially became legal in 2019 as part of a broader overall gambling expansion. DraftKings and FanDuel are the two major players in the industry and are available in Michigan.
Is betting on college sports legal in Michigan?
Sports betting in Michigan is legal for both pro and college contests. There are no restrictions on betting on in-state teams. Michigan and Michigan State are the star attractions, but you also may be able to bet on some smaller schools from time to time.
List of Michigan resources
- Michigan Gaming Control Board website, includes information on rules and regulations, complaint procedures and more.
- Licensed internet gambling providers from the MGCB website.
- 2019 Michigan sports betting law, signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
- Detroit Free Press, provides local, state and national sports coverage.
- MLive, extensive coverage of state sports news.