BParlay.com have put together the Ultimate Pennsylvania Sports Betting Guide.
Pennsylvania has been well prepared for the recent explosion in gambling across the nation and is capitalizing on the new market.
Led by Representatives Rick Kotik and Rob Matzie, intentions to pursue statewide gambling legalization was announced in an effort to convert unregulated, illegal practices into state-generated sources of entertainment and income. A bill of the same nature was then passed in 2017, a year prior to the repeal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act that legalized gambling nationwide.
Pennsylvania Governor, Democrat Tom Wolf, was not a major proponent of the Republican-driven bill but saw it as an opportunity to balance deficits without thrusting a tax hike onto state residents.
“There’s been a lot of pressure from a lot of places in the commonwealth to actually expand this, and we do need some recurring revenue,” Wolf said. “Again, the goal has been all along to do what’s prudent, not cannibalize existing gambling revenue coming to the state, and I think what we’re settling on will actually do that.”
This came as no surprise to many Pennsylvania natives, as casinos had already been allowed for 13 years, dating back to a 2004 decision to allow slot machines inside state borders.
The Growth for Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania was able to grow very quickly because of the foresight and initiatives, and it currently maintains the country’s second-largest gambling market of all states.
The gambling market officially opened with full-scale operations in 2018 and expanded into the online world in 2019.
According to the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board, gambling accounted for $400 million in total revenue in March and April this year, and future months are expected to surpass this total. The industry is already fully ingrained into PA’s culture and is a pillar in the economic future of the Keystone State.
Gambling Status
The legal gambling age in Pennsylvania depends on where and what type of gambling experience a person is taking part in; for trips to the casino, visitors must be at least 21-years old, as is the case across the United States. However, younger gamblers may take part in parimutuel betting, which divides stakes amongst participants, the lottery system, and charity bingo games.
Bets in Pennsylvania may be wagered on registered, U.S.-based sportsbooks, of which many are operational. Entrance into the PA market requires a one-time deposit of $10 million and other legal requirements. For people 21 years and older, bets can be placed in-person and online. This Pennsylvania sports betting guide contains more useful information from the inception of gambling in the state to the latest changes.
Because Pennsylvania was a pioneer in the expansion of gambling and has created such a large space within their state’s market for it, they are at the forefront in innovation and, as a result, competition.
Wagers may be placed on both professional and college sports, provided the lines have been given by an approved sportsbook, although bets are limited to points spreads, moneylines, points totals, and parlays. No in-game bets or props may be gambled on, as is the case in most other states where gambling is legal.
Sportsbooks in Pennsylvania also offer access to international competitions, including events like the Copa America and European Championships, among others. Lines and futures are provided along with props, in most cases.
Top Casino’s in Pennsylvania
Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino and Racetrack in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is the most notorious casino in operation in PA; it is owned by Caesars Entertainment, which is the premier entertainment company in the country and is devoted to increasing customer experiences at its locations, many of which are casinos. Harrah’s is laid out in the space of over 100,00 square feet and offers one-of-a-kind experiences to visitors from all over the country.
Inside the casino, there are over 2,000 different slot and poker stations, including video poker, as well as table games. Harrah’s offers credit and rewards programs and can be the source of entertainment for card players or sports bettors, offering access to the William Hill Sportsbook. Harrah’s also has a spectacular racetrack, a five-eighths mile-long course that has one of the fastest surfaces in North America and features a turn over a custom-made bridge alongside the Delaware River.
The Meadows Racetrack
The Meadows Racetrack & Casino in Washington County, PA, is another spectacular destination, offering gaming, racing, dining, entertainment, hosting, and overnight stays. The main attraction is the casino, which includes slots and video poker, table games, a special poker room, and access to the Barstool Sportsbook.
The racetrack is attached to the casino and is just 30 minutes south of Pittsburgh; when guests are not on the gambling floor or checking out a race, they may relax in the Hyatt Place connected next door, where out-of-town guests are offered shuttles throughout the neighboring areas.
Other Race course venues
Hollywood Casino Penn National Race Course is yet another fantastic place for gambling and entertainment, found in Grantville, PA. This establishment has a whopping ten restaurants, live entertainment, slot machines, poker rooms, table games, and more access to Barstool’s sportsbook.
The main eating attractions are four areas simply known as “The Eatery” and are maintained by chef Fabio Viviani, best known as the fan-favorite on seasons five and eight of Bravo’s Top Chef. If that is not enough, patrons may enjoy themselves in the stands of the racetrack or in a private TopGolf suite, offering driving simulations that can hold individuals or groups.
Online Gambling – Pennsylvania Sports Betting Guide
There are many sportsbooks that interested bettors can use online to place their wagers.
The first is DraftKings, one of the two preeminent betting destinations throughout the country. Launched in late 2019, DraftKings is responsible for roughly 25% of all online revenue in Pennsylvania’s gambling handle and offers exciting bonuses and rewards for signing up.
This site is extremely popular because of its easy-to-navigate user interface and the plethora of available bets, whether by sport or by prop.
DraftKings is also a great company in general and has been a major player in the total growth of gambling in recent years. One of their best innovations was a live-betting feature that allows interested parties to be on events that are currently in progress, with up-to-the-minute changing odds that reflect what is going on in the game and offer the chance to win even more money.
BParlay.com have also produced another useful Sports Betting guide to Pennsylvania. This is especially useful if you would like to learn more.
Other Popular Sportsbooks
The most popular sportsbook in Pennsylvania is FanDuel, which claims roughly 40% of the total gambling handle within PA’s state lines, according to the Gaming Control Board. FanDuel is known for its accessibility and easily understandable menus and choices.
Launched in Pennsylvania in July 2019, FanDuel has swept the nation and become the dominant threat in the market. They offer risk-free bets of up to $1,000 and have domestic and international bets available, all in a simple yet effective layout.
Not only do they give first-timers a chance at earning extra money, but they also give returning users greater chances to win larger amounts or grab some boosted odds, as recently seen in their 55-1 Super Bowl promotion.
Other Gambling Providers
Unibet was granted access to Pennsylvania’s online space in November 2019; although they do not have a massive brand in the United States, they are highly successful overseas and figure to grow in popularity with renewed exposure in America’s market. They are a global gambling giant and are going full throttle with expansion into the sports gambling world.
Their mobile site is relatively basic, so those who are looking for complex systems that require extensive research and understanding would be better served elsewhere— but for those who want to get down to business and slap some bets down, Unibet is the place to go.
Unibet also focuses on live betting and promotes it heavily, so it is never more than a click away.
Another great option that is not found in all other states is the Barstool Sportsbooks, partnered with two of the casinos that were discussed earlier. Barstool launched in PA towards the end of 2020 and teamed up with Penn National Gaming, giving them the necessary backing to become a true monster in sports betting.
A unique feature of Barstool’s sportsbook is that it lines up with some of their personalities and will reward certain bettors with free merchandise or “swag” for correct wagers. Barstool has a highly devoted fanbase and is unpopular outside of that, but they are expanding their reach and evolving over time.
Other popular providers
BetRivers is also very popular in Pennsylvania because of its clean layout and simplistic approach that is attractive to visitors with varying levels of experience. Gamblers can easily target a market, sport, or team and throw down their money with little trouble.
Launched in PA in mid-2019, BetRivers offers up to $250 in rewards for newcomers and has been a steady contributor to the marketplace since initially entering.
Our Pennsylvania sports betting guide also provides a full list of sportsbooks that are available online: FanDuel, DraftKings, Unibet, Barstool, BetRivers, Fox Bet, BetMGM, Caesars, Parx, and BetAmerica.
Popular Sports to Bet On
Thankfully for Pennsylvania natives, there is no shortage of local teams to support.
The biggest earner amongst all professional sports is the NFL, with most bets centering around the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Philadelphia Eagles. Of those, typical outcomes on the games are the most popular, with prop betting also being a popular feature.
Basketball also brings in a lot of revenue, with the Philadelphia 76ers leading the way; they are the only professional team within state lines and dominate the basketball market.
Baseball is another popular sport in PA, with the majority of bets stemming around the Pittsburgh Pirates and the Philadelphia Phillies.
The NHL is another fan-favorite with two teams from the same locations as their baseball counterparts, the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Philadelphia Flyers.
College sports are tremendously popular in Pennsylvania as well, both football and basketball, notably Penn State in football and Villanova and Temple in basketball.’
Frequently Asked Questions
Is online betting legal in Pennsylvania? Yes, as long as you meet the required age standard and deal with the proper sportsbooks.
Can I bet in-state if I am not a Pennsylvania resident?
Yes, as long as you meet the necessary standards of the in-person or online establishment, you will be granted access to the gambling world, regardless of where you are from or currently live.
Where can I bet on sports in Pennsylvania?
You may gamble at in-person locations such as casinos and racetracks in addition to visiting sportsbooks online to participate at home or on the go.
Which sportsbooks are legal in Pennsylvania?
FanDuel, DraftKings, Unibet, Barstool, BetRivers, Fox Bet, BetMGM, Caesars, Parx, and BetAmerica are all operational and available online in Pennsylvania.
Is there a tax on sports betting in Pennsylvania?
The state places a 3.07% tax on winnings, while net earnings must be reported on tax returns and could be subject to a federal tax of up to 35%.
Can I Play Daily Fantasy Sports?
Yes— daily fantasy sports are legal in Pennsylvania, following the trend of leniency and forward-thinking that began in 2004.
Can I use offshore sportsbooks in Pennsylvania?
Yes, offshore sportsbooks are legal in addition to regulated, American books, and there are no limits to what may be gambled on.
Can I use my phone to place bets?
Yes, most sportsbooks have mobile apps in addition to their online platforms that allow bettors to deposit their wagers with great ease.
Regulation FAQ’s
Who Regulates Sports Betting in Illinois?
Sports gambling in Pennsylvania is regulated by the Gaming Control Board, which has shown a propensity to push the market forward rather than holding it back.
Do I have to go to a casino to bet?
No; while visitors are encouraged to stop by brick-and-mortar locations, they are perfectly within their rights to gamble exclusively online or via a mobile app. Gambling may also take place at charitable bingo matches and racetracks. The team at BParlay.com hope you have enjoyed learning from our Pennsylvania sports betting guide.
