Kentucky Sports Betting in 2024 – Legal Updates and Best KY Sportsbooks

Kentucky sports betting continues on the rise in the Bluegrass State since being legalized in 2023, meaning sports bettors can take their game to the next level.

While there are plenty of betting platforms available in the state, only a few offer a complete betting experience. So, keep reading to find out about the best Kentucky sportsbooks including the all-important betting markets, bonuses, payment options, and so much more.

Kentucky Sports Betting Overview

We have done the necessary research to give you an idea of what is available to you in Kentucky right now. This way, you will know exactly where you stand with regard to the best Kentucky sports betting sites.

Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Kentucky?

Yes, online sports betting is legal in Kentucky. The state legalized it through a bill called HB551, which was passed by the state legislature. This bill made it possible for residents to place bets on sports events over the internet, making Kentucky one of the many states in the US where legal online sports betting is permitted.

Aside from Kentucky online sports betting, the state has a rich history of legal gambling, particularly in horse racing. The state is famous for the Kentucky Derby, and betting on horse races is a long-standing tradition here. Pari-mutuel betting, a system where all bets are placed together in a pool, is also legal and commonly used for horse racing bets.

In addition to horse racing, Kentucky allows fantasy sports betting and has retail casinos where you can enjoy various casino games. These forms of gambling offer multiple ways for residents and visitors to engage in legal betting activities within the state.

Who Can Bet on Sports in Kentucky?

In Kentucky, you must be at least 21 years old to bet on sports. You need to be physically located within the state to place bets, and you must register with a licensed sportsbook. Mobile betting is allowed, so you can place bets using your phone or computer as long as you meet the legal betting age and location requirements.

Are Sportsbooks Winnings in Kentucky Taxable?

Yes, sportsbook winnings in Kentucky are taxable. Both federal and state taxes apply to your winnings. The IRS requires you to report all gambling winnings on your federal tax return. Plus, there is a Kentucky state income tax on these earnings.

So, it’s important to keep detailed records of your bets and winnings to ensure accurate reporting and compliance with tax laws. For more information, you can refer to the IRS guidelines on gambling income here.

Pros & Cons of Betting in Sports in Kentucky

Kentucky Legal Sports Betting News And Updates

Kentucky has taken the scenic route to legal sports betting, but they go there in the end. Here is how they did it:

• September 28, 2023: The state launched its Kentucky sports betting operations, with the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission overseeing the regulatory framework.
• March 31, 2023: Governor Andy Beshear signed HB 551 into law, officially legalizing sports betting in Kentucky.
• March 2023: House Bill 551 was introduced, aiming to legalize both online and retail sports betting. This bill was successfully passed through the House and Senate.
• January 2020: HB 137 was reintroduced with strong bipartisan support, yet it again faced obstacles in the Senate and did not pass.
• January 2019: Rep. Adam Koenig introduced House Bill 137 to legalize sports betting. It passed the House Licensing, Occupations, and Administrative Regulations Committee but stalled in the Senate.
• May 2018: The U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn PASPA allowed states to regulate sports betting independently.

Can Kentuckians Bet on Offshore Betting Sites?

Yes, Kentuckians can bet on offshore betting sites. These sites are based outside the United States and often offer attractive features such as higher bonuses, more betting options, and fewer restrictions compared to local sportsbooks. Offshore sites can be appealing due to their competitive odds and diverse sports markets, providing a broader betting experience.

The legality of using offshore betting sites is a gray area. While it is not explicitly illegal for Kentuckians to place bets on these sites, they operate outside US jurisdiction. This means they are not regulated by US laws, offering more flexibility in betting options and promotions. Many find these sites reliable and enjoy the additional benefits they provide.

The main benefits of the top offshore betting sites include better promotions, more sports to bet on, and potentially higher payouts. While they may not be based in the US, they offer far better betting options for sports fans.

List Of The Best Kentucky Online Sports Betting Sites in 2024

Here are the 10 best KY betting sites right now.

1. BetOnline – The Best Online Kentucky Sports Betting Site
2. Bovada – Reliable Instant Crypto Transactions
3. BetWhale – The Best Platform for Soccer Betting
4. BetNow – Has Some of The Best Golf Betting Options
5. Everygame – Has the Best Range of Live Betting Markets
6. MyBookie – Good Range of Prop Betting Markets
7. CoinPoker – Top Crypto Mobile Sportsbook in Kentucky
8. BetUS – Top Kentucky Sports Betting Site for Parlay Bets
9. Sportsbetting.ag – Kentucky’s Widest Selection of Sports Markets
10. XBet – Excellent for Niche Markets, Including Politics & TV Shows

Top 5 Kentucky Online Sportsbooks Reviewed

Before you rush off to choose one from the above Kentucky betting sites, have a look at what makes them tick.

1. BetOnline – The No.1 Best Online Kentucky Sports Betting Site

BetOnline have been around for more than 20 years, honing their platform and growing in popularity. BetOnline also thrives in Kentucky because they have made sure to give KY bettors everything they need to bet on sports online.

First, the sportsbook is easy to access and even easier to use. You can find what you are after with a search bar or by simply browsing the easy-to-read menu with the list of sports. Under each sport, you can find leagues and tournaments.

The prematch options are obviously the most comprehensive on the site but there are also plenty of live betting options to choose from as well. The live betting feature covers multiple different sports and gives you the chance to bet with a ton of different markets. Plus, with these markets, users can craft single and game parlay bets.

A few other notable features on the site include the BetTV section, where you can explore a wealth of betting resources. The site’s promos are also excellent, as they give users tons of incentives to keep using the platform.

BetOnline Sports Bonus:

2. Bovada – Reliable Instant Crypto Transactions

Bovada is one of the top Kentucky online casinos and sports betting sites for 2024. Bovada’s sportsbook offers a wide range of sports and bet types, covering over 30 sports markets—from major leagues like the MLB, NHL, NBA, NFL, EPL, and tennis to niche sports. Particularly exciting for niche sports fans, their impressive selection of esports leagues includes popular titles such as Dota 2, Call of Duty, VALORANT, Counter-Strike, Rainbow 6, Starcraft, League of Legends, and Overwatch.

Local betting markets extend across full Pittsburgh Pirates and Philadelphia Flyers seasons. Standard bets, futures, player props, and entertainment wagers are known for delivering early lines with favorable odds. A user-friendly interface and diverse betting options with regular odds updates deliver a comprehensive, engaging betting experience. To accommodate a broad range of bettors, minimum stakes start from as little as $1, and low bet limits offer increased flexibility. Before puck drops, Bovada delivers detailed breakdowns of player and team data.

Regarding Bovada’s sportsbook promos, keep your budget stretched with mega scratch cards, mystery knockouts, parlay boosters, and more. VPN connections are welcome, but they do not offer live-streaming services and have no dedicated apps!

Bovada sports bonus:

3. BetWhale – The Best Platform For Soccer Betting

There are plenty of reasons to add BetWhale to our list of the best Kentucky sports betting websites. From their timely addition of new promos to their dedicated customer support time, BetWhale is always improving.

Kentucky sports betting options at BetWhale are where they really shine though. From the NFL, NBA and MLS to international sports like cricket and rugby, there is something for everyone to bet on. Plus, within each sport, you will find a ton of events that then give you a ton of markets to choose from as well. The odds are competitive on these markets when compared to other top Kentucky legal betting sites as well.

A few standout facets of the site that we loved were the live betting feature and the layout of the betting slip. The live betting feature was easy to use and offered up some great odds and markets for most events. The betting slip that we used made life super easy as we could see exactly what our stake was and what our potential returns would be as well.

BetWhale Sports Bonus:

4. BetNow – Has Some Of The Best Golf Betting Options

BetNow is undoubtedly one of the best betting sites in Kentucky if you’re into local sports. The sportsbook covers it all; bet on the NFL, NCAA, NBA, MLB, NHL, NASCAR, soccer, tennis, golf, and more. An impressive array of Vegas teasers, prop, and parlay bets completes its full array of standard bet options.

Known for its extensive sports coverage, early lines, and competitive odds, BetNow does not cover politics, entertainment, or financial markets. The site’s odds previously featured on ESPN, Sports Illustrated, FOX, and other prime-time TV spots. BetNow promises easy, fast deposits and withdrawals, generous bonuses, along with various promotional contests aimed at American major league sports bettors. Its blog provides users with picks and predictions on selected events daily.

Kentuckians hooked on in-play betting will find numerous early cash-out options covering all major sports internationals. A separate racebook dedicated to comprehensive coverage of all major horse racing events across the US, Canada, and the rest of the quine race world. No live streaming to follow your in-play bets, but VPN connections are welcome.

If you’re a bonus hunter, BetNow has your solution. Ongoing promos serves-up an Industry Leading Rebate Program aimed at horseracing and sports, $1,000 Bracket Madness, NFL King of the Hill, Reup Bonuses, Grand Slam Contest, Vig Free November, $500,000 Thanksgiving Giveaway Contest, Refer a Friend offerWeekly and NBA Contest.

BetNow sports bonus:

5. Everygame – Offers The Best Range Of Live Betting Markets

With Everygame, you will find a sportsbook that may be a little smaller in scale compared to some of the other Kentucky sports gambling sites in our list but that is no less exciting to use. The standout is that the platform is great if you are fairly new to betting. This is due to the fantastic way that the site has been laid out, as it makes everything easy to find and it makes placing your bets a breeze as well.

Everygame has an easy-to-use search bar right above its list of sports, where you can simply find the events you are after. It offers a diverse selection of sports to bet on, ranging from combat sports and motorsports to sports like football and baseball, which are very popular in Kentucky.

What we loved about the sportsbook was the “hottest bets” addition, where Everygame shows you some of the most enticing events and odds for the day. This is especially great for more casual bettors who are looking for some direction with their bets.

Everygame Sports Bonus:

Comparing The Best KY Sports Betting Sites

To show you where our list of the best Kentucky betting sites thrives, we have compiled their greatest features and promos in our table below.

How We Choose Top Online Sportsbooks in Kentucky

In order to choose the best KY betting sites for our list, we need to make sure we review the right sections to test their overall quality. Here are the main facets we make sure we cover.

• Safety: We prioritize KY betting sites that are licensed and regulated, ensuring the security of your personal and financial information.
• Deposit & Payout Methods: The best KY online sportsbooks offer a variety of easy and fast deposit and withdrawal options, such as credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers.
• Bonuses & Promotions: We look for sportsbooks with generous welcome bonuses, ongoing promotions, and loyalty programs that give bettors more value for their money.
• Range of Sports: Top sites provide a wide selection of sports to bet on, including popular options like football, basketball, and horse racing, catering to the interests of Kentucky bettors.
• Depth of Markets: A great sportsbook offers numerous betting markets within each sport, giving you plenty of options for placing your bets, whether on major league games or local college sports.
• Quality of Sports Betting Odds: We ensure the sportsbooks we recommend consistently offer favorable odds, maximizing potential returns for bettors.
• Mobile Interface: Because mobile betting is convenient, we favor sportsbooks with user-friendly Kentucky sports betting apps or responsive websites that allow you to bet on the go without any hassle.
• Customer Service: Quick and efficient customer support is a significant part of ensuring a positive gambling experience. The support team should be available 24/7 and able to guide you through any issues that may arise while gambling online.

Bonuses & Promos Offered by KY Sports Betting Sites

Kentucky sports gambling sites offer interesting promos and welcome bonuses. They will vary from site to site but they will almost always include the following options:

• Welcome Bonuses: New users often receive a match bonus on their first deposit, doubling their initial funds.
• Free Bets: Sportsbooks may offer free bets after the first deposit or for specific events, allowing bettors to place a wager without risking their own money.
• Reload Bonuses: Existing users can benefit from reload bonuses, which offer extra funds when they reload their accounts.
• Crypto Bonuses: Some sportsbooks provide additional bonuses for depositing with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum, offering enhanced rewards for crypto users.
• No Deposit Bonuses: These bonuses are awarded simply for signing up, allowing bettors to try out the platform without making an initial deposit.
• Risk-Free Bets: Bettors receive a refund on their first bet if it loses, up to a certain amount, providing an opportunity to wager with reduced risk.

Comparing Sign-Up Bonuses at the Best Kentucky Sportsbooks

To get a clear idea of what offers you can cash in on with the best KY sportsbooks, have a look at our table of sportsbook welcome bonuses.

Popular Payment Methods for Kentucky Online Sportsbooks

When it comes to KY sports gambling sites, having a variety of payment options is crucial. Different bettors have different preferences, and the best online sportsbooks cater to these by offering multiple payment methods. Here are some of the most popular options:

Cryptocurrencies

Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum are becoming increasingly popular for Kentucky online sports betting. They offer fast, secure transactions with low fees. Many bettors appreciate the anonymity and privacy that come with using cryptocurrencies, making them an attractive option for those who prioritize security and discretion.

Credit/Debit Cards

Credit and debit cards are among the most commonly used payment methods. They are easy to use, widely accepted, and offer quick deposits. Most Kentucky sportsbooks accept major cards like Visa and MasterCard, allowing bettors to fund their accounts instantly.

Bank Transfers

Bank transfers are a reliable and secure way to deposit and withdraw funds from your sportsbook account on the best Kentucky sports gambling sites. Although they can take a bit longer to process compared to other methods, they are trusted by many for their safety and direct nature. This method is ideal for those who prefer to move larger amounts of money without intermediaries.

E-wallets

E-wallets like PayPal, Skrill, and Neteller are popular for their convenience and speed. They allow you to deposit and withdraw funds quickly and easily. Plus, many bettors favor e-wallets because they can link them to multiple bank accounts and cards, providing flexibility and additional layers of security. E-wallets also often have lower fees compared to traditional banking methods.

How To Sign Up With A Kentucky Betting Site

Most of the Kentucky sportsbooks in our list have very similar sign up processes. As such, let’s have a look at how you can get your account up and running with a top site like BetOnline.

Step 1: Visit the BetOnline Website

Navigate to the BetOnline website using your preferred browser.

Step 2: Click on the Join Now Button

Locate the Join Now button, usually found at the top right corner of the homepage, and click on it.

Step 3: Fill Out the Registration Form

Complete the registration form with your personal information, including your name, email address, date of birth, and phone number. Create a unique username and password.

Step 4: Verify Your Account

Check your email for a verification link sent by BetOnline. Click on this link to verify your account.

Step 5: Make Your First Deposit

Log in to your new account and navigate to the cashier section. Choose your preferred payment method, enter the deposit amount, and follow the instructions to complete the transaction.

Regulated KY Sports Betting Sites vs. Offshore KY Sportsbooks

With the recent legalization of sports betting in Kentucky, residents can now enjoy regulated sports betting sites. However, it’s also beneficial to understand the distinctions between regulated and offshore sportsbooks. Regulated sites offer the assurance of state oversight, ensuring fair play and security.

Offshore sportsbooks, like BetOnline, already provide many advantages, making them an excellent choice for bettors. These include more competitive odds, larger bonuses, a wider range of sports and online betting markets, and greater flexibility due to the lack of state restrictions. Offshore sportsbooks also have a proven track record of reliability and fast payouts, instilling confidence in their services.

Popular Sports to Bet in Kentucky

Sports in Kentucky is a massive passion which is why having sports betting available to Kentuckians is such a no-brainer. With sports betting in Kentucky now thriving, it makes sense that these popular sports are the ones taking in most of the action.

• Horse Racing: Kentucky’s passion for horse racing shines through with iconic events like the Kentucky Derby, offering thrilling online betting opportunities on races throughout the year.
• NFL: Football betting sites attract Kentucky fans eager to wager on NFL games, from regular season matchups to the Super Bowl.
• NHL: Hockey enthusiasts in Kentucky enjoy NHL betting sites, which offer bets on all games from the regular season to the Stanley Cup playoffs.
• MLB: Baseball betting sites appeal to Kentucky bettors, allowing bets on Major League Baseball games, including the World Series.
• NBA: Basketball betting sites cater to Kentucky fans, providing betting options on NBA games, from the regular season to the NBA Finals.
• Soccer: Soccer betting sites are popular among Kentucky bettors, offering wagering opportunities on matches from global leagues like the English Premier League and major tournaments such as the Euros and FIFA tournaments.
• College Basketball: With a strong collegiate presence, Kentucky embraces college basketball betting, focusing on NCAA tournaments and local teams like the Kentucky Wildcats.
• Golf: Golf enthusiasts in Kentucky can bet on major tournaments such as The Masters and PGA Tour events through golf betting sites.
• Tennis: Tennis betting sites allow Kentucky gamblers to wager on Grand Slam events like Wimbledon and the US Open, as well as other ATP and WTA tournaments worldwide.

Popular Bets to Make at KY Online Sportsbooks

The best part about the best KY sports betting sites is that they allow you to craft many different kinds of bets. Here are some of the most popular bets that fans in KY typically opt for.

• Moneyline: A straightforward bet on which team will win a game. For example, you can place a moneyline bet on the Kentucky Wildcats to defeat the Louisville Cardinals in an upcoming basketball matchup.
• Spread Betting: Spread bets involve betting on whether a team will win or lose by a certain margin. For instance, betting on the Louisville Cardinals to cover a 6-point spread against their ACC rival.
• Parlays: Combining multiple bets into one to increase potential payouts. You could bet on the Kentucky Derby, a Louisville basketball game, and a Cincinnati Reds baseball game all in one parlay bet.
• Over/Under: Betting on whether the total combined score of a game will be over or under a set number. For instance, betting on whether the total points scored in a Kentucky Wildcats football game will be over or under 50 points.
• Prop Bets: These are bets on specific events within a game. For example, a prop bet involves betting on how many three-pointers the Kentucky Wildcats will make in their next basketball game.
• Live Bets: These are bets placed in real time during a game or event. You can bet on various outcomes as the action unfolds, such as predicting whether the favorite horse in the Kentucky Derby will maintain its lead throughout the race.

Mobile Betting Apps In Kentucky

Mobile betting apps play a crucial role in the convenience and accessibility of Kentucky sports betting. While Kentucky sports betting apps are not yet available, offshore sportsbooks excel in providing optimized mobile browser experiences. These platforms ensure that bettors can place bets seamlessly on their smartphones or tablets, offering user-friendly interfaces and quick navigation.

Whether you’re betting on the Kentucky Derby or the Louisville Cardinals, these mobile-optimized sites provide a wide range of betting options. With secure transactions and real-time updates, offshore sportsbooks cater to the growing demand for mobile betting in Kentucky.

Popular Home Teams in KY

Kentucky may not be home to a professional team in any of the major leagues in the US, but that does not stop them from backing their favorite teams. This is where many of the sports fans in Kentucky’s allegiances lie.

• Kentucky Wildcats (NCAA Basketball): The Wildcats are a powerhouse in college basketball, with a passionate fan base supporting them at Rupp Arena in Lexington.
• Louisville Cardinals (NCAA Basketball and Football): The Cardinals compete in both basketball and football, playing at the KFC Yum! Center and Cardinal Stadium, respectively.
• Cincinnati Reds (MLB): While technically based in Ohio, the Reds are a favorite among Kentucky baseball fans, especially in the Cincinnati metro area.
• Louisville Bats (Minor League Baseball): This Triple-A affiliate of the Cincinnati Reds plays at Louisville Slugger Field, drawing enthusiastic crowds during baseball season.
• Louisville City FC (USL Championship Soccer): Known for its passionate supporter culture, Louisville City FC competes in the USL Championship at Lynn Family Stadium.

Retail Sports Betting Locations in Kentucky

Kentucky offers several prominent casinos where retail sports betting is available, providing an exciting venue for sports enthusiasts to wager on their favorite teams and events. Here are three of the most renowned casino outlets in the state:

Horseshoe Southern Indiana Casino

• Address: 11999 Casino Center Drive SE, Elizabeth, IN (near Louisville, KY)
• Description: A popular destination just across the Indiana border, offering a variety of gaming options including sports betting.

Tropicana Evansville Casino

• Address: 421 NW Riverside Drive, Evansville, IN (near Henderson, KY)
• Description: Known for its lively casino atmosphere and extensive gaming facilities, Tropicana Evansville also features a sportsbook for betting on sports.

Derby City Gaming

• Address: 4520 Poplar Level Road, Louisville, KY
• Description: While primarily focused on electronic gaming machines, Derby City Gaming also offers retail sports betting opportunities in Louisville.

Other Betting and Gambling Options in Kentucky

This is where things stand with other gambling options in KY right now.

• Retail Casinos: While traditional casinos are limited, options like Derby City Gaming in Louisville provide electronic gaming and sports betting.
• Online Casinos: Currently, online casinos are not legal in Kentucky, but players can access offshore casino platforms.
• Poker: Kentucky hosts popular poker rooms, like the one at Derby City Gaming, which attracts enthusiasts. Explore more options on our online poker sites page.
• Horse Racing: The state has iconic tracks such as Churchill Downs in Louisville and Keeneland in Lexington, where horse racing and betting are legal and celebrated. Of course, if you prefer online wagering, there are plenty of horse racing betting sites where you’ll find all the main events in this exciting sport.
• Fantasy Sports: Fantasy sports betting is legal in Kentucky, allowing fans to create teams and compete in various leagues for cash prizes.

The Future of Sports Betting in Kentucky

The future of sports betting in Kentucky looks bright. With sports betting already legal, the market is expected to grow rapidly. More companies will enter the market, offering new options for bettors. New laws might be introduced to expand betting choices and improve regulations, creating a strong and competitive environment.

As the industry grows, Kentucky will become an important player in the sports betting world, boosting the economy and providing more opportunities for bettors.

Neighboring States to Kentucky for Sports Betting

A few of Kentucky’s neighbors also allow for legal sports betting so if you find yourself one state over, here are the states that will also allow you to place bets on your favorite teams.

Indiana: Indiana has a thriving sports betting market with both online and retail options. It was one of the first states in the Midwest to legalize sports betting, offering a wide range of betting opportunities.

Tennessee: Tennessee offers online-only sports betting, making it convenient for residents and visitors. Since legalization, the state’s betting market has seen rapid growth, with numerous operators providing competitive odds.

West Virginia: West Virginia offers both online and in-person sports betting. The state has a well-established market with several operators, providing a variety of betting options and promotions for bettors.

Responsible Gambling

Kentucky betting sites, including both regulated and offshore, implement various measures to ensure players bet responsibly. Features like deposit limits, self-exclusion options, and live support chats are standard.

For instance, BetOnline offers flexible deposit limits, while Bovada provides 24/7 live chat support for responsible gambling. For more resources, you can also visit the local Kentucky Council on Problem Gambling or you can also view the National Council on Problem Gambling site as well. In addition, visit our betting guide for a more comprehensive understanding of wagering in various sports before making deposits.

Conclusion: Best Betting Site for Kentucky Players

With so many exciting KY sports betting sites to choose from, you may feel somewhat overwhelmed with the number of choices you have. Fear not, as all the sites in our list are not only safe to use, but they are also comprehensive in their offering of Kentucky sports betting options.

You can choose a site that suits you, but we highly recommend checking out BetOnline first. They simply offer the best all-around package for sports betting fans in KY right now. From the stellar unique features to the range of betting markets, you won’t find many better right now.

Kentucky Sports Betting FAQs

Is sports betting legal in Kentucky?

Are you still wondering, “Is sports betting legal in Kentucky?” Well, you don’t have to. Sports betting is wholly legal in the Bluegrass State.

Is online sports betting legal in KY?

Yes, online sports betting has been legalized in Kentucky.

What is the gambling age in Kentucky?

The gambling age limit is 18 years but for sports betting, it is 21.

Is it safe to bet on sports online in KY?

Yes, the sites in our list of the best KY sports betting sites are all more than safe enough for you to use.

How can I bet on sports in Kentucky?

Simply take your pick from our list of the best KY sports betting sites and create your account.