Michigan Sports Betting: Enjoy Legal Betting in the State

🍰 In Michigan, sports betting may not be as rich as other regions in the US. Nevertheless, the Wolverine State remains a major player, with a robust betting infrastructure match by an equally enthusiastic fan base. We've got everything you need to know below!

Michigan Legal Sports Betting

Legality of Sports Betting in Michigan

ಌ Michigan delayed legalizing sports betting until March 2020, two years after the Supreme Court's repeal of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act in 2018. This legalization paved the way for the launch of sportsbooks in three Detroit-based casinos.

The timing was unfortunate, however, as the covid pandemic struck right after. However, there was a growth surge in after online sports betting was launched in the state in January 2021.

꧑ Leading bookmakers like DraftKings, BetMGM, and FanDuel were among the first to debut, with 14 brands now operating in Michigan at the time of writing.

Michigan Sports Betting Timeline

ℱ Here’s a timeline detailing the history of sports betting in Michigan:

• 1933 – The Racing Act authorizes and regulates pari-mutuel horse racing in Michigan𒈔 (essentially, the legalization of wagers on horse racing).

• 1997෴ – The Michigan Gaming Control & Revenue Act is passed and signed into law.

• 2018ཧ – The Supreme Court overturns PASPA, giving US states the right to legalize sports betting.

• 2019ꦏ – Governor Gretchen Whitmer signs the bill which legalizes Michigan sports betting and online gambling.

• 2020ꦬ – Retail sports betting locations open in the state.

• 2021ඣ – Online sportsbooks begin operations in Michigan.

Sports Betting Revenue and Taxation in Michigan

Michigan’s effective tax rate is low at 3.4%, but sports betting is taxed at 8.4% – which is still comparatively low. New York, for example, has a sports betting tax rate of over 50%.

, New York had brought in the most via sports betting taxes ($1.1bn) compared to other US states. Given their low tax rate, Michigan ranks 25th in terms of total sports betting tax🌠 accumulated ($30m). However, the state ranks 8th when it comes to gross sportsbook revenue ($952m). The seven states that rank higher each boast revenue streams in excess of $1bn.

𓃲 Michigan enjoyed a massive month in October 2023 in terms of revenue. The month’s total adjusted gross gaming revenue tallied $24.6m, which represented a 21.2% increase from Michigan’s September revenue intake.

It’s also clear to see where Michigan’s power players lie in terms of their online sportsbooks. In October 2023, FanDuel cleared $20.5m in revenue, DraftKings cleared $16.3m, while BetMGM made $6.9m🌠. These three online sportsbooks combined for 97% of the betting apps’ $45m revenue total that month.

Top Sportsbooks in Michigan

1. FanDuel

FanDuel🌄 has partnered with the MotorCity Casino in Michigan since its launch in January 2021. The sportsbook has emerged as one of America’s most popular since its establishment in 2009.

ꦕ It’s easy to understand why FanDuel has gained such a lofty reputation. Boasting more than competitive odds with a slick, user-friendly interface, this site really is a sports bettor’s dream. College sports are available to bet on, as well as livestreaming for an array of sporting events.

🐎 Despite the generous welcome offer, though, FanDuel’s promotions do pale in comparison to other US sports betting giants, especially when it comes to daily offers. Nevertheless, the operator does have the edge over its rivals when it comes to betting odds, and they do often excel in terms of promos for major events such as March Madness.

🐟 Same-Game Parlay offers are also commonplace, and have grown in prominence across various sportsbooks since it was introduced by FanDuel.

2. BetMGM

An online extension of the MGM Grand Detroit, BetMGM is another sports betting giant that launched in Michigan in January 2021. This online sportsbook has the backing of MGM Resorts International and is one of the most prominent sports betting sites in Michigan. They’ve also established themselves as partners with the Detroit Lions and Detroit Red Wings.

Wealthy backers mean BetMGM🐠 can afford to dish out an array of lucrative real-money promotions, as well as exclusive VIP prizes for users. The bookmaker’s generosity is displayed right off the bat, with a welcome offer that gifts a whopping $1,500 in bonuses.

𒁏 BetMGM’s sportsbook is as good as any other in the US, with bettors being treated to a multitude of available sports at all levels. Their odds may not be the very best around, but BetMGM does offer livestreaming as well as a long list of lucrative promotions.

🔯 Some might complain that the interface is too busy and the mobile app is too hard to navigate, but these are only minor issues for an otherwise excellent sportsbook that constantly seeks to reward bettors.

3. ESPN Bet

A newbie to the sports betting scene, ESPN Bet partnered with Hollywood Greektown Casino♏ to operate a retail sportsbook in Detroit. The mobile app was also launched in the state in November 2023.

🐟 This product came about as a result of the joint-effort between PENN Entertainment and the most recognizable cable sports network in the US. ESPN Bet has the makings of an excellent sportsbook given its backers.

✅ Given the congested market, a standout new customer offer is imperative, and ESPN Bet certainly grabs the attention. You can earn an impressive $200 in Bonus Bets off the back of your first placed bet with this sportsbook!

4. Caesars Sportsbook

Caesars, the largest retail sportsbook in the US, began operations in Michigan through a partnership with a tribal gaming group (Ottawa and Chippewa Indians) that operate the Turtle Creek and Leelanau Sands casinos❀. Online operations started in the state in January 2021.

🏅 New customers can make the most of a superb welcome offer that’s laden in value, giving you the chance to win up to a $1,000 bonus.

ღ As well as their brilliant new customer bonus, Caesars offers regular odds boosts for major sporting events and will particularly target games that include local Michigan teams such as the Lions.

ℱ Same-game parlays as well as slick live graphics are two notable features of Caesars’ online sportsbook, with users having the luxury of enjoying an extensive menu of betting markets.

5. DraftKings

Another big name that launched in Michigan in January 2021, DraftKings🐓 is an operator synonymous with sports betting in the US.

⛎ Known for innovative promotions and the highly regarded Dynasty Rewards loyalty program, DraftKings enhances the betting experience significantly.

The site offers in-depth coverage of both collegiate and professional games, with top-tier in-play betting and livestreaming. New customers benefit from attractive welcome offers, including a No Sweat Same Game Parlay🔯. In 2020, DraftKings became the official sports betting partner of the NBA, solidifying a five-year partnership with the Detroit Pistons.

Michigan Sportsbook Apps

🍨 Michigan offers a selection of premier sports betting apps, combining ease of use, diverse betting options, and advanced features. These apps cater to all users, from experienced bettors to beginners, enhancing the overall betting experience in the state.

Michigan Sports Betting Promotions

𝓀 Michigan sportsbooks came close to marking a record-high promotion spending in September 2023, with sportsbook apps offering a decreased $21.5m in October 2023 free bets, credits, and odds boosts.

🍎 Here are some of best ongoing Michigan sports betting promos:

1. BetMGM Bonus Bet up to $1500

🦩 Michigan sports bettors have access to exclusive new customer offers from BetMGM, with three different welcome bonuses available.

The most valuable is the Bonus Bets offer, worth up to $1,500ཧ. Simply sign up and place your first $10 bet to qualify. If your initial bet loses, you'll receive bonus bets matching its amount, giving you a second chance to win big. Remember, the bonus bets you receive will be equal to your qualifying bet's stake.

2. DraftKings Bet $5, Get $150

💎 DraftKings’ new customer offer is just brilliant. There’s no catch. You will receive $150 in bonus bets after you place your first $5 bet with the online sportsbook.

💙 You will receive the bonuses whether the qualifying bet wins or loses.

🍬 Once you place bets, you will immediately receive your credits (rewarded as x6 $25 bets) and they can be used across the entirety of DraftKings’ excellent sportsbook. However, the Michigan sports betting bonus bets you receive must be used within seven days of them arriving into your account.

3. Caesars $1000 Bonus Bet

ꦬ This new customer offer boasts some similarities to BetMGM’s welcome promotion. With Caesars’ offer, you receive up to $1000 in bonus bets of the back of your first placed bet with the sportsbook.

𝔍 Like BetMGM, you will only receive the bet credits if your qualifying bet loses.

꧋ The bonus bet you receive is rewarded in one lump sum – depending on the size of your qualifying bet – and it has no odds restrictions, carries a x1 playthrough, and must be used within 14 days of receipt.

4. FanDuel Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets

🔯 Signing up to FanDuel was once a very attractive proposition for Michigan sports bettors as a result of their famed No Sweat Bet up to $1000 new customer offer. However, that promotion has since been replaced by a promo that resembles DraftKings’ offer for newbies.

🐓 FanDuel now give new customers $150 in bonus bets following the placement of their first $5 Moneyline bet. There are no minimum odds restrictions with this offer, but the credits expire after 14 days.

ღ However, you will only receive your bonuses if your qualifying wager wins. This adds a sense of jeopardy right from the outset!

Michigan Sports Betting Laws and Regulations

Michigan legal sports betting was . Here are some of the key points:

🎃 As noted, the Michigan Control Board are the key sports betting regulator. They have a ton of responsibility, and are tasked with collecting all licensing fees, including taxes and payments. They must approve of betting licenses in the state, have developed a code of conduct for operators, and set up a comprehensive responsible gambling program.

Legal Sportsbooks in Michigan

🍨 Here are the current legal sportsbooks that operate in Michigan:

Michigan Online Sports Betting and Mobile Sports Betting

Land-Based Michigan Sportsbooks

🐼 There are many brick-and-mortar locations for online sports betting Michigan, but here are five of the most popular:

Popular Sports to Bet on in Michigan

💝 With Michigan boasting franchises in each of America’s four major sports leagues, the country’s most popular sports – football, baseball, basketball, and ice hockey – are, of course, popular betting options for Michigan bettors.

🙈 However, given the success of the Michigan Wolverines, there’s no doubt that football is the biggest sport in the state. The Michigan sports betting law allows bettors to wager on in-state collegiate teams.

Best Local Sports Teams to Bet on in Michigan

🐬 There are four major sports teams in Michigan, all based in Detroit. Detroit has the Tigers (MLB), Lions (NFL), Red Wings (NHL), and Pistons (NBA).

Detroit Red Wings

The vast majority of Detroit’s success has come from the Red Wings, who are 11-time Stanley Cup champion𝓰s. Only the Montreal Canadiens and Toronto Maple Leafs have been more successful than Detroit’s ice hockey franchise.

Detroit Tigers

🍸 The Detroit Tigers were founded way back when in 1894, although there success has been more sporadic. They’ve recorded four World Series triumphs, with their first arriving in 1935 and most recent coming in 1984. They’re yet to get over the line in the 21st century despite winning four AL Central Division titles.

Detroit Pistons

Detroit’s basketball franchise, the Pistons, is one of the most notorious in the NBA. The drafting of Isaiah Thomas in 1981 sparked the revival of an increasingly irrelevant franchise, and the Pistons soon became revered and feared for their overly physical style. ‘The Bad Boys’, as they were tagged, won two championships in 1989 and 1990🏅 before they were usurped by Michael Jordan’s Chicago. The Pistons then reached four straight Eastern Conference finals between 2003 and 2008, winning the title in 2004 after dominating a star-studded LA Lakers outfit.

Detroit Lions

ღ And finally, the cursed Detroit Lions. While a historically significant franchise, the Lions sit among the least successful in the NFL. They’re yet to reach, let alone win, the Super Bowl since the merger, and their last playoff victory came in 1991. However, with Dan Campbell at the helm, there’s hope in Detroit that they might be building a genuine championship contender.

𒐪 In addition to the major league teams, the Michigan Wolverines and Michigan State Spartans are also popular betting options for punters.

Benefits of Regulated Michigan Sports Betting

How To Bet on Sports in Michigan

There are plenty of avenues for sports betting in Michigan following 2020. With 20 physical locations and 14 online sportsbooks♍ operating in the state, bettors certainly aren’t short of options.

🐎 To bet on sports in Michigan, you can either check out one of the state’s retail locations (as long as you are over 21) or create an online betting account with one of the sportsbooks in operation. Here’s how you can get started with online sports betting in Michigan:

1. ꦑ Pick one of the available online sportsbooks operating in Michigan.

2. 🐓 Download their mobile app via the App Store or Google Play (iOS/Android).

3. ꦏ If you’re 21 or over, register for an online betting account.

4. ꧒ A wide variety of payment methods should be available, so you should have no issues depositing funds into your account.

5. 🉐 Once your online sports betting account is funded, make the most of any new customer offers the sportsbook might have.

6. Start placing sports wagers!

Michigan Sports Betting Facts

Michigan Sports Betting Handle

𓆉 Michigan may not historically be regarding as a sports betting monster, but recent figures suggest the state is showing signs of becoming a giant. The Wolverine State enjoyed a record-breaking month in October 2023 in terms of sports betting handle.

🏅 Since the legalization of Michigan sports betting in December 2019 and its subsequent launch months later, the state has recorded a whopping $12.5bn in sports betting handle – the 8th biggest in the US.

In October 2023, four sports betting apps Michigan recorded their highest-ever monthly handles. These were FanDuel ($173.4m), DraftKings ($147.4m), Caesars ($42m), and BetRivers ($45.5m).

🌊 In total, Michigan raked in a total handle of $571.1m – a 20% increase from September’s $475.7m to set a new state record. The overwhelming majority of this handle came from online wagers ($533m). Michigan’s October 2023 handle was the fourth biggest in the US, ranking below only New York, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania.

Responsible Gambling in Michigan

The 𒁃 places a strong emphasis upon responsible gambling. Their dedicated page provides several problem gambling resources which include The Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline. Other websites are listed, while a self-assessment test is also available.

States with Legal Sports Betting

🌄 At the time of writing, over 30 states – plus Washington DC, have legalised sports betting in the US. Here they are:

Other Michigan Betting Articles

ThePuntersPage Final Say

𝕴 Michigan has always been regarded on the cusp of behemoth status when it comes to sports betting, but recent figures suggest the industry is continuing to grow at a sharp rate in the Wolverine State. With an array of excellent online sportsbooks complementing the multitude of retail locations operating in the state, Michigan has the tools of emerging as a sports betting giant.

Michigan Resources

🌳 Here is the list of useful resources for legal sports betting in Michigan: