Kentucky Online Sports Betting Guide 2024
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Is sports betting legal in Kentucky? If you’re thinking about betting on sports in Kentucky, you probably have many important questions, and another one might be: Can I bet on mobile in Kentucky?
Our Kentucky online sports betting guide has got you covered. We will answer all your inquiries and provide you with an overview of the sports betting landscape of the Bluegrass State.
Some points we will cover on this page include the legal framework of sports betting in the state, the best Kentucky sportsbooks, and in-state sports teams on which you can wager. You will also learn tips and strategies for a responsible and successful sports betting experience in Kentucky.
🔑 Key Takeaways
- Learn if sports betting is legal in Kentucky.
- Discover the best mobile sports betting apps in Kentucky.
- Learn how to start betting online in the Bluegrass State.
Is Online Sports Betting Legal in Kentucky?
Yes, online sports betting is live and legal in Kentucky. The state legalized sports betting on March 31, 2023, when Governor Andy Beshear signed House Bill 551 into law.
Under the sports betting legislation, the 9 horse racing tracks in the state are allowed to operate as sports betting facilities and partner with up to three mobile sportsbooks each. The law also appointed the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission as the state’s sports betting regulator. The agency was entrusted with regulating and supervising sports betting in the jurisdiction.
Additionally, the Kentucky sports betting bill established 18 as Kentucky’s legal sports betting age, unlike most other states, which require 21 and above.
Retail and in-person sports betting launched on September 7, but Kentucky only joined the league of US states where you can place online sports bets on September 28, 2023. The state’s mobile sports betting market went live with operators like:
- BetMGM
- bet365
- FanDuel
- DraftKings
- Caesars
- Circa Sports
Currently, eight mobile sportsbooks operate in Kentucky. Since the state’s betting regulations allow for up to 27 licenses, we could see more operators enter the market.
10 Quick Facts About Kentucky’s Sports Betting Laws
- Kentucky Law: Kentucky legalized sports betting on March 31, 2023, when Governor Andy Beshear signed House Bill 551 into law.
- Legal Age: The legal age for sports betting in Kentucky is 18 and older. However, some retail sportsbooks and KY online sportsbooks require you to be 21 and above. They include Caesars, BetMGM, FanDuel and Fanatics.
- State Borders: You must be within state lines to legally bet online in Kentucky. The mobile sportsbooks in the state use geolocation technology to ensure this.
- Retail Bookmakers: Kentucky has several retail sportsbooks, including Churchill Downs (Home of the Kentucky Derby), Kentucky Downs, and Derby City Gaming Downtown.
- Taxes: The Bluegrass State imposes an excise tax of 9.75% on the adjusted gross revenues of bets placed at its retail sportsbooks and 14.25% on wagers placed online.
- Regulator: The Kentucky Horse Racing Commission oversees sports gambling in the state.
- Available Sports: You can bet on various sports and leagues in the state, including NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, MLS and college sports. However, you cannot wager on high school sports.
- Available Licenses: Kentucky’s 9 horse racing tracks have sports betting licenses and can partner with up to 3 online books. This means there could be up to 27 online sportsbooks operating in the state in the future.
- Horse Racing: Sports betting and horse racing are regulated separately in Kentucky. This is why sportsbooks like DraftKings, FanDuel, and Caesars have separate apps for horse racing betting.
- Responsible Gambling: Legal Kentucky sports betting operators implement responsible gambling measures to ensure a safe and enjoyable betting experience. These include tools for setting limits, self-exclusion, and links to support services.
How to Bet on Sports in Kentucky?
In Kentucky, you can place wagers online and retail sports betting locations as long as you are at least 18 or 21 years old, depending on the sportsbook. Follow this step-by-step guide to start wagering online in the Bluegrass State.
- Sign up with a licensed sportsbook: The first step is to create an account with an approved mobile betting site in the state. The availability of eight online Kentucky bookmakers makes you spoiled for choice. Simply select one or more, visit their website or mobile app, and follow the registration process. You will need to provide some information to verify your identity.
- Make your first deposit: Head to the cashier section, or deposit tab on the sportsbook website or app to fund your betting account. Usually, you will be able to access a range of deposit options like credit/debit cards, e-wallets, and bank transfers. Select your deposit option, input your deposit amount, and follow the prompts to complete the transaction.
Keep in mind that most online wagering sportsbooks have a minimum deposit requirement for their welcome bonuses. It’s crucial to review the bookmaker’s terms and conditions before making your first deposit. In my experience, I found that most Kentucky sportsbooks have a minimum deposit limit of $10. - Place your bet: Navigate to the Kentucky Sportsbook app homepage and select the sport and event you want to bet on. When you click on a sport, you will see all the available games and their betting markets.
After selecting the odds of the event you wish to bet on, it will be added to your bet slip. Then, enter your desired stake amount, review your slip, and confirm your wager.
My Experience: My first bet in Kentucky was a straight wager on the outcome of an NFL game between the Chiefs and the Ravens. Luckily, my prediction was correct and I won.
Top Kentucky Sports Betting Sites and Apps
Kentucky hosts the best sports betting platforms in the US betting market. These brands offer exclusive sports betting promos, competitive odds, and several innovative features.
Here are our top three picks for Kentuckian players in 2024.
Caesars Sportsbook
Disclaimer: Must be 21 or older and physically present in KY. New users only. Must register using eligible promo code. First bet after registration must qualify. Max. Bonus Bet: $1,000. Bonus Bet expires 14 days after receipt. Void where prohibited. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms.
| Bookie’s name | Caesars |
| Recommended bet markets | Football, UFC, F1, Basketball, MLB |
| Welcome offer | $1,000 first bet insurance |
| Rating | 4.8/5 |
Caesars provides its Kentucky users with a fast, fluid, user-friendly mobile app. The operator also offers extensive betting markets, including NFL, NBA, MLB, international, and college sports.
However, Caesars is most known for its generous welcome bonus and rewards program. As a new user, you can benefit from a $1000 first-bet insurance. Place a first bet of at least $10; if it loses, the operator will pay back your initial stake in bonus bets up to $1000.
New and existing sports bettors can participate in Caesars’ rewards program with six tiers and exclusive perks like winnings boosts, bonus bets, luxury gifts, and perks at Caesars Entertainment’s properties.
DraftKings Sportsbook
| Bookie’s name | DraftKings |
| Recommended bet markets | Baseball, football, basketball, UFC, |
| Welcome offer | $150 bonus bets |
| Rating | 4.8/5 |
DraftKings holds the largest market share in several US states, and Kentucky is no exception. The KY online bookmaker has been able to capture the hearts of numerous sports bettors through various features such as an easily navigable interface and advanced betting features.
DraftKings offers live streaming and in-play wagering on selected events, as well as futures betting on championship outcomes. You can also access daily odds boosts and improved payouts on select bets. The operator also features same game parlays on NFL, MLB, NBA and other leagues.
New signups can claim a $150 bonus bet on DraftKings when they place a first bet of $5. Win or lose, the bonus is yours.
FanDuel Sportsbook
| Bookie’s name | FanDuel Sportsbook |
| Recommended bet markets | NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, UFC, |
| Welcome offer | $150 bonus bets |
| Rating | 4.8/5 |
FanDuel is another top sportsbook app, highly popular among sports wagering enthusiasts in Kentucky. The operator provides its users with an intuitive sports betting platform that makes finding popular leagues and markets simple.
The live betting opportunities on FanDuel Kentucky Sportsbook are pretty extensive, including on all the major North American professional leagues, as well as international sports.
FanDuel also features a “Cash Out” option that allows you to partially or fully withdraw your bet before the match ends. You will be able to secure a return on your bet regardless of the final result.
This operator also offers a bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets for new KY bettors.
Popular Sports and Teams in Kentucky Betting Scene
With no major professional sports team in Kentucky, college athletics is the lifeblood of the state’s sports scene. In addition to collegiate sports, horse racing is also incredibly popular in the jurisdiction. The table below details the most popular local sports and teams in the state.
| Team | Sport | League | Team Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of Kentucky Wildcats | College Basketball & Football | NCAA | The Wildcats have won 8 championships and produced legendary players like George Mikan and Dan Issel. It’s no wonder they have a huge following in Kentucky. |
| University of Louisville Cardinals | College Football, Basketball, & Baseball | NCAA | The Cardinals play in the Atlantic Coast Conference and have won 50 Big East Championships across all sports. |
| Western Kentucky Hilltoppers | College Basketball | NCAA | The Hilltoppers has one of the best programs in NCCA history, they are actively followed by fans and bettors alike |
| Lexington Legends | Baseball | ALPB | The Legends play their home games at Legends Field usually to a crowd of over 3000 fans. |
| Louiseville City FC | Soccer | USL Championship | Founded in 2014, The Los Morados’ games attract high betting activity especially when they face off with rivals. |
| Louisville City FC | Soccer | NSWL | The only pro women’s soccer’s team in Kentucky, the team attracts fans with their high-level soccer. |
| – | Horse Racing | – | Kentucky is home to many racetracks that host events throughout the year, including prestigious ones like the Kentucky Derby and the Kentucky Oaks. |
The Impact of Local Teams on Sports Betting
Since Kentucky has no team participating in the top-tier leagues, its residents divide their betting attention among other clubs in the elite divisions. For instance, some Kentuckians support the neighboring Cincinnati Bengals and Indianapolis Colts in NFL betting. At the same time, the Indiana Pacers enjoy the backing of Kentucky fans in NBA betting, particularly in the southern and eastern regions of the state.
However, when it comes to collegiate sports, the Wildcats, and Cardinals command fierce loyalty and enthusiasm across the state. In fact, their rivalry is one of the most intense in college sports.
This passion translates into significant betting action on college games, making them a major driver of sports betting activity in the state. As a result, local bookmakers, especially retailers, often prioritize college sports betting offerings in the jurisdiction.
Wagering activity also fluctuates based on the local teams’ seasons, with more bets placed during football and basketball seasons. For instance, Kentucky sportsbooks see lower betting handles during college sports off-season, around May, June, and July.
Furthermore, when local teams are performing well, they are usually favored to win, which can lead to a higher volume of bets on them. Other factors like player injury or suspension, new player signing, and coaching changes can also impact betting trends.
Upcoming Events
Year to year, Kentucky features a packed calendar of exciting sports events. From the thrill of college basketball to the rush of horses, the state offers something for every fan or bettor. Regularly check our updated list below to ensure you don’t miss out on these upcoming sports events.
Are There More Gambling Options in Kentucky?
Kentucky offers several gambling options you can consider whenever you seek an alternative to sports betting. They include:
- Horse Betting: Kentucky breathes and lives horse racing. It is home to seven iconic tracks, including Churchill Downs, Keeneland, Ellis Park, and Red Mile. The prestigious Kentucky Derby, held annually at Churchill Downs, usually attracts millions of viewers and bettors worldwide. In 2023, Kentucky Derby betting drew a record $188.7million in wagers.
- Daily Fantasy Sports: Although DFS is not regulated in Kentucky, the state has not explicitly banned it either. As such, you can still get some DFS action on platforms like FanDuel, DraftKings, and Underdog.
- Lottery: The Kentucky Lottery offers a range of games, including Powerball, Mega Millions, and scratch-offs. You can buy tickets online or in person.
Maximizing Your Bets
Do you want to consistently stay in the green while betting on your favorite sports in Kentucky? Follow these tips below!
Tips and Strategies for Kentucky Bettors
Keeping sports betting fun while still winning consistently requires an overall strategy that includes a combination of knowledge, discipline, and responsible behavior.
Play at Different Sportsbooks
Sign up at multiple Kentucky sports betting apps and take advantage of all their bonuses. These include sign-up bonuses, boosts, bets and gets, and other promotions. By doing this, you can maximize these free perks to increase your betting power and boost your bankroll.
Besides, you need to register with different sportsbooks to get the best odds. Bookmakers don’t feature the same odds on their markets, so always compare lines to get the best value for your bets.
When I started betting in Kentucky, I stuck with an online sportsbook. However, the moment I signed up for a new sportsbook, I realized I had been missing out on better promotions.
Manage your Bankroll
Once you’ve mastered how to manage your bankroll you will instinctively know how to set a budget, keeping your sports betting fun and preventing unnecessary losses. Before placing a sports bet in Kentucky, set a realistic budget for yourself and stick to it.
I have a buddy who funds his betting accounts with a particular amount every month, and once it’s gone, he’s done betting for the month.
Whenever he wins, he cashes out the winnings and continues to play with the available funds. This approach has helped him manage his finances and enjoy sports betting without breaking the bank.
Don’t chase losses
Losses are a natural part of sports betting. Occasionally, you may experience a losing streak on a sportsbook, maybe a bad week here and there. During these periods, always fight the urge to recoup your losses by betting more or making riskier wagers.
This can lead to financial and emotional distress, resulting in more desperate bets and even bigger losses. Instead, take a step back and reassess your betting strategy. Take a break if needed, and come back when you are thinking clearly.
Research
Ensure every wager you place is a quality bet. You should only bet on a game after thoroughly researching and analyzing the teams, players, statistics, and other relevant factors. Several variables can impact a game’s outcome.
For instance, in MLB betting, factors like the starting pitcher’s ERA, streaks, and weather can influence the result. By doing your due diligence, you can make informed decisions and increase your chances of winning bets.
Understand the Odds
Knowing how sports betting odds work is crucial in sports betting. Always assess the risk and potential reward of a bet before making it. Moreover, don’t chase underdog values. Yes, it can be tempting to bet on an underdog with high odds, but it’s essential to understand the reason behind those odds. In the same vein, avoid a parlay with more than three legs.
Understanding Taxes and Payouts
As you participate in sports betting and get all those big racks, keep in mind that you will share some of your winnings with the government. Yes, sports betting winnings are regarded as taxable income in the US. You have to file them on your tax returns like your ordinary income.
How do taxes work on sports betting winnings? The IRS requires you to pay tax on your sports betting winnings if they exceed $600 or are payout at least 300 times your wager. In this case, the bookmaker will send you a Form-W2G that will show you your winnings and the amount of tax withheld.
Furthermore, Kentucky has a 6% tax rate on all gambling proceeds in the state. Keeping a record of your sports betting activity, including wins and losses, is advisable, particularly if you plan to deduct losses from your tax return.
What About Physical Sports Betting Locations?
You can add more thrill to your betting experience by wagering at retail sports betting locations in Kentucky. Here is a list of the physical sportsbooks in the Bluegrass State. Remember to check for updates as more betting facilities open across the state.
- Churchill Downs (Louisville)
- Derby City Gaming & Hotel (Louisville)
- Ellis Park (Henderson)
- The Red Mile (Lexington)
- Derby City Gaming Downtown (Louisville)
- Newport Racing & Gaming (Newport)
- Oak Grove Racing, Gaming & Hotel (Oak Grove)
- Turfway Park Racing & Gaming (Florence)
- The Mint Gaming Hall Cumberland (Williamsburg)
- The Mint Gaming Hall Cumberland Run (Corbin
Top 3 KY Retail Sportsbook Locations We’d Recommend
- Churchill Downs (700 Central Ave. Louisville): Located on the historic horse racing track, the sportsbook at Churchill Downs features easy-to-use kiosks, comfortable seating spaces, and HD screens for viewing live matches. Remember, this location also hosts the Kentucky Derby, so you can check in on a race day for an optimal experience.
- The Red Mile (1200 Red Mile Road, Lexington): Powered by Caesars Sportsbook, this location offers a perfect environment to watch and wager on sports. The sportsbook has a high-resolution video wall, several betting counters, self-service kiosks, and a lounging space.
- Oak Grove Racing, Gaming & Hotel (777 Winners Way, Oak Grove): You will also love wagering in person at Oak Grove Sportsbook, with its 300-square-foot video board, 20 kiosks, and a Simulcast area for live horse race betting.
So, Will You Bet From Kentucky Tonight?
Whether you are a seasoned pro or a beginner, you will find Kentucky welcoming with its variety of sports betting options.
While you can wager on the go at online KY sports betting sites, you can also enjoy the fun of in-person betting at the state’s iconic venues like Churchill Downs and the Red Mile.
The thrill of victory is a wager away. Sign up at any KY sportsbook of your choice and start participating in legal sports betting in Kentucky! Ensure to bet responsibly and adhere to smart wagering guidelines.
Do you want to improve your sports betting strategies and achieve more greens? Learn exclusive tips and tricks in our Betting 101 section today!
