The landscape of American sports betting and online casinos continues its rapid transformation in 2024. Following the industry's explosive growth in 2021, legal sports betting is now active in 34 states and Washington, D.C., integrating mobile apps and retail sportsbooks at professional sports venues. Meanwhile, the rise of online casinos complements this growth, with states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan leading in digital gaming revenue. Seamlessly blending sports betting with casino games, these platforms provide players with immersive, user-friendly experiences, further driving the sector's expansion
The Expansion of Legal Sports Betting
By 2024, legalized sports betting has spread to the majority of the U.S., with states adopting varied approaches. While some focus on mobile-only betting, others emphasize retail options at casinos and stadiums. States such as Ohio, which launched its sports betting industry in early 2023, are reporting strong revenues and high user engagement. California, despite several ballot attempts, remains the largest untapped market in the U.S.
The Rise of Stadium-Based Sportsbooks
Professional sports venues have become hot spots for wagering. Arizona leads the way, with retail sportsbooks at State Farm Stadium, Chase Field, and the Footprint Center. These facilities offer fans on-site betting options alongside dining, viewing lounges, and mobile integration. Notably, BetMGM’s sportsbook at State Farm Stadium launched ahead of the Super Bowl in 2023, setting new standards for in-stadium betting experiences.
In Washington, D.C., and other markets, partnerships between sportsbooks like Caesars and major franchises are reshaping how fans interact with sports events.
The Birth and Rising Popularity of Sports Betting Venues
The FanDuel Sportsbook, opened on September 9, 2021, offers a complete experience for sports bettors. Spanning 7,400 sq. ft., it includes 24 gaming machines, five live betting windows, and a VIP window. The facility also features 40 HD TVs, a full-service bar, 26 self-service kiosks, and an exclusive MVP room for serious players.A tour of the FanDuel Sportsbook venue uncovers a slew of wagering options at kiosks going above and beyond the conventional point spreads and over-under bets most bettors are restricted to by private bookies and even sportsbooks based in Las Vegas.
As a home advantage, those in Suns courtside seats are offered access to a private betting room. In Downtown Phoenix, Caesars Sportsbook is building a retail betting venue inside Chase Field. BetMGM prepared for an August 2022 launch in partnership with the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals, marking the debut of live betting inside State Farm Stadium. The stadium later hosted Super Bowl 57 in 2023, highlighting its role in merging professional sports and live betting.
Soon enough, the Caesars Sportsbook project in Chase Field will be a two-story 20,000 sq. ft. venue featuring a Guy Fieri restaurant, wall-to-wall television screens, multiple floors with betting facilities, a VIP lounge, and a full-service bar.
BetMGM has made its mark at Nationals Stadium in Washington, targeting untapped sports fans. Jason Scott, BetMGM’s Trading VP, sees streamlined transactions and new customer outreach as key to growth, benefiting fans unfamiliar with betting.
Aside from the larger venues, Tipico Sportsbook will be sponsoring a lounge. The Tipico Sportsbook VIP club saw its debut at Lower.com Field in February. That was when the Columbus Crew inaugurated their first MLS season. Ohio residents are expected to begin betting legally by early 2023.
Suns’ sportsbook has arrived at a good time, i.e., after their third appearance at the NBA Finals in team history, launching just as Arizona legalized online betting to coincide with the onset of the NFL regular season.
Nearly 2000 sports fans flow through the sportsbook on a Suns game day, and the audience count on an NFL game day was 121% higher. There are no entry costs, just the condition that patrons must be 21 or older and give proof of identification at the entrance.
Key Trends in 2024
- Tech-Driven Engagement
Sports betting platforms are integrating immersive technologies like AR and VR to enhance user experiences. Blockchain and crypto payments are gaining traction as secure, anonymous transaction methods. - Increased Competition
Leading operators like FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM are fighting for market share, driving innovation in bonuses, odds, and user-friendly interfaces. - Responsible Gambling Focus
As the industry grows, operators and regulators are ramping up efforts to promote responsible gambling through tools like spending limits and self-exclusion programs.
Mobile Betting Trends
Mobile betting has seen a massive surge in popularity, driven by convenience and accessibility. As more states legalize online sports betting, mobile platforms have become the go-to option for most users. With apps like FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetMGM offering seamless mobile experiences, bettors can place wagers anytime, anywhere. Enhanced security features, live betting options, and user-friendly interfaces have further fueled mobile sports betting's growth. Additionally, mobile betting is often integrated with in-game features, providing real-time updates and betting opportunities during live events, enhancing overall engagement.
2023 vs. 2024: The Evolution of U.S. Sports Betting
This comparison highlights the major advancements in the sports betting landscape between 2023 and 2024, including the expansion of legal betting states, the rise of technology-driven innovations, and the growing competition among sportsbooks.
In 2023, 30 U.S. states legalized sports betting, with mobile platforms dominating the market. Major players like FanDuel and DraftKings led the charge, and stadium sportsbooks gained popularity. By 2024, legalization expanded to 34 states, with technology like AR, VR, and blockchain enhancing the betting experience. Competition grew as new entrants challenged established brands, and user engagement spiked, especially with younger generations. The momentum of 2023 carried into 2024, with more states and tech innovations shaping the future of sports betting.
Conclusion
The future of American sports betting is a mix of opportunity and challenge. While more states are likely to legalize and refine their betting frameworks, operators face the need to innovate and compete responsibly. The integration of sports betting with major league sports venues and technological advancements will shape a dynamic decade ahead.
Sports betting is not just entertainment—it’s reshaping the way fans connect with their favorite sports and teams. As 2024 unfolds, the industry promises new frontiers for players, teams, and bettors alike.
