Arizona online sports betting

AZ sports betting is thriving, and there are multiple operators to choose from if you want to place wagers online. We give you expert reviews and the latest news and information about Arizona online sports betting.

Gary Garry By: Gary Garry
Table of contents
Popular Bonus
1 DraftKings
DraftKings review
Bet $5 Get $150 in Bonus Bets
GET BONUS
(+7)
21+ and present in AZ. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Top-Rated Site
2 Caesars
Caesars review
Second Chance Bet Up To $1000
GET BONUS
(+7)
21+ and present in AZ. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Trending Offer
3 BetRivers
BetRivers review
Second Chance Bet Up To $100
GET BONUS
(+5)
21+ and present in AZ. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
4 Desert Diamond
Desert Diamond review
Up To $250 in Deposit Match Bonus
GET BONUS
(+3)
21+ and present in AZ. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
5 Betfred
Betfred review
Up To $1111 in Bonus Bets
GET BONUS
(+3)
21+ and present in AZ. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
6 Unibet
Unibet review
Second Chance Bet Up To $100
GET BONUS
(+4)
21+ and present in AZ. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER

Latest news

Arizona

Best betting sites in Arizona

  1. DraftKings Arizona: Best for DFS betting
  2. Caesars Arizona: Best for Arizona Diamondbacks fans
  3. BetRivers Arizona: Best for live betting
  4. Desert Diamond Arizona: Best for betting on Arizona teams
  5. BetFred Arizona: Best for teaser betting
  6. Unibet Arizona: Best for NCAAB betting

DraftKings Arizona

1. DraftKings Arizona

  • Welcome bonus: Bet $5 Get $150 in Bonus Bets
  • Licensing partner: The PGA Tour
  • Live in Arizona since: 2021

DraftKings is licensed by the Arizona Department of Gaming, and they launched in Arizona on September 9, 2021. They have a partnership with the PGA Tour to offer online sports betting in the state. They will also have a retail location at the TPC Scottsdale golf course. It is scheduled to open during the Fall of 2023.

What we think: DraftKings Arizona is one of the go-to destinations for DFS betting enthusiasts, and they were well-positioned to expand into the sports betting space.

They have developed an efficient multi-tiered platform that offers customers a wide range of DFS contests and sports betting options.

GET BONUS

Caesars Arizona

2. Caesars Arizona

  • Welcome bonus: Second Chance Bet Up To $1000
  • Licensing partner: Arizona Diamondbacks
  • Live in Arizona since: 2021

Caesars Arizona launched its online betting site during the first wave on September 9, 2021. You can visit their retail locations at Chase Field, Harrah’s Ak-Chin, or Arizona Downs if you want to place wagers in person.

What we think: Caesars Arizona stands out as the premier destination for MLB betting thanks to its strategic partnership with the Arizona Diamondbacks. There are many baseball markets available, and there can be special promos for fans of the D-backs.

Caesars has been a trusted name in the gaming business for generations, so Caesars Arizona is a solid choice for anyone looking to place bets on Major League Baseball games.

GET BONUS

BetRivers Arizona

3. BetRivers Arizona

  • Welcome bonus: Second Chance Bet Up To $1000
  • Licensing partner: Arizona Rattlers
  • Live in Arizona since: 2021

BetRivers Arizona is owned and operated by Rush Street Interactive, a trusted, publicly traded gaming company. They deliver a quality player experience, and they continue to refine their offerings on an ongoing basis.

BetRivers partnered with the Arizona Rattlers to obtain a wagering license, and the online betting site has been live in the state since October 2021.

What we think: BetRivers offers a quality live betting experience, with an innovative platform that provides real-time updates. With a wide range of wagering options and advanced features, BetRivers Arizona is a reliable choice for anyone looking to engage in live betting.

GET BONUS

Desert Diamond Arizona

4. Desert Diamond Arizona

  • Welcome bonus: Up To $250 in Deposit Match Bonus
  • Licensing partner: Tohono O’odham Nation
  • Live in Arizona since: 2021

Tohono O’odham Nation owns Desert Diamond, which launched in Arizona in February 2022. They offer all sports and betting markets through their website and mobile app. Plus, you can bet in person at Desert Diamond Casino Tucson, Desert Diamond Casino Sahuarita, and Desert Diamond Casino West Valley.

What we think: Desert Diamond is a good choice for people that like to support in-state entities. They bring an authentic, homegrown flavor to the sports betting experience.

GET BONUS

Betfred Arizona

5. Betfred Arizona

  • Welcome bonus: Up To $1111 in Bonus Bets
  • Licensing partner: Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation
  • Live in Arizona since: 2022

On March 7, 2022, Betfred launched online with full functionality after a soft launch in late January of that year. They entered the fray through a partnership with Fort McDowell Yavapai Nation. Additionally, they have a brick-and-mortar location at the We-Ko-Pa Casino in Scottsdale where you can place your bets in person.

What we think: Betfred Arizona is a good choice for people that like to bet teasers. They make adding legs to a teaser bet slip easy, and you can choose the number of extra points you get against the point spread.

Betfred Arizona doesn’t have the name recognition of some of the others, but they go the extra mile to exceed player expectations.

GET BONUS

Unibet Arizona

6. Unibet Arizona

  • Welcome bonus: Second Chance Bet Up To $100
  • Licensing partner: Quechan Tribe
  • Live in Arizona since: 2021

Unibet is another AZ sports betting site that launched on the initial rollout day in September 2021. They are operational due to a partnership agreement with the Quechan Tribe of the Fort Yuma Indian Reservation. Aside from the online sportsbook, they have retail locations at Paradise Casino in Yuma and Turf Paradise horse racing track in Phoenix.

What we think: Unibet Arizona’s top feature is its outstanding college basketball betting selection. They post odds on a wide range of conferences and offer several different markets.

When you factor in the user-friendly app and timely payouts, you can see why Unibet is gaining popularity in several states.

GET BONUS

Other AZ sports betting sites

The operators listed above are at the very top of the Arizona sports betting pyramid. At the same time, the betting sites listed below are licensed by the state as well, and they all have something to offer. Since you will be getting a bonus just for signing up, you may want to explore these options.

ESPN Bet Arizona

ESPN Bet launched in Arizona in November 2023 as PENN Entertainment’s new sports betting site. The new branding took over for the previous PENN product, Barstool Sportsbook.

So far, ESPN Bet features many of the same traits as the Barstool betting website, though the fresh branding has made for a nice upgrade that users of the previous sportsbook site will notice right away. You’ll also find top-tier bonuses and frequent promotions to create an excellent betting experience.

FanDuel Arizona

FanDuel is another site that launched on September 9, 2021, the first day for legal sports betting in AZ. You can visit their retail venue at Phoenix Suns Footprint Center if you want to place wagers in person in a high-energy atmosphere.

What we think: The FanDuel Arizona mobile app loads quickly, it has an uncluttered appearance, and navigation is a breeze.

In addition to the convenience and flexibility, app users will be in the loop when exclusive in-app promos are introduced.

Superbook Arizona

SuperBook made its way onto the online sports betting scene in Arizona on December 17, 2021, and their partner is the Fort Mohave Indian Tribe.

What we think: SuperBook Arizona offers a great betting experience because it is tailored after the famous Las Vegas SuperBook at the Westgate.

SuperBook Arizona has a competitive edge in some ways because of the vast bookmaking experience they bring to the table. This book is getting more and more attention as sports gaming expands in the U.S.

BetMGM Arizona

BetMGM launched online in Arizona on September 9, 2021, and they have four retail betting locations. Three of them are at the Gila River Casino properties in Vee Quiva, Wild Horse Pass, and Lone Butte. In addition, there is a BetMGM Sportsbook at State Farm Stadium.

What we think: BetMGM Arizona is a logical choice for NFL betting because of their partnership with the Arizona Cardinals.

This connection legitimizes the activity in a big way, and Caesars offers a top-flight football betting experience. All of the popular bet types are available, and they are known for their daily odds boosts that give players an edge.

Bally Bet Arizona

Bally Bet began operating in Arizona with a quiet February 2022 soft launch through their partnership with the Phoenix Mercury. The platform was updated with the 2.0 version a few months later. There are no Bally Bet retail locations in Arizona, but they could potentially open a land-based book near Footprint Center.

What we think: Bally Bet Arizona is the home of sports predictor contests. You can enter for free, and if you pick the scores of multiple games correctly, you take down the prize pool. This is an ongoing promo, and there are other one-off specials for established players.

Betway Arizona

With their partnership with the San Juan Southern Paiute Tribe, Betway launched in Arizona on March 9, 2022. Betway currently has no retail venues in Arizona, and they have no plans to go in that direction.

What we think: For anyone looking to place bets on European soccer games, Betway Arizona is a logical option. The company was founded in the UK, so they place an emphasis on the soccer betting section.

Golden Nugget Arizona

Golden Nugget online sportsbook started accepting wagers in Arizona on February 22, 2022. They entered the marketplace through a contractual agreement with the Hualapai Tribe. There are no physical Golden Nugget sportsbooks in the Grand Canyon State, and that is not expected to change.

What we think: Golden Nugget offers an elevated niche sports betting experience thanks to its focus on a wide range of sporting events that fly under the radar.

With wagering available on sports like Aussie rules football, darts, chess, and table tennis, Golden Nugget Arizona provides customers with some interesting betting options.

Hard Rock Bet Arizona

In April 2022, Hard Rock established its online presence in Arizona via a collaboration with the Navajo Nation. The tribe owns Twin Arrows Casino Resort in Flagstaff, but there is no retail sports betting outlet.

What we think: Hard Rock Bet Arizona is a good sports betting platform for beginners thanks to their easy-to-use platform and readily available customer support.

With a wide range of wagering options and turnkey features, Hard Rock Bet Arizona provides a hassle-free and intuitive experience that is perfect for those that are new to sports betting.

TwinSpires Arizona

TwinSpires obtained its license through a partnership with the Tonto Apache Tribe, and they launched in Arizona on September 16, 2021. They have also established a retail presence at the tribe’s Mazatzal Hotel and Casino in Payson.

What we think: Twin Spires is a great choice for anyone that wants to bet on horse racing. It is named after the legendary structure at Churchill Downs in Louisville, home of the Kentucky Derby.

The Twin Spires online horse race wagering concept was conceived in 2006 and launched in 2007. Their betting platform is owned by Churchill Downs, Inc., so there is no better place to bet the horses.

SaharaBets Arizona

SaharaBets started taking bets online in Arizona on January 12, 2022. This iconic Las Vegas gaming brand is as authentic as it gets, and they entered the market by virtue of a partnership deal with the Arizona Coyotes of the NHL.

They do not have a retail outlet in the state, but there is a sports gambling website and there are apps for Android and iOS users. All of the standard bet types are available, and they cover all sporting events of interest and some that are a bit obscure.

What we think: SaharaBets stands out for their customer service. You can always reach someone when you need assistance, and their toll-free number is operable 24 hours a day.

Bet365 Arizona (Coming soon)

One of the world’s largest sports betting sites has finally acquired an Arizona license. Bet365 secured a partnership with the Ak Chin Tribe in August 2023 and was given 180 days for the wagering site to launch.

With a massive array of live-betting options, many ongoing bonuses and promotions, and competitive lines, bet365 should become one of the top betting websites in Arizona soon after the site goes live.

Yes, online sports betting has been legal in Arizona since April 15th, 2021. On that fateful day, then-Gov. Ducey signed House Bill 2772 to legalize online and in-person sports gaming.

It took some time to put the regulatory framework in place, and the first bets were placed on September 9, 2021. The first betting sites in Arizona to launch were DraftKings, BetMGM, FanDuel, Caesars, Unibet, Barstool, and WynnBET.

is sports betting legal in Arizona?

Arizona sports betting in numbers

Sports betting legalized in: April 2021
Online betting sites: 16
Retail sportsbooks: 15 + 10 limited event locations
Age to bet on sports: 21
Governing body: Arizona Department of Gaming

Laws and regulations governing sports betting in Arizona

The Arizona Department of Gaming is responsible for the implementation and enforcement of all sports betting laws in the state. Initial guidelines were spelled out in HB 2772, the legislative measure that legalized sports gaming in Arizona.

Under the law, all sports wagers must be placed with an operator that is licensed by the Arizona Department of Gaming. There are 10 licenses available to pro sports teams in the state along with Phoenix Raceway and PGA Tour host TPC Scottsdale.

In addition to those licenses, 10 Native American tribes are eligible for licenses. Each license awarded to either type of entity allows for two online skins or brands and retail sportsbooks.

The law also allows 10 limited event licenses for horse racing tracks and OTB venues, and they have been awarded.

Sports betting is prohibited for anyone under the age of 21 in Arizona. It is also illegal for any person to place a wager on behalf of an individual under the age of 21.

Arizona law prohibits sports betting that involves high school teams. Players can place wagers on college sports, including in-state teams. However, prop betting on college games is not allowed.

Sports leagues in Arizona to bet on

Players in Arizona can now enjoy some betting action when they are rooting for the Cardinals, Diamondbacks, Suns, Coyotes, and Rattlers.

MLB betting

MLB betting is one of the options, and a wager can definitely add a layer of excitement to a D-backs game. Plus, a bet will make a game between two teams you don’t care about much more interesting.

NFL betting

NFL football is the most popular sport for betting in Arizona, and throughout the country, by a significant margin. The Cardinals are usually competitive, and a bet on any game will get the adrenaline pumping.

NHL betting

Arizona NHL fans can now bet on the Coyotes legally online or in person at a brick-and-mortar sportsbook. It’s a lot of fun to get together with some friends and watch a hockey game with some money riding on it.

NBA betting

Footprint Center is rocking and rolling when the Suns take the floor. Fans can now place legal sports bets at the FanDuel retail sportsbook on-site. When the playoffs start, the intensity level at the venue is off the chain.

College football betting

College football attracts a lot of interest at AZ sports betting sites. Residents can bet on games that involve the Arizona Wildcats, AZ State Sun Devils, Northern Arizona, and other in-state and out-of-state college teams.

Live betting

Live betting allows you to wager on live events as they unfold. As the situation changes, the odds are updated to reflect current circumstances. With these bets, you are not shut out if you didn’t get a chance to bet before the game.

Over/under

Over/under betting is also referred to as total betting. The sportsbook will post an estimate of the combined final score of a game, and you can bet the over or the under.

Parlay bets

A parlay bet is a wager with multiple betting interests or “legs” combined in one bet. For instance, you could play a parlay that includes a point spread bet on the Cardinals, the Rams, and the 49ers. If all three of those teams cover the spread, you would win the parlay.

Point spread

The point spread is the number of points that will be surrendered by the favorite and given to the underdog. If the Cardinals are 10-point favorites, they must win by 11 or more to cover. The underdog can lose by as many as 10 and they will cover. If the game is decided by 10 points, supporters of both sides get a refund.

Futures bets

A futures bet is a wager that will be resolved at some point in the future. You can bet on a team to win the World Series or Super Bowl, and there are futures for division, league, and conference championships.

Teaser bets

A teaser bet is similar to a parlay because you have multiple legs on a single bet. However, you get extra points above the point spread to tip the odds in your favor. For football, the traditional teaser levels are between 6 and 7.5 points. You choose the number of points you want to add, and the payout is higher if you accept fewer points.

Prop bets

A proposition or prop bet is a wager on a specific aspect of the game or individual performance. There are propositions for passing yards for quarterbacks, field goals kicked, a player hitting a home run in a given game, etc.

Moneyline

A moneyline bet is a wager on a team to win the game outright with no point spread. To account for competitive advantages, the dollar-for-dollar payout for an underdog bet is higher than the return for a winning bet on the favorite.

Latest events in Arizona sports betting

  • November 17, 2023 – A report released from the Arizona Department of Gaming shows a substantial rise in September’s sports betting handle and revenue in Arizona, with leading contributions from DraftKings and FanDuel
  • November 14, 2023 – PENN Entertainment launches its new online sportsbook, ESPN Bet, in Arizona.
  • October 16, 2023 – In August, Arizona’s sports betting companies reported a rise in betting handle to $358.8 million, attributed to the start of the NCAA football season and NFL preseason.
  • October 2, 2023 – According to reports, the embattled Turf Paradise horse racing track has been sold, and a winter race meet is expected.
  • September 27, 2023 – Monthly handle figures for July are released. Total handle was $323.2 million, which is an 11.3% year-over-year increase.
  • September 11, 2023 – A new and improved Bally Bet is back up and running after completing its conversion to the highly-regarded Kambi platform.
  • August 29, 2023 – The Arizona Department of Gaming issues a sports betting license to bet365, and they are required to launch within 180 days.
  • August 11, 2023 – WynnBET announced that they will be exiting the online sports betting business in AZ, opening a slot for a new operator.
  • August 8, 2023 –  ESPN Bet Arizona is expected to launch this fall after Penn Entertainment struck a $1.5 billion deal with ESPN, leading to the rebranding of Barstool Sportsbook.
  • August 1, 2023 – Arizona Department of Gaming opens the application window for the remaining three available sports betting licenses.

How to bet on sports online in Arizona

Signing up for a sports betting account is quick and easy. Simply complete these steps, and you will be ready to get in on the action:

  1. Pick an Arizona sports betting app: The first step is to choose an Arizona sports betting app. After reading our reviews, you should be able to make an informed decision. When you do, click the “Get Bonus” button next to your chosen sportsbook at the top of this page.
  2. Create and fund your account: You will be eligible for your welcome reward when you reach the landing page. Follow the prompts to set up your account, and make a deposit to comply with the promotion terms.
  3. Place a wager: When the account has been created and the funds are in place, the fun begins. Look through the betting menu, make a decision, and make your first bet.

AZ sports betting bonuses and promos

Betting sites often offer bonuses and promos in order to attract new customers and retain or reward existing ones. These are some of the Arizona sportsbook promos you can claim as a new player:

Welcome bonuses

The first bonus offer you can claim as a new player in Arizona is the sign-up bonus. With the protected bet welcome offer, you get the money back in the form of bonus bets if you lose your first bet. There are also promotions that provide guaranteed bonus betting credit after you make a deposit and place a modest wager.

Promos for existing players

After you receive your sign-up bonus and place a cash bet, you will attain standard user status. Going forward, you will receive ongoing promotional offers for established players. There can be boosted odds, pumped-up payouts, merchandise giveaways, no deposit bonuses, and other specials tied to events of interest.

Loyalty programs

Some of the AZ sports betting sites have loyalty programs. When you participate, you receive points or credits when you place a wager. They can be redeemed for perks like bonus betting credit, hotel stays, comped meals, and event tickets. There are also cumulative status levels that come with a host of different perks.

How Arizona sports betting came to be

The Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act was enacted in 1992. It placed a federal prohibition on legal sports betting in every state except Nevada. After New Jersey voters approved the legalization of sports betting in 2011, the state and the federal government fought a lengthy legal battle over the constitutionality of the PASPA law.

New Jersey prevailed in May of 2018 when the Supreme Court ruled that the measure was unconstitutional. The first legal sports bets were accepted in Delaware and New Jersey a month later. After that, the dominoes started to fall as more states legalized the activity.

In Arizona, there was interest in legalization, but Native American tribes had a monopoly on casino gaming. After negotiations, they agreed to go along with sports betting if they could start to offer table games at their casinos. With this hurdle out of the way, the legislature went to work on the details.

After a lot of negotiating among lawmakers, in April of 2021, companion bills HB 2772 and SB 1797 passed through the Arizona House and Senate respectively. Then-Gov. Doug Ducey signed the final bill on April 15, 2021, to legalize sports betting in Arizona.

law icon

Advantages of betting through Arizona online sportsbooks

You can now legally bet on sports in Arizona in-person and online. Which one is the better choice? That’s a matter of opinion, but we have listed a few of the advantages of using Arizona online sportsbooks below:

Wager from anywhere

Total flexibility is the major advantage of online sports betting. You can place wagers online with a laptop or desktop, and there are Android and iOS sports betting apps. It’s great to have your own personal sportsbook in your pocket at all times.

Fast transactions

Transactions can be completed quickly and efficiently online. You can use all of the most popular deposit methods, including credit cards, debit cards, online banking, PayPal, and Venmo. You can also initiate withdrawals at any time, and all transactions are totally secure.

Promotions and bonuses

When you establish an account at an AZ sports betting site, you will receive a welcome reward. It can be guaranteed bonus betting credit, or you may get a bonus bet refund if you lose your first wager. These special offers provide you with an initial boost, and there are ongoing promotions for established players.

The history of AZ sports betting

Below is a walkthrough of the most important events that led up to the legalization of sports betting in Arizona:

  • September 9, 2021 – The first online betting sites launched in AZ, including DraftKings, Caesars, BetMGM, and FanDuel.
  • April 15, 2021 – Governor Ducey signed HB 2772 into law to legalize sports betting in Arizona.
  • February 4, 2020 – SB 1525 is introduced by Sen. Sonny Borrelli and Rep. Steve Pierce, which would legalize Arizona land-based sports betting at tribal casinos. However, it never goes past the second reading and fails to pass.
  • May 14, 2018 – The U.S. Supreme Court ruled that the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act of 1992 was unconstitutional, paving the way for states like Arizona to legalize sports betting.

Retail betting locations & partnerships in AZ

Caesars: Harrah’s Ak-Chin Casino & Arizona Downs
Desert Diamond: Desert Diamond Casino Tucson, Desert Diamond Casino Sahuarita, and DD Casino West Valley
Unibet: Paradise Casino & Turf Paradise
BetMGM: State Farm Stadium, Gila River Vee Quiva Casino, Wild Horse Pass Casino & Lone Butte Casino
Betfred: We-Ko-Pa Casino
Fanduel: Phoenix Suns Footprint Center
TwinSpires: Mazatzal Hotel & Casino
SolSports: Casino Del Sports

FAQ

FAQ

Do I need to be 21 to bet on sports in Arizona?

Yes, the legal gambling age in Arizona is 21 years.

How do I make a sports bet online in AZ?

To make a sports bet in AZ, you register at a licensed sportsbook. When you go through one of the links at the top of this page, you will be eligible for a sign-up bonus.

Does Arizona tax sports bet winnings?

Yes, the state of Arizona taxes all winnings from sports betting. On the state level, starting in 2023, there is a 2.5% flat tax. Winners also have to claim winnings on their federal tax returns.

Who oversees online sports betting in Arizona?

The Arizona Department of Gaming oversees online gambling in AZ. This regulatory body monitors tribal casinos as well to ensure that they provide a safe gaming experience to players.

Are there any apps for betting on sports in AZ?

Yes, most Arizona betting sites have dedicated apps you can download on Apple App Store and Google Play. With these mobile apps, you can bet when you are in any state with legal sports betting.

Can I bet on soccer online in Arizona?

Yes, you can bet on different soccer events on Arizona betting sites. All you need to do is log on to your account and click the "Soccer" section to wager on your preferred event.

Do I need to live in Arizona to benefit from sports betting?

No, you don’t need to live in Arizona to benefit from sports betting in the state. You must be physically present in Arizona, but residency is not required.

Will a VPN let me bet on sports in Arizona?

No, using a VPN will not let you bet on sports in Arizona. A geolocation verification is required, and it would detect attempts to cloak your location.

Author Details

Gary Garry

Gary Garry

Gary Garry has over thirty years of experience in the sports betting space. He is also a legal content provider, ghostwriting for law firms around the country. Gary has produced content for Gambling.com, Doc's Sports, AM New York, Elite Sports New York, Crossing Broad, Saturday Down South, and Cleveland.com among others. He is now an editor and fact checker for Betting AZ.