The wind of online sports betting legalization blew to North Carolina in 2023, as the Tar Heel State became the 28th US jurisdiction to legalize online sports betting. However, online sports betting didn’t kick off in the state till 2024.
Currently, there are eight sportsbooks in North Carolina, so sports fans can expect extensive betting markets, great odds, and generous bonuses. But, what are the best NC sportsbooks? Can NC residents wager on popular bookmakers? This detailed review holds the answer.
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After carefully researching all NC sportsbooks, we’ve found the top 6 bookmakers. Based on our experience as seasoned sports bettors, we were able to identify the best sportsbook on NC as bet365, BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars, and Fanatics. The table below shows where each bookmaker excels to help you choose the best site that suits your preferences and sports betting needs.
| Category | Sportsbook |
|---|---|
| 💰 Best Sign Up Bonus | Caesars |
| 📈 Most Competitive Odds | bet365 |
| 🏈 Biggest Choice of Markets | Caesars |
| 🤝 Best Loyalty Promos | Fanatics |
| 🎯 Best Same Game Parlays | BetMGM |
| 🆕 Newest Sportsbook | bet365 |
| 📱 Best Mobile App | Caesars |
| ⏳ Best for Live Betting | bet365 |
| 💳 Most Trusted Payments | BetMGM |
| 💬 Best Support | FanDuel |
While online sports betting was fully launched on March 11, 2024, sports betting was already legalized in NC in 2019. However, it was strictly for retail sportsbooks in North Carolina. After Governor Roy Cooper signed Senate Bill 154 into law, the legislation facilitated retail sports betting at two tribal casinos in Murphy and Cherokee, on the western part of North Carolina.
Despite the Senate Bill 154 allowing retail sports betting at tribal casinos, the first legal bet was still not placed until 2021. Even at that point, wagering activities were restricted to in-person gambling at those tribal casinos. Simply put, it took two years for NC residents to place their first legal bets and another two years for the state legislature to sign the bill legalizing online sports betting in the state.
Before the official launch on March 11, eight top-rated betting sites were already vying for the opportunity to become the first NC sportsbooks. Since online sports betting became fully legal in NC a few months ago, we are expecting more bookmakers to key into the budding betting market.
Let’s reiterate that online sportsbooks became legal in North Carolina just a few months ago. As such, our list of NC sportsbooks is quite small. Naturally, with time, the NC sports betting industry will expand to accommodate more bookmakers.
However, here are the 8 sports betting sites currently available at North Carolina:
While eight may seem a bit limited, the available online betting sites in North Carolina is more than enough to ensure a memorable yet rewarding sports betting adventure for NC bettors. Here’s all you need to know about these NC bookmakers, including their pros and cons. At the end of this review, you’ll decide which of these options is best for your sports betting needs.
bet365 is one of the top-rated sportsbooks to enter the North Carolina market on March 11. While bet365 doesn’t sport the best looking website interface, the site is mobile-optimized and user-friendly. There’s also a mobile app for on-the-go betting.
At this bookmaker, you can place bets on diverse sports and markets, including Football, Hockey, and Basketball. The unparalleled live betting experience makes bet365 one of our favorite sportsbooks in North Carolina.
New bettors at bet365 will be able to choose one of two welcome bonuses. The first is a First Bet Safety Net, which refunds your stake up to $1,000 if you lose your first bet on the platform. On the other hand, bettors can claim the “Bet $5, Get $150” offer, which offers you $150 in bonus bets when you wager at least $5 on your first bet on the sportsbook. If you prefer Parlay betting, you’ll enjoy betting at bet365 as the bookmaker has an easy-to-use and fun Parlay Builder.
Besides the welcome bonus, bettors enjoy access to numerous promotions and early payouts.
Owned and operated by the reputable MGM, BetMGM has established itself as a leading sports betting site in the US and globally. So, we were unsurprised to see it’s one of the 8 sportsbooks that joined the new North Carolina market upon its official launch.
The first thing that will catch your attention upon visiting the BetMGM website is the beautiful theme and layout. If you’re a live betting fan, you’ll love BetMGM, as the bookmaker features live game trackers. You can also stream some live events on the site, including NHL games.
Popularly called the King of Parlays, BetMGM makes Parlay betting easy for sports fans, with remarkable features like One Game Parlay insurance, Parlay Boost, and Easy Parlay. Besides the sports product, BetMGM also offers Poker and Casino products for players looking for a diverse betting experience.
BetMGM’s website is fluid and seamless during navigation. It’s also mobile-optimized and user-friendly, ensuring players can place bets with ease. If you prefer betting on the go with your mobile device, there’s a mobile app. Customer support is also excellent, as you can reach the site via various channels. However, the minimum withdrawal limit is a bit higher compared to similar NC betting sites.
DraftKings is one of the 8 sportsbooks to enter the new NC sports betting market after the official online sports betting launch in the state.
New DraftKings users enjoy a match deposit bonus up to $1,000. Also, you can get $200 instantly when you place your first $5 bet. There’s an application for Android and iOS devices for users who love betting with their phones. Both are available in the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, so downloading them isn’t a challenge.
The platform offers multiple secure payment methods, including options such as bank cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, Venmo, gift cards, and online banking. Whenever you have issues, you can reach the DraftKings support team through live chat and email, which are available 24/7.
DraftKings is a legitimate platform, famous not only for its daily fantasy sports section but also for traditional sports betting and casino gaming. It has been around since 2012, meaning the online betting platform has over a decade of experience.
25x Deposit. T&Cs and 21+ apply
Like DraftKings, FanDuel is one of the top North Carolina sportsbooks that’s known for its extensive daily fantasy sports options The betting site offers an exciting welcome bonus for new users. Simply bet $5 and get $150 in bonus bets once you win.
It takes one glance to see that FanDuel put lots of effort into designing its website interface. The design and layout are top-notch, so we didn’t encounter any challenges while navigating the site. There’s also a mobile app for users who prefer betting on-the-go.
What we found impressive is the wide range of payment methods on the platform. There are bank cards, Apple Pay, PayPal, and Venmo for secure transactions. FanDuel also supports innovative methods such as Cash at Counter, PayNearMe, gift cards, and FanDuel Prepaid Play.
Users can reach the platform through five support channels, including Help Center, live chat, email, and social media. FanDuel also scores high points in terms of licensing, reputation, and security. The brand first entered the US online gaming industry in 2018 but has been operating since 2009.
T&Cs and 21+ apply
Fanatics is one of the new sportsbooks in the US, launched in 2023 after being acquired by PointsBet. The first thing that got us hooked on the bookmaker is its intuitive mobile app. There’s also live betting and live streaming on popular leagues, such as the NFL. If you’re a Parlay bettor, you’ll love the Same Game parlays.
But what makes Fanatics Sportsbook stand out is its rewards program. Users can redeem their FanCash via the rewards program for bonus bet or discounts on merchandise at the Fanatics web store.
Interestingly, Fanatics doesn’t offer sports betting on desktop mode. You can either download the app or use the website’s mobile version.
Although new in the US sports betting industry, Caesar Sportsbook has steadily climbed its way to the top with its impressive offerings. So, we weren’t surprised to see it was one of the 8 sportsbooks to enter the new NC online betting market.
The Caesars mobile app is one of its selling points. It’s easily navigable and wagering is a seamless affair on the app. While Caesars offers diverse sports markets and leagues, you’ll be disappointed if you’re into niche sports. However, Parlay fans can enjoy Same Game Parlay, although it isn’t as expansive as what you’ll find at bet365 and FanDuel.
Caesars has one of the best bookmaker bonuses compared to any sportsbooks on our list. New users can get back their first loss up to $1500 using the code GO1000. NC bettors also enjoy excellent customer support across various channels at Caesars Sportsbook.
The first thing you’ll notice about Underdog Sportsbook is the clean website and app interface. If you’re an NC bettor interested in signing up at Underdog Sportsbook.
ESPN BET is renowned for its daily promos and Parlay offerings. As one of the newest additions to the NC online betting industry, here are its pros and cons:
The 8 recently launched North Carolina betting sites are all licensed by the North Carolina State Lottery Commission to operate in the state after having satisfied the Sports Wagering law. Note that North Carolina sports betting state regulation requires partnership between each bookmaker in the state and professional sports teams, PGA Tour, NASCAR, auto race tracking, or golf course.
These tracks, courses, or teams must be located in the state and host several tournaments or races in NC. So far, only seven bookmakers have announced partnerships with three race courses, leagues, or sports teams.
Here’s a table showing the best NC betting sites and their partnerships:
| Sportsbooks | Licensing partner |
|---|---|
| bet365 | Charlotte Hornets |
| BetMGM | Charlotte Motor Speedway |
| DraftKings | NASCAR |
| FanDuel | PGA Tour |
| Fanatics | Carolina Hurricanes |
| Underdog Sportsbook | Sedgefield Country Club in Greensboro |
| ESPN BET | Quail Hollow Club in Charlotte |
Bettors at North Carolina have access to an extensive betting market across several sports, such as football, basketball, hockey, and even college sports. So, if you’re looking for football betting sites in NC, the 8 available online bookmakers offer a wide range of football betting markets with competitive odds. The NFL is also the most popular league at NC sportsbooks, with the Carolina Panther as the people’s favorite.
Some of the betting markets you can expect at NC betting sites are:
While North Carolina sports betting laws allow you to bet on diverse sports and markets, some sports and events are restricted. For context, you can’t place wagers on high school sports at North Carolina sportsbooks. Also, politics and award shows are prohibited from betting.
Online sports betting in North Carolina is regulated by The North Carolina Lottery Commission, which also oversees the North Carolina Education Lottery’s operations. However, the Cherokee Tribal Gaming Commission regulates the three retail NC sportsbooks hosted by tribal casinos in North Carolina.
Each sportsbook license attracts a 5 million dollar fee valid for 5 years and an 18% tax.
21+. Gambling problem? Text “morethanagamenc” to 53342, Call 877-718-5543, or visit https://ncgaming.gov/responsible-gaming
North Carolina has recently joined the US states where sports fans can legally place wagers on their favorite sports. There are currently 8 approved online bookmakers and 3 retail sportsbooks in the Tar Heel state.
Here’s how all the North Carolina sportsbooks fare when it comes to bonus, competitive lines, mobile app experience, payment methods, market variety, and support.
bet365
| Bonus | ★★★★★★★★★☆ | 9/10 |
| Competitive Lines | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
| App Experience | ★★★★★★★★★☆ | 9/10 |
| Payment Options | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
| Market Variety | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
| Support | ★★★★★★★★★☆ | 9/10 |
| Summary | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
Sign up with bet365 North Carolina
BetMGM
| Bonus | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
| Competitive Lines | ★★★★★★★★★☆ | 9/10 |
| App Experience | ★★★★★★★★★☆ | 9/10 |
| Payment Options | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
| Market Variety | ★★★★★★★★★☆ | 9/10 |
| Support | ★★★★★★★★★☆ | 9/10 |
| Summary | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
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DraftKings
| Bonus | ★★★★★★★★★☆ | 9/10 |
| Competitive Lines | ★★★★★★★★★☆ | 9/10 |
| App Experience | ★★★★★★★★★☆ | 9/10 |
| Payment Options | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
| Market Variety | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
| Support | ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ | 7/10 |
| Summary | ★★★★★★★★★☆ | 9/10 |
Fanduel
| Bonus | ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ | 7/10 |
| Competitive Lines | ★★★★★★★★☆☆ | 8/10 |
| App Experience | ★★★★★★★★★☆ | 9/10 |
| Payment Options | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
| Market Variety | ★★★★★★★★★☆ | 9/10 |
| Support | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
| Summary | ★★★★★★★★★☆ | 9/10 |
Sign up with FanDuel North Carolina
Fanatics
| Bonus | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
| Competitive Lines | ★★★★★★★★★☆ | 9/10 |
| App Experience | ★★★★★★★★★☆ | 9/10 |
| Payment Options | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
| Market Variety | ★★★★★★★★☆☆ | 8/10 |
| Support | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
| Summary | ★★★★★★★★★★ | 10/10 |
Sign up with Caesars North Carolina
Underdog Sportsbook
| Bonus | ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ | 7/10 |
| Competitive Lines | ★★★★★★☆☆☆☆ | 6/10 |
| App Experience | ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ | 7/10 |
| Payment Options | ★★★★★★☆☆☆☆ | 6/10 |
| Market Variety | ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ | 7/10 |
| Support | ★★★★★★★★☆☆ | 8/10 |
| Summary | ★★★★★★☆☆☆☆ | 6/10 |
Sign up with Underdog Sportsbook North Carolina
| Bonus | ★★★★★★★★☆☆ | 8/10 |
| Competitive Lines | ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ | 7/10 |
| App Experience | ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ | 7/10 |
| Payment Options | ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ | 7/10 |
| Market Variety | ★★★★★★★★☆☆ | 8/10 |
| Support | ★★★★★★★★☆☆ | 8/10 |
| Summary | ★★★★★★★☆☆☆ | 7/10 |
Sign up with ESPN BET North Carolina
Yes! North Carolina became the 28th jurisdiction to legalize online sports betting. Online sports betting was officially launched in North Carolina on March 11, 2024. But before then, in December 2021, NC residents could place legal wagers on retail sportsbooks owned by tribal casinos.
Presently, you can bet on your favorite sports at 8 North Carolina betting sites and also place in-person wagers at 3 retail sportsbooks.
At the moment, there are 8 licensed sportsbooks in North Carolina: bet365, BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars, Fanatics, Underdog Sportsbook, and ESPN BET.
You can also legally place sports bets at retail sportsbooks in tribal casinos as a North Carolina resident.
We ranked our top 6 sportsbooks in North Carolina after an extensive review of different metrics, including bonus offers, mobile experience, betting variety, betting experience, payment options, and customer support.
Based on these metrics, bet365, BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel, Caesars, and Fanatics Sportsbook are our top 6 betting sites in North Carolina.
No. You mustn’t come from North Carolina to place bets at NC betting sites. However, you must reside in the state or at least stay within the state lines at the time of placing the wager. This term is necessary as bookmakers in North Carolina use geolocation technology to block users from outside the state from accessing their sites.
The best NC sportsbook depends on your individual preference. These sites on our list of all North Carolina sportsbooks have distinct features that make them unique. However, bet365, BetMGM, DraftKings, FanDuel, Fanatics, and Caesars Sportsbook are the top bookmakers on the list. So, sign up at any of these sites and kick-start your wagering adventure.
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