Michigan Sports Betting: Best Michigan Sportsbooks December 2024

2. Caesars Sportsbook

Best for: Rewards club

Caesars Sportsbook stands out in Michigan for live betting, daily deals, and a deep range of betting markets. If a top-notch betting experience with lots of options is what you’re after, Caesars is a top pick.

The welcome bonus comes with a money-back guarantee of up to $1,000 for your first lost bet. Plus, it's paired with the outstanding Rewards program.

Caesars gives you 1,000 Tier and Reward Credits as part of the welcome offer to kick things off. With Caesar Rewards, you earn redeemable credits regardless of whether you win or lose, which can be used for a variety of prizes. This includes discounted room rates at fifty different destinations across the country. This rewards program is one of the best on the market. 

Caesars also has a user-friendly interface and is easy to navigate through the selection of sports offerings. The odds are also some of the most competitive in the country. It's a very consistently engaging platform and its overall quality keeps it as a top choice. 

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Caesars Sportsbook MI Ratings

⭐ WSN Rating: 4.3/5
⭐ Apple App Store: 4.6/5
⭐ Google Play Store: 4.3/5
⭐ Trustpilot: N/A

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3. BetMGM

Best for: Discounted stays at MGM Resorts

BetMGM is a go-to sportsbook in Michigan for its wide range of betting options, deep selection of sports, and excellent rewards program. If diverse betting is your thing, BetMGM is the spot for precise and varied wagers.

The platform features an attractive welcome bonus, allowing new users to get up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets. Similar to Caesars, BetMGM offers the MGM Rewards program, providing exclusive perks at MGM resorts and events. For anyone looking for a holiday down the line, you can make your bets count on either of these platforms and get in on these rewards. 

BetMGM's customer support is excellent, offering 24/7 live chat assistance - which is a big plus. However, it's important to note that the platform currently lacks tracking features for betting history.

» Explore our comprehensive review of BetMGM Sportsbook here.

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BetMGM Sportsbook MI Ratings

⭐ WSN Rating: 4.5/5
⭐ Apple App Store: 4.8/5
⭐ Google Play Store: 3.6/5
⭐ Trustpilot: 1.2/5

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4. BetRivers

Best for: On-running promos

BetRivers Michigan is known for its approachable sports betting platform, great for beginners on both desktop and mobile. With ongoing promotions and a strong mobile app, it's a welcoming spot for newcomers. If you're into deals like parlay bonuses and insurance and a sign-up offer that covers losses up to $500, BetRivers keeps it interesting and cost-effective.

BetRivers Michigan stands out for its ease of use, making it a top choice for beginners while still offering enough depth to satisfy experienced bettors. The sportsbook's mobile app is quite reliable on IOS. However, there is a lot of room for improvement on Android, as it can be quite buggy and frustrating to use. 

The platform's promotions, combined with its user-friendly interface and diverse betting options, make BetRivers Michigan a solid choice for sports bettors in the state.

» You can find out more in our full BetRivers review.

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BetRivers Sportsbook MI Ratings

⭐ WSN Rating: 4.1/5
⭐ Apple App Store: 4.4/5
⭐ Google Play Store: 3.3/5
⭐ Trustpilot: 1.7/5

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5. DraftKings 

Best for: Low deposit limits

DraftKings is a big name in US sports betting, known for its wide range of bettor-friendly promotions. If you're into extras like NFL parlay boosts and NBA refunds, DraftKings keeps things interesting.

Their welcome offer is great. New users can activate this offer without a promo code, and can bet $5 and get $250 in Bonus Bets. The platform also provides a variety of payment options, including credit/debit cards, PayPal, and Venmo, with the convenience of a minimum deposit of just $5.

With its user-friendly interface and highly regarded mobile app, DraftKings makes sports betting accessible and straightforward. The integration of different betting services into one platform ensures a seamless and comprehensive betting experience.

» Find out more in our in-depth DraftKings Sportsbook review.

💰 Sign-up offer: Bet $5, Get $250 in Bonus Bets

DraftKings Sportsbook MI Ratings

⭐ WSN Rating: 4.8/5
⭐ Apple App Store: 4.8/5
⭐ Google Play Store: 4.6/5
⭐ Trustpilot: 1.3/5

Full List of Legal Sportsbooks in Michigan

Check out the full list of 12 sportsbooks in Michigan below:

1. BetMGM

2. BetRivers

3. Caesars Sportsbook 

4. DraftKings

5. Eagle Casino & Sports

6. ESPN BET

7. Fanatics Sportsbook 

8. FanDuel

9. FireKeepers

10. Four Winds

11. Play Gun Lake

12. SI Sportsbook

Michigan Online Sports Betting Sites

Michigan Retail Sportsbooks

Is Sports Betting Legal in Michigan?

Yes, sports betting is legal in Michigan. The state took a significant step towards legalizing sports wagering when Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed House Bill 4916 on Dec. 20, 2019. This legislation paved the way for both retail and online sports betting within the state. Michigan saw its first retail sportsbook opening, the FanDuel Sportsbook, at MotorCity Casino in March 2020. The expansion continued with the launch of online sports betting platforms on Jan. 22, 2021. 

How to Start Betting

Getting started with sports betting in Michigan is a straightforward process, thanks to the state's legalization and support of both online and retail sports wagering. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you begin your betting journey in Michigan:

1. Choose a sportsbook: Start by exploring the various legal sportsbooks available in Michigan. Our sportsbook reviews can guide you in selecting the one that best suits your preferences. Consider factors like the range of betting options, promotional offers, customer support quality, and the efficiency of financial transactions.

2. Online registration: Registering for an online sportsbook in Michigan is quick and easy. Just enter your personal details on the sportsbook's website or app. The entire process should only take a few minutes.

3. Claim your bonus: Michigan sportsbooks all offer promotional bonuses for new users. During registration, you might need to enter a promo code to access these offers or opt in in some other way. If you sign up via our links, we can help you with this.

4. Deposit funds: To start betting, you’ll need to deposit funds into your account. After registering, you’ll be directed to the sportsbook’s banking section. Choose a deposit method that works best for you from the available options.

5. Select your bet: Familiarize yourself with the popular betting types in Michigan, such as point spreads, moneyline bets, Over/Under (totals), props, and futures. Take advantage of live betting options offered by many Michigan sportsbooks, leveraging real-time data for better time wagering.

6. Start betting: Click on your chosen bet to add it to the digital bet slip. Type in your stake, and click the Confirm button to lock in your bet.

7. Withdraw winnings: If your bets are successful, withdrawing your winnings will follow a similar process to depositing. Processing and withdrawal times vary between sportsbooks, so be aware of each platform's specific policies and procedures.

By following these steps, you can enjoy a safe and enjoyable sports betting experience in Michigan. 

Michigan Sportsbook Bonuses and Promotions

Here's an overview of the most common types of welcome offers you'll find in Michigan:

Bonus Bet Bonuses

Bonus bets are a little like betting vouchers. In this type of offer, you place an initial bet and receive bonus bets to use on the platform. With bonus bets, you typically receive the winnings but not the stakes.

Second Chance Bets

Caesars Sportsbook provides a "Second Chance Bet" up to $1,000. If your first bet is unsuccessful, they refund it up to the specified limit in the form of bonus bets or site credit. It’s essentially a risk-free start to your betting journey.

Deposit Match Bonuses

SI Casino Offers a "100% Deposit Match up to $100". This bonus doubles your initial deposit, enhancing your betting potential right from the start. Deposit match bonuses are usually credited as bonus bets or site credit, which you need to use for placing wagers before withdrawal.

No Deposit Bonuses

No deposit bonuses provide new bettors with a small amount of site credit or a bonus bet simply for signing up, with no requirement to spend any personal funds. Normally, you’ll get a small bonus bet worth around $10 or $20. 

What Mobile Sportsbooks Are Available in Michigan?

Michigan's sports betting scene has a variety of mobile sportsbook apps. Betting on mobile is a huge part of online sports betting in MI, especially live betting. Here’s a list of our favorites with official ratings:

1. FanDuel: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.7/5 (Android)

2. DraftKings: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.6/5 (Android)

3. BetMGM: 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.2/5 (Android)

4. PointsBet: 4.7/5 (iOS); 4.0/5 (Android)

5. Caesars Sportsbook: 4.6/5 (iOS); 4.3/5 (Android)

6. SI Sportsbook: 4.0/5 (iOS); 4.1/5 (Android)

7. Golden Nugget: 3.1/5 (iOS); 3.4/5 (Android)

8. BetRivers: 4.4/5 (iOS); 3.5/5 (Android)

9. ESPN Bet - 4.9/5 (iOS); 4.5/5 (Android)

What Betting Markets Can I Find in Michigan?

Michigan has an excellent and varied selection of betting markets available. Check out our guide below.

Moneylines

A moneyline bet is a straightforward wager on which team or player will win a game. The odds assigned to each side dictate the payout. The favorite is represented with negative odds, indicating a higher likelihood of winning, while the underdog has positive odds, reflecting a lower chance of victory but offering a larger payout for a successful bet.

Here’s an example:

• Detroit Pistons (+150) 

• Chicago Bulls (-170)

In this case, the Bull’s odds of -170 means you would need to place a wager of $170 in order to win $100, for a total payout of $270. The Pistons are the underdogs, and a $100 bet on them would win $150 for a total payout of $250. 

Point Spreads

This bet focuses on the margin of victory. A point spread is established to even out the perceived strength difference between the two teams. You place your bet on whether the favorite will win by more than the spread or if the underdog will lose by a smaller margin (or even win outright).

Here’s an example: 

• Detroit Lions +4.5 (-110) 

• Green Bay Packers -4.5 (-110)

To win a bet on the Lions, they just need to avoid losing by 5 points or more - anything else is a win for your bet. To win a bet on the Packers, they need to not only beat the Lions, but do so by at least 5 points. 

Totals (Over/Under)

Totals betting, also known as over/under, is a wager on the combined score of both teams in a game. The sportsbook sets a number, and bettors decide whether the total points will be over or under that number. It's a popular bet for those who prefer to focus on the overall flow of the game rather than the outcome of the match.

Here’s an example of how it might look:

• Michigan Wolverines vs. Ohio State Buckeyes 

• Over 50.5 (-110) 

• Under 50.5 (-110)

Prop Bets

Prop bets are wagers on specific events or occurrences within a game that may not directly affect the final outcome. These can be team-based or individual player performances and allowing bettors to focus on particular aspects of the game. Statistical performances like rushing yards, layups, and yellow cards are all popular prop markets.

Here’s an example: 

• Miguel Cabrera Total Hits: Over 1.5 (-120), Under 1.5 (+100)

Parlays

A parlay is a multi-bet, where several individual wagers are combined into one. For a parlay to win, all the individual bets within it must be successful. This type of bet is attractive for its potential for high payouts, but it also carries a higher risk since the failure of any single bet results in the loss of the entire parlay.

Futures

Futures bets are wagers placed on events way down the line in the future, such as championship winners or end-of-season awards. These bets often involve longer odds and can provide excitement throughout a season or tournament.

An example would be betting on the Detroit Red Wings to win the Stanley Cup.

Live Betting

Live betting, or in-play betting, allows bettors to place wagers on games already in progress. The odds fluctuate in real time based on the current score and game events. Live betting adds an element of excitement and requires quick decision-making, as the odds can change rapidly.

Platform Specific

Some platforms in Michigan offer different styles of betting specific to the sportsbook. An example of this is PointsBetting, offered exclusively by PointsBet. It's a high-risk, high-reward format where your winnings or losses aren't fixed but vary based on the accuracy of your bet in relation to the game's outcome. 

For example, if you bet $10 on the Detroit Lions at -7 (-110) against the Chicago Bears at +7 (-110), your payout depends on how much the Lions exceed or fall short of this spread. If the Lions outdo the spread by 10 points, you win 10 times your bet ($100). Falling short by 3 points means losing 3 times your stake ($30).

What Types of Betting Are Not Permitted in Michigan?

Here’s a quick list of what you can’t bet on in Michigan:

• High School Sports: Betting on high school sports is prohibited in Michigan.

• Politics: No betting is allowed on political events, including U.S. presidential elections.

• Esports: Esports betting is not authorized in Michigan, except at the Little River Casino Resort.

Betting on College Sports in Michigan

In Michigan, betting on college sports is fully permitted, enabling residents to wager on games from local universities, including the University of Michigan and Michigan State. This legal allowance covers a range of collegiate sports, from football to basketball.

Michigan Sports Betting Facts

How Does Michigan Online Sports Betting Compare to Other States?

In terms of both tax rates and betting handle, Michigan compares quite well to most states. Michigan's sports betting landscape has rapidly evolved since its launch in March 2020. Comprising both retail and online betting, the state boasts over 15 retail sportsbooks and betting kiosks and 12 legal online apps. New Jersey, the second largest sports betting market by handle in the US, has just a couple more, with 16 online books.

Michigan has set an 8.4% tax rate on sports betting revenue, which is lower than many other states, including Michigan’s neighbor Indiana at 9.5% and New Jersey at 13%. 

Uniquely, Michigan allows betting on college sports, which includes local programs and adds more depth to the betting options available. Michigan’s total sports betting handle was $4.81 billion in 2022, just ahead of Indiana at $4.47 billion. However, the Michigan Gaming Control Board has recently updated its rules to limit fantasy sports betting. Specifically, it prohibits proposition selection or fantasy contests that have the effect of mimicking proposition selection.

Michigan Sports Betting Updates

Here's a look at the key milestones in the state's sports betting history:

• Aug. 28, 2024 - Michigan regulators issue a cease-and-desist to One Country, a country-themed sweepstake lottery platform.

• July 24, 2024 - Michigan’s sports betting handle for June was $285.1 million, a 19.6% decrease from May but a 20.8% increase year-over-year.

• July 15, 2024 - Michigan’s sports betting handle dropped to $354.4 million in May, down 14% from April but up 16.2% from May 2023.

• June 20, 2024 - Michigan's gaming control board dissolves an illegal slot-machine operation at the Red Horse Bar in Saginaw, confiscating six machines during the raid.

• June 19, 2024 - Caesars has announced the acquisition of WynnBET’s sports betting and iGaming operations in Michigan.

• May 30, 2024 -The American Gaming Association supports Michigan's crack down on offshore sportsbooks, encouraging other states to follow suit.

• May 30, 2024 - Michigan threatens Bovada with legal action via a cease-and-desist letter over conducting unlicensed sports betting and iGaming within the state.

• May 22, 2024 - Michigan sports betting handle fell to $414.4 million in April, down 16.7% from March but up 22.5% from 2023.

• May 21, 2024 - According to PlayMichigan, SI Sportsbook and SI Casino plan to exit Michigan by the end of 2024.

• May 16, 2024 - The state announced Michigan sports betting handle was $497.6 million in March, up 19.6% from February and 18% year over year.

Is Daily Fantasy Sports Legal in Michigan?

In Michigan, daily fantasy sports (DFS) are legal and well-regulated. Fans aged 18 and older can participate in DFS contests across the state. 

The Michigan Gaming Control Board oversees the regulation of fantasy sports, ensuring a safe environment for players. All DFS operators in Michigan are required to obtain licenses from the board, adding to the legitimacy of fantasy sports activities within the state.

Sports Teams in Michigan

Michigan is a hub for professional sports, featuring teams in major leagues such as the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL. Let's explore some of Michigan's most prominent teams attracting action at MI sportsbooks:

1. Detroit Lions (NFL): The Lions, though yet to secure a Super Bowl victory, hold a special place in the hearts of Michigan's NFL fans. Their notable achievements include four NFL Championship wins pre-Super Bowl era, the last being in 1957.

2. Detroit Pistons (NBA): In the NBA, the Pistons have a storied history, including three NBA Championship wins. Infamous for their tenacity and strong team play, especially during the late 1980s and early 2000s, the Pistons continue to be a significant name in NBA circles. 

3. Detroit Tigers (MLB): The Tigers, representing Michigan in Major League Baseball, have won the World Series four times. With a history dating back to 1901, they are one of the American League's eight charter franchises. 

4. Detroit Red Wings (NHL): In the NHL, the Red Wings stand out with a remarkable 11 Stanley Cup victories. They are one of the Original Six teams of the league and have a rich history of success and influential players. 

Michigan Sportsbook Partnerships

All of Michigan’s major league teams have signed partnerships with sports betting brands.

The Detroit Pistons finalized their partnership with both FanDuel and DraftKings in late 2020. This deal marked a first in the industry, as the Pistons became the first professional team to have sponsorship agreements with two major sports betting companies. 

The Detroit Lions have sponsorship agreements with both BetMGM and WynnBET, while the Detroit Tigers and the Red Wings are official gaming partners of FanDuel through an agreement that includes Motor City Casino.

How We Rated the Top Michigan Sports Betting Sites

Our process in rating Michigan sports betting sites is grounded in our own thorough analysis. We immerse ourselves in each platform, dedicating a minimum of two hours to explore each of the six aspects below before we begin to write up our review. This approach lets us understand the platforms from a user’s point of view and allows us to include our own experience, as well as the crucial data we found - like bonus terms and conditions, for instance.

For each sportsbook evaluation, our experts focus on these six features:

1. User Experience: We invest a lot of time in navigating each site's interface, including testing on different devices. This involves assessing the ease of placing bets, the clarity of information, and overall navigation, both on desktop and mobile apps.

2. Features: We explore the full range of betting options, including the depth of sports markets, live betting interfaces and tools like parlay builders, and mobile app functionality. This detailed analysis can take several hours as we aim to understand the quality of the betting experiences offered.

3. Promotions: Our team opts into both welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions, dedicating time to understanding the accessibility and appeal of these offers and the ease with which bettors can claim them, plus any terms and conditions to be aware of.

4. Deposits and Withdrawals: Testing all financial transaction methods is a big part of our review, often spanning a couple of weeks. We focus on transaction speed, ease of process, and any associated fees, providing bettors with a transparent view of financial operations. For each method, we follow the deposit and withdrawal process from start to finish.

5. Customer Support: We evaluate the effectiveness and availability of support channels, including testing live chat support, sending emails to the support team, and speaking to the sportsbook on the phone, if possible. 

6. Responsible Gambling: We favor sportsbooks that commit to responsible gambling, paying close attention to the presence of tools like deposit limits and self-exclusion features.

Our editorial team also invests five hours monthly in post-publication checks to keep our reviews current and reliable. Each of our reviews is an outcome of research and hands-on testing, often extending over several weeks to ensure our readers are getting nothing but accurate, up-to-date knowledge. 

Why Trust Us?

You can count on our reviews because we've been in the sports betting game for a long time. Our team at WSN.com isn't just made up of writers. We're seasoned bettors who've been placing online bets since the early days of the internet. We've seen the evolution of sportsbooks firsthand and have a deep, practical understanding of the industry.

We're not just reporting facts; we're sharing our betting experience with you, from user to user. This approach allows us to uncover details that others might overlook. So, when it comes to sportsbooks, you can trust our reviews to be honest, thorough, and, most importantly, informed by real bettors just like you.

Getting Help: Responsible Gambling in Michigan

Michigan places a strong emphasis on responsible gambling, offering several resources to assist residents in managing their gambling activities. The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services has a dedicated section for this purpose. Here's a brief overview of the key resources available in Michigan:

1. Michigan Problem Gambling Helpline: This toll-free, confidential helpline is available 24/7 for Michigan residents seeking immediate help with gambling issues. The helpline number is 1-800-270-7117, staffed with trained counselors who provide discreet and professional assistance.

2. Gamblers Anonymous: A renowned support network, Gamblers Anonymous facilitates regular meetings in various locations across Michigan. These meetings serve as a safe space for individuals to share their experiences and receive mutual support for gambling-related challenges.

3. Michigan Department of Health and Human Services ‘Get Help’ Page: This online resource offers comprehensive information and tools for those struggling with problem gambling. It includes links to various support services and educational materials to help individuals understand and address gambling problems.

4. Voluntary Self-Exclusion Program: Michigan provides a self-exclusion option for residents who wish to take a controlled break from gambling. This program allows individuals to voluntarily exclude themselves from gambling activities for a set period, offering a practical step towards recovery.

For more details on these resources and other related programs, visit the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services website.