North Carolina sports betting is officially live and rapidly expanding in 2025, with the passing of House Bill 347. After the launch of legal online sportsbooks, residents and visitors now have access to licensed NC betting sites and apps.
Whether you’re betting on the Carolina Panthers, UNC basketball, or international events, there’s a sportsbook for every kind of bettor. Nonetheless, there are some limitations to state-based sportsbooks, and regulated and safe sports betting operators located overseas are another option in North Carolina. Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know—from the top North Carolina sportsbooks and how they compare to retail betting, to current laws, bonuses, and local teams.
Top 10 North Carolina Betting Sites
- BetWhale – Best for New Bettors in North Carolina
- BetOnline – Best for Advanced Betting Tools
- Bovada – Best for Casino and Sports Integration
- BetUS – Best for High-Roller Bonuses
- Everygame – Best for Soccer and Tennis Betting
- CoinCasino – Best for Anonymous Crypto Betting
- MyBookie – Best for North Carolina College Sports
- Sportsbetting.ag – Best for Niche and Regional Markets
- BUSR – Best for Betting on Motorsports
- BetNow – Best for Straightforward Betting Experience
Is Sports Betting Legal in North Carolina?
Yes. As of March 2024, online sports betting is fully legal and live in North Carolina. Retail sports betting had been limited to tribal casinos since 2019, but the new law significantly expands access by allowing licensed operators to offer online betting statewide.
Legal Availability by Type
Betting Type | Legal in NC |
Retail Sports Betting | ✅ Yes |
Online Sports Betting | ✅ Yes |
Esports Betting | ✅ Yes (unavailable via local sportsbooks) |
Political Betting | ❌ No (available via offshore sportsbooks) |
Daily Fantasy Sports | ✅ Yes |
Horse Racing Betting | ✅ Yes |
Current Legal Standing
North Carolina sports betting is regulated by the North Carolina State Lottery Commission. Under House Bill 347, which passed in 2023, the state now permits up to 11 licensed online sportsbooks. These North Carolina online sportsbooks must partner with professional sports teams, leagues, or venues to secure access.
The bill allows betting on professional and college sports, esports (though no esports betting is live via local operators), and Olympic events. Bettors must be physically located in North Carolina and at least 21 years old. Geo-location and identity verification are required before placing bets.
Legal sportsbooks must adhere to responsible gaming standards, including self-exclusion programs and deposit limits. This ensures a safe and accountable environment for all bettors in the state.
Meanwhile, safe and reputable offshore sportsbooks continue to allow North Carolina online betting.
Recent Legislation Changes
The most important development was the passage of HB 347 in 2023. This bill authorized legal online sports betting and created a licensing framework for operators. It came into effect on January 8, 2024, with sportsbooks launching shortly thereafter.
The law also permits betting kiosks at venues like stadiums and race tracks. Each online sportsbook is taxed at 18%, with revenue directed toward education and economic development programs.
As of 2025, there have been discussions about expanding partnerships and allowing more market entrants, but no additional legislation has passed yet.
Will North Carolina Expand Its Betting Market?
North Carolina’s betting market is still in its early stages, but it is growing fast. Lawmakers have signaled interest in expanding the number of sportsbook licenses and refining regulations around promotional credits and taxation.
Given early success and strong tax revenue, it’s likely that the state will continue to expand the market over the next few years. Potential updates could include more operators, faster licensing for partnerships, and broader access to betting kiosks across the state.
Can You Use Offshore Sportsbooks in North Carolina?
Yes. In addition to state-licensed platforms, many residents in North Carolina use reputable offshore sportsbooks. These sites offer broader betting options, full remote registration, and often more competitive bonuses.
Offshore sportsbooks operate legally in their jurisdictions and accept players from NC. They can be a practical alternative for sports betting in NC, especially for users seeking crypto support or fewer restrictions on betting markets.
Expert Reviews of the Best North Carolina Sportsbooks
We personally test North Carolina betting apps and websites before recommending them to North Carolina bettors. Our review process goes beyond surface-level features. We open accounts, deposit real money, place bets on local and national markets, and assess how each platform handles payouts, promotions, and support.
We prioritize North Carolina sports betting sites that serve the unique needs of North Carolinians, like betting on local college teams, NASCAR, and live in-game action. Below are our top five choices, each with a specific strength that makes it a standout in NC’s growing betting landscape.
1. BetWhale – Best for New Bettors in North Carolina
BetWhale is a beginner-friendly NC sportsbook that excels at making sports betting simple, safe, and accessible. The platform is clean, intuitive, and free from clutter, making it ideal for first-time users in North Carolina who want to learn the ropes without being overwhelmed.
The site offers betting on all major U.S. leagues and college sports, including UNC and NC State. It also supports NASCAR, PGA events, and global sports like soccer and rugby. The bet slip is easy to use, with clear indicators for moneylines, spreads, and over/unders.
BetWhale supports deposits via credit cards, eWallets, and crypto. Bitcoin deposits clear instantly, and withdrawals are processed within 24–48 hours. New users benefit from a generous welcome bonus with low rollover requirements, and there are tutorials available for every major bet type.
Pros:
- Streamlined interface perfect for beginners
- Supports all major North Carolina college and pro teams
- Low minimum deposits and fast crypto payouts
Cons:
- Lacks deep customization or advanced features
- No dedicated app (mobile browser version only)
Conclusion:
If you’re new to online sports betting in North Carolina, BetWhale is a safe and smart starting point. It’s reliable, approachable, and offers just the right mix of features for new bettors.
2. BetOnline – Best for Advanced Betting Tools
BetOnline is a well-established NC sports betting site known for its sharp odds and extensive betting tools. North Carolina bettors who want more control over their strategy—like early cashouts, alternate lines, and detailed props—will find BetOnline ideal.
Markets are available on the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and all major college teams, including UNC, Duke, and Wake Forest. BetOnline also excels at in-game betting, with real-time stat integration and flexible bet types. The platform offers one of the most complete live betting experiences available to NC users.
Payment methods include traditional cards, bank transfers, and more than 10 cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin and Ethereum are the most popular choices and support near-instant withdrawals. The platform also supports customizable bet slips and betting limits for sharper users.
Pros:
- High-level tools for experienced bettors
- Fast, real-time live betting interface
- Wide crypto support and rapid payouts
Cons:
- Interface may feel dense for beginners
- Promotions are more limited compared to rivals
Conclusion:
BetOnline is best for North Carolina bettors who want advanced features and flexible betting strategies. It’s built for value seekers and confident bettors looking for deeper market control.
3. Bovada – Best for Casino and Sports Integration
Bovada stands out for blending its sportsbook with a top-tier online casino, making it the best choice for North Carolina users who want variety. You can bet on the Panthers or Tar Heels, then jump into blackjack or slots—seamlessly.
The sportsbook interface is sleek, fast, and easy to navigate. It offers betting on NFL, NBA, college football and basketball, international soccer, and even niche sports like curling and darts. The bet builder tool allows users to create multi-leg wagers with real-time odds updates.
Bovada supports credit card and crypto banking, and is one of the best crypto betting sites. Bitcoin is the fastest and most cost-effective method, with withdrawals typically completed within 24 hours. Customer service is available 24/7 via live chat, and mobile access is excellent via browser.
Pros:
- All-in-one platform for sports and casino gaming
- Excellent mobile experience and live betting
- Fast crypto deposits and withdrawals
Cons:
- Higher rollover on bonuses than on some sites
- Betting limits may be lower for sharp bettors
Conclusion:
Bovada is perfect for North Carolina bettors who want more than just sports. Its clean interface, strong casino integration, and fast payouts make it a strong all-around option.
4. BetUS – Best for High-Roller Bonuses
BetUS offers the most aggressive bonuses in the market, making it a favorite among high-stakes bettors in North Carolina. Crypto depositors, in particular, get access to massive matched bonuses and reload perks.
The sportsbook covers a broad range of sports, from NFL and NCAA action to MMA, golf, and esports. Local college teams, NASCAR, and ACC football markets are well-represented. The odds are competitive, and the bet slip supports parlays, teasers, and round robins with ease.
BetUS accepts credit cards, bank wire, and crypto (Bitcoin, Litecoin, Ethereum). The minimum deposit is higher than at some North Carolina sports betting competitors, but high-volume players are rewarded with VIP promotions and fast-track withdrawals. A full learning center is available for new users, including betting guides and market breakdowns.
Pros:
- Massive welcome and reload bonuses
- VIP perks for high-volume players
- Full coverage of NC college and pro teams
Cons:
- Higher deposit requirements for the biggest bonuses
- Site navigation can feel slightly outdated
Conclusion:
If you’re a North Carolina bettor looking to maximize bonus value, especially with crypto, BetUS offers unmatched promotional upside and reliable service.
5. Everygame – Best for Soccer and Tennis Betting
Everygame has carved out a niche as one of the best betting sites for international sports fans in North Carolina. If you enjoy betting on the English Premier League, Champions League, ATP tennis, or Formula 1, this platform delivers a deep, specialized experience.
In addition to global events, Everygame covers all major U.S. sports and NCAA action. Their odds are competitive across football, basketball, and baseball, with solid coverage of team props and halftime markets. It’s also a great option for smaller-market events that aren’t as easily found on bigger platforms.
Banking is flexible at this North Carolina sports betting site with support for major cards, bank transfers, and multiple crypto types. Crypto withdrawals are typically completed in under 48 hours. Promotions rotate weekly and include sport-specific boosts and free bets.
Pros:
- Excellent coverage of global soccer and tennis
- Fast-loading site with a clean interface
- Regular rotating promos
Cons:
- Fewer U.S.-specific promotions
- No app—mobile experience is browser-based
Conclusion:
Everygame is the ideal sportsbook for North Carolina bettors who follow international sports. It’s reliable, fast, and tailored for fans of global leagues and tournaments.
How We Choose the Best Online North Carolina Sportsbooks
We approach ranking sportsbooks in NC with transparency, consistency, and first-hand experience. Our team opens real accounts, places bets, tests payout speeds, and engages with customer support to evaluate every platform from the perspective of a real bettor in North Carolina. We also consider user reviews and North Carolina sports betting platform reputation across Reddit, Trustpilot, and betting forums.
NC sportsbooks we recommend must meet strict criteria for safety, fairness, value, and usability. We focus on what matters most to North Carolina bettors—local college markets, fast withdrawals, crypto support, and strong mobile performance.
Welcome Bonus
We evaluate how generous and user-friendly each welcome bonus is. Strong North Carolina sports betting promos aren’t just about the headline figure—they must have reasonable rollover requirements, include eligible markets, and offer real value. We prioritize North Carolina online sports betting sites that make it easy for new users to claim and clear their bonus without jumping through hoops.
Safety & Security
Every sportsbook we recommend must meet modern security standards. That includes SSL encryption, account verification, two-factor authentication, and secure crypto wallets. We also verify operator legitimacy, licensing history, and data privacy policies. North Carolina bettors deserve protection at every step—from sign-up to cash-out.
Payment Options
A good sportsbook must offer flexible, fast, and secure banking. We prefer platforms that support credit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers, and a full range of cryptocurrencies.
Our experts test each method to verify deposit speed, withdrawal approval time, and any associated fees. Platforms that support instant crypto withdrawals and low minimums rank highest.
Range of Sports
We look for broad coverage across American leagues (NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, NCAA) and international sports like soccer, tennis, golf, and MMA. Bettors in North Carolina should have access to local markets (like UNC, Duke, or the Panthers) as well as global events. Props, futures, and live lines are key ranking factors.
Competitive Odds
We compare odds across multiple platforms for popular markets like point spreads, moneylines, and totals. Sites that offer consistently tight lines and higher payouts earn better rankings. We also check odds boosts, alternate lines, and early market availability to ensure long-term value.
Customer Support
We test each sportsbook’s customer service via live chat, email, and help desk. Response times, professionalism, and resolution speed are all factored in. We prefer sportsbooks with 24/7 chat support and transparent escalation processes, especially for payment issues or account verifications.
Mobile Compatibility
Mobile usability is essential. We test every North Carolina mobile sports betting site’s mobile browser version and any available apps.
Speed, bet slip functionality, live betting responsiveness, and account management features are all considered. The best sportsbooks offer a smooth, consistent experience on both iOS and Android without requiring an app download.
North Carolina Betting Sites vs. North Carolina Retail Sportsbooks
North Carolina now offers both retail and online betting, but there are key differences. Retail sportsbooks are located at tribal casinos and pro sports venues, while online sportsbooks let you place bets from your phone anywhere in the state.
- Online sportsbooks support full crypto betting; retail sportsbooks don’t
- Online betting is accessible 24/7 without travel
- Retail books offer sa ocial atmosphere, but fewer promos
- Online platforms offer better odds boosts and convenience
- Retail sportsbooks require cash or cards; online sites accept more payment types
Bonuses at North Carolina Sports Betting Sites
Online sportsbooks use bonuses to attract new users and reward loyal bettors. North Carolina betting sites offer a range of promotions, each suited to a different strategy or playing style. Understanding how these North Carolina sports betting bonuses work—and who they benefit—is key to getting the most value from your bets.
Welcome Bonus
The welcome bonus is typically a matched deposit awarded to new users when they fund their account for the first time. For example, you might get a 100% match up to $1,000. Some sites also offer risk-free bets as part of the welcome package.
These North Carolina sports betting bonuses help new users boost their bankroll right away. They’re ideal for beginners or anyone placing a large initial deposit. Always check the rollover terms and eligible bet types before claiming.
Reload Bonus
Reload bonuses reward existing users who make additional deposits. They often appear during special events (like NFL kickoff or March Madness) and usually match a percentage of your deposit, often 25% to 50%. These bonuses help regular bettors get more value over time and can be a reliable way to top up your account without paying full price.
Risk-Free Bets
A risk-free bet gives you a refund (in site credit or cash) if your first wager loses. It’s a useful way to place a high-risk or high-value bet with limited downside.
These are popular with new users and are often tied to your first bet after registration. Just make sure to understand how the refund works—some come as withdrawable cash, others as bonus funds with playthrough requirements.
Odds Boosts
Odds boosts increase the payout on specific bets, usually for major games or local matchups. For example, a Panthers moneyline at +150 might be boosted to +200.
These promos are ideal for maximizing value without increasing your stake. They’re offered daily or weekly and can be found in a dedicated “boosts” section on most sportsbooks.
Bet Insurance
Bet insurance protects specific types of wagers, like parlays, player props, or multi-leg same-game bets. If you meet the conditions (such as missing one leg of a parlay), you get your stake refunded as bonus credit. Bet insurance is best for bettors chasing higher payouts while limiting downside.
Popular North Carolina Sports Teams to Bet On
North Carolina is a sports-rich state with a loyal fan base across professional and college leagues. Whether you’re betting online or at a local sportsbook, these teams are among the most popular for wagering in 2025.
North Carolina NFL Teams
The Carolina Panthers are the state’s only NFL team and a betting favorite. Common North Carolina sports betting markets include point spreads, moneylines, over/unders, and player props like passing yards or touchdowns. Bettors also wager on division standings, playoff odds, and season-long futures like MVP or Rookie of the Year.
North Carolina NBA and WNBA Teams
While North Carolina doesn’t have an NBA team, fans often support nearby franchises like the Charlotte Hornets, Atlanta Hawks, or Washington Wizards. Bettors follow player props, spread betting, alternate totals, and same-game parlays. The WNBA also sees action, with interest growing around teams like the Washington Mystics and Atlanta Dream.
MLB Teams in North Carolina
There is no MLB team in North Carolina, but local fans frequently back the Atlanta Braves, Washington Nationals, or Baltimore Orioles. Popular MLB markets include run lines, totals, in-game betting, and player performance props. Futures markets like World Series odds and Cy Young winners also draw attention.
North Carolina NHL Teams
The Carolina Hurricanes, based in Raleigh, are the top NHL team for North Carolina bettors. Wagers include puck lines, period totals, player points, and power play props. The Canes’ strong playoff performances continue to attract interest in conference and Stanley Cup futures.
MLS Soccer in North Carolina
Charlotte FC joined Major League Soccer in 2022 and quickly gained a loyal following. Soccer betting is growing fast in NC, with markets such as both teams to score (BTTS), over/under goals, and player goal props becoming popular. European leagues like the EPL and La Liga also attract strong betting interest.
North Carolina NCAA Teams
College sports are massive in North Carolina. UNC Tar Heels, Duke Blue Devils, NC State Wolfpack, and Wake Forest Demon Deacons all have passionate followings.
Bettors target spreads, over/unders, and March Madness brackets. NCAA football games also attract large wagers during rivalry weeks and the bowl season.
Note: Prop betting on individual college athletes may be restricted by law at local sportsbooks. This makes offshore North Carolina sports betting sites an excellent option since there are no college betting restrictions.
Responsible Betting in North Carolina
Based on North Carolina sports betting reports, business is booming, and responsible gambling should always be a priority when money is at play. Every legal sportsbook in North Carolina includes tools to help users set limits on deposits, wagers, and time spent betting. You can also request time-outs or self-exclude entirely from your account at North Carolina sports betting sites.
If you or someone you know needs support, help is available:
Don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Betting should always be fun, not a source of stress.
Conclusion: The Best North Carolina Sportsbook
After testing and comparing every top option for North Carolina sports betting, BetWhale is our top-rated sportsbook for North Carolina bettors in 2025. It stands out for its simplicity, local team coverage, and strong bonuses for new players. Whether you’re new to betting or looking for a dependable platform with consistent value, BetWhale delivers.
The platform’s user interface is tailored to beginners while still offering enough depth for experienced players. You’ll find great odds on the Panthers, UNC, and Charlotte FC, along with fast banking through cards or crypto. Customer support is responsive, and the bonus terms are clear and fair.
In a growing and competitive NC betting market, BetWhale checks all the right boxes, making it our #1 choice for safe, flexible, and rewarding online sports betting in North Carolina.
Sports Betting North Carolina FAQs
Is sports betting legal in North Carolina?
Yes. Both online and retail sports betting are legal in NC as of 2024. Online sportsbooks licensed by the state are accessible across North Carolina, and offshore sportsbooks are available.
Can I use my phone to bet in North Carolina?
Yes. You can bet from anywhere in the state using licensed sportsbook apps or mobile websites. You must be 21 or older and physically located in North Carolina on local sites, whereas offshore sites may vary in minimum age and location requirements.
What is the best sportsbook in North Carolina?
We recommend BetWhale as the top overall sportsbook for NC bettors. It offers excellent odds, local market coverage, and fast payouts.
Can I bet on UNC or Duke games?
Yes. You can legally bet on college sports in North Carolina, including in-state teams like UNC, Duke, NC State, and Wake Forest. However, prop betting on college athletes may be limited at local sportsbooks, whereas offshore sites like BetWhale have no college betting restrictions.
Are offshore sportsbooks legal in North Carolina?
Offshore sportsbooks are not licensed in NC but are accessible. Many North Carolinians use them for wider markets and crypto support.
How old do I have to be to bet in North Carolina?
You must be 21 or older to place legal sports bets online or in person in North Carolina at local operators. Offshore sites may vary and allow 18+ bettors.
Do sportsbooks in North Carolina accept crypto?
State-licensed sportsbooks typically do not accept crypto. However, offshore sportsbooks that serve NC often support Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies.
Can I claim more than one welcome bonus?
Yes. Each sportsbook has its own bonus, so you can register with multiple sites and claim each one separately.