Kentucky sports betting became legal in 2023 after the passage of House Bill 551, which opened the door to both online and retail sportsbooks. With operators now live and regulated in the state, residents can access a variety of options for legal wagers.
At the same time, many still explore overseas sportsbooks that offer broader market access and generous bonuses. This guide ranks the best Kentucky betting sites, outlines the legal framework, and walks you through how to bet safely in the Bluegrass State.
Top 10 Kentucky Betting Sites
Here are the best Kentucky sports betting sites in 2025, each offering a unique advantage:
- BetNow – Best for Simple and Rapid Withdrawals
- BetOnline – Best for Variety of Markets
- BetUS – Best for Bonuses in Cryptocurrency
- Bovada – Best for Wagering on Esports
- BC Game – Best for Provably Fair Betting Options
- Bet105 – Best for Customizable Limits on Betting
- Everygame – Best for Coverage of Overseas Sports
- Wild.io – Best for Betting Anonymously
- MyBookie – Best for Prop Betting
- Xbet – Best for Android and IOS use
Is Sports Betting Legal in Kentucky?
Yes, sports betting in Kentucky is now fully legal. In-person sportsbooks launched on September 7, 2023, followed by the launch of mobile sports betting apps on September 28, 2023.
The industry is overseen by the Kentucky Horse Racing Commission (KHRC), and bettors must be at least 18 years old to place wagers. Kentucky now joins a growing list of U.S. states with a fully operational sports betting market.
Legal Availability Table
| Betting Type | Legal in Kentucky |
| Retail Sportsbooks | Yes |
| Online via State Operators | Yes |
| Online via Offshore Sites | Yes |
| Daily Fantasy Sports | Yes |
| Horse Racing | Yes |
| Esports Betting | No (offshore only) |
| Political Betting | No (offshore only) |
Current Legal Standing
With House Bill 551 passing in March 2023, Kentucky’s sports betting market rapidly developed. Retail betting launched in time for the NFL season, and mobile apps followed just weeks later. The KHRC now licenses and regulates online operators such as FanDuel, DraftKings, and Caesars, providing residents with mainstream Kentucky sports betting options for all major U.S. sports.
Despite these developments, offshore Kentucky sports betting sites remain a preferred option for many Kentucky players. These platforms offer deeper betting markets, crypto-friendly banking, and fewer restrictions. While not licensed within the U.S., offshore Kentucky sportsbooks are legal to use and provide reputable, secure services to residents.
Recent Legislation Changes
The passage of House Bill 551 marked a historic shift for Kentucky. The bill allows up to 27 online sportsbooks to operate in partnership with the state’s nine licensed horse racing tracks. Lawmakers touted this model as a way to increase tax revenue and stimulate economic growth, especially in rural counties.
Although Kentucky legalized online sports betting, certain restrictions remain. Esports betting and political wagering are currently off-limits under Kentucky sports betting law. However, several lawmakers have expressed interest in expanding the scope of legal betting categories in upcoming sessions.
Will Kentucky Ever Expand Its Betting Laws?
Kentucky’s initial rollout was ambitious, and the market has already seen success. The likelihood of expanded betting categories—like esports and entertainment markets—is high in the coming years. Lawmakers have already floated the idea of allowing operators more freedom in their offerings.
Still, expansion will likely depend on tax performance and public demand. If revenues exceed expectations and operators push for more flexibility, legislative momentum will follow. Until then, Kentucky bettors seeking broader market options can use trusted offshore sportsbooks.
Can You Play at Online Sportsbooks in Kentucky?
What betting sites are legal in Kentucky is a common question, and the answer is that there are a lot of them. With the launch of state-regulated sportsbooks and the ongoing availability of offshore betting platforms, Kentucky residents have more choices than ever. Licensed mobile apps from FanDuel, Caesars, and others offer a local experience, while international sportsbooks provide broader markets and flexible payment options.
For those who prefer anonymity, cryptocurrencies, or specialized markets like politics or esports, offshore Kentucky sportsbooks remain a top-tier alternative. These platforms are safe, legal, and fully accessible from within the state.
Expert Reviews of the Best Kentucky Sports Betting Sites
We evaluate each site for online betting in Kentucky using strict criteria: licensing, betting options, odds quality, user interface, payment flexibility, and customer service. Here’s our detailed analysis of the top 5 Kentucky betting apps and sites.
1. BetNow – Best for Simple and Rapid Withdrawals
BetNow is ideal for bettors who value a straightforward, no-frills experience. Its interface is clean and easy to navigate, making it perfect for those new to sports betting in Kentucky. Registration is quick, and users can begin wagering within minutes.
The platform excels at processing payouts quickly, particularly for crypto users. Bettors can wager on all major sports, with odds updated in real time and minimal lag during live events.
Pros:
- Extremely user-friendly interface
- Fast withdrawals, especially with crypto
- Great for new and casual bettors
Cons:
- Limited niche markets
- No mobile app
Conclusion:
BetNow is among the best betting sites for Kentucky bettors who want a reliable and simple sports betting experience. With speedy payouts and an intuitive layout, it’s a solid choice for both beginners and experienced players.
2. BetOnline – Best for Variety of Markets
BetOnline provides one of the most diverse sets of betting markets available to Kentucky players. From standard moneylines and totals to live player props and futures, the sportsbook covers it all. It’s especially strong for those who like to bet on international leagues or college sports.
Payment options are robust, with support for credit cards, crypto, and bank transfers. The site also features a poker room and online casino, offering a full betting experience under one account.
Pros:
- Massive market selection
- Frequent odds boosts and promotions
- Multiple betting formats and props
Cons:
- Interface could use modernization
- Some bonuses have high rollover
Conclusion:
BetOnline is the top pick for Kentucky bettors looking to explore a wide range of betting markets. Its sportsbook is deep and dynamic, catering to a variety of wagering styles.
3. BetUS – Best for Bonuses in Cryptocurrency
BetUS offers some of the most generous crypto-based promotions among Kentucky betting sites. First-time depositors using Bitcoin, Ethereum, or Litecoin can receive up to $2,500 in bonuses. Reload bonuses and VIP perks are also crypto-centric.
The site includes detailed matchup stats, expert picks, and analysis tools, helping bettors make informed decisions. Navigation is fluid, and customer support is available via live chat or phone.
Pros:
- Huge crypto welcome bonuses
- Strong data and insights section
- Mobile-friendly interface
Cons:
- Some promos limited to crypto users
- Higher-than-average rollover requirements
Conclusion:
BetUS is among the best crypto betting sites for Kentucky players who prefer using crypto and want top-tier bonuses. With excellent support and informative content, it’s a comprehensive sportsbook experience.
4. Bovada – Best for Wagering on Esports
Bovada excels at offering alternative betting markets that aren’t yet available on Kentucky’s state-licensed sportsbooks. Esports, entertainment, and political betting are all supported alongside traditional U.S. leagues.
Its parlay and prop builders are especially strong, and the live betting interface is responsive. Deposits and withdrawals are fast and support a range of crypto and fiat methods.
Pros:
- Best esports and entertainment betting
- Easy-to-use mobile and desktop sites
- Reliable, consistent odds
Cons:
- Crypto preferred for fastest withdrawals
- Fewer ongoing promotions
Conclusion:
Bovada is the best Kentucky sportsbook for fans of esports and alternative markets. It’s also a solid choice for casual bettors who want variety and convenience.
5. BC Game – Best for Provably Fair Betting Options
BC Game is a crypto-native Kentucky sports betting site with a unique twist—it includes provably fair gaming, allowing users to verify the randomness of their bets. This level of transparency builds trust, especially among tech-savvy players.
BC Game supports dozens of cryptocurrencies and offers seamless registration. Sports markets are extensive, and users can also explore mini-games and a full crypto casino.
Pros:
- Provably fair gaming engine
- Massive crypto support
- Integrated casino and sportsbook
Cons:
- No traditional payment methods
- Interface may overwhelm beginners
Conclusion:
BC Game is best suited for experienced Kentucky bettors interested in blockchain transparency and a futuristic gaming experience.
How We Choose the Best Online Kentucky Sportsbooks
Choosing the right sportsbook requires more than just signing up for the one with the biggest bonus. We rigorously review dozens of platforms to find the most trusted, user-friendly, and rewarding options for Kentucky bettors. Our team tests each sportsbook firsthand, evaluating them across multiple categories to ensure quality and consistency.
Welcome Bonus
We evaluate each Kentucky sports betting welcome bonus based on size, structure, and fairness. A massive offer might look good on paper, but it’s only valuable if the wagering requirements are reasonable. We favor sportsbooks that offer flexible promos, especially those that cater to both fiat and crypto users.
Safety & Security
Security is non-negotiable. We check for SSL encryption, two-factor authentication, account protection tools, and a strong track record. Every Kentucky sports betting site we recommend has been vetted for reliability, legitimacy, and user data protection.
Payment Options
A great sportsbook supports fast, secure deposits and withdrawals in multiple formats. We look for platforms that offer both traditional (cards, bank transfers) and alternative (crypto, e-wallet) options. Fast payouts and low fees are a must.
Range of Sports
The best Kentucky sportsbooks cover everything from NFL and NBA to tennis, MMA, and even niche markets. We rank sites higher when they offer a wide selection of leagues, events, and bet types—including props, futures, and live betting.
Competitive Odds
We monitor how odds stack up across the market to find sportsbooks offering consistent value. Whether it’s a point spread or a moneyline, better odds mean higher returns—and that’s what we want for our readers.
Customer Support
We test each Kentucky sports betting platform’s support responsiveness and helpfulness. 24/7 live chat, knowledgeable agents, and multiple support channels are critical for solving problems quickly.
Mobile Compatibility
Mobile betting is the norm for Kentucky sports betting. Every sportsbook on our list has a fully responsive site or a dedicated app that works smoothly on both iOS and Android, offering seamless betting on the go.
Kentucky Betting Sites vs. Kentucky Retail Sportsbooks
While Kentucky retail sportsbooks are now available at horse racing tracks, many players prefer betting online. Here’s how they compare:
- Online sportsbooks allow betting from anywhere in Kentucky
- Offshore sites offer crypto options not found in retail books
- Online books often have better bonuses and more prop bets
- Mobile betting is more private and convenient than visiting a track
- Retail betting offers a social experience, but fewer promotions
Bonuses at Kentucky Sports Betting Sites
Most online sportsbooks offer generous Kentucky sports betting promotions to attract and retain bettors. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular bonus types available to Kentucky players:
Welcome Bonus
The welcome bonus is the first incentive new users receive upon signing up for Kentucky sports betting apps. Typically, this comes in the form of a deposit match—often 100% up to a set amount.
Some platforms even provide tiered bonuses based on how you deposit (e.g., crypto vs. fiat). These bonuses are best for new users looking to boost their initial bankroll and explore the sportsbook.
Reload Bonus
Reload bonuses are ongoing offers for existing users at betting sites in Kentucky who fund their accounts again. These are often smaller than welcome bonuses but provide excellent value over time. Some Kentucky sportsbooks offer crypto-specific reloads, giving extra rewards for using Bitcoin or Ethereum.
Risk-Free Bets
Risk-free bets reimburse players at Kentucky online sportsbooks with site credit if their first wager loses. These offers are great for cautious newcomers. Just make sure to check the refund method—some are given as bonus credits rather than cash.
Odds Boosts
Odds boosts temporarily improve the payout on specific bets, increasing potential profits without added risk. They’re typically offered around high-profile games and are a favorite among value-seeking Kentucky bettors.
Bet Insurance
Bet insurance protects multi-leg wagers like parlays at KY online sportsbooks. If one leg loses, you get a partial or full refund in the form of site credit. These promos are great for adventurous bettors who like chasing big payouts without risking it all.
Popular Kentucky Sports Teams to Bet On
Kentucky may not have professional franchises in the NFL or NBA, but the state’s sports culture runs deep, especially with college athletics. Bettors regularly place wagers on nearby pro teams and local college powerhouses.
Kentucky NFL Teams
While Kentucky doesn’t have an NFL team, fans commonly support nearby franchises like the Cincinnati Bengals, Tennessee Titans, and Indianapolis Colts. Betting markets include spreads, moneylines, totals, player props, and season-long futures.
Kentucky NBA and WNBA Teams
Again, no in-state NBA team, but Kentucky fans often back the Memphis Grizzlies and the Indiana Pacers. Prop bets, in-game wagering, and performance parlays are popular formats for NBA wagering.
MLB Teams in Kentucky
The Cincinnati Reds and St. Louis Cardinals are regional favorites among baseball fans in Kentucky. Bettors frequently wager on totals, run lines, and player props throughout the MLB season.
Kentucky NHL Teams
NHL support in Kentucky skews toward the Nashville Predators and St. Louis Blues. The NHL offers excellent live betting opportunities, plus props for shots, goals, and power play performance.
MLS Soccer in Kentucky
While Kentucky lacks an MLS team, fans follow clubs like Nashville SC or FC Cincinnati. Soccer betting is growing, with markets for goals, corners, cards, and correct scores.
Kentucky NCAA Teams
College sports are the heartbeat of Kentucky’s betting scene. The University of Kentucky Wildcats and the University of Louisville Cardinals draw massive support in NCAA football and basketball. Betting markets include spreads, totals, halftime lines, and futures for March Madness and bowl games.
Responsible Betting in Kentucky
Based on Kentucky sports wagering reports, residents of the state are spending a lot of money on gambling. Keep in mind that sports betting should always be fun and safe. Kentucky sportsbooks offer tools to help players set limits, pause accounts, or self-exclude when needed. If gambling stops being enjoyable, it’s time to seek support.
Helpful resources include:
- National Council on Problem Gambling
- Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services
- Gamblers Anonymous
Conclusion: The Best Kentucky Sportsbook
BetNow earns our top spot thanks to its simplicity, fast payouts, and accessibility. Its no-nonsense approach makes it the ideal sportsbook for Kentucky players who want to get started quickly without sacrificing quality.
From streamlined deposits to responsive support, BetNow proves that user experience still matters. It’s especially great for new bettors who want an easy transition into online sports betting in Kentucky.
With the addition of crypto compatibility and reliable odds, BetNow checks all the boxes. Whether you’re betting on Kentucky college hoops or following the NFL season, this is a platform you can count on.
Sports Betting Kentucky FAQs
Is sports betting legal in Kentucky?
Yes, both retail and online sports betting are legal in Kentucky as of 2023.
Can I bet online in Kentucky?
Yes, you can use state-regulated sportsbooks and offshore sites that legally accept Kentucky players.
What’s the minimum age to bet on sports in KY?
The legal betting age in Kentucky is 18 for both online and in-person sportsbooks.
Are offshore sportsbooks legal in Kentucky?
While not licensed by the state, offshore sportsbooks are legal for KY residents to use and are widely trusted.
How do I deposit into an online sportsbook in KY?
Most sites support credit/debit cards, crypto, and sometimes bank transfers or e-wallets.
Do I have to pay taxes on my sports betting winnings?
Yes, all gambling winnings are taxable in the U.S. Offshore sportsbooks do not report your activity, so it’s your responsibility to track and report your earnings to the IRS and state.