Ever since it was legalized back in May 2020, sports betting has taken the Centennial State by storm. With over 20 licensed online sportsbooks and room for 30 legalized sports betting sites, the Colorado sports betting scene is booming.
With names like FanDuel, DraftKings, and the mighty BetMGM, Colorado’s online sportsbooks offer something for everyone.
So, get ready to place your bets and join the action today!
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Is online sports betting legal in Colorado? | Yes, legal sports betting was officially launched in CO on May 1, 2020. |
| Who can legally bet in Colorado? | Anyone who is at least 21 years old, has a valid US Social Security Number, and is physically present in Colorado. |
| What legal online sportsbooks are available in Colorado? | FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, BetRivers, and more. |
| What sports can I bet on in Colorado? | All major sports, including college sports, with some restrictions on certain types of bets. |
Pros:
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>> Bet $5, Get $158 in bonus bets <<
As a leading sports betting platform, BetMGM delivers an impressive array of odds on the Big Four leagues (MLB, NFL, NBA, and NHL) and UFC events, offering bettors a diverse choice among over 20 sports!
The ease of conducting transactions sets BetMGM apart, with payment options like credit cards, PayPal, and the Play+ Card. Catering to all, the site’s user-friendly minimum deposit and withdrawal limits appeal to both occasional bettors and serious gamblers.
BetMGM’s mobile app is lauded for its top-notch user experience and integrated geolocation feature, ensuring users comply with authorized regions. Should you require assistance, their customer support is available via live chat, email, and phone, primed to offer timely help.
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BetRivers is one of the best online sportsbooks for advanced bettors who enjoy parlay wagers and advanced bets.
The sports betting site also offers a standout loyalty program, and an uncomplicated $250 bonus wager for all new entrants has set them apart in their field. Weekly specials are also offered to active bettors, with points being accrued on each bet by regular customers.
The iRush Rewards program is characterized by its 11 levels, each unlocking more enticing perks. This includes exclusive promotions, high-end gifts, and individual account management, among others!
As you pile up bonus points, they can be redeemed for free bets and casino credits. Additionally, you can bet on over 20 popular sports in total.
Pros:
Cons:
>> Deposit at least $5, get up to $1,000 in DK dollars <<
The best Colorado sports betting app around, boasting a 4.9 rating on the App Store from over a million satisfied users. You can find various betting options featuring unique selections such as No Draw Bet or total runs and designated pitchers specifically for baseball fans.
As for customer support, the website hosts a live chatbot and a readily available help icon for instant help. For more intricate issues, users can raise a ticket or drop an email.
The platform offers multiple payment methods for added convenience, with withdrawal times that range from 24 hours for debit cards to a maximum of 5 business days for internet banking transactions.
Pros:
Cons:
>> Bet $5, Get $200 in bonus bets if your team wins <<
FanDuel delivers an amazing live betting experience. It also stands out for its enticing pre-match odds and an extensive selection of prop bets.
The platform is proud of its superior live wagering interface, which even includes live streaming options for certain sports to elevate the betting process. Additionally, FanDuel offers horse racing betting markets and daily fantasy sports for enthusiasts.
Various payment options are supported on the platform, encompassing digital wallets such as PayPal, traditional methods like credit and debit cards, and cash deposit services such as PayNearMe.
| Sportsbook | BetMGM | BetRivers | DraftKings | FanDuel |
| Bonuses and Promos | 5/5 | 5/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.8/5 |
| Security and Licensing | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 | 5/5 |
| Features | 4.85/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.75/5 | 4.65/5 |
| Sports Coverage | 4.75/5 | 4.65/5 | 4.6/5 | 4.7/5 |
| Mobile App | 4.9/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.85/5 | 4.6/5 |
| Bet Types | 4.85/5 | 4.75/5 | 4.85/5 | 4.55/5 |
| Banking Options | 4.75/5 | 4.7/5 | 4.5/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Customer Service | 4.9/5 | 4.9/5 | 4.55/5 | 4.3/5 |
| Overall | 4.9/5 | 4.8/5 | 4.75/5 | 4.6/5 |
Sports betting in CO? Yeah, it’s a pretty cool story. Colorado became the 19th US state to offer legal sports betting in 2019 when Rep. Alec Garnett pushed through a bill that squeaked past the Colorado General Assembly on the final day of the session. Talk about a photo finish!
But the drama didn’t stop there. According to Colorado’s rules, the people needed to have their say. So, they put it to a vote. Proposition DD, they called it. The vote was nail-bitingly close, but in the end, the folks of Colorado gave the green light for casinos to start offering online and retail sports betting. And just like that, the game was on.
Fast forward to May 2020, sports betting officially kicked off in Colorado, with both online and in-person options. Sure, COVID-19 threw a few curveballs at the industry, especially for those wanting to place bets in person.
But the online scene? It took off like a rocket. By the end of the year, 15 online sportsbooks were up and running. In its first year of legalized sports betting alone, Colorado collected more than $6.6 million in tax revenue.
In 2021, the sports betting scene in Colorado really hit its stride. The number of active sportsbooks shot up, almost doubling from the previous year. By the time the ball dropped on New Year’s Eve, there were 26 online sportsbooks in business. Even one of the tribal casinos, Sky Ute, threw their hat in the ring.
The total amount wagered in the state? It smashed past the $5 billion mark. Not bad for an industry that had only been around for about 20 months, right?
Things kept changing in 2022 and 2023, though. Some players left the game, like MaximBet and Score Bet. Others joined or changed hands. Fanatics took over PointsBet’s operations in December 2023, making a big splash.
Before the legalization, Colorado casinos in a trio of mountain towns had been offering slots, blackjack, and video poker since 1991 – spots like Lady Luck Casino, Mardi Gras Casino, or The Lodge Casino. However, sports betting remained off-limits.
Even with all the changes, one thing is clear – sports betting in CO isn’t going anywhere. It’s a wild ride, sure, but it’s also a testament to what can happen when a state is willing to roll the dice and try something new. So here’s to Colorado, the Rocky Mountain high roller of sports betting.
Colorado’s sports betting scene is a dynamic blend of mobile, online, and in-person wagering. The state’s approach to regulation and taxation has created a flourishing environment for both bettors and operators. Let’s explore the intricate rules and regulations that govern this industry.
The Colorado sports betting law clearly orders that individuals must be at least 21 years old to participate in any form of sports betting. This rule is not flexible and is strictly enforced to prevent underage gambling, a policy promoting responsible betting behavior.
This age limit applies to everyone within the state’s borders, regardless of whether they are residents or visitors. So, if you’re vacationing in Colorado and meet the age requirement, you’re free to enjoy the state’s sports betting offerings.
Colorado’s sports betting regulation also utilizes geofencing technology. This advanced system ensures that all bets are placed within the state’s physical boundaries. It works by tracking the location of your device whenever you place a bet.
If you’re outside Colorado’s borders, you won’t be able to wager, even if you’re a resident. This strict adherence to geolocation underscores the state’s commitment to maintaining a regulated and legal regulated sports betting environment.
The rise of digital technology has revolutionized many industries, and sports betting is no exception. Recognizing this trend, Colorado has fully embraced mobile and online betting, making it one of the most digitally-forward sports betting states.
Major sportsbooks like FanDuel and DraftKings have seized this opportunity to offer mobile sports betting apps to Colorado bettors. These apps provide the convenience of placing bets from anywhere within the state, as long as you’re connected to the internet.
Online betting is also legal in Colorado. This means you can visit a sportsbook’s website and place your bets directly – without needing to download an app.
However, it’s important to note that both mobile and online betting must be conducted through platforms licensed by the state. Offshore sportsbooks are not considered legal, and using them could lead to penalties.
Despite the digital revolution, there’s still a place for traditional retail sports betting in Colorado. Licensed establishments, such as racetracks and sports bars, are permitted to accept sports bets. These venues offer a different kind of thrill, where you can feel the excitement in the air as bets are placed and games unfold.
Sports betting operators in Colorado are taxed at a rate of 10% on their net proceeds. This might seem high, but it’s actually one of the lower rates compared to other states with legal sports betting.
However, this tax isn’t the responsibility of the Colorado sports bettors. It’s levied on the operator, who factors it into their business costs.
Sports bettors are only required to pay federal income tax on their winnings, and only if they exceed a certain amount. This approach helps keep sports betting attractive for players while still generating substantial revenue for the state.
While Colorado has a liberal approach to sports betting, there are certain restrictions in place to ensure ethical practices. For instance, betting on high school sports is strictly prohibited, reflecting a broader trend across many states to protect younger athletes from the pressures of gambling.
Additionally, certain types of bets are not allowed on college sports. In-play prop bets, which involve wagering on specific events within a game, like whether a player will score next, are off-limits for college games. This rule is designed to prevent any undue influence on college athletes.
Since the Centennial State legalized online sports betting in May 2020, the industry has grown exponentially, with up to 20 legal online sportsbooks now operating within the state borders.
While the convenience and accessibility of online betting are undeniable, it’s essential to consider both the benefits and drawbacks to make the most out of your betting experience. Here’s a comprehensive look at the pros and cons of online sports betting in Colorado.
Joining Colorado sports betting apps and sites won’t take more than 5 to 10 minutes. So, here’s how to bet on sports in Colorado.
Colorado’s sports scene is as vibrant and diverse as its natural landscape, housing several professional teams that have carved out their unique legacies in their respective leagues.
The Denver Broncos, the pride of Colorado in the National Football League (NFL), has a storied history dating back to its formation in 1960.
The team has clinched three Super Bowl titles, with the most recent one in 2015, making them a perennial powerhouse in the NFL.
In the 2023 season, the Broncos’ tenacity was evident but not enough to reach the playoffs. The energy at the Empower Field at Mile High during Broncos games still stands as a testament to Colorado’s passionate football community.
The Denver Nuggets, Colorado’s representatives in the National Basketball Association (NBA), have had their share of memorable moments and outstanding players, from Alex English to Nikola Jokic.
However, the 2023 season was unprecedented for the Nuggets as they clinched their first-ever NBA Championship. Led by Finals MVP Nikola Jokic, the Nuggets’ victory sparked widespread celebration throughout Colorado, marking a historic milestone in the state’s basketball narrative.
Representing Colorado in Major League Baseball (MLB) are the Colorado Rockies. Since its establishment in 1993, the Rockies has had its share of highs, including an unforgettable run to the World Series in 2007.
The 2023 season saw the Rockies nurturing a promising group of young talent, signaling exciting times ahead for Colorado baseball enthusiasts.
Coors Field, the Rockies’ home, is more than just a baseball stadium; it’s a Denver landmark that hosts thrilling games often characterized by high scores due to Denver’s high altitude.
When winter rolls in, the action heats up on the ice with the Colorado Avalanche of the National Hockey League (NHL). The Avalanche, who relocated to Denver in 1995, won two Stanley Cup Championships in 1996 and 2001.
The 2023 season saw the team clinch the playoffs as the third seed in the West, but were ultimately defeated in the first round. The electrifying atmosphere at the Ball Arena during Avalanche games is a testament to Colorado’s robust hockey culture.
Soccer in Colorado is synonymous with the Colorado Rapids of Major League Soccer (MLS). Since their inception in 1996, the Rapids have steadily built a loyal fan base, and their crowning moment came in 2010 when they lifted the MLS Cup.
The 2023 season saw the Rapids displaying impressive form. The camaraderie among fans at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park during Rapids games underscores soccer’s growing popularity in Colorado.
Colorado’s sports tapestry would be incomplete without mentioning its professional lacrosse teams: the Denver Outlaws and the Colorado Mammoth.
The Outlaws, who play field lacrosse in Major League Lacrosse, have won three championships and remain a force to be reckoned with. In box lacrosse, the Colorado Mammoth compete in the National Lacrosse League and clinched the Championship in 2006.
Colorado’s sports betting landscape is as diverse and thrilling as a ride down the slopes of Aspen. Let’s take a closer look at the types of sports bets you can place on these platforms.
Moneyline bets are the bread and butter of sports betting. These bets are for those who appreciate simplicity and directness in their wagering. Here, you’re merely picking the team you believe will win the game, whether it’s the Denver Broncos galloping to victory in an NFL showdown or the Colorado Rockies outscoring their MLB rivals.
The beauty of moneyline bets lies in their uncomplicated nature: pick your winner and hope they deliver.
Point spread bets introduce a bit more challenge and intrigue into the mix. When placing a point spread bet, you’re not just deciding who will win – but by how much. Suppose you’re wagering on an NBA game featuring the beloved Denver Nuggets. If they are -7.5 favorites, they need to outscore their opponents by 8 points or more for your bet to be successful.
Over/under bets, also known as totals, focus on the total score of both teams in a game. Instead of picking a winner, you’re guessing whether the combined score will be higher or lower a certain number. This type of bet can add an extra layer of suspense to any Colorado Rapids soccer match or Colorado Avalanche hockey game.
Proposition bets, let you wager on events within a game, irrespective of the final result.
These bets can cover a wide range of scenarios, from how many points Nikola Jokic will score for the Nuggets to how many touchdowns the Broncos will manage in a game. You can even place bets on unique events like the duration of the national anthem at a major sporting event.
Parlays are high-risk, high-reward bets that bundle multiple wagers into one. While the potential payout is higher, all your selections must win for you to cash in. Imagine the excitement of placing a single bet on the Rockies, Nuggets, and Broncos to all win their games – that’s the thrill of a parlay.
Teasers are a specialized form of parlay bet used in basketball and football. They allow you to manipulate the point spreads or totals in your favor, increasing your chances of winning. However, this advantage comes with a catch – the overall odds are reduced.
Futures bets are long-term wagers predicting the outcome of a season or tournament. For instance, you could bet on the Rockies to win the World Series at the beginning of the MLB season.
Gambling in Colorado is a vibrant affair that extends well beyond sports betting, offering options that cater to different tastes and preferences.
Whether you’re into the adrenaline rush of casinos, the strategic allure of poker, or the thrill of horse racing, the Centennial State has got you covered.
When it comes to casino gambling, Colorado is a playground for both the novice and the seasoned gambler.
Nestled within the state’s picturesque mountain towns like Central City and Black Hawk are a host of casinos where visitors can try their luck at limited-stakes blackjack, craps, roulette, and poker tables.
Adding to the mix are slot and video machines, offering a diverse gaming experience. Notable establishments include Ameristar Casino Black Hawk, Bronco Billy’s Casino, and Monarch Casino, each providing a unique atmosphere that adds to the overall excitement of the game.
For residents of Southwest Colorado, Sky Ute Casino in Ignacio and Ute Mountain Casino near Cortez offer a taste of Native American gaming culture.
Horse racing in Colorado is more than just a sport; it’s a tradition that brings together communities. Feel the ground tremble beneath your feet as you watch these magnificent creatures gallop toward the finish line at Arapahoe Park in Aurora.
Whether you’re a seasoned bettor analyzing form guides or a casual observer caught up in the excitement, horse racing offers a distinct and exhilarating gambling experience.
Poker in Colorado isn’t just about playing your cards right – it’s about reading your opponents, calculating odds on the fly, and making those big calls when it counts. This strategic dance plays out across poker rooms in casinos statewide.
Whether you’re going all-in at a high-stakes Texas Hold’em game at Golden Gates Casino in Black Hawk or trying your hand at Omaha Hi-Lo at Midnight Rose Poker Room in Cripple Creek, poker in Colorado offers a thrilling combination of skill, nerve, and chance.
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) has found a receptive audience among Colorado’s sports enthusiasts. DFS allows you to step into the shoes of a team manager, selecting real-world athletes for your fantasy team and scoring points based on their actual performances.
This blend of sports knowledge, strategic planning, and the thrill of competition has made DFS betting sites like DraftKings and FanDuel popular for sports fans seeking an interactive gambling experience.
For those who prefer their gambling with a side of social interaction, Colorado’s social casinos fit the bill perfectly. These online platforms offer a fun, low-risk way to enjoy classic casino games like slots, blackjack, and poker.
While they don’t offer the chance to win real money, social casinos like Zynga Poker and Slotomania are about the thrill of the game and the joy of sharing that experience with friends, both old and new.
And that’s a wrap for Colorado sports betting, folks! The last step of this journey is to place your first sports wager.
Again, BetMGM stands out as our favorite Colorado sportsbook, but do take another look at our guide and list of the best Colorado sportsbooks online.
Whichever sports betting platform you opt for, please stick to responsible gambling and never spend more money in online sports wagers than you can afford to lose. Have a good one!
Yes, sports betting is legal in Colorado. The state passed Proposition DD in November 2019, legalizing sports betting. The first legal wagers were placed in May 2020.
According to the Colorado sports betting law, residents and visitors can enjoy a variety of sports betting options at both retail sportsbook locations and online sports wagering sites.
Absolutely – online sports betting is legal and widely popular in Colorado. Residents and visiting sports bettors can bet on their favorite sports from the comfort of their homes or while on the move, using licensed and regulated online sportsbooks like FanDuel, DraftKings, and Caesars Sportsbook.
Yes, live betting, also known as in-play betting, is permitted in Colorado. This form of betting allows bettors to place bets while a game progresses.
It adds an extra layer of excitement, as odds can change rapidly based on the game’s flow, creating dynamic betting opportunities. FanDuel is possibly the best sports betting app for this type of online wagers.
Indeed, Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) is legal in Colorado. Online sportsbook sites like DraftKings and FanDuel are operational in the state, offering sports bettors the chance to draft fantasy teams and compete against other players.
DFS combines the thrill of sports betting with the strategic elements of fantasy sports gaming.
There are numerous reputable sports betting sites in Colorado, including DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM.
These platforms offer extensive coverage of various sports, live betting options, user-friendly interfaces, and enticing promotional offers.
Overall, BetMGM is the No. 1 Colorado sportsbook in our book because it offers top-tier promos, highly competitive odds, and over 20 sports to bet on.
Colorado sports bettors have a wide range of options. They can wager on popular American sports like football, basketball, baseball, and hockey, as well as international favorites like soccer and golf.
Colorado sportsbooks also offer betting markets for major sporting events such as the Super Bowl, the World Series, and the FIFA World Cup.
No, you don’t need to be a Colorado resident to bet on sports. However, you must be physically located within the state borders when placing a bet, as verified by geolocation technology. This means both residents and visitors can enjoy Colorado’s sports betting offerings.
Yes, if you win money at legal Colorado sports betting sites, you are required to pay taxes. The tax rate you’ll pay on your winnings depends on the federal income tax brackets for the year. For 2024, there are seven tax rates: 10%, 12%, 22%, 24%, 32%, 35%, and 37%.
The rate you’ll pay depends on your total taxable income for the year. For example, if you’re a single taxpayer and your total income is greater than $609,350, your top tax rate would be 37%. It’s important to keep accurate records of all your winnings and losses throughout the year for tax purposes.
In Colorado, the legal age to participate in sports betting is 21 years old. This applies to both retail sportsbook locations and online sports betting platforms.
We should also point out that all licensed and legal sportsbooks are required to verify the age of users to ensure compliance with the Colorado sports betting laws.
Depositing money into your online sports betting account is easy. Most sportsbooks accept payment methods, including credit/debit cards, bank transfers, e-wallets like PayPal, and prepaid cards.
Sports betting in Colorado operates through licensed online and retail sportsbooks. Bettors can place wagers on various sporting events, including professional and college sports. The Colorado Division of Gaming regulates the industry, ensuring fair and secure betting practices.
The Colorado Division of Gaming regulates legal sports betting in the state. They are responsible for issuing licenses to sportsbooks, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, and protecting the interests of bettors.
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