Best Louisiana sportsbooks in 2025: Top legal betting apps ranked
Sports betting is legal and thriving in Louisiana, with multiple licensed sportsbooks available online and in retail locations. Thanks to a parish-by-parish vote, most Louisiana residents can legally bet from their phones or computers—and enjoy promotions from top brands like FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, and more.
In this guide, we review the best sportsbooks in Louisiana, break down what makes each one unique, and help you choose the right one for your betting style.
Is sports betting legal in Louisiana?
Louisiana legalized sports betting in November 2020 after voters in 55 of the state’s 64 parishes approved it via referendum. Retail sportsbooks opened in October 2021, followed by the launch of online and mobile betting in January 2022.
Here are the key details:
Is sports betting legal in Louisiana? Yes — online, mobile, and retail
Launch date: October 2021 (retail), January 2022 (online)
Legal sportsbooks currently live: 8+ online, 15+ retail locations
Total betting licenses available: 20 (one per eligible gaming property)
Remote registration: Yes
Minimum age to bet: 21+
Regulating authority: Louisiana Gaming Control Board
Gambling helpline: 1-877-770-7867
Louisiana’s unique parish-based approach means sports betting is legal only in areas that opted in. Remote registration is allowed statewide in participating parishes, and the market continues to grow as more operators secure licenses and open new locations.
Best Louisiana sportsbooks: Ranked and reviewed
Here are the top sportsbooks available to Louisiana bettors in 2025:
Rank
Sportsbook
Best For
Highlight Feature
1
Caesars Sportsbook
Local focus & rewards
Operated by Caesars with strong New Orleans ties
2
FanDuel
Mobile betting
Clean app, quick payouts
3
DraftKings
All-around value
Huge market selection, strong live betting
4
BetMGM
Casino integration
Links to MGM Rewards
5
ESPN BET
Casual bettors
Backed by ESPN with user-friendly design
6
Fanatics Sportsbook
Sports merch rewards
FanCash loyalty for real gear
7
BetRivers
Regional bettors
Solid promotions & bonus play
8
PointsBet
Live betting innovation
Name-a-bet and in-game tools
Let’s look closer at each operator.
1. Caesars Sportsbook Louisiana
Best for: Local sports fans & rewards seekers Why it stands out: Caesars has deep ties to Louisiana—owning the Superdome’s naming rights and partnering with local sports and casinos. Its rewards system and welcome bonus make it one of the top picks in the state.
Key features:
$1,000+ first bet promo (varies seasonally)
Earn Caesars Rewards points from every wager
Odds boosts on Louisiana teams
Strong retail presence at Harrah’s New Orleans
Downsides: App experience is slower than FanDuel or DraftKings
Bottom line: Caesars is the go-to sportsbook for bettors who want local perks and loyalty rewards tied to real-world entertainment.
Best for: Smooth mobile experience Why it stands out: FanDuel’s app is polished, easy to use, and packed with features. It’s ideal for in-game betting, quick parlays, and fast cashouts.
Best for: Market variety and sharp lines Why it stands out: DraftKings offers the most comprehensive betting menu in Louisiana. Its live betting and prop coverage are among the best nationwide.
Key features:
Huge selection of markets, props, and parlays
Great for daily fantasy sports crossover players
Excellent live betting interface
Frequent odds boosts and profit boosts
Downsides: Underdog odds sometimes worse than FanDuel
Bottom line: DraftKings is best for bettors who want deep options and enjoy betting both pregame and live.
Best for: Linking sports betting and casino rewards Why it stands out: BetMGM’s platform connects directly with MGM Rewards and has one of the best loyalty ecosystems in the country.
Key features:
Exclusive boosts and promos for Saints, Pelicans games
MGM Rewards for hotel, dining, and entertainment credits
One Game Parlay builder
“Edit my bet” feature allows for flexibility mid-game
Downsides: User interface is less intuitive on smaller screens
Bottom line: Great for players who also visit MGM properties or value a hybrid sportsbook-casino experience.
Best for: Sports fans new to betting Why it stands out: ESPN BET is backed by ESPN and Penn Entertainment. It’s designed for fans who want a light, media-rich experience with basic features and promos.
Key features:
Tied to ESPN’s ecosystem
Clean, casual design
Game-day promos tied to ESPN personalities
Solid welcome offers and odds boosts
Downsides: Fewer advanced features or custom bets
Bottom line: ESPN BET is best for casual users who want a trusted brand and simple betting options.
6. Fanatics Sportsbook Louisiana
Best for: Loyalty and merch lovers Why it stands out: Fanatics offers FanCash with every bet, which can be redeemed for real team merchandise.
Key features:
Up to 5% FanCash back on bets
Simple, intuitive layout
Special promotions tied to teams and sports gear
Expanding live betting tools
Downsides: Limited history, still building out advanced features
Bottom line: Best for bettors who also want to earn real-world rewards on every wager.
7. BetRivers Sportsbook Louisiana
Best for: Local-style promos and regional flair Why it stands out: BetRivers offers frequent bonuses and competitive odds, especially for mid-range and recreational bettors.
Key features:
Strong first deposit match
iRush Rewards loyalty program
Good desktop and app parity
Regular promo codes for free bets
Downsides: Less polished UI and slower payout speeds
Bottom line: Great for players who like reload bonuses and don’t need flashy features.
8. PointsBet (Fanatics-powered) Louisiana
Best for: Live betting and custom wagers Why it stands out: PointsBet focuses on live action and unique betting markets, including “PointsBetting,” where winnings scale with accuracy.
Key features:
Name-a-Bet and custom markets
Dynamic live betting tools
PointsBetting for risk/reward lovers
Fast-growing in-game UX
Downsides: Riskier bet types and smaller selection outside of big leagues
Bottom line: A good fit for bettors who want something different and thrive on live game momentum.
List of all Louisiana sportsbooks (Licensed sportsbooks)
Ranking
Sportsbook
Key Feature
1
Fanatics Sportsbook
Newest sportsbook in LA
2
FanDuel Sportsbook
Best for Same Game Parlays
3
bet365
Best live betting options in LA
4
Caesars Sportsbook
Phenomenal all-around
5
DraftKings Sportsbook
USA’s biggest bookie
6
BetMGM
Fast and easy parlay betting
7
BetRivers
Some NHL live streaming
8
ESPN BET
Generous promos
Retail Louisiana sports betting operator
Caesars Sportsbook
Harrah’s New Orleans – New Orleans
Horseshoe Bossier City – Bossier City
FanDuel Sportsbook (at Boyd Gaming properties)
Sam’s Town Hotel & Casino – Shreveport
Amelia Belle Casino – Amelia
Treasure Chest Casino – Kenner
Delta Downs Racetrack Casino Hotel – Vinton
Evangeline Downs Racetrack & Casino – Opelousas
DraftKings Sportsbook
Golden Nugget Lake Charles – Lake Charles
The Queen Baton Rouge – Baton Rouge
Live! Casino & Hotel – Bossier City
Betfred Sportsbook
Paragon Casino Resort – Marksville
How to choose the right Louisiana sportsbook
With so many legal options, here’s what we recommend looking for:
1. Bonuses and promos
Look for offers like bonus bets, bet insurance, or deposit matches. Caesars and DraftKings regularly offer over $1,000 in promo value.
2. Mobile app quality
Apps like FanDuel, Fanatics, and ESPN BET rank highest for speed, usability, and cashout tools.
3. Market depth
DraftKings and BetMGM offer extensive coverage of major and niche sports, ideal for bettors who want more than just moneylines and spreads.
4. Live betting features
PointsBet and FanDuel excel at in-game betting, but most top apps now include real-time lines and live cash-out tools.
5. Loyalty and rewards
Caesars, BetMGM, and Fanatics all offer ways to earn perks on every bet—whether it’s hotel stays or team jerseys.
What teams and sports can you bet on in Louisiana?
Louisiana sportsbooks give you access to odds on local teams, national leagues, and international events. From the Saints to SEC college football and UFC title fights, there’s no shortage of betting opportunities.
Pro teams in Louisiana you can bet on
New Orleans Saints (NFL): The Saints are a major draw at every Louisiana sportsbook. You can bet on spreads, totals, player props, and futures like playoff appearances or Super Bowl odds. Caesars Sportsbook, headquartered in New Orleans, has a direct partnership with the team.
New Orleans Pelicans (NBA): With rising stars like Zion Williamson, the Pelicans generate strong betting action during the NBA season. Sportsbooks offer game lines, player props, and odds boosts tied to Pelicans games.
College teams you can bet on
LSU Tigers (NCAA): LSU football is one of the biggest programs in the SEC, and betting on the Tigers is a top activity for Louisiana fans. Basketball and baseball are also covered. Player prop bets, however, are not allowed on college athletes.
Tulane Green Wave (NCAA): Tulane’s football program has gained national attention in recent seasons, making them a solid college betting option. You can wager on spreads, totals, and futures during bowl season and March Madness.
Note: Louisiana law allows betting on in-state college teams, but individual player props on college athletes are prohibited.
What sports are legal to bet on in Louisiana?
Louisiana sportsbooks offer full betting menus across major leagues and global events:
NFL – Spread, moneyline, totals, parlays, and live bets
NBA – Includes Pelicans games, with player and team markets
MLB – Full regular-season and postseason coverage
NHL – Lines available even without a local team
College Sports – Legal to bet on LSU, Tulane, and others (no player props)
Soccer – Premier League, MLS, Champions League, World Cup
Golf, Tennis, MMA, Boxing – Year-round coverage of major tournaments
eSports – Legal in Louisiana; includes top titles like CS:GO and League of Legends
Other legal betting options in Louisiana
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS): DFS contests are legal and regulated, offering an alternative to traditional sports betting through platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel.
Horse Racing: You can bet on horse races at live tracks like Fair Grounds Race Course or through approved online racebooks.
eSports Betting: Louisiana allows licensed sportsbooks to offer betting on eSports, including global tournaments and pro leagues.
Pop Culture & Entertainment: Select operators may offer odds on award shows like the Oscars or Emmys, depending on approval.
Not Allowed: Betting on political elections or ballot measures is prohibited under both state and federal law.
Who regulates sportsbooks in Louisiana?
All legal sports betting in Louisiana is overseen by the Louisiana Gaming Control Board (LGCB). This regulatory body is responsible for approving licenses, enforcing state gambling laws, and ensuring that both online and retail sportsbooks operate fairly and securely.
The LGCB works closely with the Louisiana State Police Gaming Division, which handles compliance checks, investigations, and enforcement duties.
What does the Louisiana Gaming Control Board do?
The LGCB sets the legal framework for sports betting across the state. It’s responsible for:
Licensing online and retail sportsbooks
Creating and updating sports betting regulations
Approving operator partnerships and technology providers
Monitoring tax collection and reporting requirements
Meanwhile, the State Police Gaming Division carries out day-to-day operations, including background checks, audits, and consumer protection efforts.
How to contact the Louisiana Gaming Control Board
If you need to report an issue or have questions about legal sports betting in Louisiana, you can contact the LGCB using the information below:
Phone:
(225) 925-1846
Mailing Address:
Louisiana Gaming Control Board
P.O. Box 98068
Baton Rouge, LA 70898
Do I have to pay taxes on sports betting winnings in Louisiana?
Yes. Sports betting winnings in Louisiana are considered taxable income at both the state and federal levels. All earnings—big or small—must be reported when you file your taxes.
Louisiana state income tax: 4.25%
Federal income tax: 24%
For example, if you win $1,000 betting on the Saints, you’ll owe $42.50 to the state and $240 to the IRS.
Licensed sportsbooks in Louisiana are required to report gambling winnings of $600 or more. If you hit that threshold, you’ll receive a W-2G tax form, which must be included with your federal and state tax returns. The IRS uses these forms to cross-check your reported income.
To stay compliant:
Track all wins and losses throughout the year
Keep copies of any W-2G forms issued by sportsbooks
Report all gambling income, even if a form isn’t provided
Failing to report your winnings can lead to penalties or interest, so accurate recordkeeping is key.
How to sign up and start betting
Here’s how to join a Louisiana sportsbook in minutes:
Pick a legal sportsbook from the options above
Download the app on iOS or Android (or visit the desktop site)
Register an account with your name, DOB, address, and last four digits of SSN
Enable geolocation to confirm you're in a legal parish
Make a deposit using debit card, PayPal, bank transfer, or e-wallet
Claim your bonus and place your first wager
All operators use secure, encrypted platforms with full compliance from the Louisiana Gaming Control Board.
New Louisiana sportsbooks
Sportsbook
Launch Date
Licensing Partner
Key Features
Fanatics Sportsbook
August 15, 2024
Boomtown Casino & Hotel
Offers FanCash rewards redeemable for merchandise and bonus bets.
bet365
November 15, 2023
Amelia Belle Casino
Known for extensive live betting options.
ESPN BET
November 14, 2023
Hollywood Casino at Penn National
Provides generous promotions and a user-friendly interface.
Louisiana sportsbook promos
Sportsbook
Welcome Bonus
Promo Code / Notes
BetMGM
$1,500 First Bet Offer
BINFOBONUS
FanDuel
Bet $5, Win $200
Claim without code
Caesars Sportsbook
Double Your Winnings (10x)
BINFOBONUS
bet365
Bet $5, Get $150 Win or Lose or $1,000 Safety Net Offer
BINFOBONUS
DraftKings
Bet $5, Get $200 + $1,000 Deposit Bonus
Claim without code
Fanatics Sportsbook
Choose: Get $250 or $1,000 Bonus
Claim without code
BetRivers
$250 Second Chance Bet
No code required
ESPN BET
Up to $600 Bonus
No code required
Louisiana sportsbooks to avoid
While Louisiana offers a strong selection of licensed sportsbooks, some offshore betting sites still target local bettors.
These operators are not regulated by the Louisiana Gaming Control Board, which means they don’t follow state laws, don’t offer consumer protections, and put your money and personal data at risk.
We recommend avoiding the following unlicensed sportsbooks:
BetOnline: Though widely known, BetOnline operates offshore and lacks any legal license in Louisiana. There's no oversight to ensure fair play, secure payments, or responsible gambling tools.
BetUS: BetUS also accepts U.S. players without state approval. This site isn’t subject to Louisiana’s gambling laws and offers no guarantee that your winnings—or even your deposits—are safe.
MyBookie: MyBookie markets aggressively to U.S. customers but is based offshore and completely unregulated. You won’t get the security, support, or dispute resolution options you'd find with a legal Louisiana sportsbook.
For a safe and reliable betting experience, always choose licensed Louisiana sportsbooks like Caesars, FanDuel, DraftKings, or bet365. These operators follow state laws, use secure technology, and offer clear terms and protections.
Responsible gambling in Louisiana
Louisiana promotes safe gambling and offers several resources to help players manage their activity.
Support options:
LA Problem Gamblers Helpline: 1-877-770-7867
Voluntary self-exclusion programs across retail and online sites
Timeout and deposit limit tools available within most sportsbook apps
Every sportsbook on our list includes tools to help set limits, pause play, or get help when needed.
How Louisiana protects sports bettors
Louisiana has implemented strong regulatory measures to ensure legal sportsbooks operate responsibly and protect users.
A portion of state gambling tax revenue is directed toward problem gambling education, treatment, and prevention programs through partnerships with state health agencies.
The Louisiana Gaming Control Board, along with the State Police Gaming Division, enforces strict rules designed to promote safe betting. These include:
Background checks on all sportsbook operators
Mandatory responsible gambling tools (like deposit limits and timeouts)
Clear bonus terms and promotional disclosures
Access to self-exclusion programs for players who need a break
Ongoing audits to ensure fair operations and compliance with state laws
If you believe a sportsbook has violated state regulations or treated you unfairly, you can file a complaint directly with the Louisiana Gaming Control Board. They’ll investigate and take action if necessary to protect players.
Latest Louisiana sports betting updates
Louisiana’s sports betting market continues to evolve, with new bills, betting trends, and policy shifts making headlines. Stay up to date with the latest legislative developments, regulatory moves, and big moments in local sports.
April 16, 2025 – House Bill 639 is introduced, proposing new tax funding for higher education and athletic programs.
April 14, 2025 – Senate Bill 181 is introduced to ban sweepstakes casinos statewide, targeting unregulated online platforms.
April 1, 2025 – Lawmakers are considering House Bill 696 to legalize online casino games like slots, poker, and blackjack. The bill has not yet been filed.
March 29, 2025 – HB727 is pre-filed to ban player props on college athletes while keeping standard bet types like spreads and totals legal.
March 16, 2025 – LSU Women’s Basketball earns a No. 3 seed in the NCAA Tournament, marking its fourth consecutive appearance. The men’s team did not qualify.
February 26, 2025 – Rapper and entrepreneur Master P is named President of Basketball Operations at the University of New Orleans.
February 12, 2025 – Super Bowl 59, hosted in New Orleans, breaks viewership records and contributes to an estimated $1.39 billion in U.S. betting handle.
January 22, 2025 – Louisiana sportsbooks report $362.3 million in online bets and another $28.4 million from retail locations in December.
Final thoughts: The best Louisiana sportsbook for you
Each Louisiana sportsbook brings something unique to the table. Your ideal choice depends on how and where you want to bet.
Want rewards and local roots? Choose Caesars.
Care most about mobile speed? Go with FanDuel.
Need variety and DFS crossover? Try DraftKings.
Love merch and loyalty? Fanatics is your best bet.
Prefer in-game action? Explore PointsBet.
We recommend signing up for more than one to compare apps, odds, and bonuses firsthand. All sportsbooks listed here are legal, safe, and licensed in Louisiana.
Louisiana sportsbook FAQs
Is sports betting legal in Louisiana?
Yes. Sports betting is fully legal in Louisiana, both online and in-person, in the 55 parishes that approved it through a 2020 ballot measure.
Can I bet on sports online in Louisiana?
Yes. Online sports betting has been live in Louisiana since January 2022. You can bet using legal apps and websites as long as you're located within an approved parish.
How many sportsbooks are there in Louisiana?
Louisiana has over 8 licensed online sportsbooks and more than 15 retail sportsbook locations throughout the state.
What is the best sportsbook in Louisiana?
FanDuel ranks highly for mobile experience and betting features. Caesars is another strong choice, especially with its presence at Harrah’s New Orleans and partnership with the New Orleans Saints.
Where can I bet on sports in Louisiana?
You can wager at licensed retail sportsbooks in casinos across the state or online using legal sportsbook apps in participating parishes.
Do I need to live in Louisiana to bet online?
No. You don’t have to be a resident, but you must be physically located within one of the 55 parishes where sports betting is legal. Location is verified using geolocation technology.
How old do I need to be to bet on sports in Louisiana?
You must be at least 21 years old to place a legal sports wager in Louisiana, both online and in-person.
What sports can I bet on in Louisiana?
You can bet on all major sports including the NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, college football and basketball, golf, MMA, tennis, soccer, motorsports, and more.
What types of bets can I place in Louisiana?
Louisiana sportsbooks offer moneylines, spreads, totals, parlays, teasers, futures, props, and live betting. Betting on in-state college teams is allowed, but college player props are prohibited.
Is mobile sports betting available in Louisiana?
Yes. Mobile apps from FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, bet365, BetMGM, and others are live in Louisiana. You can register, deposit, and bet entirely from your phone or tablet.
Are Louisiana sportsbooks safe?
Yes. All legal sportsbooks are licensed and regulated by the Louisiana Gaming Control Board, which ensures secure operations and player protections.
Can I bet while visiting Louisiana?
Yes. As long as you’re 21+ and located within a parish where betting is legal, you can sign up and place bets during your stay.
Which payment methods can I use at Louisiana sportsbooks?
You can deposit and withdraw using debit cards, PayPal, Venmo, online banking, Apple Pay, Play+, and cash at casino partners.
How fast are withdrawals from Louisiana sportsbooks?
Digital wallets like PayPal and Play+ are typically the fastest, with most withdrawals processed within 1 to 3 business days.
What are Louisiana’s tax rates on sports betting winnings?
Sports betting winnings are subject to 4.25% state income tax and 24% federal income tax. Winnings over $600 may trigger a W-2G form issued by the sportsbook.
Are daily fantasy sports legal in Louisiana?
Yes. Daily fantasy sports are legal in Louisiana, but only in the 47 parishes that voted to approve DFS in 2018.
Is live betting available in Louisiana?
Yes. Every licensed online sportsbook in the state offers live or in-play betting on ongoing games and events.
Is betting on horse racing legal in Louisiana?
Yes. You can bet on horse races in-person at licensed racetracks and online through approved racebook platforms.
Can I bet on DraftKings, FanDuel, or BetMGM in Louisiana?
Yes. All three are fully licensed in Louisiana and offer both desktop and mobile betting options.
Who regulates sports betting in Louisiana?
The Louisiana Gaming Control Board oversees all sportsbook activity. It works with the State Police Gaming Division to enforce rules, issue licenses, and protect bettors.
