Sports Betting in California

Overview – Legal Sports Betting in California Today

Sports betting is not legal in California. However, bettors in California can use offshore sportsbooks, like the ones we recommend below to bet on sports.

Online gambling, as well as brick-and-mortar casinos, are legal in California. Well, casinos can be on tribal lands, and there are currently more than 70 up and running throughout the state. However, they tend to be far away from population centers. It can be a hassle to drive to get to one.

Online casinos are not legal or regulated in California. However, many offshore sportbooks offer online casino gaming options.

* The minimum gambling age in California is 18 for tribal casinos with alcohol licenses, lottery, and horse racing. The minimum gambling age for the state is 21 for tribal casinos with alcohol licenses, bingo, and poker rooms.

Top 5 California Sportsbooks

Whether or not there is legal sports betting with local sportsbooks in California, you should be prepared with the best options to sign up and start wagering on your favorite sports as soon as possible.

That is why we provide the sportsbooks we recommend most for California sports bettors right here on this page. This way you can be ready to go no matter the circumstances. Remember that offshore sportsbooks remain legal in the state, whether or not they legalize California sports betting on tribal lands.

BetUS

You may recognize this recommendation from some of our other pages. After all, California sports bettors are looking for similar things in a great sportsbook as bettors from across the country. BetUS offers security, fast payouts, and great odds, which are top priorities for everyone. BetUs has been around for a long time. Established in 1994, this trusted sportsbook keeps it fresh with rotating promotions and bonus offerings.

What will be different about these California betting sites is that we ensure they have great odds specifically for California sports teams. The Los Angeles Lakers and the San Francisco 49ers will have their spot on this site.

BetUS boasts the best payment options in California

BetUS, as a leading online betting and gambling platform, stands out from its competitors in California by offering the most flexible and secure payment options available. From credit and debit cards to electronic transfers and cryptocurrency, BetUS ensures that making deposits and withdrawals is a hassle-free process for its users. With unmatched transparency and efficiency in managing transactions, BetUS has gained the trust of its California customers who rely on the platform to place their bets and win big.

BetUS has the highest-quality mobile betting in California

A significant number of sports bettors worldwide are now using mobile devices to place their bets, and BetUS seems to have recognized this trend. They have likely invested in developing an intuitive and user-friendly mobile platform that allows their customers in California to access their site and place bets on a wide range of sporting events seamlessly. Overall, as the heading suggests BetUS may be an excellent option for sports bettors in California looking for a high-quality mobile betting experience.

Below are the pros and cons we have found with BetUS through using the app and what other users have noted.

Pros

• Competitive odds
• Great mobile layout
• Varied betting markets
• Crypto deposit bonus of 200 percent match up to $1,500

Cons

• Limited payout options. Some options have fees
• Limited to major sports and leagues
• Maximum bets might be low for some

Bonus:

125% - up to $2,500

Bet now

BetNow

BetNow is a popular choice for California sports bettors. They offer security, fast payouts, and great odds, which are important to bettors everywhere. BetNow has been a trusted sportsbook since 2005, and they keep things exciting with rotating promotions and bonuses.

California betting sites will have great odds for California sports teams. The Los Angeles Lakers and the San Francisco 49ers will be featured on this site.

BetNow offers excellent betting promotions in California

BetNow is a popular online betting platform that offers an extensive range of betting opportunities, including sports betting on popular games like football, basketball, and soccer, and a variety of casino games such as slots, video poker, and blackjack. If you’re in California and looking for some exciting betting promotions, BetNow might be the perfect platform for you. With various bonuses and promotions, including welcome bonuses, reload bonuses, and referral bonuses, BetNow provides plenty of incentives for new and experienced bettor. BetNow offers a user-friendly interface and reliable customer support, ensuring you can enjoy your betting experience with confidence.

BetNow offers a dedicated horse racing book in California

California stands out as one of the premier destinations for horse racing in the United States. The state has legendary racecourses such as Santa Anita Racecourse and Del Mar Race Track. For bettors eager to dive into this thrilling world, BetNow offers a horse racing sportsbook that caters to all your betting needs.

Below are the pros and cons we have found with BetNow through using the app and what other users have noted.

Pros

• A broad range of markets
• Adaptive mobile technology
• Some of the most competitive odds on the market
• Bonus of 200 percent up to $200 for crypto deposits

Cons

• Interface might look dated to some
• Low value welcome bonuses
• Limited number of specialty sports markets

Bonus:

100% up to $1,000 in free bets

Bet now

Bovada

Bovada is the number one sportsbook across the country. They attract the most players, and it is not hard to see why. This trusted name will take care of you from start to finish. Their reputation is well-known and well-deserved.

Plus, our legal experts make sure that they are freely and legally available in California. You will have no problem accessing and playing this California online sportsbook. It is based offshore, meaning local laws in California do not govern its servers.

Bovada offers the widest range of betting markets in California

Bovada is a popular online betting platform that specializes in offering a wide range of betting markets for its users in California. From traditional sports betting markets like football, basketball, and baseball to more niche betting options such as esports and politics, Bovada has something for everyone. Their diverse range of options allows users to explore and discover new markets to place bets on, making it an exciting and engaging experience. With its user-friendly platform and a wide variety of options, Bovada has become a go-to betting site for many in California.

Bovada is the most recognizable name in betting in California

The statement that Bovada is the most recognizable name in betting in California may be true for some, but it is not necessarily the case for everyone. While Bovada is a popular online betting site, many other companies also operate within California. It is important to note that gambling laws and regulations can vary by state, and what may be popular or recognizable in one state may not be in another. It is always important to research and find a reputable and legal betting site before placing any bets or wagers.

Below are the pros and cons we have found with Bovada through using the app and what other users have noted.

Pros

• Number one sportsbook in CA
• Tens of thousands of markets daily
• Rotating specials
• Bonus of 75 percent match up to $750 for crypto deposits

Cons

• Limited promotions for existing customers
• Fees for certain banking methods
• Lacks multiple cryptocurrency withdrawal method

Bonus:

50% up to $250

Bet now

BetOnline

This modern website has a great welcome bonus. At a 50% match up to a thousand big ones, BetOnline is a solid choice! But they offer more than just a solid welcome bonus for California bettors. They also have great payout speed, which is an essential part of being a trustworthy sportsbook.

After all, while we are here to have fun, making a few bucks along the way would also be nice! Things like withdrawal speed are pivotal to having more control over your earnings. California sports bettors will be at home at BetOnline.

BetOnline offers great crypto deposit options to players in California

BetOnline allows players to make deposits using various cryptocurrencies. This is great news for players based in California, who often face difficulties in using traditional payment methods due to the state’s strict gambling laws. With BetOnline’s crypto deposit options, players can easily and securely fund their accounts without the need for intermediaries or additional transaction fees. Furthermore, using cryptocurrencies also provides an additional layer of anonymity, which can be important for players who value their privacy. In summary, BetOnline’s crypto deposit options make it easier for players in California to enjoy online betting while also ensuring their financial transactions are secure and anonymous.

BetOnline has the most intuitive mobile betting app in California

BetOnline’s mobile betting app is gaining popularity in California due to its intuitive design and user-friendly interface. The app is seamlessly designed to offer a hassle-free and smooth mobile betting experience to users. With instant access to pre-match and in-play betting, live streaming, and updates on the latest odds and scores, the app enables users to place bets on their favorite sports quickly and easily. This intuitive design has made it easier for users to enjoy betting on their mobile devices without any distractions. As a result, BetOnline’s mobile betting app has become a go-to platform for sports enthusiasts in California.

Below are the pros and cons we have found with BetOnline through using the app and what other users have noted.

Pros

• Lots of banking options
• Crypto bonus
• Great layout
• Bonus of 50 percent up to $250 on desposits

Cons

• Fees on credit card deposits
• Fees on some payout methods
• High rollover requirements on some bonuses

Bonus:

50% up to $1,000

Bet now

MyBookie

MyBookie has super fast payouts and deposits, which will let you have more control over your bankroll as you dive into sports betting. You also have more than one signup bonus here at MyBookie.

MyBookie is known for its great mobile interface, as well. You can sign up by clicking the link we provide and their website will automatically adjust to your mobile device, making for a seamless connection.

MyBookie provides regular updates to bonuses in California

One of the most attractive features offered by MyBookie is the regular updates on bonuses and promotions available to users in California. These bonuses can range from free bets to cashback offers, providing great value to both new and existing users. By keeping users informed about the latest bonuses, MyBookie ensures its customers get the most out of their betting experience. With a wide range of sports and events to bet on and excellent customer service, MyBookie is a top choice for sports bettors in California.

MyBookie boasts some of the most generous bonuses in California

MyBookie is a popular sportsbook that has established itself as a top destination for sports betting enthusiasts in California. One of the main reasons for its success is its generous bonuses. When you sign up with MyBookie, you can enjoy a wide range of bonuses that can boost your betting experience. These bonuses are designed to add value to your wagers and can include free bets, deposit bonuses, and other incentives. So if you are looking for a reliable and rewarding sportsbook in California, MyBookie is definitely worth checking out.

Below are the pros and cons we have found with MyBookie through using the app and what other users have noted.

Pros

• Rotating promotions
• Lots of betting markets
• Updates regularly
• Bonus of 100 percent up to $1,000 on deposits

Cons

• Withdrawal Methods are Limited to Bitcoin and Bank Wire Transfer
• No poker room
• High minimum deposit for non-crypto

Bonus:

100% up to $1,000

Bet now

*Did you expect to see sportsbooks like BetMGM, DraftKings or FanDuel on the list? Unfortunately, they don’t offer online sports betting for bettors residing in California. That could change in time, but until then, you will not find them or Unibet, BetRivers, Fox Bet or PointsBet in California. Instead, you can try any of the sites reviewed in MyTopSportsbooks – they offer competitive odds and higher bonuses than the brands advertising on TV. 

How we review and choose these California betting sites

We have carefully looked over the online sports betting sites in California. We have used these sites for years and know them well. Our experience among dozens of online bookies has given us the experience to know what to look for.

When making bets online, it is important to know that you are safe and that you are getting the best deal possible. Here are the five top qualities we look for when we recommend sports betting sites, along with a sportsbook that exemplifies that characteristic.

There are also great California betting apps that you should check our for your mobile sports betting needs.

Is Sports Betting Legal in California

Sports betting is currently not legally available in California via online sportsbooks. However, bettors in California can access online sports betting today via the sportsbooks we recommend here. We will see if California voters finally approve local sportsbooks in the next elections.

What forms of gambling and betting are legal in California?

Sports betting in California is not legal, though there have been several tries to amend the law in recent years. With major ballot initiatives in the 2022 midterms failing, don’t expect sports betting to be legalized in the state any time soon. In fact, the prediction is it may not be until 2028 when sports betting gets legal status in the state.

Legal in California

• California state lottery
• Horse racing
• Cardrooms
• Daily fantasy sports
• Tribal casinos

Illegal in California

• Casinos (Non-tribal)
• Sports betting
• Online gambling
• Commercial gambling

For those who are interested in sports betting, using an offshore sportsbook is a legal and acceptable option for California residents.

California and Daily Fantasy Sports

California has no laws that explicitly legalize daily fantasy sports betting, but residents are still able to log in and play. You can build your team and start betting on a number of different daily fantasy sports betting apps. Here are some of the biggest and most popular options in the state:

• DraftKings App
• FanDuel DFS App
• Monkey Knife Fight
• WinView Games
• Outlast Daily Fantasy Sports
• Yahoo Fantasy Sports
• Fantasy Draft

Is Horse Race betting Legal in California?

Yes, horse racing is legal in California. They legalized pari-mutuel betting in 1933, making it a long tradition in the state. In fact, some of the most iconic horse racing tracks in the country and even the world are in California. What would horse racing be without the Santa Anita track?

Bettors in California also have the option of making off-track bets at online racebooks. All the betting sites we recommend on this page have horse racing bets available, as well.

Gambling in Casinos in California

No state has more Tribal casinos than California. There are over 70 tribal casinos in the state where gambling is legal. Non-tribal casinos are illegal in the state. The minimum age to gamble in a Tribal casino is either 18 or 21 depending on if the casino has an alcohol license. Poker cardrooms are also legal in California.

Those who wish to enjoy casino games but cannot make it to a Tribal casino should check out the offshore betting sites that also offer casino gaming.

California November 2022 ballot – Prop 26 and Prop 27

What was Prop 26?

Proposition 26 would have legalized in-person sports betting at tribal casinos and horse racing tracks in California. The proposition failed in a vote in 2022 with over 7 million people voting against it and 3.5 million supporting the proposition. Tribal casinos endorsed the bill, but operators of card rooms opposed it.

What was Prop 27?

Proposition 27 would have legalized online and mobile sports betting. Sportsbooks like DraftKings and FanDuel were in support of the proposition, while operators of native casinos were against the bill for fear that legalized sports betting would cut into their gambling market. The vote on Proposition 27 was overwhelming, as 8.8 million people voted against it. Meanwhile, 1.9 million voters supported the proposition.

Over $350 million was spent on TV ads to defeat the propositions.

What their rejection means for sports betting in California

The gaming industry and the tribal casinos spent nearly $600 million in the hopes of getting Proposition 26 and 27 passed in 2022, but they failed. Earlier this month James Siva, chairman of the California Nations Indian Gaming Association, said that another go could be made at legalizing sports betting in 2026, but the more realistic date for the next attempt to get sports betting legalized in the state is 2028.

California Sports Betting – Recent Updates

• September 3, 2024 – The California Senate approved the Tribal Nations Access to Justice Act, also referred to as Senate Bill 549. This legislation grants local tribes the opportunity to sue state cardrooms for allegedly violating California’s gambling laws.
• August 12, 2024 – In a significant development for tribal gaming in California, Governor Gavin Newsom approves new gaming agreements. These compacts are established between the state and two Native American tribes: the Timbisha Shoshone Tribe and the Elem Indian Colony of Pomo Indians of the Sulphur Bank Rancheria.
• July 23, 2024 – Google amended its advertising policies, now allowing daily fantasy sports (DFS) promotions on California web browsers. DFS currently occupies a legal gray area in the state, being neither explicitly sanctioned nor prohibited.
• June 20, 2024 – San Francisco Giants players Matt Chapman, Logan Webb, and Tyler Rogers revealed to USA Today that they have recently been harassed by fans demanding money for lost bets.
• June 4, 2024 – San Diego Padres infielder Tucupita Marcona was issued a lifetime ban from Major League Baseball for betting on games in which he participated.
• April 30, 2024 – Commencement of construction marked the inception of a novel high-speed rail network linking Los Angeles and Las Vegas. Scheduled for inauguration in 2028, the railway promises enhanced accessibility for Californians to legal sports betting, should it not debut within the state prior to its launch.
• April 8, 2024 – Victor Rocha, Chair of the Indian Gaming Association Conference, informed LSR that the legalization of sports betting is imminent, though its online implementation in California might not occur until 2028.
• January 23, 2024 – Advocates for recent sports betting initiatives in California have abandoned their attempts to legalize sports betting in the state.
• January 9, 2024 – Major US sportsbooks to oppose California sports betting ballot measures.
• December 1, 2023 – DraftKings launched its DK Horse betting app in California, giving state bettors a new mobile wagering option for all major horse racing events.
• November 2, 2023 – The two proposed ballot initiatives to legalize California sports betting in the state have faced opposition from tribal leaders, who have been vocal in their criticism of the measures.
• October 2, 2023 – California is considering banning blackjack card games at local casinos and card rooms. Other table games could be affected, too.
• September 3, 2023 – Golden Gate Fields, the horse racing track located in Berkeley, will shut its doors for good this December. The move aims to boost racing at Santa Anita, another track owned by the same group.
• August 1, 2023 – Native American tribes in California are pushing for a new law that would let them sue over card games like blackjack at casinos. They want courts to decide if the games are legal.
• June 18, 2023 – The 29 Palms Band of Mission Indians has introduced a social betting platform. This platform enables users to engage in free-to-play sports wagering, where they can accumulate credits to be redeemed within the tribe’s renowned casinos.
• June 5, 2023 – The Oakland Athletics, in collaboration with Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo, revealed a preliminary agreement to relocate the team to Las Vegas. Looks like the A’s are leaving California.
• May 2, 2023 – DraftKings CEO Jason Robins made it clear during a conference that legalizing sports betting in California is still a long way off.
• March 23, 2023 – State representatives reflect on the success of mobile betting across the country as lobbyists push for legalization.
• February 28, 2023 – Will California sports betting pummeling In 2022 stop future ballot push?
• December 14, 2022 – Following the firm rejection of Prop 27, those in the industry believe that operators must modify their approach with tribes to facilitate legalization of CA sports betting over the web.
• November 23, 2022 – Future of sports betting looking bleak in the state following election defeat.
• November 9, 2022 – Gambling giants are the losers after California rejects sports betting. Industry hopes to overturn referendum outcome in biggest US market in 2024
• November 16, 2022 – Both major ballot initiatives in the midterms to legalize sports betting in California failed
• October 30, 2022 – California sports betting is complicated due to special interests due to competing ballot propositions.

When will California legalize sports betting?

The California Tribal Sports Betting Initiative (#23-0031) would have legalized sports betting for adults 21 years of age on professional, collegiate, and amateur sporting or athletic events. The initiative would have also made betting on sporting events involving animals other than horses and all amateur sports involving minors illegal. To get the initiative on the ballot in 2024, 874,641 valid signatures were needed. However, the initiative did not hit that number by the deadline of July 1, 2024, so the initiative won’t be on the ballot in California in 2024.

James Siva, chairman of the California Nations Indian Gaming Association, said of legal sports betting in the state, “maaaaaybe 2026, but probably 2028.” Silva made those remarks in October 2024 at the Global Gaming Expo.

Right now the question of when will California legalize sports betting is an open one, but it seems like it will be a few years.

Potential legal sports betting sites in California

There are lots of big fish waiting to sink their teeth into the California betting market if the state legislature opens the floodgates. While we do not know how many licenses will be given, if any, we know that even before this happens, bettors in California can use the online sports betting sites we recommend here.

Tribal Casinos in California

There are more than 70 tribal casinos and 5 mini-casinos available across California. Native American Tribes have a monopoly on retail casinos in the state. One that is worth highlighting is the Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino. It has been voted number one casino fourteen times in a row. In addition to the large casino, they have an award-winning restaurant, Serenity Springs Spa & Salon, and other great amenities to make the most of your stay. Here’s a full list of California casinos:

• Amador County: Harrah’s Northern California, Jackson Rancheria Casino
• Butte County: Feather Falls Casino, Gold Country Casino & Hotel, Mechoopda Casino
• Colusa County: Colusa Casino Resort
• Contra Costa County: San Pablo Lytton Casino
• Del Norte County: Elk Valley Casino, Lucky 7 Casino, Lucky 7 Fuel Mart, Redwood Hotel Casino
• Eldorado County: Redhawk Casino
• Fresno County: Mono Wind Casino, Table Mountain Casino
• Humboldt County: Bear River Casino, Blue Lake Casino, Lucky Bear Casino, Cher-Ae Heights Bingo & Casino, Playstation 777
• Imperial County: Quechan Resort Casino, Red Earth Casino
• Inyo County: Wanaaha Casino, Winnedumah Win’s Casino
• Kern County: Inyokern Casino Project, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tejon,
• Kings County: Tachi Palace Hotel & Casino
• Lake County: Robinson Rancheria Resort and Casino, Konocti Vista Casino, Twin Pine Casino, Running Creek Casino
• Lassen County: Diamond Mountain Casino
• Mendocino County: Black Bart Casino, Red Fox County, Coyote Valley Casino, Garcia River Casino, Hidden Oaks Casino, Hopland Sho-Ka-Wah Casino & Bingo, Sherwood Valley Casino
• Madera County: Chukchansi Gold Resort & Casino, North Fork Mono Casino & Resort
• Modoc County: Desert Rose Casino
• Placer County: Thunder Valley Casino
• Riverside County: Agua Caliente Casino, Aqua Caliente Casino Palm Springs, Agua Caliente Casino Rancho Mirage, Augustine Casino, Cahuilla Creek Casino, Casino Morongo, Fantasy Springs Resort and Casino, Morongo Casino, Morongo Travel Center, Pechanga Resort & Casino, Soboba Casino, Spa Resort and Casino, Spotlight 29 Casino
• Sacramento: Sky River Casino
• Santa Barbara: Chumash Casino Resort
• San Bernardino: Tortoise Rock Casino, Havasu Landing Resort and Casino, Yaamava’ Resort Casino, Barstow Casino and Resort Project
• San Diego: Barona Valley Ranch Resort & Casino, Casino Pauma, Golden Acorn Casino, Harrah’s Resort Southern California, Jamul Casino, La Jolla Slot Arcade, Pala Casino Resort & Spa, Sycuan Resort and Casino, Valley View Casino, Viejas Casino
• Shasta County: Win-River Casino, Pit River Casino
• Siskiyou: Rain Rock Casino
• Sonoma County: Graton Resort and Casino, River Rock Casino, Cloverdale Rancheria Destination Resort & Casino Project, Shiloh Resort & Casino Project
• Solano: Scotts Valley Casino Resort Project
• Tehama County: Rolling Hills Casino
• Tulare County: Eagle Mountain Casino
• Tuolumne County: Chicken Ranch Bingo & Casino, Black Oak Casino
• Yolo County: Cache Creek Casino
• Yuba County: Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

California Sports Betting Timeline

In California State, the push to make it join the other sports betting states has generally faced an uphill battle. Even while this is in process, you can bet on horse racing, fantasy sports, and professional sports at offshore online sportsbooks.

Staying up to date on the latest legal developments in California sports betting is important. If you want to be the best bettor, you should know all your options. While legal offshore bookies tend to be the best option, it is nonetheless a good idea to have your finger on the pulse of what is happening in the Golden State.

Here are some of the recent events in the California sports betting legalization timeline. Many of these are big events that mark a before and after. Others are milestones that let you know how things are advancing or stalling in the push to legalize sports gambling.

2024

California Sports Betting Legalization Unlikely Before 2026

There will be no 2024 California sports betting bill on November’s electoral ballot. Because any sports gambling initiative in the Golden State will require a constitutional amendment, this pathway to approval cannot be skirted. That, in turn, means California sports betting won’t have another crack at legalization until November 2026. And that’s assuming the state green lights a sports gambling proposal then. Otherwise, there’s a chance California sports betting won’t be legalized until the end of the decade.

2023

Navigating the complex path to sports betting legalization in California

The path to legalizing sports betting in California likely involves another vote through a proposition introduced by the state legislature or the public. A constitutional amendment may be necessary, requiring voter approval through a ballot measure. The failed 2022 propositions emphasized the influential role of tribal entities in the legalization process, with future gaming expansion needing tribal support.

The complex process, involving powerful lobby groups, tribal coalitions, and significant financial stakes, makes California’s sports betting legalization one of the most challenging among states. Despite hopes for progress in 2024, the uphill battle faces opposition from key stakeholders, and with a presidential election on the horizon, definitive conclusions may be elusive for those anticipating legalized sports betting in California.

2022 Midterm elections

California voters rejected the sports betting proposals in the November 2022 midterm elections. This would have provided the state with the authority to license and tax local sportsbooks. California voters will likely have another opportunity to approve or reject a similar proposal in two years during the general elections.

Many Local Mayors Back California Sports Betting Initiative

With so much support statewide for the upcoming vote to legalize sports betting, it is clear why so many mayors of large California cities are coming out and pledging their support for the California Solutions to Homelessness and Mental Health Support Act.

According to a tweet from Ned Resnikoff, the mayors of Sacramento, Oakland, Long Beach, and Fresno have come out to back the November 2022 ballot initiative. With so much support one year out from the election, we can only expect this to grow.

With homelessness being such a big problem in California, it is clear why mayors would want to pass this initiative. Passing it has the potential to bring in an estimated $100 million to combat these problems in society. This is a nice chunk of change that is being promised to cities to fight some of their most intractable problems.

With mayors, sportsbooks, and Native American tribes all organizing support for this ballot initiative, it is likely that California will legalize sports betting in 2022. But of course, we cannot be completely sure until the fat lady sings.

Another Petition Circulates for a Different Sports Betting Legalization Structure in California

Even though there is a ballot initiative already set to be voted on by the people of California in 2022, there are now some competing petitions circulating. While these petitions do not yet have enough signatures

2021

October – Poll Shows 60% Support for Ballot Measure

A strong sign of support came out in October 2021 with a California-wide poll showing that 60% of the voting population was in favor of the ballot initiative to legalize California sports betting in the state. This is a strong show of support just a year out from the big day. With organized support from Native American tribes, this makes sense. We are not surprised to see this level of support in a state renowned for its open attitude to the world in general. We can only assume that this level of support will continue, allowing this ballot initiative to coast its way into becoming law. As a reflection of this support, the mayor of Sacramento, Darrell Steinberg, came out in support of the initiative. The November 2022 ballot measure is called California Solutions to Homelessness and Mental Health Support Act. The initiative is expected to put $100 million towards both issues. At this point, this is the only ballot initiative to be officially approved for the November 2022 election in California.

September – Sports Betting at Del Mar Stadium in San Diego is Approved

In the middle of September, Southern California was excited to find out that sports betting had been approved at the Del Mar Fairgrounds in San Diego. This is big news for San Diego, even as the rest of the state is holding their breath for November 2022 when they get a chance to vote on the ballot measure. Bettors could be able to enjoy their recreational activities here as soon as 2023. If the state gives the green light overall, the Del Mar Fairgrounds will be right there first in line to make the most out of the opportunity. It is expected for the ballot measure to pass, so this is great news for the residents of San Diego and Southern California. At this point, sports betting has become legal in 26 states. That is more than half. With a state with by far the largest population hanging in the balance, this could be a real tipping point in the national conversation. While this approval from the fairgrounds board has little immediate effect, it does say a lot about where the state as a whole is headed. This is a vote of confidence in the final outcome of the ballot measure and additional pressure to get it passed.

June –  A Potential Legislative Path

While it is no guarantee, scholars have found a potential legislative path to legalizing sports betting in California. This path remains a potential because it hinges on another branch of state government. The Supreme Court will have to decide on its interpretation of the California Constitution’s ban on “casino-style” gaming. It is not clear if sports betting is part of casino-style gaming, as is forbidden in the California Constitution.

April – Ballot Measure to Legalize Sports Betting Gathers Enough Signatures

During the summer of 2021, a coalition of eighteen different Native American Tribes were able to gather the sufficient amount of signatures to initiate the ballot measure process. This is a big step towards letting the people of California decide the future of sports betting in the state. The California Secretary of State was the one who made the historic announcement. The measure would open up ports for betting on California Tribal lands and licensed racetracks. It would also open up dice and roulette games on tribal casinos, something that has been prohibited up until this ballot measure. The ballot measure is to appear on the 2022 ballot, when voters will also be choosing the Senator to fill the seat that Kamala Harris left when she was elected Vice President of the United States. It is a mid-year election, so turnout is likely to be lower and therefore decided by fewer voters. Grassroots opposition to California sports betting is not very organized. While there is no way to be sure about the possibility of this ballot measure passing, it looks likely. The strong coalition of eighteen Tribal groups makes for a powerful campaign.

2020

November  – Due to COVID and Related Health Measures, there is no Sports Betting Ballot Measure

The COVID-19 pandemic shook our lives in ways we never imagined. The examples are truly endless. One way that did not grab as many headlines was the removal of some ballot measures from voters in California. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the ballot measure to legalize sports betting in California was removed. Applicants will have the opportunity to put it back on the ballot beginning in 2022. While this would have been good for momentum, it is likely that not much will change in these two years, and that the groups will once again be able to gather the necessary signatures, and that California voters will vote to open up legal sports gambling across the state.

March – Native American Tribal Coalition Gathers Signature for 2020 Ballot Measure to Legalize Sports Betting

In March 2020, a coalition of Native American tribes gathered enough signatures to put a ballot measure to vote in November 2020. This would be a big deal following the PASPA decision that the Supreme Court overturned in 2018, which opened up nationwide sports betting. With the approval of this ballot measure, California would be among the first states to legalize sports betting within their territory. Although New Jersey and others have already done this, getting California on board would certainly rock the legal sports betting boat. With the momentum behind this push to open up sports betting in the state, it seems likely that voters would approve the measure.

Top Sports and Teams to bet on in California – August Updates 2024

NBA Betting California

• Los Angeles Lakers – The Los Angeles Lakers are one of the most successful franchises in the history of the National Basketball Association. The Lakers have been a part of the league since 1947 and have had some of the greatest players to ever play the game.
• Los Angeles Clippers – The Clippers compete in the National Basketball Association (NBA) as a member of the Pacific Division of the Western Conference. The Clippers play their home games at the Crypto Center, an arena they share with fellow NBA team Los Angeles Lakers, as well as the Los Angeles Sparks of the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA).
• Sacramento Kings – The Kings are the oldest team in the National Basketball Association. They joined the NBA in 1945 as the Rochester Royals.
• Golden State Warriors – The Golden State Warriors have gone through a number of name changes. They were originally known as the Philadelphia Warriors before moving to San Francisco. They are still based in SF, but now represent the entire state.

• The Los Angeles Lakers are listed at +2800 championship odds on Bovada for the 2024/25 season.
• The Sacramento Kings hold +10000 title odds at MyBookie for next season.
• The Los Angeles Clippers have +1700 championship odds at BetUS.
• The Golden State Warriors stand at +3500 to clinch the 2025 NBA Finals.
• The Los Angeles Clippers are at +600 to win the Western Conference Finals 2025.

MLB Betting in California

• San Diego Padres – The San Diego Padres are a professional baseball team based in San Diego, California. They compete in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a member of the National League (NL) West division.
• San Francisco Giants – The San Francisco Giants are an American professional baseball team based in San Francisco, California. Founded in 1883, the Giants compete in Major League Baseball (MLB) as a member club of the National League (NL) West division. They are one of the oldest and most successful professional baseball teams.
• Los Angeles Dodgers – The team is a member of the Major League Baseball (MLB) and currently competes in the National League West division. The Dodgers are the oldest continuously operating professional baseball team in the United States, having been in existence since 1883.

• The Los Angeles Dodgers are listed at +330 World Series odds on BetUS.
• The San Diego Padres hold +1800 championship odds at Bovada.
• Shohei Ohtani has -2350 NL MVP odds at MyBookie.
• The San Francisco Giants have +5500 World Series odds at BetOnline.

NFL Betting in California

• Los Angeles Rams – The Los Angeles Rams are a professional American football team based in Los Angeles, California. They compete in the National Football League (NFL) as a member club of the league’s National Football Conference (NFC) West division. The Rams play their home games at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California.
  
• Los Angeles Chargers – The Chargers compete in the National Football League (NFL) as a member of the league’s American Football Conference (AFC) West division. The Chargers play their home games at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, which the team shares with the Los Angeles Rams.
• San Francisco 49ers – The team is renowned for its rich history and winning tradition, and is considered one of the most successful teams in NFL history. The team is also known for its fierce rivalry with the Dallas Cowboys, as well as its long-standing rivalries with the Seattle Seahawks and the Oakland Raiders.

• Josh Allen has +3500 MVP odds to power Buffalo’s success.
• The 49ers hold -125 odds at Bovada as Championship favorites.
• Sean McVay has +5000 COTY odds at XBet in his coaching return.
• The Chiefs have +450 Super Bowl odds at Bovada.
• The Browns coach Kevin Stefanski has -950 odds at BetUS to clinch the COTY title.

NHL Betting in California

• Los Angeles Kings – Founded in 1967, the Kings play in the Western Conference and the Pacific Division. They were one of the six teams in the 1967 expansion.
• San Jose Sharks – The Sharks began playing in the Cow Palace when they were founded in 1991. They would go a decade before winning their first Division Championship
• Anaheim Ducks – Founded in 1993 by the Walt Disney Corporation, they were known as the Mighty Ducks until the name change in 2006.
• The Los Angeles Kings hold +2500 Stanley Cup odds at BetOnline.
• The San Jose Sharks hold +25000 Stanley Cup odds at BetUS.
• The Anaheim Ducks hold +20000 Stanley Cup odds at Bovada.

Other Popular Events to bet on in California

In addition to fielding teams in the NBA, MLB, NHL and NFL, California has many other sports to bet on, including:

• California has three MLS teams: Los Angeles Galaxy, San Jose Earthquakes, and Chivas USA.
• California has 26 NCAA Division 1 football teams in the state.
• California has many auto racing tracks, several of which host NASCAR races.
• The UFC visits California often, with Anaheim being a frequent host of fight cards.
• The PGA visits California for events such as The American Express and the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am.

Nearest states with legal betting

California neighbors states with legal betting. When we think of retail casinos, who could forget Las Vegas, Nevada. The Strip is home to many world-famous casinos and has been the most important center for gambling in the United States for decades. Oregon and Arizona, California’s two other neighbors, have also passed laws allowing them to license local sportsbooks. However, bettors in California do not need to travel to place the best bets. Online sportsbooks available in California right now are often the best choices on the market.

How to sports bet in California

The signup process for most offshore sportsbooks is simple and straightforward. Below is an example of signing up for BetOnline.

Step 1: Join

You first need to click the “Join” button on the BetOnline home page. This will bring up a form asking for basic information, including the password you want to use for the site.

Step 2: Chose your deposit method

Once you establish your password and provide your basic information, the next thing you need to do, if you want to wager on BetOnline and not just browse the odds and offerings is make a deposit.

Step 3: Deposit

Once you have decided on your preferred deposit method, you need to add funds to your account. Below is what the Bitcoin deposit screen looks like for BetOnline. When making your deposit, make sure to use the best bonus/promotional codes the site is offering so you can take advantage of that bonus. Most sites offer their best bonuses when making an initial deposit.

Step 4: Start betting

There could be a slight delay in funds showing up in your account, but once they do, you are now ready to bet.

Bet using sports betting apps in California

One of the advantages of offshore sportsbooks is their mobile compatibility. Whether you’re using a standalone app for the sportsbook or accessing the site through a mobile browser, you can place wagers from your smartphone or tablet. The betting process on a mobile app is usually identical to using a desktop.

Below are three mobile sports betting apps we recommend.

Bovada App

With Bovada’s mobile betting site, you can enjoy a seamless betting experience that’s just as easy to use as the desktop version. No downloads are required from the App Store or Google Play, making it accessible to users on the go. The Bovada site shares the same features as the desktop site, including sports betting, many casino games, and a poker room

Pros

• No download
• Easy to navigate

Cons

• Better betting odds can be found on other sites
• Some betting lines come out late in the day

BetOnline App

While the sportsbook may not have a dedicated Betonline mobile app, the company offers seamless access on any mobile device. Experience all the same features and functionalities as the desktop version, ensuring you never miss out on your betting opportunities, no matter where you are.

Pros

• Offers a multitude of betting options
• Easy access to betting markets

Cons

• Customer service can be hard to access
• No cash-out options for bets

MyBookie App

While there may not be a dedicated MyBookie betting app, you can enjoy seamless access to their fully optimized mobile site. Whether you’re using a smartphone or tablet, you’ll find it easy to place bets right at your fingertips, where you’re at.

Pros

• Good mobile interface
• Enhanced security

Cons

• Number of events not as robust as some other apps
• Better betting odds can be found on other sites

How to choose the right betting app

When you’re searching for the best mobile betting app for your needs, it’s crucial to focus on a few key factors that can enhance your experience. Look for an app with a user-friendly interface, lightning-fast responsiveness, and a design that mirrors the experience of the desktop site. In today’s market, the lines between desktop and mobile sportsbooks have blurred, offering you the convenience of betting on the go without sacrificing quality.

Below are some things to consider when choosing the app that is right for you:

• Make sure to use a sportsbook that does not break the law in California
• Make sure to select an app that is easy to use for your level of betting experience
• Make sure it is compatible with your specific needs – which could be live betting options, access to casino games, live streaming, etc..
• Make sure it offers live betting if you think that’s something you might be interested in
• Make sure the app has live streaming if that is something you need
• Make sure you can easily reach customer service via the app
• Make sure you are comfortable with the odds and how often they are updated

Make sure to bet safely and reasonably

One of the most crucial aspects to consider when choosing a sportsbook is the assurance that your information is safe and secure. The betting sites we review and recommend are all licensed and regulated, and they employ various security measures, including Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption, firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and regular security audits.

Another important safety consideration is whether the site prioritizes your well-being. Look for platforms that offer responsible gaming options or self-exclusion policies. Some sites even allow you to set your own deposit and betting limits. You can typically find this information in the site’s FAQs or by contacting customer service via instant message, text, phone, or email.

With or without self-exclusion policies, bettors should be mindful when betting, setting and adhering to limits they are comfortable with, and not wagering more than they can afford to lose.

For those who need assistance from the sites, here is some useful contact information: