Best Sports Betting Sites in North Carolina: Top NC Sportsbooks for 2024
Our experts have highlighted the best sports betting sites in North Carolina regarding fair bonuses, live streaming, competitive odds, and other unique benefits. Furthermore, our rating process is also firmly focused on safety and licensing. So, in this review, you can also learn about the local gambling laws and regulations.
- This Site Contains:
- Full list of NC legal sports betting sites
- Analysis of the best NC sports betting sites
- Ranking of the top North Carolina online sportsbook bonuses
We’ve also discussed in detail the payout rates of the top NC online sports betting platforms and other key aspects like payment methods and customer service. To help you get to the information you seek quickly, we’ve incorporated various tables and lists. We encourage you to review them and read the accompanying information for more details.
Top 3 North Carolina Betting Sites
However, before we begin explaining the rating process, we want to point you attention to the fact that online sports gambling in North Carolina was legalized in 2024. This means that the market is quite young, and even the top platforms we’ve highlighted have room for development.
The Best Kentucky Online Sports Betting Sites by Category
| 🏆 Best NC online sportsbook for 2024: | DraftKings |
| ▶️ Top for Live Betting: | bet365 |
| 📈 Best NFL Odds: | BetMGM |
| ⚾ Top MLB Bonuses: | DraftKings |
| 🏀 Best NBA Bookmaker: | bet365 |
| 🏒Most Popular NHL Bookie: | DraftKings |
| 🔎 Biggest Market Selection: | BetMGM |
| 🏈 Best Super Bowl Promos: | BetMGM |
| ⛹️ Top for Player Props: | DraftKings |
| ✨Best for NCAAF: | BetMGM |
Rating the Top NC Sports Betting Sites
We’ve ranked these online betting sites in North Carolina according to specific criteria that matter most to players. This is the culmination of our detailed evaluation process, where each site is assessed based on its performance across key categories such as safety, market diversity, odds, bonuses, and app performance, among others.
The Criteria Used for Ranking NC Betting Sites
Our methodology for ranking the best sports betting sites in North Carolina hinges on a comprehensive evaluation across the 10 pivotal categories listed below. Each one is meticulously assessed for its quality, user-friendliness, and the value it brings, establishing a benchmark for excellence.
In addition, note that we scrutinize not only the quantitative aspects, such as the number of sports and payment methods, but also qualitative factors, like user experience and competitiveness of odds. This dual approach allows us to present a nuanced perspective, highlighting sites that excel in offering a secure, player-centric, and feature-rich betting environment.
North Carolina Online Sports Betting at a Glance
North Carolina’s venture into online sports betting has opened up a world of opportunities for enthusiasts to engage with their favorite sports more interactively. From football to novelty bets, the options are vast, with sportsbooks offering a range of markets and conferences.
| Sportsbook | Sports | Football Conferences | Football Markets | Novelty Bets |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BetMGM | 20+ | 12 | 20+ | N/A |
| DraftKings | 15+ | 12 | 20+ | N/A |
| bet365 | 20+ | 12 | 40+ | N/A |
However, with such diversity comes the challenge of finding the right NC sports betting website that aligns with your preferences. Whether you’re focused on the depth of football markets, the variety of sports available, or the inclusion of unique betting opportunities, selecting a platform that caters to your interests is crucial.
Live Betting
North Carolina online sports betting is appreciated for many things, including the opportunity to wager in real time. This is also known as ‘in-play’ – a feature that allows you to place wagers while a game is being played. The odds and lines change dynamically to reflect what’s happening on the playing field. The most popular live betting options among local players include:
- Basketball
- Football
- Tennis
- Baseball
- Soccer
Best NC Sports Betting Online Odds
Odds prices can drive your profit up or down depending on the value you are getting for your bets. Finding an edge while engaging in online sports betting in NC is difficult. A sportsbook lays odds, and you can either back a proposition or give it a pass, and that’s it.
The sportsbooks never drop the margin on their proposed odds prices below a fixed number, meaning that your best bet would be to look around until you find a working option. This means that staying informed is crucial. Just like pitching, you can visit different North Carolina sports betting online platforms, explore their odds, and choose the one that aligns best with your expectations.
| Betting Site | NFL | NCAA Football | MLB | NBA | NHL |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BetMGM | 95.23% | 94.69% | 94.50% | 94.93% | 94.07% |
| DraftKings | 95.11% | 94.55% | 94.91% | 95.82% | 95.61% |
| bet365 | 95.42% | 94.04% | 95.33% | 95.59% | 95.22% |
We’ve highlighted the leading NC online betting platforms offering the highest payouts across major leagues, including the NFL, NCAA, MLB, NBA, and NHL. The payout percentages, representing the betting site’s odds, are crucial for users aiming to maximize returns. These odds reflect the sportsbook’s view of an event’s likelihood, with a higher percentage theoretically indicating a better payout for the player.
Savvy gamblers might find an edge by understanding these percentages, comparing odds across sportsbooks, and identifying undervalued markets. This strategy hinges on meticulous research and an acute understanding of each sport’s dynamics. You can also explore the platforms’ average payout rates, but remember that this is all theoretical, and you shouldn’t take it as a guarantee of winning.
- DraftKings – 95.52% Average Payout
- BetMGM – 95.09% Average Payout
- bet365 – 95.31% Average Payout
Best North Carolina Mobile Sports Betting Apps
The availability of mobile betting options is essential, as it enables you to stay active even while you’re on the go. Luckily, there are a few sports betting apps in North Carolina that you can download for both Android and iOS. The one we’ve highlighted as the best stands out with intuitive navigation, HD live streaming, and unique features like customizable notifications and odds change alerts.
The Top Bonuses at Sports Betting Sites in NC
We’ve explored various North Carolina sports gambling bonuses, but the ones we’ve highlighted stand out with fair terms and conditions. You will probably reach similar conclusions if you look into the offers’ wagering requirements, validities, minimum deposits, and some of the other aspects we’ve outlined:
| North Carolina Betting Sites | Bonus Offer |
|---|---|
| DraftKings | $250 In Bonus Bets |
| BetMGM | $150 In Bonus Bets |
| bet365 | $150 In Bonus Bets |
- Wagering Requirements
- Time Limits
- Minimum Deposits
- Validity Periods
- Minimum Odds
- Minimum and Maximum Limits
- Valid Markets
There are many different types of NC online sports betting promotions – from first deposit bonuses to 2nd chance bet deals. The ones we’ve highlighted are all categorized as welcome offers, which means they’re only available to new players. To determine which one is the most suitable for your budget and playstyle, pay close attention to their terms and conditions – that’s where their true value hides.
- Low playthrough requirements
- Long validity periods
- Available for a variety of markets
- Expire after a few hours
- Strict wagering requirements over 50x
- Highly restricted odds
Thus, the difference between great bonuses and mediocre ones often hinges on the wagering requirements and validity rather than the amount offered. Of course, generous deposit matches are attractive, yet if the rollover is over 50x and you only have a few days to play, the offer becomes unrealistic.
Leading Payment Options at Sports Betting Sites in North Carolina
The availability of various payment methods is another crucial factor, as it ensures that everyone can find a convenient transaction option. Luckily, the leading North Carolina online betting sites like DraftKings, BetMGM, and bet365 accept a range of deposit methods, including VISA, Mastercard, PayPal, PayNearMe, and bank transfers.
However, when it comes to withdrawals, some payment methods like PayNearMe are often excluded. There are also differences when it comes to processing times. Unlike deposits, cashouts are rarely instant. But if you pick a reputable North Carolina betting site, you can expect 24-hour payouts with eWallets like PayPal. Payment limits also vary, but overall, the minimum amount you can withdraw is $10.
Staying Safe at NC Online Sports Betting Sites
Staying safe while engaging in online sports gambling in NC is paramount, and one of the most effective ways to ensure that is by playing on licensed platforms. They adhere to strict regulations, including Know Your Customer (KYC) requirements, to prevent fraud and ensure the integrity of transactions. They also implement advanced IT security measures, such as 256-bit SSL encryption, to protect user data.
| Sportsbook | License Number | Know Your Customer Requirements | IT Security | Responsible Gaming |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| BetMGM | NCO-0007 | ID Verification | DigiCert – 256-bit | GameSense |
| DraftKings | NCO-0002 | ID Verification | Let’s Encrypt – 256-bit | 1-800-GAMBLER |
| bet365 | NCO-0003 | ID Verification | Google Trust Service – 256-bit | National Council on Problem Gambling |
It’s also essential to check which IT security company has developed the SSL encryption. For example, VeriSign, CyberSitter, and Symantec are known for providing superior digital security solutions. By utilizing the expertise of these IT security firms, online betting sites in NC can offer a secure environment that protects against unauthorized access and data breaches.
- VeriSign
- CyberSitter
- IBIA
- Symantec
Moreover, these North Carolina legal sports betting platforms are committed to responsible gaming. They partner with associations like GameSense and the National Council on Problem Gambling to support users in controlling their betting activities. If you’re struggling with this, we encourage you to use self-limiting tools and seek out help from these and similar organizations.
The Importance of Customer Service
Quick and efficient customer service is essential for addressing various ID verification, transaction, and other issues that you might encounter. In addition, the right support channel can significantly impact a player’s satisfaction and trust in a platform. Luckily, the sites for online betting in North Carolina we’ve selected offer various options. You can choose between phone support for immediate assistance, email for detailed inquiries, or live chat for real-time problem-solving.
| Contact Method | Prevalence | Average Wait Time | Suitable For |
|---|---|---|---|
| ☎️ Phone | High | 5-30 Minutes | Simple & quick problems |
| 📧 Email/Form | High | Up to 24 Hours | Complex problems & screenshots |
| 👩 Live chat | High | 2-3 Minutes | Everything excluding screenshots |
| 💬 Messenger | Low | 5-30 Minutes | Simple & quick problems |
| 🌐 Social network | Low | 24-48 Hours | Feedback, advice, & suggestions |
Most experts on our team prefer 24/7 live chat support for resolving issues quickly and efficiently. However, instant phone support is a close second. These services are highly valued because they provide timely assistance, which is particularly crucial for users playing during non-traditional hours or in different time zones.
- Multi-lingual representatives
- Round the clock access
- Various contact methods
- Long wait times
- Unskilled representatives
- Limited hours
In our book, well-rounded customer service offers 24/7 support, multi-lingual assistance, and various contact methods. Comparatively, services characterized by long wait times, limited hours, and unskilled representatives fall short. Luckily, the best sports betting sites in North Carolina we’ve highlighted fit in the first category.
Bonus Points Earned
In the competitive sports betting North Carolina online market, the small details can set a platform apart. For example, the availability of live streaming is quite rare, so when we find a platform that does it well, we usually award it bonus points. Aspects like an innovative interface and highly-rated app, among others, can also elevate our rating.
| Extra | Betting Site |
|---|---|
| 🏆 Private Pools | DraftKings |
| 📰 Social Media Presence | BetMGM |
| 📺 Live Streaming | bet365 |
In addition, we pay special attention to the social medias of online betting NC platforms, as they have transformed into a pivotal tool for the betting industry. Not only do they offer a unique opportunity for engagement and interaction, but they enable features like ‘request-a-bet’. This innovative option allows you to propose your own bets, fostering a more personalized betting experience.
Conducting North Carolina Sports Betting Site Reviews
Our approach to reviewing North Carolina mobile sports betting platforms and desktop sites involves a comprehensive testing methodology. We examine everything from odds quality and market variety to user interface and customer service. This rigorous process allows us to discover unique selling points and how the legal sites cater to different player preferences.
How Average Payouts are Calculated
Different sites for legal sports betting in NC often offer better odds for specific sports, which can significantly impact your winnings over time. Even a small percentage increase in odds can drastically alter the income. Therefore, it’s sensible for you to shop around at multiple sites to secure the best odds available for your chosen sports.
This practice of odds comparison is a strategic approach adopted by seasoned gamblers on our team to enhance their betting efficiency. This makes us capable of helping those of you who find the whole process daunting. We’ve started by providing a straightforward formula to determine the sportsbook’s profit margin, which can help you understand the value offered by each bet.
The formula to calculate a betting site’s odds into a perceivable value can be universally applied across all sports. It involves converting the given odds for all possible outcomes into percentages and then adding them together. This conversion allows you to understand the implied probability of each result according to the sportsbook.
To calculate the sportsbook’s margin, simply subtract the payout rate derived from the aforementioned formula from 100. This margin represents the sportsbook’s built-in advantage or commission for facilitating the bet. However, note that these sites aim to balance their books by having an even amount of money wagered on all possible outcomes. This allows them to profit from the margin regardless of the event’s result.
The Impact of Various Payouts and Commissions
Online sports betting in North Carolina is all about the numbers and what we make of them. One of the most important observations you can have as a player is how odds discrepancies affect your game and, consequently – your profit. The following table shows a sharp contrast between the profit at a 97% payout rate and an 89% payout rate.
| Home & Away Market Odds by Payout Rate | ||
|---|---|---|
| Payout | Home | Away |
| 97% | -105 | -105 |
| 95% | -110 | -110 |
| 93% | -115 | -115 |
| 91% | -120 | -120 |
| 89% | -125 | -125 |
| Potential Net Payout with $10 Investment | ||
|---|---|---|
| Payout | Home | Away |
| 97% | $9.52 | $9.52 |
| 95% | $9.09 | $9.09 |
| 93% | $8.70 | $8.70 |
| 91% | $8.33 | $8.33 |
| 89% | $8.00 | $8.00 |
The bottom line from our experiment is that the player loses $1.52 should they get paid at an 89% payout rate instead of a 97% payout rate. And that is the case when you wager with only $10. The bigger the stakes, the more money leaks out and goes to the sportsbook.
How We Test Customer Service
The working hours of customer service is the most significant factor in this category. After all, what use will it be if it’s not available when you need it most? We also consider the diversity of the support channels available and test the reaction time for each one.
We usually do this a few times and bring up different questions to see if there are any areas where the support team may need to improve. During these tests, we note down the time it took to get an initial response, as well as how long it was before the issue or question was fully resolved.
How We Rate Available Payment Options
We grant high scores in this benefit category if the platform offers an extensive list of deposit and withdrawal methods. In addition, points are added for no extra fees policies and clearly formulated terms and conditions. Another aspect that is considered standard is instant deposits, so this is another must on our list.
When it comes to withdrawals, things are more nuanced, and we have a range of what we consider good processing time. Usually, if the platform offers one or two payment options that can complete a payout transaction within 24 to 48 hours, we grant it the full points for speed.
Judging the Overall Platform
We’ve noticed that practicality is key for people who want to bet online in North Carolina. That’s why we try to recommend platforms that are mobile-friendly, fast-loading, easy to navigate, and can offer a streamlined experience. Modern website design and cohesive color palettes are a plus in this category.
Furthermore, when time is of the essence, an online platform that responds quickly to what you do is critical. Once your bets have been processed, you are no longer susceptible to odds updates. As a whole, the user interface should be beginner-friendly, responsive, and intuitive, as in the case of the best sports betting sites in North Carolina.
How We Award Bonus Points for Extra Features
We usually award bonus points for notable achievements, niche markets, or features that not many other platforms for legal online sports betting in NC can offer. For example, sites covering eSports, like Dota 2 and Counter-Strike, usually get some bonus points. We also value social media presence, internal news coverage, enhanced statistics, and unique VIP programs.
In addition, we appreciate when players don’t need an odds converter to bet. In other words, platforms that allow you to quickly switch between odds formats have a competitive edge. Nowadays, many sites boast live streams and various awards, so we don’t grant extra points for these benefits, but we always mention them in our reviews.
Online VS. In-Person Sports Betting
One of the choices you will face is whether to bet in person or online. To make the right decision, you should be familiar with the advantages and disadvantages of both. We, for one, are really excited to have the leeway to analyze, compare, and then place a bet with a few clicks of the mouse.
In contrast, in-person betting has you working more for the same result. However, many players find it more rewarding, sentimentally and socially. The fact that you and your buddies could have a good time together, watching sports and placing wagers in a specialized venue is attractive to many.
Based on this, it becomes apparent that both betting methods have pros and cons, and in the end, it all comes down to your preferences. However, we would like to make a case for North Carolina mobile sports betting and desktop platforms, as they grant you more control and flexibility.
Moreover, they offer more sports, a wider bet type variety, and, above all – welcome bonuses. Unlike land-based sports betting kiosks, online platforms reward every new player with a sign-up bonus. Some of the top sites even have promotions for regular players, like odds boosts and cashback offers.
Betting Exchange & Early Cashout Availability
Innovations such as early cashouts have significantly enhanced the NC online sports betting landscape. They offer you the flexibility to settle bets before the conclusion of an event and secure winnings or minimize losses based on the unfolding action. Meanwhile, betting exchanges are not currently available, but we’ve also explored this unique option in case it gets added.
Betting Exchanges vs. NC Online Sportsbooks
Betting exchanges are best compared to a peer-to-peer service where the betting platform is only there to connect backers to those laying odds. Of course, the site of the exchange charges a small commission for the service, but the odds are usually better. For now, betting exchanges are only available overseas, but this might change as gambling laws open up.
Furthermore, note that only a limited number of backers can opt-in. The player offering the wager decides what bet to cover. The means of a player are, in no way, comparable to what a world-class sports betting site can afford. Anyway, let’s not get too excited because betting exchanges are still not available in North Carolina.
The Early Cashout
Conversely, early cash-out is a functionality offered by platforms for sports betting online in North Carolina. It enables you to pull out of a disadvantageous wager or to get winnings mid-play. The feature is available on ongoing fixtures, while the odds are equal to what’s on the live betting platform.
| Sites with Early Cashout | Eligible Sports | Bonus | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings | Most | $250 In Bonus Bets | Visit Site! |
| BetMGM | Most | $150 In Bonus Bets | Visit Site! |
| bet365 | Most | $1,000 In Bonus Bets | Visit Site! |
Being able to settle a wager earlier than the conditions typically allow has many benefits. However, note that there’s also a reduction in value when you use cash out to hedge winnings. Yet, its application as a tool that can help you get something back from a losing position is still valuable.
The History of Online Sports Gambling in North Carolina
Online sports betting is legal in North Carolina, but before a platform can operate, it needs to be licensed by the NC Lottery Commission. In 2024, eight betting sites received the approval of this local authority. But the state had much more gambling history before this, so we’ve highlighted the key events in the timeline below.
In addition to the history of betting in the state, you should be familiar with the local tax laws for gambling winnings. To get the most accurate information, we advise you to check with your local authority. But overall, note that gambling winnings are subject to a 24% tax.
According to the IRS, if your winnings amount to a sum bigger than $5,000, they become subject to an income tax withholding. This is why it’s essential to keep track of the money you lose and make while gambling online or in person. Moreover, illegal betting is subject to the penal code, so rely solely on licensed platforms.
Legal NC Betting Sites Licensing Requirements
The North Carolina Lottery Commission is responsible for licensing online and offline gambling terminals and taking care of gambling regulation. It was appointed on the job in 2005 and has been doing it since then. To this day, the nine-member commission is there to guarantee the safety of local players.
However, nothing can eliminate the possibility of you running into a fraudulent website. This is why it’s so important to do your research before you fully commit to an online sportsbook in North Carolina. If you don’t have the time, you can rely on us, as we only endorse licensed platforms.
- ETMGM, LLC (BetMGM) – License No. NCO-0007
- Crown NC Gaming, LLC (DraftKings) – License No. NCO-0002
- Hillside (North Carolina), LLC (bet365) – License No. NCO-0003
Reputation is also a pivotal factor that can serve as a benchmark for reliability and trustworthiness. A well-regarded betting site not only assures users of a safe betting environment but can show proof of the fairness of its games, usually through third-party audit certificates.
Black Market Sportsbooks Operating in North Carolina
Chances are, you will encounter illegal online betting sites in North Carolina in your search for decent sportsbooks. So be advised – they are anything but a good choice. First and foremost, non-licensed betting sites are outlawed and potentially dangerous.
They can easily turn out to be a money-laundering scheme. Not to mention the danger of extracting and illegally distributing personal data. All those dangers become very real when the law is taken out of the equation.
Without the necessary oversight or regulatory compliance, you have no assurance of fairness and no legal protection in case your funds or data is stolen. Finally, illegal operators, like the ones we’ve listed here, often lack responsible gambling measures, increasing the risk of problem gambling.
- ⛔️ 1XBet
- ⛔️ Bovada
- ⛔️ BetOnline
- ⛔️ BetDSI
- ⛔️ SportsBetting.ag
- ⛔️ CarbonGaming.ag
- ⛔️ MyBookie
- ⛔️ BetUS
- ⛔️ Xbet
- ⛔️ 22bet
- ⛔️ 5Dimes
Conclusion
We’ve provided a comprehensive overview of the critical aspects you should consider when examining the best sports betting sites in North Carolina to find the one for you. We’ve covered all relevant topics, from betting odds and bonus offerings to payment methods, customer service, and innovative features like betting early cashouts.
After examining the performance of all legal betting platforms in the Tar Heel State in these essential benefit categories, we recommend DraftKings. It stands out with a highly-rated app and unique features like early cashouts and frequent odds boosts. However, deciding which sportsbook aligns with your preferences is ultimately up to you.
- Highly-rated app
- Early cashout feature
- Frequent odds boosts
However, if you would like an alternative option, you could try bet365. This platform boasts a more generous welcome bonus, so this is the site for you if you’re a new player seeking that initial boost. Just note that our rankings are updated monthly to reflect the most current information, so new and better recommendations may become available soon.
FAQs
Online betting in North Carolina was legalized recently, so there is still a lot of demand for clarity on the topic. We’ve done our best to keep up with it and note the most frequently asked questions online. In this section, we’ve answered them to enhance your understanding of the local gambling laws and betting platforms.