We’re going to be dead honest: out of all the states in the United States, the path to legal sports betting is probably the least likely in the state of Utah. It’s a shame too cause the state has an underrated sports culture that includes an NBA team, NHL team, and world-class winter sports.
But does this mean there’s absolutely no way to bet on sports in Utah? No, not at all. Offshore betting sites exist to serve Utah-based bettors of all kinds. This guide to Utah betting will explain it all in a straightforward manner so stick with us.
Quick Utah Facts
State | Utah |
---|---|
⚖️ Sports Betting Laws | ❌Not Available |
👫 Population | 4 Million |
👶 Minimum Gambling Age | N/A |
🏙️ Retail Sports Betting | ❌Not Available |
🌐 Online Sports Betting | ❌Not Available |
📱 Mobile Sports Betting | ❌Not Available |
🐎 Online Horse Betting | ❌Not Available |
🏆 DFS | ✅ Available |
Is Sports Betting Legal In Utah?
No. Not a fat chance in hell. And more importantly, we don’t think betting, sports or any other kind, will ever be legal in the state of Utah.
Unlike other states, there’s been zero attempt to legalize sports betting with a new piece of legislation. None! In fact, there’s messaging in the law that strictly calls out the illegal nature of online betting. Here’s the exact passage in the state’s criminal code: “if any federal law authorizes Internet gambling in the states and that federal law provides that individual states may opt out of Internet gambling, this state shall opt out of Internet gambling in the manner provided by federal law and within the time frame provided by that law.”
As you can see, there’s zero appetite for sports betting by lawmakers and residents alike. That’s likely due to Utah’s heavy population of Latter-Day Saints (often called Mormons). The religion is extremely conservative and against things like gambling, alcohol, smoking, and so forth. The religion carries a lot of weight and will oppose betting for a long, long time.
There’s only one option for Utah bettors: offshore sportsbooks. As the name hints, these sites are located offshore, as in away from the United States where betting is fully legal. Due to that, they don’t have to abide by the rules set in Utah or elsewhere. We’ve tried out many of these offshore sportsbooks and they’ve worked like a charm. Allow us to detail which ones work best for Utah bettors.
Latest Utah Legal Betting Updates
Oct 10, 2024 09:29 AM
Given the fact Utah doesn't even allow a state Lottery Commission, the likelihood of legalisation of mobile sports gambling remains a dream for many sports fans. For now, offshore sportsbooks remain the number one pick for players in the state!
Utah Sports Betting Timeline
It's funny, we include a sports betting timeline for every state. However, there's not much to add in Utah. Why? Because there's been little attempt to legalize betting. Seriously, we can't drill this enough, the state absolutely doesn't want betting of any kind. Allow us to "update" you on how little has gone on in Utah over the years:
Exciting, huh?
Best Sportsbooks In Each Category in Utah
Best overall | |
---|---|
Best bonuses | |
Most unique bonuses | BetNow |
Top VIP program | MyBookie |
Best reputation | Bovada |
Best sportsbook | BetOnline |
Best casino | Everygame |
Best mobile app | XBet |
Best for live betting | Everygame |
Best for new players | Bovada |
Best up-and-coming sportsbook | XBet |
Top 7 Utah Sports Betting Sites
If you’re a Utah bettor and stuck on where to actually bet at — there’s a lot of options, we know — then start here. After personally trying out hundreds of different betting sites, we’ve settled on these sites as our top-7:
- BetUS - Extensive range of betting options across multiple sports.
- Bovada - User-friendly interface and reliable mobile betting experience.
- BetOnline - Competitive odds and early line releases.
- XBet - Quick payouts and responsive customer support.
- BetNow - Generous welcome bonuses and ongoing promotions for regular players.
- MyBookie - Innovative prop bets and creative wagering opportunities.
- Everygame - Long-standing reputation and multi-language support for international bettors.
#1 BetUS
BetUS Utah Pros & Cons
- Massive free-play bonuses
- Slick user experience
- 7-day expiration on bonuses
- High playthrough requirements
Utah bettors need to scope out BetUS early because if you’re looking for a sportsbook that’s got it all (and then some), this is place to be. From killer promos— and we mean killer — to a never-ending selection of betting options, BetUS makes sure you’re never bored and always in the game.
Let’s talk about those promos first because bettors usually perk their ears when they hear free money. At BetUS, there’s a lot of that in the form of bonuses. We’re not just talking about the usual welcome bonus (though theirs is massive), but a whole lineup of deals that keep the excitement going long after you’ve signed up.
To level-set things, let’s call out some of the bonuses running currently. The sign-up deal, for instance, can ready $3125 in free play. That’s a staggering amount that few competitors can even come remotely come close to. Use crypto to make the first deposit and this same bonus shoots up to $5000 in free play. Got friends? The BetUS referral bonus goes to $6000. Just insane sums of money all around.
Elsewhere, Utah bettors will also love the variety at BetUS. Sure, you can bet on the big dogs like football and basketball, but why stop there? They’ve got odds on everything from soccer to esports to politics. Yes, politics (more on that later). Variety is the name of the game at BetUS, whether that’s bonuses or betting options.
But what really seals the deal? The user experience. BetUS is super easy to navigate, and if you ever hit a snag, their customer service team is right there to help out. All this makes BetUS a total package for local bettors.
Our score ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#2 Bovada
Bovada Utah Pros & Cons
- Extremely trustworthy
- Well-stocked casino and sportsbook
- Sportsbook bonuses pay peanuts
Are you still unsure about this whole betting online thing? About giving money to something that’s offshore? We understand the concerns, we really do, especially if you live in an old-school values state like Utah. For this reason, we put Bovada pretty high on our list. This platform is as trustworthy as can be.
Really, Bovada’s reputation speaks for itself. They’ve been around longer than well-known bookmakers like DraftKings or FanDuel, and not only that, they’ve attracted a massive user base over the years. Do you think that just happens by coincidence? Especially if they weren’t treating bettors well? Of course not.
They’ve been a go-to spot for online betting for years, and it’s easy to see why. They keep things simple and straightforward so you can dive right into the action without getting bogged down by overcomplicated menus or confusing options. Whether you’re placing a quick bet on the Jazz game or exploring their massive range of other sports, Bovada makes it easy to get in, get out, and hopefully, cash out!
Let’s not forget about the casino side of things either. Bovada’s online casino is jam-packed with all the classics —slots, blackjack, roulette, and more. It’s perfect for those moments when you want to mix things up or take a break from sports betting.
And here’s the kicker: Bovada is all about making sure the bettor is taken care of. Their customer service is top-notch, ready to help out with anything you need, and anytime you need it too. We really can’t reccomend Bovada enough for Utah bettors.
Our score ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#3 BetOnline
BetOnline Utah Pros & Cons
- Huge amount of sports bets
- Release lines early
- Bonuses are cheap
Simply put, BetOnline is where the action is at. Sports, horse racing, casino, poker — there’s something for every type of bettor here.
What really sets BetOnline apart though, is the sheer number of betting lines they offer. Whether you’re throwing money down on the big leagues (NFL, NBA, NHL) or something a little more off the beaten path, BetOnline has odds on just about everything. Bettors could realistically do all their betting here and not miss out on anything.
Live betting is another area where BetOnline shines. If you’re the type who likes to jump into the action as it’s happening, their live betting feature is going to be your new best friend. The odds update in real time so you can make bets on the fly. It’s the perfect way to add a little extra thrill to any matchup.
BetOnline also stands out for getting their betting lines up fast — like really fast. As soon as one game wraps up, odds for the next matchup are usually up within minutes. So, if you’re someone who likes to get your bets in early (which is probably a smart strategy), BetOnline is the place to be.
Our score ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#4 XBet
XBet Utah Pros & Cons
- Great designed app
- No download needed to access app
- Contests and bonuses could be better
Mobile betting has taken over the game and XBet is right at the forefront of it all. If you’re the kind of bettor who likes to place wagers on the go — whether you’re at home, out with friends, or even sneaking a quick bet at work (hey, it happens to the best of us) — XBet has got you covered with an elite mobile experience.
What really sets XBet apart from the competition is how sleek and modern their mobile site feels. A lot of betting sites are stuck in the past with outdated designs that look like they haven’t been touched since they launched (most likely true). But XBet? They’ve kept things fresh with regular updates. What’s left is a forward-looking design that’s a beauty to stare at while betting.
And let’s talk about performance because that’s where XBet’s app really shines. The mobile site is fast and responsive, even when you’re bouncing between different sports or bet types. In our personal experience, errors or just in general lagginess were hard to come by.
But let’s clarify something important. When we say “app”, we’re not talking about an app that you have to download separately. No, no, XBet’s mobile experience is even simpler than that. You can access everything XBet has to offer right from your phone’s web browser. No need to clutter up your phone with another app, just pop open your browser, head to XBet, and boom, you're ready to go. Easy enough, eh?
As mobile betting continues to grow, XBet is perfectly positioned to stay ahead of the curve. They’re constantly refining their mobile experience to make sure it stays top-notch, which is exactly what you want from a sportsbook you plan to stick with over the long haul.
Our score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
#5 BetNow
BetNow Utah Pros & Cons
- Flexible bonus options
- Only sportsbook rebate program
- Live betting feature could be improved
BetNow lives up to its name, and then some. This platform offers an array of betting options that make it easy to “bet now” whether you’re into sports, casino games, or even poker. It’s a one-stop shop for all things betting.
However, what impressed us most about BetNow are the promotional options. Unlike some sites that focus on a single, massive bonus, BetNow takes a different approach. They offer a broad range of deals that cater to different types of bettors. We’re talking four different welcome bonuses, three reload offers, and three rebate programs, that type of range. This level of variety gives Utah bettors options they rarely get elsewhere.
The flexibility of BetNow’s promotions is a true game-changer. Look, all bettors have different needs or wants. Some covet huge deals, others might want a lower playthrough requirement. At BetNow, thanks to those options, all these bettors can get in where they fit in.
One of the standout offers at BetNow is their sportsbook rebate. This is a unique deal in the betting world — so unique, in fact, that you won’t find it anywhere else to our knowledge. BetNow offers a 2 percent rebate on sportsbook losses, which might not sound huge, but in a world where refunds on sports betting are practically unheard of, it’s a pretty sweet deal.
We really think Utah bettors will take a huge liking to BetNow. The variety in both bets and bonuses will have them coming back for more, time and time again.
Our score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
#6 MyBookie
MyBookie Utah Pros & Cons
- Elite rewards program
- Tons of betting options
- Platform looks and feels dated
MyBookie has earned its place as a go-to destination for online betting, offering everything you need under one roof. The platform is truly packed with options, making it easy for bettors to find something that suits their style, no matter how specific or even niche their preferences might be (ping-pong bettors can even find something here).
What’s great is MyBookie wraps this platform in a VIP rewards program. Unlike many other platforms that focus solely on one-time bonuses, MyBookie rewards you for every bet you place. As you accumulate points, you can swap them for free play, and the best part? There’s no cap on how much you can earn. The more you bet, the more rewards you rack up.
While many online sportsbooks offer similar rewards programs, MyBookie’s stands out because of it offers higher payouts and the fact that it’s invitation-only. This exclusivity is actually why they can offer better payouts. It’s a number game, and with fewer VIPs, the pie is bigger for those on the inside.
But how do you get inside and get invited to be a VIP? Welp, you got to bet consistently on-site for a long period of time — “skin in the game” in a sense. So “tourist” bettors might not belong here, but those who plan to stick with it certainly are. Overall, MyBookie’s combination of betting selection and a rewarding VIP program makes it a top pick for serious bettors.
Our score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
#7 Everygame
Everygame Utah Pros & Cons
- Great in-play feature
- Wide support for soccer
- Bonuses are on the cheap side
- Not super U.S. focused
Everygame is one of the longest-standing bookmakers around — but not always under this name. This platform was at one time called Interrops before rebranding. Still, the decades of experience remain in place and it provides a sleek playing experience.
One of the areas where Everygame really shines is in live betting. As betting during games continues to grow in popularity, Everygame has stayed on the bleeding edge with a live betting experience that’s both smooth and responsive. Everygame’s live odds do a strikingly good job at keeping pace with the action, ensuring you’re always in the game.
Soccer fans, in particular, will find a lot to like about Everygame. Given its European roots, it’s no surprise that the platform excels in offering a wide range of soccer betting options. World Cup, Premier League, La Liga, Series A — it’s all in here, plus a lot more. Hell, we saw a good amount of Belarusian soccer in here too!
Overall, Everygame is a solid choice for bettors who want a mix of reputation and innovation. Live betting isn’t going away any time soon, which sets up Everygame to continue thriving in this on-the-go marketplace. Utah bettors would be smart to align themselves here if they’re into that too.
Our score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Where Are Sportsbooks Like Fanduel, DraftKings, Ceasars?
Operators like these are not allowed in Utah. Names like DraftKings and FanDuel have eaten up market share in other states where betting is legal, but can’t operate in Utah — or risk their licenses elsewhere from being banned. Try using their sites or apps while within Utah state borders and you’ll quickly realize you’re blocked from betting. Not even the finest VPN can bypass that geoblocking.
We said it once, and we’ll say it again: Utah bettors only have offshore betting sites to fall back on. That’s it! Even though offshore sites might not have the best reputation, we can assure you, that the seven we recommended above are trustworthy AND worthwhile!
Latest Utah Betting News
Sep 29, 2023 07:26 AM
Could the New Jazz Owner Be the Key to the Legalization of Utah Sports Betting?
Nov 2, 2024 01:51 PM
New Hampshire Sports Betting Revenue Enjoys Substantial Year-Over-Year Increase
Betting On Politics, Esports, Entertainment In Utah
Here’s another special thing about offshore betting sites: they have the most betting markets. See, even if betting was completely legal in Utah, it would be heavily regulated. So much so that certain things would be off-limits to bet on. Things like the U.S. presidential election (or another country’s election), award show outcomes, esports, WWE, and so on.
At offshore betting sites, all those markets are freely available. So is more props on random events like the Super Bowl coin toss. Many regulators are against these things since they are non-sport outlines. But again, offshore sites get to play by their own rules, which just ends up being a better playing experience for bettors.
Betting Apps In Utah
It’s no longer a trend. Mobile betting IS the thing, and it’s not going away. That’s why picking a sportsbook with a killer app is mission-critical. No one wants to be on the go and miss out on a wager because an app crashed or just flat-out sucks.
For this reason, we have a guide to betting apps in Utah. It’s as in-depth as this page, but solely focused on the best mobile apps the state has to offer. We recommend reading up on it BEFORE you start betting in-state — it’s that important.
Start Betting In Utah Today — Our Guides
We want to walk you through how to get set up for success in betting too. The keyword in the last sentence is success. Any dope can throw money at games, but it takes a pro to know what they’re doing and make some money at this. That’s why we recommend reading up on these five guides:
- Top Betting Tips — want to make money wagering? Read this!
- Best Sports Betting Strategies — the above article is a college 101 class to this one, which take your betting to the next level!
- How Do Odds Work — self-explanatory here, learn everything there is to know about understanding betting odds.
- Types of Sports Bets — a complete primer to the various types of sports betting forms.
- Betting Odds Calculator — calculate how much money a bet or parlay pays out.
Payment Methods Available For Utah Sportsbooks
You can’t bet without money, obviously. But thankfully, offshore betting sites support a swath of payment methods. Here’s another advantage offshore platforms have over regulated ones: the ability to transact with crypto. We have guides to using crypto and other payment options below:
- VISA — the co-most popular card accepted on betting sites.
- Mastercard — the other co-most popular card across the betting landscape.
- Bitcoin — the payment method that'll earn you the most free play.
- Bank wire — the tried-and-true payment method
Utah Casinos And Resorts
There are exactly zero casinos in Utah. Zero, folks. However, Utah does have nearby options in adjacent states like Nevada and Idaho.
In Nevada, the most nearby casino is in Wendover — a city that straddles the border of Utah and Nevada. This casino town is around 120 miles west of Salt Lake City and is a popular weekend spot for Utah residents looking to liven up.
There's also Idaho's Fort Hall casino, that's north of Utah. This one is a slightly further drive than West Wendover, but not all that far either.
History Of Utah Legalization Efforts
As we mentioned before, there's almost no progress on this end. No failed bills. No failed vote. Nothing. But if you must, here's some more "history" on Utah's anti-betting stance:
Before the 2018 PASPA Decision
Even before the breakdown of Nevada's monopoly on sports betting, Utah was taking extra steps to prevent the legalization of gambling in the state.
Gambling is not allowed in Utah, according to the State's Constitution. Even in this case, in 2012, the state proactively updated its gambling laws to include new forms of gambling with the Internet. The criminal code was updated to include:
- (4) If any federal law is enacted that authorizes Internet gambling in the states and that federal law provides that individual states may opt out of Internet gambling, this state shall opt out of Internet gambling in the manner provided by federal law and within the time frame provided by that law.
- (5) Whether or not any federal law is enacted that authorizes Internet gambling in the states, this section acts as this state’s prohibition of any gambling, including Internet gambling, in this state.
2018-2024: Little Movement in this Anti-Gambling State
Between 2018 and 2024, there were no significant attempts to legalize sports betting in the state. A small attempt was made to open up horse racing in the state, as so many people in Utah travel to nearby states to enjoy this pastime. It did not go very far.
Betting on Utah Sports Teams
There are few sports teams in the state of Utah, but Utah residents back those teams and pack the stadiums.
The Utah Jazz is the resident NBA team — most known for losing to Michael Jordans Bulls in the NBA Finals twice. Still, the franchise has had steady success despite never winning the "big one." The Jazz' ownership group will soon be bringing in an NHL franchise that left Arizona. The working team name is Utah Hockey Club.
The BYU Cougars and Utah Utes are the biggest collegiate programs. BYU is a church controlled by the LDS church, while Utah is not, which creates a big rivalry between both schools.
Other Types Of Betting In Utah
When we tell you that Utah is completely against betting, we mean it. All forms of betting are illegal in the state — not just sports. In 2020, the state banned the closest thing to gambling it had: machines that sold gift cards that allowed the buyer to use that gift card to enter a sweepstakes. Really, even that’s not allowed.
The only form of “betting” allowed is daily fantasy sports. Like other states, Utah considers this more a game of skill than luck, hence why it’s allowed. Operators like Betr, DraftKings, FanDuel, PrizePicks, among others can host fantasy-based contests without issue. But that’s the only thing allowed. Tough crowd in Utah, eh?
Legal Sports Betting States
We have in-depth guides to other states beyond Utah. Here's a directory of everything we've written:
Responsible Gaming In Utah
Last but certainly not least, an important reminder: be aware of the risks of gambling. Not just the financial toll, but the emotional one. That one flies under the radar. Feelings of anxiety, guilt, and even depression can start to creep in as the stakes get higher and the losses pile up. If we’re being frank, most everyday bettors can’t handle those emotions and this is where problem gambling can lead to drinking or drug abuse, and create a real tailspin.
So remember this: the moment betting stops being fun and starts becoming a source of stress (repeatedly, one tough loss here and there comes with the territory), you NEED to take a step back and probably quit playing temporarily. Taking a pause allows you to regain perspective and ensure that betting remains enjoyable. At the very least, it slows down those negative emotions we just covered.
One more thing: help is available if gambling gets the best of you. For your convenience, we wanted to list the best resources out there:
Gambling Addiction Support Network (https://www.gamblingaddictionsupport.org/)
A non-profit organization providing resources and support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.
Center for Responsible Gaming (https://www.centerforresponsiblegaming.org/)
The Center for Responsible Gaming (CRG) is a research institution dedicated to promoting safe gambling practices and addressing gambling-related issues.
24/7 Gambling Support Line (https://www.gamblinghelponline.org/24-7-helpline/)
A round-the-clock helpline offering immediate assistance and guidance for those experiencing gambling-related problems."
Utah-based resources:
Utah 2-1-1 Helpline (https://211utah.org)
A 24/7 helpline offering referrals to local treatment programs and support services for individuals and families dealing with problem gambling in Utah.
Utah Department of Human Services – Problem Gambling Resources (https://hs.utah.gov)
Provides access to resources and support for those struggling with gambling addiction in Utah, including counseling and treatment services.
The Recovery Ways Treatment Center – Gambling Addiction Program (https://recoveryways.com)
Offers specialized treatment programs for gambling addiction, providing both outpatient and inpatient services for individuals in Utah.