In 2018 the federal ban on sports betting was lifted and right now sports betting is legal in 38 states and Washington, D.C., reflecting a nationwide trend toward embracing this form of entertainment. This news is perfectly consistent with American people’s love for sports. A decades-long tradition in families, friend groups and colleges, following matches and betting on them is a beloved activity. Let’s see how the industry has grown and which sports are most popular among bettors in the US.
The Role of Online Platforms and Comparison Sites
The proliferation of online betting platforms has played a pivotal role in the accessibility and convenience of sports betting. The numbers involved in gambling are steadily increasing and won’t probably stop in the next few years. According to some studies, up to 94% of all gambling is done online, which is why more and more operators are offering this type of service and tips for a more accurate bet. Comparison sites such as Oddschecker analyze and evaluate the different gaming platforms from every point of view, offering very useful services for users such as comparison of odds and advice on what bets to make. This helps people feel more confident in their bettings and play more.
5 most popular sports for online betting
When asked in a Statista survey, 30% of people in the US had bet on a sport event in 2024. These are extremely high numbers which reflect the passion for matches and thrill of gambling. Here are the 5 most popular sports to bet on in the USA:
- Football (NFL)
The National Football League is a world-wide sensation, attracting audiences and betting enthusiasts from the USA and beyond. Considering the US and Australia are the best countries in this sport, it’s easy to see the audience’s fascination with the most important matches. Some of the NFL champions become international celebrities and are revered and beloved by adults and kids alike. With a revenue of 20 billion dollars in 2024, this is the most popular sport most people bet on in the country.
- Basket (NBA)
Another sport where Americans excel and attract the attention of people all around the world is basketball. International legends such as Micheal Jordan, LeBron James and the late and beloved Kobe Bryant come from the NBA. College basketball also contributes to the appeal of this sport among gambling enthusiasts and newbies, with March Madness matches being among the most gambled on events of the year.
- Soccer (MLS)
This mostly-european sport has gained more traction in the US in the last few years. In 2021, it’s surpassed baseball in the list of sports people are more likely to bet on. Played all over the world since the XIX century, it has finally conquered the hearts and bets of American audiences thanks to the European stars playing in US soccer teams. The popularity of the World Cup and the fact that the 2026 edition will be hosted by the USA, Canada and Mexico also helps.
- Baseball (MLB)
More than 23 million people play or watch baseball in the US, as this is considered a stereotypically American sport. Played both professionally, recreationally and in schools, watching and betting on baseball matches is a beloved tradition. The MLB has a revenue of 12 billion dollars in 2024, a record high for this league that people follow with a passion.
- Hockey (NHL)
The Stanley Cup finals attract more and more people by the year, making this sport another favorite among bettors. Following college championships and the National Hockey League, people bet on outcomes as well as specific points or athletes. This makes the game even more entertaining and fun to watch in person or from home.
