Kansas Online Sports Betting: Best Online Sportsbooks and Promos

Written by: Shauli Zacks |✅Fact Checked and Updated March 2024 by: Michael Savio

Kansas State Blue SilhouetteKansas sports betting opened its virtual doors in September 2022. Bettors must be over 21 and in Kansas to place bets, but they don’t need to be residents of the state. Kansas sportsbooks have generated over $7 million in revenue from the nearly $2 billion in bets, and that number is expected to grow as more sportsbooks open for Kansas sports bettors. There are currently 6 online sportsbooks offering a wide range of betting markets, odds, and bonuses.

In this USA Legal Betting review, we'll review the six legal online sportsbooks for Kansas, compare the best betting apps, and see where you can get the best sportsbook promos.

Top Kansas Sportsbooks

1

New players only | 21+ | Must bet $10+ | Paid in Bonus Bets | Bonus Bets expire in 7 days | Bonus Bets not included in winnings | Full T&C apply

2

New players only | 21+ | Must bet $20+ | PAID IN BONUS BETS | Free Bet expire after 7 days | Free Bet not included in winnings | Full T&C apply

3

New players only | 21+ | Must deposit $10+ | Use bonus code SPORTS | Free Bet expire after 14 days | Free Bet not included in winnings | Full T&C apply

4

New players only | 21+ | Deposit required. Bonus Bets available for use upon settlement of qualifying bet. Returns exclude Bonus Bets wager.

5

Ends: 11:59 PM MST on 07/11/2024. Must be a new verified Betway patron & present in OH. 21+. Make total qualifying deposits of $20+, place your first wager after account opening of $20+ with odds of at least –300 (1.33)) and receive $40 as bonus bet funds. Wager must be settled within 7 days from new account opening. Qualifying wager restrictions apply. Any bonus bet funds earned must be used within 7 days of receipt. Bonus bet funds are not the same as cash, must be used in the Sportsbook, and are subject to restrictions. Promo subject to full T&Cs. Gambling problem? Call/text 1-800-GAMBLER.

6

New players only | 21+ | Must deposit $50 | Full T&C apply

All Live Kansas Sportsbooks 2024

At the time of this review, there are 6 online KS sportsbooks that are officially licensed and regulated to operate. The team at USALegalBetting.com reviewed and compared them so that you can register your account with the best Kansas sportsbook for you.

Technically speaking, DraftKings Kansas was the first sportsbook to open on September 1, 2022. It was closely followed by the other 5 sportsbooks. Each of the sportsbooks offers betting on all major sports, plus smaller sports like NASCAR betting, the PGA Championship, Betting on the UFC, MMA betting, horse betting, and more.

However, it’s the differences that make each one special. We’ll let you know which ones have daily fantasy sports (DFS) markets, the best betting guides, betting apps, and bonuses and promotions.

  1. DraftKings Kansas - Best for overall betting markets and daily fantasy betting
  2. FanDuel Kansas - Best for live betting with in-game odds adjustments
  3. BetMGM Kansas – Best for parlays with single-game and round-robin options
  4. Caesars Sportsbook Kansas – Best for live betting and streaming the top sporting events
  5. PointsBet, a Fanatics Experience Sportsbook Kansas – Best for rewards and loyalty program
  6. ESPN Bet Kansas – Best for staying updated with the latest breaking news

Ranking the Licensed and Regulated Kansas Online Sportsbooks

As we pointed out, there are many factors that go into choosing your preferred Kansas sportsbook. You might even want to open accounts with multiple betting sites to ensure you're getting the best possible online gambling experience.

In addition to the actual betting options, we took other factors into account when creating our rankings. These include, but aren't limited to:

  • Welcome Bonus
  • Promotion 
  • Betting apps
  • Reward programs
  • Deposit and withdrawal methods

These rankings are based on our testing and experience. However, what's best for one Kansas gambler might not be best for another. It's important to read through the reviews, check out the betting sites, and make the best choice for you.

DraftKings Sportsbook Kansas – Best Daily Fantasy Sports Bet-ting in Kansas

DraftKings Sportsbook

DraftKings offers a wide range of sports betting options, including professional, college, and niche sports. In addition to the online sportsbook, it offers daily fantasy sports betting as well. The betting platform is compatible with mobile and desktop, making it easy to bet from anywhere in Kansas. Additionally, the DraftKings gift card can be purchased in Kansas, making it easy to make deposits.

Sign Up Offer$5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets & 20% Deposit Match up to $1,000
DraftKings KS Promo CodeN/A
Minimum Betting Age21
Minimum deposit$5
App PlatformsiOS, Android, Web
How It’s ListedDraftKings Sportsbook
DraftKings Legal StatesAZ, CO, CT, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, ME, MI, NH, NJ, NY, OH, OR, PA, TN, VA, VT, WA, WV, WY
Retail Partnership (Casino)Boot Hill Casino
Retail Partnership (SportsOfficial sports betting partner of the NFL, NHL, NBA, PGA Tour and UFC
Other PartnershipsN/A
Legalized or Launch Date in KansasSeptember 1, 2022
ReviewDraftKings Review

FanDuel Sportsbook Kansas - Best for live betting with in-game odds adjustments

FanDuel Sportsbook

FanDuel has quickly become a favorite for sports betting, especially during high-profile events like betting on the Super Bowl.  This is because it offers creative props and in-game betting with adjusted odds. FanDuel covers a wide range of sports and offers deep exotic markets, including props and teasers. An added advantage is the FanDuel Prepaid Play+ Card, simplifying deposits for users. Its complete coverage and ease of use make FanDuel a leading choice for bettors seeking a dynamic and reliable betting platform.

Sign Up OfferBet $5 on the moneyline and get $150 in Bonus Bets if it wins
FanDuel KS Promo CodeN/A
Minimum Betting Age21
Minimum deposit$10
App PlatformsiOS and Android
How It’s ListedFanDuel Sportsbook
FanDuel Legal StatesPA, NJ, IA, IN, WV, CO, IL, TN, MI, VA, AZ, CT, LA, NY, KS, MD, OH, MA, KY, VT, WY
Retail Partnership (Casino)Kansas Star Casino
Retail Partnership (SportsMLB, NBA, NFL, NHL, PGA Tour, WNBA, WTA
Other Partnerships24 professional sports franchises in the US
Legalized or Launch Date in KansasSeptember 1, 2022
ReviewFanDuel Review

BetMGM Sportsbook Kansas – Best for parlays with single game and round-robin options

BetMGM Sportsbook

BetMGM is one of the most recognizable names in the gambling industry in the US. It quickly became a hit for KS sport betting fans who enjoy the added action of parlays. You can create multi leg bets with their extensive single-game and round-robin options, maximizing your potential payouts. Additionally, you can bet on futures in college and professional sports. Jayhawk fans can get great odds by betting on March Madness long before the tournament begins. When it comes to banking, BetMGM has a wide range of options, including getting yourself a BetMGM gift card, which allows you to add funds to your account with ease.

Sign Up OfferBet $5, Get $158
BetMGM KS Promo CodeN/A
Minimum Betting Age21
Minimum deposit$10
App PlatformsiOS and Android
How It’s ListedBetMGM Sportsbook
BetMGM Legal StatesAZ, CO, DC, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, MD, MA, MI, MS, NV, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY
Retail Partnership (Casino)Kansas Star Casino
Retail Partnership (SportsNBA NHL, MLB, NASCAR, PGA Tour, LPGA, Kansas City Chiefs
Other PartnershipsBuffalo Wild Wings, DAZN, Topgolf, Yahoo! Sportsbook
Legalized or Launch Date in KansasSeptember 1, 2022
ReviewBetMGM Review

Caesars Sportsbook Kansas – Best for Live Betting and Stream-ing The Top Sporting Events

Caesars sportsbook

Caesars Sportsbook Kansas offers an immersive live betting and streaming experience. While you’re betting on baseball, you can stream the KC Royals or watch the Chiefs while betting on football in real time. This feature adds to the excitement of Kansas sports betting online by enabling bets on games as they unfold, with odds that update dynamically. For new users, Caesars boosts the appeal with a sign-up bonus: up to $1,000 in bonus bets if your first bet loses, making it a great starting point for those new to live betting and streaming.

Sign Up Offer$1,000 First Bet Offer
Caesars Sportsbook KS Promo CodeN/A
Minimum Betting Age21
Minimum deposit$10
App PlatformsiOS and Android
How It’s ListedCaesars Sportsbook
Caesars Legal StatesAZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, ME, MD, MI, NV, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, WY, WV, and Washington, D.C
Retail Partnership (Casino)Kansas Star Casino
Retail Partnership (SportsNBA, NFL, NH
Other PartnershipsN/A
Legalized or Launch Date in KansasSeptember 1, 2022
ReviewCaesars Review

PointsBet, a Fanatics Experience Sportsbook Kansas – Best for Daily Boost-ed Odds

PointsBet

PointsBet was purchased by Fanatics on October 23, 2023 and is operating in Kansas as PointsBet, a Fanatics experience. It still offers the same great odds for KS online sports betting. You’ll find a wide range of futures, like betting on the World Series or betting on the NBA Finals, plus same game parlays and boosted odds on live events. These features provide bettors with enhanced opportunities for bigger wins on popular sports events. Unfortuantly, PointsBet does not currently offer a welcome bonus.

Sign Up OfferNone
PointsBet Sportsbook KS Promo CodeN/A
Minimum Betting Age21
Minimum deposit$10
App PlatformsiOS and Android
How It’s ListedPointsBet, a Fanatics Experience
PointsBet Legal StatesIL, IN, IA, KS, MI, NJ, NY
Retail Partnership (Casino)Kansas Star Casino
Retail Partnership (SportsNBA, NFL, MLB, PGA Tour
Other Partnerships
Legalized or Launch Date in KansasSeptember 1, 2022
ReviewPointsBet Review

ESPN Bet Kansas – Best for Wide Range of Betting Markets

ESPN Bet

ESPN Bet bought the Barstool Sportsbook, and replaced it in 17 states, including Kansas. You’ll benefit from the extensive sports coverage of the “Worldwide Leader in Sport” as you decide on the props, parlays, and moneyline options when betting on basketball, football, baseball, hockey, as well as Tennis, golf, and international sports. ESPN Bet has a nice offer for anyone new to Kansas betting, giving them the chance to claim up to $150 in Bonus Bets.

Sign Up OfferUp to $150 in Bonus Bets
ESPN Bet Sportsbook KS Promo CodeN/A
Minimum Betting Age21
Minimum deposit$10
App PlatformsiOS and Android
How It’s ListedESPN Bet
ESPN BET Legal StatesAZ, CO, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VA, or WV
Retail Partnership (Casino)Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway
Retail Partnership (SportsNBA, NFL, MLB, PGA Tour
Other Partnerships
Legalized or Launch Date in KansasNovember 14, 2023
ReviewESPN Bet Review

Best Kansas Sportsbook Bonuses and Promos

One of the biggest advantages of online sports betting in Kansas as opposed to gambling at casinos, are the bonuses and promotions. With so much competition, each of the 6 sportsbooks offers a Welcome Bonus and various promotions that run throughout the year. As the number of sportsbooks starts to increase in Kansas, so will the quality of these offers.

The types and sizes of promotions vary based on the sports betting sites, but they typically fall into one of the following categories:

  • Deposit Bonus: Deposit Bonus: The sportsbook will match your deposit, some sportsbooks might only match 50% while others will match the full 100%, with an upper limit. You will have to meet the wagering requirement before the money converts from bonus bets into regular cash that you can withdraw.
  • First Loss Bonus: This works like insurance for your first bet. If you lose the bet, the KS online sports betting app will refund your bet in the form of bonus bets. There will be different restrictions as far as which betting markets you can use the bonus bets and what you need to do to with-draw your winnings.
  • Odds Boost: The sportsbook will increase the odds on se-lect games, matches, or markets to entice you to place the bet. A standard range of boosted odds will be between 15% and 35%.
  • Loyalty Program: There are 6 legal Kansas online sports betting sites, and each one wants to encourage you to bet with them. In addition to offering the best odds and fastest payouts, many sportsbooks have a loyalty program that re-wards returning players. As you make bets, you’ll earn cred-its, receive prizes, and eventually become a VIP member, which comes with additional benefits.

Kansas Sports Betting: Latest News

Since its legalization in 2022, sports betting in Kansas has seen significant growth and development. Here's a quick look at the latest updates and key events since sports gambling in Kansas began, including industry milestones, regulatory changes, and economic impacts.

📰 June 2024: Lawmakers in neighboring state of Missouri set to review an appeal to legalize sports betting.

📰 December 2023: DraftKings Sportsbook KS leads with $299 million in handle, FanDuel KS follows with $191.5 million.

📰 November 2023: Kansas ranks as the 8th biggest state in the U.S. for sports betting with over $1 billion wagered.

📰 October 2023: More than $7 million in state taxes generated in Kansas from $1.85 billion in bets during its first year.

📰 September 2023: PointsBet Sportsbook announces it will rebrand as Fanatics Sportsbook in early 2024.

📰 August 2023: Kansas sports betting revenue exceeds first-year expectations by approximately $4 million.

📰 July 2023: Kansas sports betting market surpasses $2 billion in cumulative handle since launch.

📰 June 2023: BetMGM Sportsbook expands its VIP program to include Kansas customers

📰 April 2023: Kansas introduces new responsible gambling campaigns to promote safe betting practices.

📰 March 2023: Kansas reports a steady increase in sports betting revenue, attributing it to March Madness.

📰 February 2023: Kansas celebrates a successful Super Bowl betting season with record-breaking $194.2 million in bets, despite a net loss for sportsbooks due to the Kansas City Chiefs' Super Bowl win.

📰 January 2023: Analysts predict the Kansas sports betting market to reach $3 billion in annual handle by 2025.

📰 January 2023: Kansas lawmakers propose amendments to sports betting regulations to expand market.

📰 September 2022: Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission approves the first group of online sportsbooks.

📰 September 1, 2022: Sports betting officially goes live in Kansas.

How Did Kansas Sports Betting Become Legal?

The 2022 decision by the Kansas House of Representatives to make Kansas one of 31 US legal sports betting sites was a several-year process.

Senate Bill 84, legalizing up to 12 Kansas sports betting online sportsbooks, was enacted on May 27, 2022, after passing through the Kansas State Senate, House of Representative, before receiving Governor Laura Kelly's signature. The Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission, authorized to regulate these sportsbooks, initially approved 4 vendors, later expanding to 6 currently operating in the state.

Here are the key dates the led up to it:

September 1, 2022: Official launch of legal online sports-books in Kansas.

August 15, 2022: The Commission approved the first four sports betting licenses.

July 1, 2022: The Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission started accepting applications for sports betting licenses. ·

May 27, 2022: Governor Laura Kelly signed Senate Bill 84, legalizing sports betting.

May 19, 2022: Kansas House's approval of Senate Bill 84.

May 12, 2022: Passage of Senate Bill 84 by the Kansas Sen-ate.

2021: Senate Bill 123, for casino and venue sports betting with an online licensing process, failed due to legislative differences. ·

2020: House Bill 2287, for both online and retail sports bet-ting, garnered support but was vetoed by the Governor. ·

2019: Senate Bill 139, proposing online sports betting through casino and sports team partnerships, passed the Senate but faced challenges in the House. ·

2018: Introduction of House Bill 2702, focusing on sports betting in casinos and venues, but it didn't progress.

Kansas Betting Law

Kansas online gambling became legal after Senate Bill 84 was signed into law in 2022. It allows anyone aged 21 or older in the state, whether they are a resident or just visiting, to place real money bets on professional and college sporting events, including in-state schools. The one limitation is that there is no betting allowed on esports events. Each licensed online sportsbook must have a land-based casino partner.

In terms of revenue, the law sets a taxation rate for Kansas online sports betting, with a portion of the revenue going to fund initiatives like problem gambling assistance and various state funds.

Who regulates Sports Betting in Kansas

Online sports gambling in Kansas falls under the jurisdiction of the Kansas Lottery and the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission (KRGC).

  • Kansas Lottery: Responsible for overseeing the operation of sports betting in the state, including the management of contracts with casino operators.
  • KRGC: Responsible for maintaining the integrity and secu-rity of casino gaming, including online sports betting. They handle the enforcement of laws and regulations, ensuring that all gaming activities are conducted fairly and responsibly.

This multi-agency approach ensures a comprehensive regulatory framework that balances operational management with strict oversight, providing a secure and fair sports betting environment in Kansas.

How Much Money Do Kansas Sportsbooks Generate?

In just over one year, there has been more than $1.85 billion wagered in Kansas online sports betting. The state taxes the sportsbook 10% of revenues, which in the first year of operations was just over $7 million.

Here is a monthly breakdown of the total revenue generated by sportsbooks in Kansas:

April 2024$192.1 Million
March 2024$252.9 Million
December 2023$30,913,033
November 2023$18,017,353
October 2023$25,404,712
September 2023$18,155,498
August 2023$7,662,828
July 2023$9,644,263
June 2023$8,195,048
May 2023$14,550,824
April 2023$14,636,899
March 2023$20,975,191
February 2023-$845,377
January 2023$15,105,189
December 2022$16,835,233
November 2022$19,073,128
October 2022$18,582,842
September 2022$22,014,698

How to Start Betting in Kansas

If you’re over 21 and located within the state of Kansas, you can make online sports bets. Bets can be placed through your web browser or by downloading Kansas sports betting apps. In both cases, you will need to allow the app or website to access your location to verify that you are in Kansas.

Here is the process:

Pick a legal sportsbook: As we’ve mentioned, there are currently six sportsbooks that can operate in Kansas. Check out our sportsbook reviews, and pick the best sportsbook for you. Ensure that the sportsbook has promotions that match your interests, a wide range of markets so you can bet on local sports, such as betting on the NBA and international sports, if you want to start betting on soccer matches in La Liga or the Premier League

Register your online account: The registration for Kansas online gambling sites is pretty straightforward. You will need to enter your name, phone number, and address (you don’t need a Kansas address to register your account) to get started.

Download the sports betting app: Using KS sports betting apps are the most convenient way to bet on live sports. Even if you’re out with friends in the evening, you can start betting on hockey games as they happen, without having to run to a computer. Some Kansas betting apps might offer better odds or special bonuses that you won’t find on the web browser.

Make a deposit: All Kansas sportsbooks have a variety of deposit methods such as credit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers, and even gift cards. Find the method that is most convenient for you, and make your first deposit.

Claim a welcome bonus: Once your first deposit is processed, you can claim a welcome or sign-up bonus. Some sportsbooks automatically credit your account with the bonus, while others require you to enter a promo code to activate it.

Place your first bets: Kansas sportsbooks offer a wide range of betting markets, such as moneyline, point spreads, over/under, parlays, and prop bets. If you want to start betting on boxing or betting on tennis, you can make bets based on rounds or how long the match will last. You can also make live game bets on the NHL or future bets on the Stanley Cup winner.

Withdraw your winnings: After making a winning bet, you’ll have the option to leave the money in your account or withdraw it back to your payment method.

How do I use a Kansas sportsbook mobile app?

The first step is to download the sportsbook app using our special links. The app installation is similar to any other installation. You will need to agree to the permissions, including access to the device location. This is needed to verify that you are physically located in Kansas.

Sign Up

If you haven’t signed up for an account through your web browser, you can sign up on the mobile app. The process isn’t complicated. Simply tap on the Register Account or Sign Up Now link and add in the personal details in the space provided. The sportsbook will send a verification code to your phone or email. Copy/paste the code in the field provided to finish the sign-up process.

Deposit

Making a deposit is the final step to activating your account. It also makes you eligible to collect a welcome bonus. Find the banking tab on the sportsbook betting app to enter your secure portal. Then, select the payment method you want to use for transferring money into your account.

Betting

The most popular leagues and games are typically listed on the main page of the mobile app. However, if you want to bet on smaller events, like betting on golf tournaments, click on the sports icon at the top of your screen.

Once you select a game, you’ll see the moneyline and odds for both teams. Underneath that, you’ll find a complete list of the betting options available for each match or sport. When you make a bet, it will automatically be added to your bet slip.

<bookmaker>ios AppAndroid appLive StreamingLive ChatInstant Withdrawal
DraftKingsYesYesYesNoYes
FanDuelYesYesYesYesYes
BetMGMYesYesYesYesYes
Caesars SportsbookYesYesYesYesNo
ESPN BetYesYesNoYesYes
PointsBet, a Fanatics ExperienceYesYesYesYesYes

Sports and Leagues That You Can Legally Bet on in Kansas

Kansas went all in when legalizing sports betting. There are no restrictions when it comes to betting on professional or collegiate sporting events in the US or abroad.

Kansas bettors can start betting on MLB, NFL, NBA, NHL, NCAA football and basketball, boxing, golf, UFC, horse racing, cricket, darts, and the list goes on and on.

Here are the betting profiles for some of the major sports leagues and events:

Football

NFL Official LogoNFL

The NFL is one of the most popular sports for betting. Having a team like the Kansas City Chiefs dominating the past few years certainly helps. The league recently expanded to a 17-game schedule, plus the postseason, giving you an extra week to pick your favorites.

Official Super Bowl LVII LogoSuper Bowl

Easily the biggest game of the sports calendar, the Super Bowl is one of the sportsbooks' busiest days, especially when the Chiefs are playing. In addition to betting on the winner, Super Bowl betting sites offer crazy prop bets, such as how long the National Anthem will last, who wins the coin toss, which player gets the first penalty, and who wins the MVP.

NCAA Football Official LogoNCAA Football

Kansas might not have a Top 25 NCAA football team, but there are still plenty of betting opportunities to be had. The bowl season is the biggest time of year for college football bettors, with so many different exciting games to bet on. The highlight of the season is the College Playoffs, leading to the National Championship game, which is exciting, regardless of which team you follow. Due to NCAA regulations, all college football bets must be based on game results, and not individual player performances.

Basketball

NBA Official LogoNBA

Although there is no NBA team in Kansas, it’s still a popular sport for Kansas bettors. With no home team to cloud your judgment, it’s easier to make the smart bet. The 82-game regular season and the extended playoff format present plenty of opportunities to bet on the over/under, parlays, player performance prop bets, futures, and more.

NCAA Basketball Official LogoNCAA Basketball

With no professional teams in the state of Kansas, the Kansas Jayhawks are the most popular attraction. They entered the 2023 season as the number 1 seed and hope to dominate the regular season straight to the National Championship game. If you don’t want to bet on your Jayhawks, you can find plenty of other exciting games to wager on. Similar to college football, the NCAA only allows bets on game results and futures for conference champions.

March Madness Official LogoMarch Madness

If the Super Bowl is the best time for sports bettors, March Madness is a close second. The 68-game tournament features the best teams in college basketball, playing for a chance to become National Champions. The single-elimination bracket-style tournament has historically featured major upsets and Cinderella teams advancing to the late rounds, even making it all the way to the Final Four.

Baseball

MLB Official LogoMLB

The Kansas City Royals may technically play in Missouri, but most treat them as the local team. While there hasn’t been much excitement since their 2015 World Series run, baseball is still a fun game to watch. Using MLB betting sites is a great way to pass time through the long summer, so you can enjoy the national pastime in a new way.

NHL Official LogoHockey

There are no NHL teams playing in Kansas, but that doesn’t mean you can’t bet on hockey. Betting the moneyline or point spread isn’t that exciting due to the low-scoring nature of the game, but there are plenty of prop bets and parlays to help add to the excitement.

Additional popular sports that you can bet on:

PGA Tour Official LogoGolf

The PGA Tour is a popular betting market for golf fans. The most common bets are the winner, top 5, 10, and 15 finishers.

UFC Official LogoMMA

The UFC has been growing in popularity, and with prize fights nearly every week, you won’t have to wait for the big names like McGregor, Holloway, and Ortega.

Boxing GloveBoxing

It might not have the same draw that it once had, but a good boxing match will bring out the bettors. Top bets include the winner and what round the loser will get knocked out.

Soccer Ball IconSoccer

Believe it or not, soccer is growing in popularity in the US, even in Kansas. You can bet on MLS games taking place in the US, or international matches from all the top leagues.

College Sports Betting in Kansas

There are no restrictions on betting on the outcome of college basketball and football in Kansas. The NCAA doesn’t allow betting on player performance prop bets, but that’s a national restriction, and not specific to Kansas.

Prohibited Sports Betting in Kansas

The only betting prohibitions that we found in Kansas are:

  • eSports games
  • High school, AAU, and youth sports
  • Entertainment award shows (The Oscars, Academy Awards, etc)
  • Politics

Sports Betting on Kansas Sports Teams

Betting on the sports teams in Kansas is a way to take your fandom to the next level. Now, you’re invested in how the team plays, instead of just rooting for them based on location.

Professional Sports Teams in Kansas

Just because the Chiefs and Royals play on the Missouri side of the Kansas City border, doesn’t mean that you can't claim them as the home team. Kansas is also home to the Sporting Kansas City MLS franchise.

Kansas City Chiefs Official LogoKansas City Chiefs

With Andy Reid, Patrick Mahomes, and Travis Kelce leading the way, the Chiefs have been one of the most dominant teams in the past decade. They’ve made 3 Super Bowl appearances since 2019, winning two of them.

League: NFL 
Founded: 1959
Stadium: GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium
Location: Kansas City, Missouri Sportsbook partners: DraftKings and BetMGM

Kansas City Royals Official LogoKansas City Royals

With the exception of a magical run to the World Series in 2014 and 2015, the Royals have not had too much on-field success since the mid-80s. The team is typically found at the bottom of the divisional standings with a season record under .500.

League: MLB
Founded: 1969 
Stadium: Kauffman Stadium
Location: Kansas City, Missouri
Sportsbook partners: None

Sporting Kansas City Official LogoSporting Kansas City

One of the original ten MLS teams, Sporting KC's success includes several U.S. Open Cup victories and has won the MLS Cup twice. With a passionate fan base, the team enjoys a home-field advantage whenever they step on the pitch. 

League: MLS
Founded: 2015
Stadium: Children’s Mercy Park
Location: Kansas City, Kansas
Sportsbook partners: None

College Sports Teams in Kansas

College basketball is extremely popular in Kansas thanks to the success of the Jayhawks and Wildcats. While those teams don’t have similar success in NCAA football, the game is still popular enough to bring in plenty of bets before kickoff on Saturdays.

  • Kansas Jayhawks: The Jayhawks basketball team is a regu-lar participant in college basketball’s NCAA March Mad-ness. The team is often the favorite to win the Big 12, and started out this season as the number 1 seed. The Jayhawks football team has made some improvements since their 1-8 season in 2021, making two straight bowl games.
  • Kansas State Wildcats: The Wildcats don’t share the same success as their cross-state rivals in basketball or football. However, they have had several good runs through the NCAA tournaments in previous years, including some up-set wins.

Is DFS Legal in Kansas?

Playing and betting money on Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) is legal in Kansas. The state legalized DFS in 2015 with the signing of legislation by the governor, making it one of the first states to formally legalize and regulate daily fantasy sports. This legislation stated that fantasy sports are games of skill, which is how they were able to legalize it before formally legalizing gambling.

Is Horse Race Betting Legal in Kansas

While there are no physical racetracks currently operating in Kansas, you can still legally wager on horse races online through regulated horse racing betting sites.

Retail Sports Betting in Kansas

Casino gambling was first introduced in the Kansas legislature in 2007 but didn’t pass into law until 2022. There are currently 4 casinos on Kansas land and another 5 that are run by Native American Tribes.

However, when it comes to making offline sports bets, there are just a few casino options.

  • Kansas Star Casino: Located in Mulvane, Kansas Star Casino features a wide range of gaming options, including slots, table games, and a live poker room. There is also a large sportsbook with multiple betting windows and self-service kiosks.
  • Boot Hill Casino & Resort: Bringing the spirit of the Old West to modern gaming, Boot Hill Casino in Dodge City of-fers a unique atmosphere. It boasts a variety of slot ma-chines, table games, and a dedicated poker area. Boot Hill officially opened its retail sportsbook in March 2023. The resort also includes dining options and often features live entertainment and historical reenactments.
  • Kansas Crossing Casino: This Pittsburg-based casino offers a modern gaming experience with a selection of slot ma-chines and table games. The facility is known for its inti-mate setting and personalized service. The casino doesn’t run its own sportsbook; instead, it has a Caesars Sports-book on location for placing in-person bets.

How Does Sports Betting in Kansas Compare to Other States

Kansas went all-in when it legalized online and offline sports betting in 2022. Unlike other states in the USA, it has very few restrictions, other than requiring individuals to be over 21 and physically in the state to place a bet. There are no restrictions on college sports betting, other than those imposed nationally by the NCAA.

But how does it compare to sports betting laws in its neighboring states? Colorado, Nebraska, and Iowa have all legalized sports betting in the past few years, and here’s a quick overview of their laws and regulations.

Nebraska Sports Betting

Nebraska State Black Silhouette Nebraska has taken a very conservative approach to sports betting. It was legalized in 2021 after the passage of legislative bills that allowed for the establishment of retail sportsbooks at licensed horse racing tracks. However, unlike Kansas, Nebraska hasn’t legalized online sports betting; it's limited to in-person betting. Nebraska law also prohibits betting on in-state college teams, a restriction that is not uncommon, as some states are concerned about the impact it will have on college athletics. This doesn’t compare favorably to Kansas, which allows online betting without restrictions on college or professional sports, both online and offline.

Iowa Sports Betting

Iowa State Black SilhouetteIowa was one of the first states to legalize online sports betting. Legislation was passed in May 2019, positioning the state as a progressive player in the sports betting market. Bettors can place wagers on mobile apps and websites, as well as at retail sportsbooks located in casinos. Similar to Kansas law, Iowa allows betting on in-state college teams. This is in line with its liberal stance towards sports betting. With fewer restrictions on betting types, the Iowa sports betting market is one of the more dynamic and inclusive in the region.

Colorado Sports Betting

Colorado State Black SilhouetteColorado legalized online and retail sports betting in 2020. It has some of the most lenient online gambling laws in the US, which has led to a lot of growth. The state stands out for its low entry barriers for sportsbooks to operate, creating a very competitive market. This led to a booming sports betting industry, with a wide array of options for bettors, including bets on professional, collegiate, and international sports events. Colorado’s regulatory framework was designed to increase the options for bettors, making it a more attractive market for both bettors and sportsbooks.

Are Online Casinos Legal in Kansas?

Yes, as part of the Kansas online gambling laws from 2022, playing at an online casino is allowed. While there are no local online casinos regulated by the KRGC, playing at licensed and regulated sites from overseas is not a problem. Online casinos offer a wide range of online slots, blackjack, roulette, craps, and poker rooms. Some sites also offer live dealer tables, which livestream the games from a land-based casino to your phone or computer.

FAQs

Is sports betting legal in Kansas?

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly passed Senate Bill 84 into law on May 12, 2022, officially legalizing sports gambling in the State of Kansas. You don’t have to be a resident of Kansas to use the sportsbook, as long as you’re in the state and over the age of 21.

Can I bet on sports online in Kansas?

Yes, the 2022 law included both retail and online sports betting. However, you can only use a sportsbook that is licensed and regulated by the KRGC.

Where can I bet on sports in Kansas?

There are six sportsbooks that are legally allowed to operate in Kansas:

  • DraftKings
  • FanDuel
  • BetMGM
  • Caesars
  • PointsBet, a Fanatics Experience
  • ESPN Bet

Additionally, there are land-based casinos that operate a retail sportsbook:

  • Kansas Star Casino
  • Boot Hill Casino & Resort
  • Kansas Crossing Casino

How old do I have to be to bet on sports in Kansas?

Kansas law states that you must be at least 21 years old to place an online or offline sports bet.

Do I have to be a Kansas resident to make a bet?

There is no law that says only Kansas residents can bet in the state. However, you must be located in the state, meaning if you’re a resident, if you’re traveling out of state, you won’t be allowed to place bets through your sportsbook account.

What types of sports bets can I bet on in Kansas?

Kansas law doesn’t put restrictions on what sports you can bet on, with the exception of esports and youth sports. As long as the sportsbook is giving odds on a professional or college game, you can make your bets. The most popular sports to bet on are the NFL, MLB, NHL, NBA, NCAA basketball and football, NASCAR, and UFC.

Are daily fantasy sports contests legal in Kansas?

Daily fantasy sports betting was legalized several years before sports betting. The legislation stated that DFS is a skill and therefore shouldn’t be considered gambling.

Is live betting available in Kansas?

Yes, you can place bets during live events, provided that your sportsbook is offering live betting markets. Keep in mind that the odds will change throughout the game, based on the score and what’s happening. So, you’ll need to be quick to lock in the best odds.

Can I make online sports bets on my mobile device in Kansas?

You can use the sports betting apps from any of the licensed and regulated sportsbooks in Kansas. However, you will need to enable a plugin that verifies your location. This is because even from a mobile device, you must be located in Kansas to place a bet.

Are there any responsible gambling resources available for Kansas residents?

Having resources for responsible gambling was a big issue when sports gambling was approved in Kansas. There are several organizations that offer 24/7 help, including the Kansas Coalition on Problem Gambling, Kansas Responsible Gambling Alliance, and the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services has a gambling helpline as well.