Hailing from New Orleans, Lisa Spencer brings together math expertise and gambling know-how as Betting.us' editor. With a Master's degree in Applied Mathematics, she excels in game theory. Using statistical models and game theory, she develops and publishes betting strategies for Betting.us. Outside work, Lisa surfs the web for betting insights and does sports.
Michigan Online Sportsbooks – Best Mi Betting Sites 2024
By Lisa Spencer
Senior Editor
Updated: October 23, 2024
The Best Michigan Sports Betting Sites for 2024
The top sportsbooks in the state are legal and safe for players. They provide an excellent gambling experience with plenty of betting options, fast payouts, secure payment methods, and attractive promotions. Based on that, we’ve highlighted the best Michigan online sports betting sites below:
| MI Online Sportsbooks | Welcome Bonus | Bonus Code | Top Sports | Site Rating | Secure Link | Payments | Terms |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caesars Sportsbook | Up to $1000 First Bet on Caesars | IGAMING1000 | Football Basketball Boxing | ★ out of 5 | Bet Here! |
|
Valid only for new MI players over 21 years of age. Full T&Cs apply. |
| BetMGM | Up to $1500 Back In Bonus Bets | Not Needed | Football Basketball Baseball | ★ out of 5 | Bet Here! |
|
Valid only for new MI players over 21 years of age. Full T&Cs apply. |
| BetRivers | Up to $500 Bonus Bet | SPORTS | Baseball Ice Hockey Soccer | ★ out of 5 | Bet Here! |
|
Valid only for new MI players over 21 years of age. Full T&Cs apply. |
The Best Michigan Online Sportsbooks by Category
| 🥇 #1 MI Online Sportsbook | BetMGM |
| 🏈 #1 NFL Betting Site | Caesars Sportsbook |
| ⚽ #1 MLB Betting Site | BetRivers |
| 🏒 #1 NHL Betting Site | BetRivers |
| ⚽ #1 Soccer Betting Site | BetRivers |
| 🎓 #1 College Football Betting Site | Caesars Sportsbook |
| 🎁 Top Sports Betting Bonus | BetMGM |
| 🆕 New MI Sportsbook | BetRivers |
| 🔝 Best Sports to Bet On | BetRivers |
| 📱 Best Sportsbook App MI | BetMGM |
With several excellent MI operators, it might be difficult for you to choose. Luckily, our main purpose is to help you, so we’ve divided the best Michigan betting sites by category. Sports gambling is a highly specialized activity requiring distinct skill sets based on the sports, markets, and betting types.
If you prefer to wager on mobile, for example, you should focus on finding the top Michigan sports betting apps rather than the best overall sportsbooks. They are optimized for iOS and Android devices and provide a great experience for players on the go.
If you're looking for the most attractive Michigan sports betting bonus it would be wise to register at a site with fair terms and conditions. This may mean a lower dollar value compared to other sportsbooks, but the tradeoff is worth it.
However, your safety should always be your top priority, so it's worth pointing out that the recommended Michigan online sports betting sites are completely legal and safe. We checked their licensing status, encryption levels, and responsible gambling initiatives to ensure that.
Our Rating Criteria
We've considered several important factors when evaluating the Michigan online sportsbook. First, we cross-reference with the MGCB's website to check for valid licenses. Then, we review other things like bonuses, mobile compatibility, withdrawal times, and payment methods.
Security & Licensing
Live Betting
MI Betting Bonuses
MI Sports Betting Apps
Payments and Payout Times
One thing is clear - the best betting sites for Michigan gamblers provide many benefits, including ongoing promotions for existing clients and VIP rewards programs. In addition, the Betting.us rating system ensures there are secure payment providers, fast payouts, and friendly customer service.
Security & Licensing
The primary thing that all players should be concerned about is safety and security and the only thing that can guarantee this is a valid gambling license. This is true for the recommended Michigan online sportsbooks. They are part of the MGCB list of approved sports betting operators.
All US states with legalized gambling activities such as sports betting, have different licensing authorities. In Michigan, this is the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB), while in New Jersey, it’s the NJ Division of Gaming Enforcement. Here are a few trusted MI logos to look for:
- The Great Seal of the State of Michigan
- Michigan Gaming Control Board
- Michigan Department of Revenue
- Michigan Department of Health and Human Resources
To be absolutely on the safe side, make sure to verify the operator's IT security certificate. This is a third-party confirmation of a website’s safety, and you can view it by clicking on the padlock in the left corner of your browser’s address bar. The certificates are distributed by companies like DigiCert, Thawte, and Cloudflare.
You can also check the operator’s terms and conditions to see what level of encryption it uses on its financial transactions. 256-bit SSL encryption is the latest standard in the gambling industry. You should be careful using sites with less than 128-bit protection - in fact, it’s best to avoid using them.
Live Betting Options
Live betting is a relatively new trend in sports betting. Quick data connections and live statistical feeds allow online sportsbooks in Michigan to offer odds and markets on games already in progress. The main advantage of placing in-play wagers is that you can bet while you watch the game.
Gamblers would be hard-pressed to find a sports wagering experience as interactive as what in-play betting at operators like the Michigan WynnBET Sportsbook app provides. Below, we've listed the most popular sports for live betting in MI:
- Football
- Basketball
- Baseball
- Ice Hockey
- Tennis
- Soccer
- Golf
Another benefit of live betting is that you can see how the teams are playing before backing one of them. After logging into a sportsbook, users can see the games and the available wagering options. For instance, betting on volleyball in Michigan is extremely popular, and you can find plenty of options for in-play wagers.
It might be that the underdog has taken an early lead, which can give better odds on the pre-game favorite if you think they will mount a comeback. However, this strategy can easily backfire when a favorite jumps out to a huge lead, dropping any value that remained from the pre-game odds.
The Best Michigan Sports Betting Sign-Up Bonus
The recommended Michigan sports betting apps provide attractive welcome bonuses for new players. Typically, they come in the form of a deposit match or bonus bets available only upon your first deposit. However, there are some things to consider before claiming any offer whatsoever.
Always make sure to read the terms and conditions so you know the minimum odds, the playthrough requirements, and the validity period. Some Michigan sportsbook bonus offers require a promo code, so check that as well. Here are the top deals for MI online sportsbooks users:
| MI Online Sportsbooks | Bonus Offer | Min. Deposit | Bonus Code | Terms | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caesars Sportsbook | Up to $1000 First Bet on Caesars | $20 | IGAMING1000 | Claim Bonus! | Valid only for new MI players over 21 years of age. Full T&Cs apply. |
| BetMGM | Up to $1500 Back In Bonus Bets | $10 | Not Needed | Claim Bonus! | Valid only for new MI players over 21 years of age. Full T&Cs apply. |
| BetRivers | Up to $500 Bonus Bet | $10 | SPORTS | Claim Bonus! | Valid only for new MI players over 21 years of age. Full T&Cs apply. |
The top sports betting deposit bonuses stand out with fair terms and conditions. They have low wagering requirements, low minimum odds, and adequate validity periods. You can use them to boost your bankroll when starting with a new Michigan online sports betting site.
Keep in mind that these welcome bonuses require a deposit from you before they kick in. Luckily, all these top MI betting sites also have ongoing deals for existing members, so you still have offers to take advantage of even after the sign-up promotions expire.
Top Michigan Sports Betting Apps
Mobile gambling has become exceptionally popular, so the top sportsbooks develop high-end mobile sports betting apps. Many people prefer to bet from their smartphones or tablets, so we’ve taken this into account and reviewed the mobile optimization of every operator in this article.
We look for excellent functionality with a user-friendly interface and easy navigation. There should be statistical portals and live betting platforms. Players should have an experience similar to that of desktop operators. Without further ado, here are the best Michigan sports betting apps:
| MI Sports Betting Apps | Betting Offer | Compatibility | Secure Link | Terms |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caesars Sportsbook - | Up to $1000 First Bet on Caesars | Android Compatible , iOS Compatible | Bet Here! | Valid only for new MI players over 21 years of age. Full T&Cs apply. |
| BetMGM - | Up to $1500 Back In Bonus Bets | Android Compatible , iOS Compatible | Bet Here! | Valid only for new MI players over 21 years of age. Full T&Cs apply. |
| BetRivers - | Up to $500 Bonus Bet | Android Compatible , iOS Compatible | Bet Here! | Valid only for new MI players over 21 years of age. Full T&Cs apply. |
The recommended operators are available for Android and iOS devices. When choosing a Michigan online sports betting operator, it's important to consider every detail. If, for example, downloading native apps isn't preferred, you can access the websites directly through your mobile browser.
High-quality apps like the Michigan Ceasars Sportsbook can be downloaded from Apple Store and Google Play. If you like any of our suggestions, then you can use the secure links we've provided in the above table.
Available Payment Methods – Deposits and Withdrawals
Payment methods are another essential part of your experience with Michigan betting sites. Thankfully, the recommended sportsbooks provide access to many secure options, such as e-wallets, debit and credit cards, and online banking. Here are the most popular payment methods in MI:
- Visa
- Mastercard
- Discover
- American Express
- Play+
- PayPal
- Skrill
- Online Banking
- eCheck
- PayNearMe
- Pay with Cash
Keep in mind that operators often make you withdraw via the same method you used to deposit. Therefore, it's worth using one you know well and are comfortable with. Some deposit methods, like credit cards, aren't available for withdrawals due to how they process payments.
If you choose to use a deposit-only option, you must select an alternative payment method for your withdrawals. You could be forced to withdraw via bank transfer, depending on the amount. Otherwise, you can choose the withdrawal method you prefer.
The MI Sportsbooks with the Fastest Payout Times
As licensed and legal betting sites in Michigan, all the operators we covered so far have reasonable payout times. However, the best Michigan sports betting sites get you your money as soon as possible. Here are the top online MI sportsbooks with the fastest payouts:
| MI Betting Site | Min. Deposit | Payout Times | Recommended Payment Method | All Deposit Options | Secure Link: | Terms |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Caesars Sportsbook | $20 | 1-3 Days |
|
8 | Bet here! | Valid only for new MI players over 21 years of age. Full T&Cs apply. |
| BetMGM | $10 | 1-4 Days | 10 | Bet here! | Valid only for new MI players over 21 years of age. Full T&Cs apply. | |
| BetRivers | $10 | 1-4 Days |
|
8 | Bet here! | Valid only for new MI players over 21 years of age. Full T&Cs apply. |
It's worth pointing out that a few factors can affect payout times. The normal culprit of long withdrawal processing times is bonus offers. Often, operators make you play through your entire bonus before you can withdraw. Your preferred payment method also plays a significant role. The TwinSpires Sportsbook Michigan always offers good terms for fast withdrawal.
Online Sports Betting Laws in Michigan
In December 2019, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed the Lawful Sports Betting Act. This created one of the most open sports betting markets in the country. It also made Michigan the 20th state with legal sports betting.
The MGCB handed out 15 online sports betting licenses, which means Wolverine State gamblers have plenty of options to choose from. The driving force behind the legalization of sports betting in Michigan was the projected revenue it would inject into the state's public schools.
On top of the Lawful Sports Betting Act, Gov. Whitmer also signed the Lawful Internet Gaming Act the same day. This legalized several other forms of online gambling, including online casinos, online poker, and daily fantasy sports sites.
This flurry of gaming legislation made Michigan one of four states in the country with a completely open online gambling market. Operators offer several combinations of products, with most focusing on sports betting and online casino games.
Paying Michigan Gambling Taxes
The income tax withholding rate in Michigan is 4.25%. You must claim all your winnings on your tax return. You can see the Michigan Lottery taxes page for a step-by-step guide to doing that. Note, that the state is an outlier in that it also taxes non-residents on winnings.
The IRS also wants its cut, and operators withhold 25% of your gambling winnings if they're over $5,000. The IRS also requires operators to send you a Form W2-G for sports betting if all the following single wager thresholds are met:
- The winnings are $600 or more (not including the wager).
- The winnings are 300x the amount of the wager.
- The winnings are subject to federal income tax withholding.
You can see a complete overview of reporting your gambling winnings to the IRS in IRS Tax Topic 419. The organization suggests keeping a running journal of all your wins and losses for deduction purposes.
The Most Popular Leagues & Teams to Bet on in Michigan
The MGCB is responsible for approving the gambling operators in Michigan. Therefore, the betting markets in MI can be slightly limited when compared to other states. Luckily, you can still find hundreds of options for all major American and international sports.
Michigan has a long sporting history. The Lions are among the oldest teams in the NHL, the Red Wings are one of the Original Six NHL franchises, and the Tigers and Pitons have won multiple championships in the MLB and NBA, respectively. Here are the most popular sports leagues in MI:
- NFL
- NBA
- NCAAF
- NHL
- NCAAB
- MLB
- PGA
Even with professional sports teams in all the major leagues, and sportsbooks with NHL markets, it could be argued that Michigan is a college sports state. Both the University of Michigan and Michigan State University have some of the most die-hard college sports fans in the country.
Making it somewhat of a rarity, Michigan has no restrictions on betting on college sports. You can wager on in-state teams and competitions, which are banned in several other states with legal sports betting sites in the USA. Here are the most popular Michigan sports teams to bet on:
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Detroit Lions
Founded in the midwestern town of Portsmouth, Ohio in 1930, the team relocated to Detroit in 1934. The name is a nod to the city's baseball team, the Tigers. While the team won four NFL Championship games before the Super Bowl era, the team hasn't won a title since 1957.
Though the team has struggled for success, Lions fans are some of the most passionate in the NFL. Unfortunately, the team's only won a single playoff game since 1957, making it the only team that's existed for the entire Super Bowl era not to appear in one.
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Detroit Tigers
Founded in 1894, the Tigers are the oldest one-city, one-name franchise in the American League. They've won four World Series titles, the last one coming in 1984. Since then, they've made two World Series appearances, losing to the Cardinals and the Giants in 2006 and 2012, respectively.
For most of the late 20th century, the team played in the famous Tiger Stadium before moving to Comerica Park in 2000. Right after the move, the team went on to have the most losses in a season in American League history before rebuilding into a powerhouse after the 2005 season.
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Detroit Red Wings
Part of the NHL's Original Six franchises, the Red Wings have one of the most storied histories in hockey. Nicknamed "Hockeytown" by the team's rabid fanbase, Detroit has seen the likes of the Russian Five, Stevie Y, and Gordie Howe bring the Stanley Cup to town.
Red Wings fans are also known for throwing dead octopi on the ice after big moments in the playoffs. This is said to bring the team good luck. While the practice was made famous at Joe Louis Arena, the tradition persisted when the team moved into its new home at Little Caesars Arena.
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Detroit Pistons
Founded in Fort Wayne in 1937, the team moved to Detroit in 1957. Since their move, they've won three NBA Championships, five conference titles, and won their division nine times. The team shares their home at Little Caesars Arena with the Detroit Red Wings.
The team's endured several ups and downs throughout its years in Detroit. After some initial success, the organization went through a long period of struggles. This changed in the 1980s when the team acquired "The Bad Boys", including Dennis Rodman, John Salley, and Adrian Dantley. The team's enjoyed moderate success ever since.
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Michigan Wolverines
The Michigan Wolverines are one of the most recognizable teams in college sports. The Wolverines play in 29 sports in NCAA Division I competitions. The school has won national championships in baseball, ice hockey, football, lacrosse, cross country, and several other sports.
The football team, though, gets the most attention. The team plays its home games at Michigan Stadium, affectionately called "The Big House", in a nod to both its capacity as one of the largest stadiums in the world and its spectacularly unhinged and raucous crowds.
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Michigan State Spartans
While not quite as popular as the Wolverines, the Spartans still have a large and loyal following. The teams compete in 23 NCAA Division I sports. The Spartans have won multiple championships in football, basketball, and ice hockey.
In one of the best rivalries in sports, games between the Spartans and Wolverines are fiercely contested affairs. The Spartans have made several Rose Bowl appearances throughout the years as Big 10 champions in football and National Championship contenders.
The Types of Online Sports Betting Available in Michigan
There are several types of wagers that can be made. You need to understand how each of them works to find value and be a profitable gambler. The primary wagers you will make are moneyline, point spread, and totals bets, all of which are commonplace on premium products such as the BetRivers Sportsbook in Michigan.
Odds boards can be intimidating for new sports betting enthusiasts, but they aren't overly complicated. The majority of markets are available for most sports. However, point spreads are more popular for football and basketball, while moneylines are common for baseball and hockey. Here are the most popular betting markets in Michigan:
| Sports Betting Options | Description | Recommended Online Sportsbook |
|---|---|---|
| Moneyline |
Moneyline bets are the most straightforward wagers. Choose the team you think wins the game straight up. These wagers are commonly used for baseball and ice hockey. |
Try at Caesars Sportsbook MI |
| Point Spread |
Mostly used in high scoring games like basketball and football, point spreads are a form of handicap where you need to cover the difference between two teams’ scores to win. |
Try at BetMGM IN |
| Totals |
Totals bets involve predicting whether the final combined score will be over or under the total the bookmaker provides. This highly popular market is also known as the over/under. |
Try at Caesars Sportsbook MI |
| Props |
Props or proposition bets are wagers that are specific to a player or team, like how many touchdowns a team scores or how many free throws a point guard takes. |
Try at BetRivers MI |
| Live Betting |
More of a betting style than a type of wager, live betting is placing a wager on games already in progress. It requires working knowledge of each bookie's platform. |
Try at BetMGM IN |
| Parlays |
Parlays are joint bet selections that supply higher payouts than single wagers. However, all your bets must be graded as winners, or your entire stake is lost. |
Try at BetRivers MI |
| Futures |
Futures bets are betting on the outcome of something in the future. An example would be betting on the Lions to win the Super Bowl before the season starts. |
Try at BetMGM MI |
The betting markets listed here are available at every online sportsbook in Michigan. If you're a beginner, you should stick to the basic markets like the points spread, moneyline, and totals as odds fluctuations in these markets affect the others.
The primary three betting markets are shown on each league's homepage at most bookies. To see the other bet types you can make, click on the specific matchup you want to see markets for. This shows you all the available markets, bar futures wagers, which usually have their own sections.
Exclusive Sports Betting Deals in Michigan
Many Michigan online sports betting sites enter sponsorship agreements with professional sports clubs. These deals usually have great benefits for sports betting enthusiasts who can enjoy betting lounges, VIP experiences, and fan zones, creating a win-win-win situation for all three stakeholders.
With several professional franchises, there are quite a few deals like this in Michigan. If you're a fan of a specific team, it might be worth checking out its betting partner to see if you can cash in on some promotions. Here are some of the agreements involving MI sportsbooks and major league teams:
- BetMGM and Tigers – Fans can enjoy a sports lounge and win prizes through the Tigers' app and BetMGM gets premium ad placements.
- BetMGM and Lions – Fans can win prizes through Lions Bingo and Lions Perks, while BetMGM gets increased digital, broadcast, and print visibility.
- BetRivers and Pistons – Fans can win prizes through the Pistons app, which is sponsored by BetRivers.
- DraftKings and Pistons – DraftKings gets premium signage placement around Little Caesar's Arena. Fans can win a VIP experience with the team.
These deals are some of the best in the country when it comes to what they have to offer fans and gamblers. In addition, it's possible to find enhanced odds and promotions on games involving local teams. This is a popular feature of Michigan's BetMGM sportsbook.
In our opinion, these partnerships benefit all the parties involved. The teams get increased revenue, the operators get increased brand awareness, and you can cash in on all the perks. To see if there are any team-specific offers at the top Michigan betting sites, click on the "Promotions" tab.
Online vs. Land-Based Sportsbooks in Michigan
If you've ever been one of the land-based sportsbooks in Michigan but haven't visited any of the betting sites in Michigan, there are some crucial differences to note. The main one is that online betting operators are available 24/7, 365 days a year.
We prefer using MI online betting sites because they tend to take lower margins, have more markets, and have better odds. However, there are some disadvantages. For example, can't conduct transactions in cash or get personalized service. Here are the main pros and cons of land-based and online betting:
Online Betting
- Better odds
- Open 24/7
- Larger market selection
- Mobile apps
- No food or drink service
- Longer withdrawal times
- No social engagement
Land-Based Betting
- Food and drink
- Cash transactions
- Opportunity to socialize
- Personalized service
- Lower odds & payouts
- Fewer live betting options
- Limited opening hours
Problem Gambling Help
Gambling addiction can affect anyone. That's why there's no shame in admitting you are in need of gambling problem help. If you are showing any of the following signs of compulsive gambling, it might be time to reach out for some help.
- A preoccupation with gambling or inability to stop thinking about gambling.
- Lying about gambling habits.
- Gambling a larger amount or gambling more often to get the same thrill.
- Restlessness or irritability when one is not gambling.
- Gambling is negatively affecting relationships with other people, a job, or schoolwork.
- Thinking about stealing money to gamble with.
If you decide you need some help, several organizations in Michigan can help. Here is a list of problem gambling resources available in the Wolverine State:
- Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Gambling Resource List
- Michigan Dissociated Persons List
- Gamblers Anonymous
- Health Management Systems of America Gambling Treatment Program
Gambling addiction is a serious illness that frequently requires treatment to overcome. However, you can take steps to prevent it before it starts. Bet with your head, practice solid bankroll management, and know when to walk away. As always, please gamble responsibly.
FAQ
Which is the best MI online sportsbook?
The top MI online sportsbook is one licensed by the MGCB. We’ve listed the best Michigan sports betting sites according to their overall performances on our tests, including criteria like available sports, markets, and betting types, as well as mobile optimization and bonuses.
Are online sports betting sites legal in Michigan?
Yes, online sports betting sites are legal in the Wolverine State. In fact, this is one of four US states with fully legalized online market. As per the latest Michigan gambling laws, you get access to sports betting, online casinos, poker, and DFS contests.
What are the best online betting bonus offers in Michigan?
There is one characteristic of the best Michigan betting bonus offers – fair terms and conditions. Make sure to get familiar with the fine print of all promotions and select the ones that are the most generous from the user’s perspective. This is exactly what we’ve done for the purpose of this article.
Do all online sportsbooks in MI offer live betting?
Most of them do. In-play wagering is a hot new trend in online sports betting and provides several advantages over pre-game betting. Live betting in Michigan is certainly one of the most intriguing and interesting parts of any online sportsbook in the state. It provides a chance to bet on games that are already in progress.
What online sportsbooks in Michigan offers the fastest payouts?
All the legal sportsbooks in Michigan deliver withdrawals in a reasonable amount of time. However, some of them have faster payouts than others. The MI sports betting sites with the fastest payouts work with top-notch payment methods like PayPal and PayNearMe.
Conclusion – Claim a Michigan Sport Betting Bonus Now
The recommended Michigan online sportsbooks are licensed and legal to play at. They have plenty of unique strengths that separate them from a crowded market. Make sure to stay tuned and monitor our website for betting news, platform launches, and new MI sports betting promos.
Born in New Orleans, Lisa Spencer is a professional gambler and editor for Betting.us with a Master's in Applied Mathematics. Known for her strategic gambling approaches, she is an expert in game theory and statistical modelling. Lisa also enjoys surfing, running, and writing reviews on betting sites in her spare time.
The safety of the Michigan BetRivers Sportsbook app and every other operator here is guaranteed by the MGCB. You get popular sports to bet on, top-notch bonuses, and excellent live betting platforms. You can try them out via the safe links we’ve included in this expert article.