NJ Sports Betting: Best Sportsbooks, Rules & Where to Bet
New Jersey didn’t just join the sports-betting era — it started it. The state’s 2018 Supreme Court win struck down the federal ban and opened wagering across America, and NJ has been one of the country’s top three markets ever since. From the sportsbook at the Meadowlands to a phone in your pocket, here’s how to bet legally in the Garden State. You must be 21+ and in the state.
How New Jersey started it all
In May 2018 New Jersey won Murphy v. NCAA at the Supreme Court, striking down the federal ban (PASPA) and letting every state decide for itself. NJ was first out of the gate, taking its first legal bets in June 2018, regulated by the Division of Gaming Enforcement. In July 2025 the state raised its tax on online sports-betting revenue to 19.75% (retail stays at 9.75%). One quirk worth knowing: you cannot bet on New Jersey college teams or on any college game played in the state.
Where to bet in person
Retail sportsbooks run at the racetracks — the Meadowlands in East Rutherford and Monmouth Park in Oceanport — as well as inside Atlantic City’s casinos. But the vast majority of betting in NJ happens on mobile.
How it works
New Jersey sportsbooks worth a look
The NJ DGE-licensed sportsbooks we rate and what each does best.
The NJ market leader, best for same-game parlays and app reliability.
A transparent all-rounder with a strong rewards program.
Deep in-play markets, tied to its Atlantic City resort.
A rewards-led book growing fast in the state.
A top-three market
A word on tax
As across the US, betting winnings are taxable — 24% federal withholding on large wins, a W-2G on bigger payouts, plus New Jersey state tax. Keep a record of your bets. The 19.75% rate you may read about is paid by operators on their revenue, not by you.
Frequently asked questions
Is sports betting legal in New Jersey?
Yes. New Jersey launched legal sports betting in 2018 after winning the Supreme Court case that ended the federal ban. It is regulated by the NJ Division of Gaming Enforcement; you must be 21+ and physically in the state.
Do I pay tax on betting winnings?
Yes. US betting winnings are taxable: 24% federal withholding on large wins, a W-2G form, plus New Jersey state tax. Operators separately pay 19.75% on online betting revenue.
What is the minimum age to bet?
21. You must be 21 or over and physically located in New Jersey, confirmed by geolocation.
Can I bet on New Jersey college teams?
No. State law bans betting on New Jersey college teams (such as Rutgers and Seton Hall) and on any college game played in New Jersey, at every licensed sportsbook.
How big is the New Jersey betting market?
It is consistently one of the top three US markets. New Jersey sportsbooks handled around $6.7 billion in the first seven months of 2025, and took $168.7 million on Super Bowl 59.
21+. Gambling should be entertainment, not income. If you or someone you know needs help, call 1-800-GAMBLER for free, confidential support. This page is general information, not legal or financial advice.
More on New Jersey betting
Below are our latest New Jersey sportsbook guides and reviews.
