Gambling in Pennsylvania: Online Casinos & Betting

Pennsylvania is the biggest online casino market in the United States. It legalized online gambling in 2017, launched in 2019, and its regulated online casinos now out-earn every other state. Add 18 land-based casinos — the most of any state — and a busy sportsbook scene, and PA is one of the most complete places to play in the country. 21+ and in-state.

RegulatorPGCB

Legal age21+

Online since2019

Land-based casinos18

US iGaming rank#1

WinningsTaxable

How Pennsylvania became No. 1

Pennsylvania legalized online casino, poker and sports betting in 2017 (under Act 42) and launched in July 2019, regulated by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. Despite some of the highest gaming taxes in the country — online slots are taxed at 54%, table games at 16% and sports betting at 36% — its scale made it the largest US iGaming market, with around $3.46 billion in revenue in 2025. In 2025 it also joined the multi-state online poker network.

Where to play in person

Pennsylvania has 18 licensed casinos — the most of any US state — from Parx near Philadelphia to the Rivers casinos in Philadelphia and Pittsburgh and Wind Creek Bethlehem.

Pennsylvania online casinos worth playing at

The PGCB-licensed online casinos we rate and what each does best.

BetRiversBest for loyalty

A Pennsylvania favourite, tied to the Rivers casinos in-state.

betrivers.comLicensed: PA PGCB

Hard Rock BetBest for jackpots

Large progressive pools on the Hard Rock app.

hardrock.betLicensed: PA PGCB

Fanatics CasinoBest for rewards

A rewards-led operator expanding across PA.

fanatics.comLicensed: PA PGCB

Notable wins

Pennsylvania regularly produces big progressive jackpots: a DraftKings player won $1.39 million on a Jade Celebration jackpot in October 2025, part of nearly $30 million in PA jackpots awarded by one operator alone that year.

A word on tax

Winnings are taxable — 24% federal withholding on wins over $5,000, a W-2G on larger wins, plus Pennsylvania state tax. The state itself taxes operators heavily, especially online slots.

Frequently asked questions

Is online gambling legal in Pennsylvania?

Yes. Pennsylvania legalized online gambling in 2017 and launched in 2019, regulated by the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board. You must be 21+ and physically in the state.

Do I pay tax on winnings in Pennsylvania?

Yes — 24% federal withholding on wins over $5,000, a W-2G on larger wins, plus Pennsylvania state tax. Operators pay some of the highest gaming taxes in the country.

Why is Pennsylvania the biggest market?

PA’s large population and mature, competitive market make it the No. 1 US state for online casino revenue, producing around $3.46 billion in 2025.

How many casinos does Pennsylvania have?

Pennsylvania has 18 licensed land-based casinos, more than any other state in the country.

What is the minimum age?

21. Pennsylvania requires you to be 21 or over for casino play and sports betting.

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.