Best California Sports Betting Sites of 2026 (Guide & Facts)

California is one of the largest potential sports betting markets in the United States, with nearly 40 million residents and some of the most iconic sports franchises in the world. Yet despite its size and demand, California still does not have legalized online or retail sports betting as of early 2026.

This guide breaks down everything you need to know: the legal landscape, how to choose safe sportsbooks once legalized, betting options currently allowed, and what the future may hold.

California Sports Betting Sites

Because sports betting is not yet legal in California, there are no state‑regulated online sportsbooks available to residents in 2026.

However, Californians can still legally participate in:

Horse race betting (online and in‑person)
Daily fantasy sports (DFS) (operating in a legal gray area)
Tribal casinos (slots, table games, not sports betting)
Card rooms (poker and table games)

Once sports betting becomes legal, major operators likely to enter the market include:

DraftKings
FanDuel
BetMGM
Caesars Sportsbook
Fanatics Sportsbook

These brands have already expressed interest in California during previous ballot initiatives.

Is Sports Betting Legal in California?

No. Sports betting is not legal in California as of 2026

Key facts:

Propositions 26 and 27 failed in 2022, halting legalization efforts.
Multiple attempts between 2023–2025 also failed due to disagreements between tribal groups, commercial operators, and political stakeholders.
Experts now estimate the earliest possible legalization may be 2028.
Without new legislation or a successful ballot measure, Californians cannot legally place sports bets online or at retail sportsbooks.

How To Choose the Best Online Sportsbooks for California (When Legal)

Once sports betting becomes legal, here’s how Californians can choose safe, high‑quality sportsbooks:

1. Licensing & Regulation

Only use platforms licensed by California’s future regulatory authority.

2. Competitive Odds

Look for sportsbooks known for sharp lines and low margins.

3. Wide Betting Markets

Top sportsbooks offer:

NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL
NCAA sports
Soccer, tennis, golf
Esports
Prop bets & live betting

4. Fast & Secure Payments

Choose platforms with:

Instant deposits
Fast withdrawals
Multiple payment methods

5. Bonuses & Promotions

Look for:

Welcome bonuses
Odds boosts
Loyalty programs

6. Mobile App Quality

A smooth, fast, intuitive app is essential for live betting.

Why Is Betting on Horse Races Legal in California?

Horse race betting is legal because:

California legalized pari‑mutuel wagering in 1933, long before modern sports betting laws.
It is regulated under the California Horse Racing Board.
Horse racing is exempt from many federal restrictions and is permitted under the Interstate Horseracing Act.

This is why Californians can legally bet on races at:

Santa Anita Park
Del Mar Racetrack
Golden Gate Fields
Online platforms like TVG and TwinSpires

The Future of California Sports Betting

Based on current legislative trends:

Sports betting is unlikely before 2028 unless a major political shift occurs.
Tribal groups remain the key decision-makers.
Commercial operators continue to push for online betting access.
Voter sentiment has been mixed, with many concerned about gambling expansion.

Still, California’s massive market potential, estimated at $3–5 billion annually, means legalization efforts will continue.

How California Sports Betting Compares to Other States

State	Legal Status	Online Betting	Retail Betting
California	Not legal	❌	❌
New York	Legal	✅	✅
Nevada	Legal	✅	✅
Arizona	Legal	✅	✅
Oregon	Legal	✅	✅

California is now one of the largest remaining states without legal sports betting, alongside Texas and Georgia.

Californian Sports Teams You Can Bet On (Once Legal)

NFL

San Francisco 49ers
Los Angeles Rams
Los Angeles Chargers

NBA

Los Angeles Lakers
Los Angeles Clippers
Golden State Warriors
Sacramento Kings

MLB

Los Angeles Dodgers
San Francisco Giants
San Diego Padres
Los Angeles Angels
Oakland Athletics

NHL

Los Angeles Kings
Anaheim Ducks
San Jose Sharks

MLS

LA Galaxy
Los Angeles FC
San Jose Earthquakes

Popular Betting Events in California

Once legalized, expect heavy betting on:

Super Bowl
NBA Playoffs
World Series
March Madness
College football bowl games
UFC fights
Major soccer tournaments

How To Bet on Sports in California (When Legal)

Once legalized, the process will likely be:

Register with a licensed sportsbook
Verify your identity (KYC)
Deposit funds
Browse betting markets
Place your bet
Withdraw winnings

Other Types of Wagering in California

Currently legal:

Horse racing
Tribal casino gaming
Card rooms
Daily fantasy sports (DFS)
Lottery
Charitable gaming (bingo, raffles)

Best California Betting Sites I Tried

Because sports betting is not legal, there are no licensed California sportsbooks to review in 2026.

However, based on performance in other states, the top contenders would likely be:

FanDuel
DraftKings
BetMGM
Caesars
Fanatics

Gamble Responsibly in California

When sports betting becomes legal, responsible gambling tools will include:

Deposit limits
Time limits
Self-exclusion programs
Reality checks
Access to support organizations

California Online Sports Betting – Key Takeaways

Sports betting is NOT legal in California as of 2026.
Horse racing and DFS remain legal.
Legalization attempts have repeatedly failed.
The earliest realistic launch is 2028.
California remains the largest untapped betting market in the U.S.

FAQs About Sports Betting in California

1. Is sports betting legal in California?

No. Sports betting is not legal in California in 2026.

2. When will sports betting be legal in California?

Experts estimate 2028 or later, depending on legislation and tribal agreements.

3. Can I use DraftKings or FanDuel in California?

You can use them only for DFS, not for sports betting.

4. Can I bet on horse racing online?

Yes. Horse race betting is legal and regulated.

5. Are offshore sportsbooks legal?

No. They are not licensed and offer no consumer protections.