Massachusetts
Gambling Laws 2026
Sports Betting
Casino Gambling
Online Casino / iGaming
State Lottery
Commercial Card Rooms / Poker Clubs
Massachusetts was a late entrant to casino gambling but went in substantially. MGM Springfield opened in 2018 and Encore Boston Harbor opened in 2019 — the latter a $2.6 billion resort casino in Everett that is among the most expensive casino construction projects in U.S. history. Plainridge Park Casino operates as a slots-only facility. Sports betting launched for in-person wagering in January 2023 and mobile betting followed in March 2023, with 15 licensed mobile operators covering all major platforms.
The Massachusetts Lottery is one of the oldest in the country (1972) and consistently ranks among the highest in per-capita lottery ticket sales nationally. The gambling expansion has been contentious and slow-moving relative to neighboring states, reflecting a careful regulatory approach by the Massachusetts Gaming Commission.
For residents, the options are now solid. A major casino is accessible from most of the state. Mobile sports betting is fully operational with all major apps available. Online casino gambling remains illegal — a notable gap given that Connecticut, New Jersey, and Michigan all have legal online casino markets. Massachusetts has studied online casino expansion but has not authorized it.
MGM Springfield, Encore Boston Harbor. Sports betting launched 2023. Very active lottery (one of highest per-capita revenues).
Finding nearby venues...
Similar States
More on Massachusetts
People Also Ask
Is gambling legal in the state of Massachusetts?
Legal forms of gambling in the U.S. state of Massachusetts include casinos, sports betting, parimutuel wagering on horse racing, the Massachusetts Lottery, and charitable gaming. The Massachusetts Gaming Commission regulates commercial operations under state jurisdiction.
What is the new law for gambling?
You can take a gambling loss deduction against your gambling winnings. However, as of tax year 2026, taxpayers can only deduct up to 90% of their gambling losses against gambling winnings. Prior to 2026, gamblers could deduct up to 100% of their winnings based on losses.
Can you gamble at 18 in MA?
Individuals aged 18 and older shall be granted the legal right to engage in legal gambling activities within the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. They shall also be subject to all penalties and liabilities associated with these activities.
What are examples of illegal gambling?
From r/gambling
- (Ontario, Canada) Any Sportsbook that allows you to block ...
- State that doesn't allow online casinos what to do
- This needs fixing... : r/gambling
- Is it better to stick to one game or play several different ones
- If I self exclude myself from sports betting apps will I still be ...
- How are so many people using Rainbet? : r/gambling
- How much money should I bring to a casino for my first time ...
- r/gambling - STAKE.US no longer available after March 21st
- Why are people opposed to legalizing gambling in states ...
- Is kirgo legit? Or any other online sports betting sites that ...
In the News
- Massachusetts Sports Betting 2026: Best MA Sportsbooks and Apps - CBS SportsJul 3
- As teen sports betting rises, Mass. rolls out a new classroom lesson - Boston.comJul 5
- Massachusetts Sports Betting: MA Sportsbook Promos & Apps - FOX SportsJul 1
- Massachusetts online casinos: Best casinos in Massachusetts 2026 - MassLiveJul 3
- Massachusetts Sports Betting April 2026: $678M Handle Report - rg.orgJun 24
Full Massachusetts profile
Taxes, cost of living, gun laws, nudism, nightlife and more.
Sources: American Gaming Association 2024, Legal Sports Report, NCSL. Gambling laws change frequently — verify current status before wagering.