Ontario Sports Betting – Top Legal Sportsbooks in ON for July 2024

Answering Your Top Queries About Specific Betting Sites

As the popularity of online sports betting grows, so do the questions surrounding its legality.

Ontario, in particular, has seen a surge in interest in sportsbooks and online casinos, leading to common misconceptions about which platforms are legal and accessible.

Let’s address some of the frequently asked questions and set the record straight.

❓ What Happened to DraftKings in Ontario?

Despite being a powerhouse in the U.S. sports betting scene, DraftKings didn’t make its way into Ontario until May 18, 2022, nearly two months after the province opened its doors to regulated online betting.

Since then, DraftKings has been fully operational, providing Ontarians with a legal and regulated platform for betting on a variety of sports and events.

❓ Is FanDuel Legal in Ontario?

FanDuel is legal and thriving in Ontario. Thanks to its iGaming Ontario licence, it was among the first online sportsbooks to launch when the market opened on April 4, 2022.

If you’re looking for a top-notch betting experience in Ontario, FanDuel Sportsbook’s online and mobile platforms are among the most popular choices, offering a wide range of sports betting options.

❓ Is Betway Banned in Ontario?

Not at all! Betway is perfectly legal in Ontario and has been a prominent player in the market. As of August 1, 2022, Betway obtained its official iGaming Ontario licence, allowing it to operate legally and offer its services to bettors across the province.

It remains one of the go-to sports betting sites in Ontario.

❓ Is ParlayPlay Legal in Ontario?

ParlayPlay is not available in Ontario. While it operates in other parts of Canada and over half of the United States, it hasn’t launched its services in Ontario yet.

If you’re looking for daily fantasy sports in Ontario, you’ll need to consider alternative platforms.

❓ Is Sleeper Legal in Ontario?

While you can access and use Sleeper in the province, specific paid-entry contests, like Sleeper Picks and Daily Draft contests, are not available due to local regulations.

Stay updated on the latest legal requirements and restrictions in Ontario to ensure you’re compliant and aware of which features and contests are accessible.

Always check Sleeper’s offerings in your jurisdiction to avoid any legal issues. Rest assured that I will continue to update this page if any changes happen.

How I Rate the Best Ontario Sports Betting Sites

With over six years of experience in the sports betting world, I’ve developed a keen eye for evaluating sports betting sites.

Here’s a breakdown of the 9 critical factors I consider to separate the best from the rest:

⭐ License and Regulation

First things first, I always check for a valid gambling licence. You’re putting your hard-earned cash on the line, so it’s vital to make sure the site is regulated by recognized authorities like the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO). This ensures fair play, secure transactions, and peace of mind that you’re playing by the rules.

⭐ Site Performance and Stability

Nobody wants to deal with a website that crashes mid-bet or takes forever to load. That’s why I scrutinize site performance, loading times, and responsiveness. A stable platform is a must for a smooth betting experience, so I weed out the sites with frequent downtime or technical glitches.

⭐ Market Coverage

Whether it’s the NFL Super Bowl, NHL Playoffs, or those quieter months when sports action is thin, I look for sites that cover a wide range of sports. Beyond the big names, I want options for esports, tennis, golf, cricket, MMA, and even niche sports like badminton. This ensures you always have something to wager on, no matter the season.

⭐ Competitive Odds

Odds are everything. They directly impact your potential winnings, and no one wants to settle for less. I meticulously compare odds across various platforms to find where you can get the best value, whether you’re backing the favorites or taking a shot with the underdogs.

⭐ Mobile Experience

For bettors like me who are always on the go, a reliable mobile app or at least a mobile-optimized website is vital. I evaluate how user-friendly the mobile platform is, how quickly you can place a bet, and how smooth the transitions are. A great mobile experience means you can bet on the go without any hiccups.

⭐ Live Betting

The thrill of live betting is unbeatable. Sports are unpredictable, and live betting lets you adapt to the game’s twists and turns in real time. I look for sites that offer real-time odds updates and a variety of live betting markets, making them a perfect playground for those who know their stuff and can make quick decisions.

⭐ Customer Support

Nothing’s worse than being stuck with an issue and having no one to help. Excellent customer service is non-negotiable. I test response times, availability (24/7 support is ideal), and the quality of assistance. Live chat, email, and phone support should be easy to access, ensuring help is just a click away when you need it.

⭐ Available Payment Methods

Just like stellar customer support, seamless deposits and withdrawals are a must for any top-tier Ontario sports betting platform. I favor sites that offer various payment options, including credit/debit cards, e-wallets like PayPal, and online banking through Interac. This flexibility ensures that you can easily manage your funds and choose the method that suits you best.

⭐ Payout Speed

Waiting around for your winnings can be a major buzzkill. I prioritize sites that offer fast payout processing so you’re not left hanging for more than one or two days. Quick access to your funds is crucial for keeping the excitement of your betting experience alive and ensuring you can reinvest your winnings or enjoy them without unnecessary delays.

💡 Expert Insight

By focusing on these important factors, I make sure the Ontario sports betting sites I recommend give you the best experience possible. I update my rankings regularly to keep up with the latest changes and improvements, so you always know which sites are the top choices in the market right now.

11 Steps to Get Started at Ontario Online Sports Betting Sites

Here’s a detailed 11-step guide to kick off your Ontario sports betting journey. These are the exact steps I too follow every time I want to sign up and test a new sportsbook.

1. Research and Choose a Reputable Sportsbook:

Check for licensing and regulation from iGO. If this is the first time you are signing up for an online sports betting site in Ontario, seek the iGO logo at the top or the bottom of the platform’s homepage.

Pinpoint exactly what you expect from an Ontario sports betting site, such as superior odds or a broad array of betting markets.

✔️ Read our reviews and recommendations. If you value feedback from fellow bettors, you can check for real user reviews right on our website and on independent forums.

2. Sign Up:

Visit the sportsbook’s website or download their app.

Click on the “Register” or “Sign Up” button.

Fill out the registration form with required details such as name, address, email, and date of birth.

All Ontario Sports Betting sites require identification checks. If you don’t complete the KYC check, you won’t be able to withdraw your winnings.

✔️ If you encounter any issues, customer support is readily available to help you through any step.

3. Secure Your Account:

Create a strong, unique password.

✔️ If available, enable any additional security features like two-factor authentication.

4. Deposit Funds:

Head to the sportsbook’s cashier. If you’re all set to play, choose how you’d like to deposit and add funds to your account.

Choose your preferred deposit method (e.g., credit/debit card, e-wallets, bank transfer).

Follow the prompts to complete the deposit.

✔️ If you need help in this step, contact customer service via the live chat for a fast reply.

5. Familiarize Yourself with the Platform:

Choose a sportsbook that offers a straightforward and enjoyable betting experience.

Before placing your bets, browse the various sports and betting markets available.

If navigating the site smoothly and having a functional mobile app is important to you, check out user reviews to see how the sportsbook stacks up.

💡 Tip! You can search for sports betting mobile app reviews on the Play Store and App Store.

6. Place Your First Bet:

Choose a sport and an event. If you’re passionate about ice hockey and get excited at the thought of the NHL Stanley Cup, then check the available betting markets and odds for these games.

Select the type of bet you want to place (e.g., moneyline, point spread, over/under).

Enter your wager amount and confirm the bet.

💡 Tip! If you’re new to betting, explore any tutorials or guides that the sportsbook provides. DraftKings, FanDuel, and Betano offer very detailed sports and betting market guides that will help you get started.

7. Assess Odds and Markets:

Leverage your knowledge of a sport to identify where the odds are in your favour. For instance, if the Toronto Maple Leafs are underdogs at home, but you know they have a strong home record, those odds offer good value.

✔️ Choose Your Betting Market Wisely! Opt for markets you understand well, like the NHL moneyline if you’re a hockey fan or CFL point spreads if you follow Canadian football closely.

8. Monitor Your Bets and Account Activity:

Check your active and past bets.

If you want to ensure you’re not skating on thin ice with your finances, keep a close watch on your account balance and transaction history.

✔️ If you are ready to make your first deposit, be sure to check with your bank about the limits attached to deposits, as they vary.

9. Withdraw Your Winnings:

First, familiarize yourself with the sportsbook’s cash-out procedures and fully understand the withdrawal process, from the withdrawal request until the money reaches your bank account or eWallet.

If you’re ready to withdraw your winnings, just select your preferred method and specify the amount. The on-screen prompts will guide you swiftly through the process.

Remember to check withdrawal times and any fees to ensure there are no surprises and your funds are received promptly.

Typically, it takes 1 to 3 days to receive your winnings.

💡 Tip! I recommend using eWallets as a withdrawal method, as, at the moment, they offer the fastest payouts at Ontario sports betting sites.

10. Stay Informed:

If you want to bet with the sharpest mind, ensure you’re up-to-date on sports news and stats.

If you need help with placing your bet or how to do parlays, reach out to the customer service team.

11. Bet Responsibly & Seek Help If Needed:

Always set a budget and stick to it.

Utilize tools provided by the sportsbook to set deposit limits, loss limits, or self-exclude if needed.

✔️ If you feel you’re developing a gambling problem, seek professional help or counselling.

What Sports Can You Bet on in Ontario?

In Ontario, sports betting enthusiasts have a vast and diverse playground to explore. Whether you’re a die-hard hockey fan or a curious bettor looking to venture into niche sports, Ontario’s legal betting market has you covered.

Here’s a rundown of the exciting betting opportunities available:

✅ Canada’s Favourite Sports: Dive into the action with bets on NHL hockey, NFL football, NBA basketball, and MLB baseball. These fan favourites offer a plethora of betting options, from moneylines and spreads to prop bets on player performances.

✅ Soccer and Beyond: With the global popularity of soccer, you can place wagers on international leagues and tournaments. Tennis matches and MMA/UFC fights also attract significant betting interest, providing ample opportunities for match and player-specific bets.

✅ Esports: The rise of esports means you can now bet on popular gaming competitions. This category includes games like CS, League of Legends, and Dota 2, where you can bet on match outcomes, tournament winners, and even specific in-game events.

✅ Niche Sports: Ontario’s betting platforms aren’t just about the big leagues. Explore markets for sports like boxing, cricket, cycling, darts, and F1 racing. There’s also action in golf, handball, lacrosse, rugby, snooker, motorsports, and volleyball, among others. These niche sports offer unique betting angles that can be both fun and profitable for those willing to explore them.

Whether you’re betting on the MLB a Stanley Cup matchup, the Super Bowl, or a lesser-known cricket match, Ontario’s betting scene is buzzing with opportunities for all types of sports enthusiasts. With such a wide range of options, there’s always something new and exciting to bet on!

📈 Which Sport Has The Most Betting Popularity in Ontario?

According to iGaming Ontario’s report on total sports wagers from April 4, 2022 – March 31, 2023, there are the five sports that Ontarians bet on the most:

1. Basketball
2. Soccer
3. Football
4. Hockey
5. Baseball

If you’re looking for the crowd favourites, basketball leads the pack with 29% of all wagers.

Soccer follows at 15%, showcasing its growing popularity, while football claims 13%.

Surprisingly, hockey, a national passion, accounts for 9%,

and baseball rounds out the top five at 8%.

Let’s look more into these and some other bettors’ favourites, where we see a growing betting demand.

🏒 Can You Bet on Hockey in Canada?

Absolutely! Hockey betting is a national pastime in Canada, reflecting the country’s deep-rooted passion for the sport. From NHL games to junior league showdowns and international tournaments, hockey betting in Canada offers a thrilling array of opportunities.

🏒 NHL Betting: The NHL is the crown jewel of hockey betting in Canada. You can wager on regular-season games, playoffs, and the highly anticipated Stanley Cup Finals. The NHL betting options range from moneylines and spreads to player prop bets and futures, making every game an opportunity to engage with your favorite teams and players.

🏒 Junior Leagues: Don’t miss the action in Canada’s junior hockey leagues, such as the OHL, WHL, and QMJHL. These leagues are known for their high-scoring games and dynamic young talent, offering exciting betting lines and a fresh take on hockey wagering. Betting on junior leagues provides a unique way to support emerging players and get in on the action before they hit the big leagues.

🏒 International Events: Major international hockey events like the World Junior Championship and the Winter Olympics also draw significant betting interest. These tournaments showcase top talents from around the globe and provide a thrilling platform for high-stakes betting. You can bet on game outcomes, individual player performances, and even which country will take home the gold.

Ontario Bettors’ Favourite Teams to Bet on in 2024

Here are the most popular local teams that Ontarians love to bet on. I briefly cover their past performances, recent achievements, and why they are a favourite among sports bettors.

Toronto Maple Leafs

Despite entering the 2023-24 NHL season with favourable odds to win the Stanley Cup, the Toronto Maple Leafs again fell short. They enjoyed a strong regular season, finishing with a solid 46-26-10 record.

However, their playoff run ended abruptly in the first round with a heart-wrenching Game 7 loss to the Boston Bruins. This defeat has sparked questions about the future of key players like Auston Matthews, Mitch Marner, and John Tavares.

Nevertheless, the Leafs boast a passionate fan base both in Canada and abroad, making them one of the most bet-on teams in Ontario.

Fans remain eagerly hopeful for the team to break their Stanley Cup drought, which dates back to 1967.

💡 Why Bettors Love Them: High Expectations and Historical Appeal

The combination of historical significance, consistent playoff appearances, and strong player performances makes them a favourite for bettors.

Toronto Raptors

The 2023–24 Toronto Raptors season was disappointing yet somewhat expected. Before the season started, the Raptors fired head coach Nick Nurse after five seasons with the team and lost Fred VanVleet in free agency.

Then, midway through the season, Toronto traded away OG Anunoby and Pascal Siakam, key members of the 2019 championship team.

Despite picking up exciting young talents like Immanuel Quickley and Toronto native RJ Barrett, the Raptors finished with a 24-57 record, failing to make the playoffs for a second consecutive season.

💡 Why Bettors Love Them: Provincial Pride and Young Talent

Still, as Toronto’s only NBA team, they represent the entire province of Ontario, and fans want to support them in any way they can, including betting.

The loyalty of Raptors fans, coupled with the team’s potential for future growth, makes them a regular feature on betting slips across the province.

Toronto Blue Jays

The Toronto Blue Jays are over a third of the way through the 2024 MLB season and have had an up-and-down year thus far in a competitive AL East division, boasting a 33-35 record overall.

Vladimir Guerrero Jr. leads the team with a .281 batting average, 12 doubles, 7 home runs, 36 walks, and 30 RBIs.

Isiah Kiner-Falefa has been solid as well, going 10-for-35 with 9 RBIs in the last 10 games.

💡 Why Bettors Love Them: Long Season and High Engagement

The Blue Jays consistently attract attention around the GTA (Greater Toronto Area), and locals have a strong connection to the team due to their history of memorable moments, leading them to become one of Ontario’s top teams to wager on from March to October.

Their long season, frequent games, and emotional investment from local fans keep the Toronto Blue Jays a constant topic among bettors, who enjoy the thrill of following their team through the ups and downs of a full baseball season.

Ottawa Senators

On the other side of the province, the Ottawa Senators endured another losing season with a record of 37-41-4, missing out on the playoffs for the seventh consecutive year.

Notably, they changed ownership during the season, marking their first season under new owner Michael Andlauer, a Toronto businessman and part-owner of the Montreal Canadiens.

💡 Why Bettors Love Them: Local Pride and Storied Legacy

Ontario residents often have a strong affinity for the Ottawa Senators as they are the only NHL, NBA, or MLB team based in Canada’s capital city, Ottawa.

The Sens also have a storied history, dating back to their founding in 1992, with icons like Jason Spezza, Daniel Alfredsson, Dominik Hašek, Marian Hossa, and many others donning the black, red, and gold.

Top 6 Retail Sportsbooks in Ontario (Updated List)

While online sports betting continues to grow in popularity in Ontario, bettors still enjoy the experience of visiting retail sportsbooks. That’s why I’ve decided to highlight some of my favourite land-based betting locations for those who prefer in-person excitement.

These locations offer a variety of sports betting options, from traditional kiosks to fully integrated betting lounges, providing bettors with numerous opportunities to engage in their favourite pastime. If you’re in Ontario and looking for a place to place your bets in person, these venues are some of the best options available.

Here’s an overview of the most notable ones:

✅ Great Canadian Casino Resort (Toronto):

📌 Location: Toronto

Details: This resort, which opened in June 2023, is the largest casino in Canada and features extensive sports betting facilities, including sports betting kiosks and a large variety of table games and slots. It’s adjacent to the Woodbine Racetrack, making it a significant venue for sports bettors​.

✅ Casino Rama:

📌 Location: Orillia

Details: Known for its comprehensive gaming and entertainment offerings, Casino Rama includes a dedicated sports betting area where visitors can place bets on a range of sports. It’s a popular destination for sports enthusiasts in the region​.

✅ Fallsview Casino Resort:

📌 Location: Niagara Falls

Details: Fallsview Casino, one of Ontario’s premier gaming destinations, offers a retail sportsbook where bettors can wager on various sports. This casino combines luxury amenities with extensive gaming and betting options​.

✅ Caesars Windsor:

📌 Location: Windsor

Details: Caesars Windsor features a significant sportsbook area, allowing guests to place bets on a wide range of sports while enjoying the casino’s other facilities. It’s a major attraction for bettors in the Windsor area and beyond​.

✅ OLG Slots at Woodbine Racetrack:

📌 Location: Toronto

Details: This location offers a retail sportsbook along with a variety of other gaming options. It is situated near the Great Canadian Casino Resort, providing an accessible option for sports betting in Toronto​.

✅ Pickering Casino Resort:

📌 Location: Pickering

Details: Another significant addition to Ontario’s gaming landscape, Pickering Casino Resort, includes a sportsbook where you can bet on various sports events. It’s part of the broader expansion of sports betting facilities across the province​.

Responsible Betting: How to Stay in Control

As a bettor, I can’t stress enough the importance of responsible betting. Maintaining a healthy relationship with gambling not only ensures a more enjoyable experience but also safeguards your well-being.

Here are some practical steps to help you stay in control and keep betting fun:

💡 Set Limits

Ontario sports betting sites offer a range of responsible gambling features. Use these tools to set daily, weekly, or monthly betting limits.

Sticking to these limits and resisting the urge to chase your losses is crucial. Setting boundaries helps you manage your budget and keeps your betting habits in check.

💡 Understand the Risks

Betting should be seen as a form of entertainment, not a guaranteed way to make money. Always remember that there is an inherent risk involved.

Familiarize yourself with the odds and probabilities, and never bet more than you can afford to lose. Keeping a clear perspective on gambling as a recreational activity is key to enjoying it responsibly.

💡 Take Breaks

If betting starts to feel overwhelming or stressful, take a step back. Use the cooling-off periods offered by most betting platforms to prevent impulsive decisions.

Taking regular breaks helps you maintain a healthy balance and prevents betting from taking over your life.

💡 Monitor Your Behaviour

Regularly assess your gambling habits. Ask yourself if you’re spending too much time or money on betting.

Are you neglecting other important areas of your life, such as work, family, or personal health? Being honest with yourself about your betting behaviour is crucial for staying in control.

💡 Seek Support

If you find that gambling is becoming a problem, don’t hesitate to seek help. There are several resources available in Ontario:

✔️ Ontario Problem Gambling Helpline: Call 1-888-230-3505 for confidential support and information.

✔️ ConnexOntario: Provides free, 24/7 addiction and mental health services. Call 1-866-531-2600 or visit their website.

✔️ Gamblers Anonymous: Attend local meetings for peer support and recovery. Check their website for meeting times and locations.

Responsible betting is all about making informed choices and knowing when to step back. By following these guidelines, you can enjoy sports betting while maintaining control and ensuring it remains a positive part of your life.

🔒 Your Go-To Source for Fair Reviews of Ontario Sportsbooks

Our platform is renowned for delivering the most detailed and impartial reviews of online sports betting sites in Ontario. Here’s how our rigorous approach sets us apart:

1. We conduct over 50 hours of in-depth monthly analysis, reviewing more than 300 betting scenarios across more than 30 sportsbooks. We scrutinize odds and payout structures to ensure our content is both accurate and relevant. Our reviews are updated monthly to include the latest data.
2. Expert insights from our team boasting over 30 years of combined industry experience. We delve deep into betting strategies and market trends and integrate feedback from over 500 bettors each year to provide a comprehensive view that reflects a wide range of betting experiences.
3. Comprehensive testing and review accuracy with over 20 hours of data compilation. Our team of six sports betting experts conducts extensive hands-on testing of each sportsbook, focusing on user interface and mobile compatibility. We spend an additional 20+ hours compiling and refining this data to ensure our reviews are thorough and precise.
4. Security checks and comprehensive customer support analysis. We rigorously assess each sportsbook for compliance with Ontario’s strict gambling regulations and evaluate their customer support effectiveness. We test whether all recommended sites maintain high-security standards and offer robust support, fostering safe and responsible betting.

Here’s how we accomplish a methodical, fact-checked and impartial reviewing of Ontario’s online sports betting sites:

1️⃣ In-Depth Monthly Analysis of Betting Scenarios

Every month, our team commits over 50 hours to a meticulous examination of betting odds and structures across more than 30 sportsbooks. Some of these reviews are still in progress as they require further evaluation, demonstrating our unwavering dedication to providing comprehensive and reliable information.

In a recent session, we focused on the fluctuations in NHL playoff odds offered by sportsbooks such as BetMGM and NorthStar Bets. We compared over 300 betting scenarios, noting discrepancies and patterns that could impact bettors’ decisions. This is how we ensure that our content is not only accurate but also highly relevant to current sports events.

Our reviews are then updated monthly to reflect the latest data, keeping our readers informed with the most up-to-date insights in the dynamic world of sports betting.

2️⃣ Expert Insights and Feedback Integration

With over 30 years of combined industry experience, our experts delve deep into the nuances of sports betting.

For instance, during this year’s Super Bowl, our analysis highlighted unique betting trends and strategies employed by sportsbooks. We integrate this expert analysis with feedback from over 500 bettors annually, providing a rich, multi-dimensional view of the betting landscape.

This approach was particularly insightful when assessing the varied bettor experiences during major events like the FIFA World Cup, where betting volume and behaviour significantly diverge.

3️⃣ Comprehensive Testing and Review Accuracy

Our detailed review process involves more than 20 hours of hands-on testing for each sportsbook, focusing on aspects like the user interface and mobile compatibility.

For example, when testing the mobile app from PowerPlay, our team of six experts conducted extensive functionality tests across different devices. These tests included checking the app’s loading speed, responsiveness to user commands, and compatibility with various operating systems.

We follow up these practical tests with an additional 20+ hours of data compilation and analysis, refining our findings to ensure our reviews are both thorough and precise, giving you confidence in our recommendations.

4️⃣ Security Checks and Customer Support Analysis

Security and customer service are paramount to our review process. We rigorously test each sportsbook’s compliance with Ontario’s gambling regulations.

For example, when evaluating a new sportsbook, we check its licensing status and review its responsible gambling tools, such as betting limits, cool-off periods and more.

We evaluate customer support by engaging with their teams through multiple inquiries to test responsiveness and effectiveness.

When we faced a security alert at PointsBet, our dual approach proved vital. Our interaction with their customer support provided insights into their ability to swiftly handle and resolve such issues, ensuring that our recommendations support safe and responsible betting environments.

How Do We Ensure the Accuracy of Our Information?

We verify the accuracy of our information on Ontario’s online sports betting by cross-checking data from reliable sources like iGaming Ontario, the AGCO, and industry reports.

This rigorous verification guarantees that our content is up-to-date and trustworthy, providing you with accurate insights into the betting landscape.

iGaming Ontario’s FY 2023-24 Full Year Market Performance Report | iGaming Ontario

Our Services | Connex Ontario

CANADA – Ontario | Gamblers Anonymous

Single-event sport gambling to become legal in Canada as Bill C-218 passes in Senate | CBC.ca

About Us | NorthStar Gaming

DraftKings Launches Mobile Sportsbook and iGaming Products in Ontario | DraftKings.com

NHL Hockey Standings | NHL.com

NBA Team Standings & Stats | NBA.com

Official Toronto Blue Jays Website | MLB.com