Online Sports Betting Legal Framework in Colorado

Colorado’s sports betting law allows both casinos and professional sports franchises to partner with online operators. This created a wide-open market, where nearly 20 sportsbook brands now compete for users.

Each operator must follow state rules, including geolocation checks, age verification, and approved betting markets. The Division of Gaming maintains a sports betting catalog that lists which events and bet types are allowed.

This means sports betting legal online systems in Colorado cover everything from NFL betting to international soccer. But certain wagers, like high school sports, are prohibited.

Read more: Looking for the ultimate guide to NFL betting this season? We've got you covered right here!

Online Sports Betting Apps Available in Colorado

Colorado is one of the most app-friendly markets in the United States. Bettors can choose from big-name operators such as:

• DraftKings
  
  
• FanDuel
  
  
• Caesars Sportsbook
  
  
• BetMGM
  
  
• BetRivers
  
  
• bet365
  
  
• ESPN Bet
  
  
• Fanatics Sportsbook
  
  

In total, about 16 to 20 online sportsbooks operate in the state at any given time. This is one of the highest counts in the nation. It also means competitive promos, bonuses, and betting features.

If you want to compare Colorado to other online sports betting USA states, the difference is clear: more apps equal more choices.

How to Start: Online Sports Betting How To

Getting started with online sports betting in Colorado is easy. Here’s the step-by-step process:

1. Download your preferred sportsbook app, such as DraftKings or FanDuel.
   
   
2. Create an account with your name, email, and last four digits of your SSN.
   
   
3. Confirm your age and location. You must be inside Colorado borders.
   
   
4. Deposit funds using a debit card, bank transfer, or e-wallet.
   
   
5. Browse the betting menu and place your wager.
   
   

This simple process is why Colorado bettors embraced mobile wagering so quickly. Online sports betting online platforms put the action in your pocket.

Example: NFL Betting on a Colorado Sportsbook

Let’s say the Denver Broncos are playing the Kansas City Chiefs. On FanDuel, you see the Broncos listed at +7 with odds of -110. You bet $55 to win $50. If the Broncos lose by 6 or fewer, or win outright, your ticket cashes.

At the same time, you might add a prop bet on Russell Wilson to throw two touchdowns. Combine both in a same-game parlay, and your payout potential grows.

This type of NFL betting is one reason Colorado sportsbooks handle hundreds of millions of dollars each month.

Market Growth Since Launch

Colorado’s sports betting market has grown steadily since 2020. Monthly handle often exceeds $500 million, with NFL betting driving large spikes during the fall.

In July 2025 alone, bettors wagered $352 million, generating $2.7 million in taxes for the state. Over the 2024–25 fiscal year, total handle reached $6.3 billion. That ranked Colorado among the top 10 states by betting activity.

These numbers show why Colorado is often used as a model for other sports gambling legal states. The balance of competition and regulation has created strong results.

Betting Options and Sports Covered

Colorado sportsbooks offer a wide range of bet types, including:

• Moneylines and spreads
  
  
• Totals (over/under)
  
  
• Parlays and teasers
  
  
• Futures (like Super Bowl or NBA champion)
  
  
• Player props
  
  
• Live in-game betting
  
  

NFL betting is the most popular category, but NBA, MLB, NHL, college sports, and international leagues also see strong action. Sportsbooks in Colorado even offer lines on esports, darts, and table tennis, as long as they are approved in the catalog.

By comparison, some sports betting legal online states are more restrictive. Colorado stands out for variety.

Regulation and Player Protections

All sportsbooks in Colorado are licensed and regulated by the Division of Gaming. Operators must offer responsible gambling tools, including deposit limits, self-exclusion, and time-out features.

Geolocation technology ensures that bets are only placed within state borders. This prevents out-of-state wagering and keeps the market compliant.

For players, this means a safe, transparent environment. Winnings are also taxed, so big payouts from NFL betting or March Madness futures count as taxable income.

Promotions and Bonuses

Because so many sportsbooks operate in Colorado, promotions are a major part of the competition. Common offers include:

• Bonus bets for new sign-ups
  
  
• Deposit matches
  
  
• Odds boosts on NFL betting lines
  
  
• Parlay insurance if one leg loses
  
  

These promotions make online sports betting apps in Colorado some of the most user-friendly in the country. Bettors benefit from constant competition for their attention.

Colorado Compared to Other Sports Gambling Legal States

Colorado stacks up well against other markets. It doesn’t have the sheer size of New York or New Jersey, but its per-capita betting activity is strong.

The main advantage is the number of online sportsbooks. Few states outside New Jersey match Colorado’s variety. This has helped keep odds competitive and promotions generous.

It also shows that sports betting legal systems can thrive in mid-sized states, not just the biggest ones.

Final Thoughts on Online Sports Betting Colorado

So, is online sports betting legal in Colorado? Yes. Since 2020, residents have had access to nearly 20 sportsbook apps plus retail betting locations. The system is competitive, transparent, and growing fast.

NFL betting and other sports markets drive billions in wagers each year. With strong regulation and endless app choices, Colorado remains one of the top sports gambling legal states in the USA.

Check out our full betting toolset to start spotting profitable lines.