Sports Betting in Kansas City: Laws, Options, and Opportunities

Legal Landscape of Sports Betting in Kansas City

Kansas City is uniquely positioned because it spans two states: Kansas and Missouri. This geographical divide has major implications for sports betting, as each state has its own set of gambling laws. As of 2025, sports betting is fully legal and operational in Kansas, while Missouri continues to debate legalization, creating a dynamic environment for bettors on both sides of the city.

Sports Betting in Kansas

In Kansas, sports betting was officially legalized in September 2022. The Kansas Lottery oversees regulation, while four state-owned casinos are authorized to offer both in-person and online sports betting. These casinos partner with private sportsbook operators to provide mobile apps and websites.

Major Casinos and Sportsbook Partners in Kansas

Hollywood Casino at Kansas Speedway – Partnered with Barstool Sportsbook
Boot Hill Casino & Resort – Partnered with DraftKings
Kansas Star Casino – Partnered with FanDuel
Kansas Crossing Casino – Partnered with BetMGM

Bettors in Kansas City, Kansas can legally place wagers on professional and college sports via mobile apps or by visiting one of the state’s licensed casinos. Online registration is allowed, making access seamless.

Online Sports Betting in Kansas

Mobile sports betting is booming in Kansas, especially in Kansas City. Residents can use platforms such as:

DraftKings
FanDuel
BetMGM
Caesars Sportsbook
PointsBet

These platforms offer generous welcome bonuses, live betting, parlays, and odds boosts. Bettors must be at least 21 years old and physically located within state lines when placing bets.

Missouri’s Status on Sports Betting

As of 2025, sports betting is still illegal in Missouri, including in Kansas City, Missouri. Legislative efforts have been made annually since 2018, but political disagreements—especially surrounding video lottery terminals (VLTs) and tax allocations—have stalled progress.

Despite the lack of legal betting options in Missouri, many residents cross the border into Kansas to place bets legally. Mobile operators use geolocation technology to ensure users are within Kansas when wagering.

Popular Sports Teams to Bet On in Kansas City

Kansas City is a passionate sports town with several major teams that draw massive betting interest:

Kansas City Chiefs (NFL) – One of the most popular teams in sports betting nationwide.
Kansas City Royals (MLB) – While less consistent than the Chiefs, the Royals offer seasonal betting action.
Sporting Kansas City (MLS) – Soccer betting is growing in popularity, especially during international tournaments.
University of Kansas (NCAA) – College basketball betting is a major draw, especially during March Madness.

Responsible Gambling Measures

Kansas requires licensed sportsbooks to implement responsible gambling practices, including:

Deposit and loss limits
Self-exclusion programs
Access to resources like the Kansas Problem Gambling Helpline

Kansas also participates in multi-state responsible gambling coalitions to promote safe betting behavior.

The Future of Sports Betting in Kansas City

The legal divide between Kansas and Missouri will continue to shape the sports betting landscape in Kansas City. Missouri lawmakers are under increasing pressure to legalize sports betting due to the success seen just across the state line. If Missouri passes legislation, Kansas City would become one of the most robust betting markets in the Midwest, with options on both sides of the border.

Until then, Kansas remains the go-to destination for legal sports betting in the metro area. With mobile apps, brick-and-mortar casinos, and major sports franchises, Kansas City, Kansas offers a thriving and accessible sports betting experience.