Balancing innovation against strict regulation is a pathway to allow online poker in the US. Although more than 35 states permitted sports betting, poker’s expansion has been far slower. Some states offer regulated platforms, others limit play to lottery‑backed systems, and many still prohibit online poker.
As of 2025, only a handful of states authorize real-money poker games, leaving players with a confusing legal map. Knowing where poker is legal, why some states resist, and how interstate compacts affect liquidity is essential for anyone interested in the game’s future.
States Leading the Online Poker Market in the US
Eight states currently operate regulated online poker markets. It includes Nevada, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Delaware, West Virginia, Connecticut, and Rhode Island.
Here’s a quick overview of the poker scene in those eight states.
- Nevada led the way in 2013 with WSOP, proving that state regulation and proper oversight can create a viable poker market.
- New Jersey quickly followed and became the largest US market by linking its online platforms with Atlantic City casinos and participating in the Multi-State Internet Gaming Agreement (MSIGA).
- Pennsylvania legalized poker in 2017 and launched in 2019, building one of the most successful markets without interstate pooling.
- Michigan joined in 2021 and soon entered MSIGA, showing how cross‑state liquidity transforms a modest market into a profitable ecosystem.
- Delaware uses a lottery-run model.
- West Virginia, Connecticut, and Rhode Island also have laws on the books, though their small populations mean traffic remains thin.
Which States Are Still on the Sidelines?
Many jurisdictions now allow sports betting or land-based casinos, but exclude poker. New York, Illinois, and Indiana fall into this category. Each of these jurisdictions has mature wagering markets, yet repeatedly postpones poker bills.
Some lawmakers say poker should be treated differently because it’s a game of skill, not just luck. But not every state feels the same way. Places like Utah, Hawaii, and Washington have tough gambling bans and show no signs of changing anytime soon.
Online Poker Alternatives in Unregulated States
Some US states stand in a gray area. They have proposed but not enacted laws. For example,
- California, the biggest possible market, is stuck in talks between tribal casinos, card rooms, and lawmakers.
- States like Kentucky and North Carolina have looked at bills, but nothing has passed yet.
- Alaska and Nebraska remain silent on the issue.
For now, players in these states without legal options often use locally run sweepstakes or offshore sites. Overseas-based online poker platforms follow foreign laws but accept US players.
They also have license details and support crypto payments. Just before depositing funds, players should verify areas where playing poker online is permitted to avoid violating local laws or risking their money on unlicensed platforms.
Multi‑State Compacts and Liquidity
Poker revenue lags far behind sports betting, which generated around $6.50 billion in May 2025, according to the American Gaming Association. This gap shows why states need to share player pools to keep poker profitable.
Interstate agreements are vital for online poker as the game thrives on large player pools. Under MSIGA, Nevada, New Jersey, Delaware, and Michigan share players, increasing tournament sizes and cash‑game options.
Michigan shows how well it can work. After joining the multi-state compact, player traffic and prize pools got bigger. Delaware and West Virginia also depend on these agreements to keep their games strong and competitive.
What Are The Current Challenges and Future Prospects?
Unlike sports betting, there’s no federal framework for online poker; states must pass their own laws and regulate platforms within their borders. Geolocation software enforces this requirement, so players must physically be in a legal state to participate.
Many lawmakers prioritize lotteries that directly fund education and worry that poker could divert revenue. Strong opposition from religious groups and local gaming interests also slows progress.
That said, momentum is growing. Industry experts believe New York and Illinois could be next in line to legalize it. Kentucky and North Carolina might also join in by building the sports-betting systems. In California, the regulations depend on settling long-running disputes between tribal casinos and card rooms.
Budget pressures are prompting more states to consider regulated poker. As lawmakers look for new revenue sources, the idea of licensing and taxing the game sounds more convincing.
FAQs
1. Which state was the first to legalize online poker?
Nevada was the first US state to legalize and launch online poker in 2013.
2. Can anyone play on legal poker sites from another state?
Yes. You do not need to be a resident, but you must be physically within a legal state, as geolocation software verifies your location.
3. Are offshore poker rooms safe?
Yes, offshore platforms operate outside the US and follow the laws of foreign jurisdictions, such as Malta and Curacao. These licensed poker sites accept players from all over the US. You can use cryptocurrencies to keep your identity private and safe.
4. Which states might legalize poker next?
Market analysts point to New York, Illinois, and Kentucky as strong contenders. California could join if its stakeholders reach an agreement, while other states may follow as economic pressures increase.
Final Words
Online poker is legal in just eight states, but the results show it can work. Multi‑state compacts between states keep games busy and prize pools strong.
With budget gaps and proven success in places like New Jersey and Michigan, more states may follow. As more states confront budget deficits, legal online poker may continue to expand.
