Welcome to The iGaming Channel — your trusted source for professional insights into building smarter, compliant, and high-performing gambling affiliate businesses.

In this episode, we’re diving into one of the biggest stories in global iGaming: the explosive growth of legal sports betting in the United States.

This series is produced by our sports betting marketing agency as part of our Best iGaming Affiliate Programs series from our casino marketing and sportsbook marketing agency.

From just a handful of legal states in 2018 to 38+ states by 2025, the U.S. is rapidly becoming the world’s most dynamic—and regulated—sports betting market. If you're an affiliate marketer, content creator, or media brand, this is your chance to understand where the real opportunities lie—and how to grab them.📍 Where the U.S. Stands Today in Sports Betting

In 2025, over 75% of the U.S. population lives in a state with legalized sports betting.

Notable markets include: • New York – Massive handle, strong brand presence, high CPA offers • New Jersey – Mature market, great for experienced affiliates • Ohio & Massachusetts – Fresh demand, high engagement • California & Texas – Still pending, but huge potential when regulated

📌 Tip: Stay updated on state-by-state legislation. Being early gives you a major edge when new markets open.📈 Why the U.S. Boom Is Big for Affiliates

Projected to exceed $40 billion by 2026, the U.S. sports betting economy is fueling: • 💰 Premium CPA/hybrid deals — up to $250+ per FTD • 📱 High mobile usage rates and app-based betting culture • 🔐 Increased regulation = advantage for licensed, transparent affiliates

✅ Use content formats that resonate: odds comparisons, parlay builders, bonus reviews, and state-specific guides.🏟️ Align Content With Major U.S. Sports CalendarsIf you want to win in the U.S., speak the language of the fans. Focus on: • NFL – The biggest driver of betting volume, especially around playoffs • NBA – Daily traffic, DFS tie-ins, star appeal • MLB – Long season = SEO and evergreen content potential • College Football & NHL – Regional loyalty = high conversion rates📌 Tip: Build content around game days, betting previews, and trending player props.

🌎 Localize with a State-by-State Affiliate Strategy

Unlike most iGaming markets, the U.S. is fragmented by state. That means: • Create dedicated landing pages (e.g. /ny/, /pa/, /mi/) • Use geotargeting to show only licensed operators per state • Offer localized bonus codes, payment methods, and content angles • Track each state’s marketing compliance requirements

📌 “One-size-fits-all” content will not convert. Customization = better rankings, trust, and clickthroughs.🤝 Partner With Top U.S. Sportsbook Affiliate ProgramsOperators are actively recruiting quality affiliates.✅ Negotiate for exclusive promo codes, hybrid deals, and geo-specific landing pages that boost conversions.🧠 Compliance Is the Cornerstone of Long-Term Success

With increased regulation comes increased scrutiny. Make sure your U.S. content includes: •

✅ Age disclaimers (18+ or 21+ where applicable) • ✅ Responsible Gambling messaging (e.g. 1-800-GAMBLER) • ✅ Clear bonus terms & eligibility •

✅ Zero tolerance for unlicensed operators📌 Non-compliance isn’t just risky—it’s business-ending. Stay compliant, stay visible.📊 Action Checklist to Win in the U.S. MarketTo succeed in 2025 and beyond: ✅ Build U.S. sports-specific content✅ Create state-based landing pages & offers✅ Partner only with licensed U.S. sportsbooks✅ Prioritize mobile UX and video SEO✅ Stay current with U.S. regulatory news