What You Need to Know About Prop Betting Legal in New York
If you’ve ever watched a Giants or Bills game and thought, “I bet Josh Allen throws for 3 TDs today,” then prop betting is right up your alley. But here’s the big question: Is prop betting legal in New York?
Short answer: Yes — with a few caveats.
Whether you’re a seasoned sports bettor or just diving into the world of player props, knowing what’s allowed (and what’s not) in the Empire State is key to staying safe, sharp, and profitable. In this article, we’ll cover where things stand legally, which sportsbooks offer props in NY, and which platforms give you the best edge in 2025.
A Quick Primer: What Are Prop Bets?
Before we dive deep into the legality of prop betting in New York, let’s break down what a “prop” actually is.
A prop bet, short for “proposition bet,” is any wager not directly tied to the final outcome of a game. That means instead of betting on the Giants to win, you might bet on Saquon Barkley rushing for 80+ yards, or whether the first score will be a field goal.
Prop bets are often divided into two categories:
- Player Props – Based on individual performance (passing yards, receptions, etc.)
- Game Props – Based on events in the game (first team to score, total penalties, etc.)
In short: props make games more fun — and for savvy bettors, more profitable.
Is Prop Betting Legal in New York in 2025?
Yes — prop betting is legal in New York, but there are a few important restrictions.
Since January 2022, online sports betting has been fully legalized in New York, including most types of prop bets. You can legally place prop wagers on major sports through licensed sportsbooks like FanDuel, DraftKings, Caesars, and BetMGM.
But here’s the twist: you can’t bet on college player props in New York.
That means if you want to wager on Caleb Williams’ passing yards in a USC game — you’re out of luck unless you’re outside state lines. New York law currently prohibits any prop bets on individual college athletes, even when the game is out-of-state.
What Prop Bets Are Allowed in New York?
Here’s a breakdown of what you can and can’t do when it comes to prop betting in New York:
✅ NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, and other pro sports prop bets
✅ Game props, like total sacks or first touchdown scorer
✅ Live/in-play props during the game
❌ College player props
❌ High school or amateur sports of any kind
Pro Tip: Even though college player props are banned, you can still bet on team totals and spreads in NCAA games — just not on individual performances.
Why Are College Prop Bets Banned in New York?
The state banned college player props mainly for integrity and player protection reasons. Lawmakers feared increased pressure or harassment toward unpaid athletes if betting markets included their stats.
There’s also concern about underage athletes being the target of online abuse, especially if a missed shot or fumble cost someone a bet.
While other states (like New Jersey and Pennsylvania) allow certain college props with restrictions, New York has taken a hard no — at least for now.
Best Apps for Prop Betting in New York
Even with some restrictions, NY is home to some of the biggest sportsbooks in the game. Here are the top platforms offering robust prop betting options in 2025:
FanDuel Sportsbook
- Strengths: Deep player prop markets, slick app, same game parlays.
- NY Bonus: Usually the fastest to update in-play props for Giants and Jets games.
DraftKings Sportsbook
- Strengths: Tons of alternate lines, custom prop options, great for NFL bettors.
- Watch For: Frequent “no-brainer” promos on player props.
Caesars Sportsbook
- Strengths: User-friendly interface, competitive odds.
- Perk: Best for new users who want a clean, simplified prop layout.
BetMGM
- Strengths: Reliable platform, good live betting features.
- Bonus Tip: Look for “Lion’s Boosts” on popular NY-based prop bets.
All of these are 100% legal and licensed to operate in New York, and all offer player props on pro sports. Just don’t expect to bet on Syracuse’s QB any time soon.
Tips to Maximize Your Prop Betting Edge in NY
1. Use Multiple Sportsbooks
Different platforms have different odds — and in prop betting, a 10-yard difference can be massive. Open accounts on at least 2–3 books and line shop.
2. Track Injury Reports and Snap Counts
Volume is king. Knowing whether a WR is playing 90% of snaps or splitting time can make or break your bet.
3. Watch the Weather
Cold, rainy, or windy conditions? Fade the passing props. New York weather hits hard, especially late season.
4. Use Prop Betting Tools
Sites like Props.Cash, FTN Bets, and BetKarma offer data-driven insights that go deeper than your gut instinct. And yes, many offer free versions that work in NY.
How to Bet on Props in NY: Step-by-Step
If you’re new to prop betting or just visiting NY, here’s how to get started:
- Download a licensed sportsbook app (FanDuel, DraftKings, etc.)
- Verify your identity — usually takes under 5 minutes.
- Deposit funds using a debit card, PayPal, or online banking.
- Find the game you want to bet — go to NFL → Player Props.
- Choose your prop (e.g., Garrett Wilson Over 5.5 receptions).
- Enter your stake and hit “Place Bet.”
Boom — you’re in the game. Just remember: college player props won’t show up in the NY version of these apps.
Can You Bet Props at Retail Sportsbooks in NY?
Yes — but you’ll be limited.
Retail sportsbooks (like those in upstate casinos) offer props, but the selection isn’t as deep as what you get online. If you’re hoping to place a custom same game parlay in person, don’t hold your breath.
Your best bet? Stick to mobile sportsbooks. They’re faster, more flexible, and often have better odds.
Are There Any Loopholes?
Sort of — but they’re legal.
Since New York bans college player props only within the state, some bettors drive to New Jersey or Connecticut to place college props legally on the same sportsbooks.
Apps like FanDuel and DraftKings will geo-locate your phone. So if you’re physically in Hoboken or Stamford, you’ll get the full menu — including college props.
We’re not saying you should do this every Saturday… but we’re not saying you shouldn’t either.
Will NY Ever Allow College Player Props?
It’s possible.
There’s growing pressure from bettors and sportsbooks to loosen the rules. Some legislators have suggested allowing props on out-of-state college games or setting betting limits to protect athletes.
But for now, the ban is still in place, and there’s no concrete timeline for change.
Final Thoughts: Is Prop Betting Legal in New York?
Let’s wrap it up clearly:
- ✅ Yes, prop betting is legal in New York — for pro sports.
- ❌ No, college player props are not allowed.
- 🟢 Top apps like FanDuel and DraftKings are your best bet.
- 🧠 Smart bettors use tools, line shop, and track news.
- 🚗 Want college props? Head to New Jersey or Connecticut.
As long as you stay within the rules (and within state lines), prop betting in NY can be one of the sharpest, most entertaining ways to get involved in sports betting.
Whether you’re betting on Josh Allen, Jalen Brunson, or Aaron Judge, one thing’s for sure: the Empire State is open for props — just not for college stars.
FAQs About Prop Betting Legal in New York
Is prop betting legal in New York for the NFL?
Yes, all pro sports props — including the NFL — are legal in NY.
Why can’t I bet college player props in New York?
NY law prohibits prop bets on individual college athletes to protect student players.
Can I drive to another state to place college prop bets?
Yes. Geo-located apps like FanDuel and DraftKings allow full access in states like NJ or CT.
What’s the best prop betting app in NY?
FanDuel and DraftKings are both top-tier, offering tons of player and game props.
This article is for informational and entertainment purposes only and does not constitute legal or gambling advice. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy at the time of publication, gambling laws and regulations may change. Readers are responsible for checking the current legal status of prop betting and sports wagering in their jurisdiction.
Sports betting is intended for adults aged 21 and over. Please gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER.