North Carolina does not allow online casinos; no operators are licensed to offer games like slots or table games. While online sports betting, the state lottery, and daily fantasy sports are permitted, all other forms of internet-based casino gambling remain prohibited.
Legal Gambling Age in North Carolina: | 21+ |
Latest Online Gambling Bill: | House Bill 347 (2023) approved mobile betting, not online casinos |
Who Will Regulate Online Casinos in NC: | North Carolina State Lottery Commission (if legalized in the future) |
Expected Real Money Casinos: | BetMGM, Caesars Palace, DraftKings, Golden Nugget, BetRivers, Fanatics, Horseshoe |
Number of Social Casinos in North Carolina : | 20+ |
Number of Land-Based North Carolina Casinos: | 3 |
North Carolina has not legalized online casinos, so real money slots and table games are still off-limits. Although sports betting was approved in 2023, broader gambling expansion has stalled, partly due to tribal agreements and a cautious legislative climate.
As of mid-2025, no new legislation, including House Bill 347, has been introduced to legalize online social casinos in North Carolina. While broader gambling expansion has been debated, persistent political opposition has stalled any forward movement.
Several state lawmakers have taken clear stances on expanding gambling, including online casinos. Here’s where key figures currently stand:
While online sports betting has secured legislative backing, the road to legalizing online casinos in North Carolina remains unclear, with political pushback and social concerns still standing.
Since real money online casinos are still illegal in North Carolina, players can use offshore or stick with legal social sites. While social casinos are safe and prize-based, platforms carry significant risks.
Offshore casinos may seem tempting, but they’re a risky option without regulation or oversight. Until North Carolina legalizes online casinos, it’s best to avoid them.
North Carolina permits land-based casinos, but some games like live craps and roulette have only recently been allowed and may not be available at all locations. Most casinos operate under tribal agreements with a mix of slots and table games.
Casino | Town/City | Opening Hours |
---|---|---|
Harrah’s Cherokee Casino Resort | Cherokee, NC | 24 hours |
Harrah’s Cherokee Valley River Casino & Hotel | Murphy, NC | 24 hours |
Catawba Two Kings Casino-Resort | Kings Mountain, NC | 24 hours |
These locations are currently the only legal options for in-person gambling in North Carolina and will likely remain the primary choice for players until online casinos are legalized.
North Carolina provides support and resources to help individuals gamble responsibly and seek help if gambling becomes a concern. Whether you visit casinos or play online, knowing where to find assistance is key to staying in control.
North Carolina Problem Gambling Program
Website: www.morethanagame.nc.gov
Helpline: 1-877-718-5543
These resources can make a big difference in maintaining healthy gambling habits and ensuring that play stays safe and enjoyable.
Yes, but only in specific forms. North Carolina permits online sports betting, lottery games, and daily fantasy sports, while real-money online casinos remain illegal. Players can legally access social and sweepstakes casinos as alternatives. Legalizing online casino gaming would require new legislation, which has not yet been proposed in the state.
In North Carolina, you’ve got to be 21 to gamble at casinos or place a sports bet. But if you’re buying a lottery ticket or playing bingo, 18 is old enough. The state takes these age rules seriously, so getting caught gambling underage can lead to trouble or getting banned from playing.
Yes, North Carolina does tax gambling winnings. Any money you win from betting, the lottery, or casinos must be reported on your state and federal tax returns. The state applies a flat 4.75% income tax. Taxes might be taken out upfront for larger payouts, but you’re still responsible for reporting all winnings.