Sports betting in the US has grown massively since the Supreme Court lifted the federal ban in 2018. With dozens of states now offering legal sportsbooks, American bettors are exploring every strategy to get an edge. One approach that often gets attention is arbitrage betting — sometimes called “arbing” — where a bettor covers all outcomes of an event using different sportsbooks and locks in a guaranteed profit no matter who wins.
At first glance, it sounds like the holy grail of betting: risk-free money. But is it really possible in the US, where odds differ across sportsbooks and rules vary by state? The short answer is yes, it can be done — but it’s not as simple as it looks.
Also Read: How to use sabermetrics (WAR, OPS, WHIP) in MLB betting
This guide breaks down how arbitrage betting works in the US, why odds create these opportunities, the risks you need to consider, and whether it’s worth trying.
What is arbitrage betting?
Arbitrage betting happens when different sportsbooks post odds that don’t perfectly align. By betting both sides of the same market with different bookies, you can guarantee a profit.
For example:
- Sportsbook A: Team X to win at +120
- Sportsbook B: Team Y to win at +120
If you split your stakes correctly, you profit no matter which side wins. These small differences usually exist because sportsbooks move lines at different times or adjust odds differently to balance their books.
Is arbitrage betting legal in the US?
Yes, arbitrage betting is legal. You’re simply placing two bets with licensed sportsbooks. There’s no law against it.
However, sportsbooks don’t like it. If a betting site notices you consistently exploiting arbs, it may limit your account, reduce your maximum bet size, or even ban you.
Also read: How to bet in US states where online betting isn’t legal yet
How to find arbitrage opportunities in the US
- Compare multiple sportsbooks – Have active accounts across at least 3–5 legal books in your state (FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars, etc.).
- Look for line discrepancies – Focus on sports with fast-moving odds like NBA, NFL, and tennis.
- Use odds comparison tools – Some third-party apps and websites highlight potential arbs in real time.
- Act quickly – Odds change within seconds, and arbs disappear fast.
Challenges of arbitrage betting in the US
- Limited opportunities: Because of advanced software, sportsbooks quickly adjust odds, so arbs don’t last long.
- Betting limits: Many US books cap stake sizes, making big profits hard to achieve.
- Account restrictions: Heavy arbing activity may trigger “gubbing” (limits on your betting account).
- Math errors: Small mistakes in calculating stakes can wipe out the profit margin.
- State restrictions: Availability of sportsbooks varies — arbs are harder in states with fewer legal operators.
Is arbitrage betting worth it in the US?
Arbitrage betting in the US is possible, but it’s rarely a path to serious money. The profits are usually small (often 1–3% per bet), and the effort to manage multiple accounts, track odds, and avoid restrictions can be overwhelming.
For most casual bettors, it’s more of a side experiment than a reliable strategy. For serious bettors, it requires discipline, speed, and access to several sportsbooks.
FAQs
1. Is arbitrage betting illegal in the US?
No. Arbitrage betting is legal since you’re just betting with licensed sportsbooks. But books may limit your account if you do it often.
2. Can I use one sportsbook for arbitrage betting?
No. Arbitrage relies on differences between sportsbooks, so you need at least two (ideally more).
3. How much money can you make from arbitrage betting?
Most arbs yield 1–3% per wager. While profits can add up, they’re rarely life-changing.
4. Do sportsbooks ban arbitrage bettors?
They can restrict accounts, lower bet limits, or remove bonuses if they detect consistent arbing activity.
5. Is arbitrage betting worth trying in the US?
It’s possible, but it requires time, quick reactions, and multiple sportsbook accounts. Many bettors find it too much effort for the small returns.
