Sports Betting Taxes: States Squeeze Sportsbooks in 2026

Infographic showing sports betting tax increases. Chicago combined rate exceeds 52%. Illinois per-bet tax of $0.25-$0.50 caused 15% volume drop. New Jersey up to 21%, Louisiana to 21.5%, Maryland to 20%.

States Squeeze Sportsbooks Sports betting operators entered 2026 facing a new reality: rising tax burdens that threaten profitability and may ultimately affect the odds offered to bettors. Illinois led the charge with unprecedented tax increases, and other states are following. For contrarian bettors, understanding this squeeze helps explain why lines may vary more dramatically by … Read more