How we rate and review NJ online casinos
At Covers, our experts test and retest the best NJ online casinos using our PlaySmart™ System. We review the variety and quality of games, payment options, casino bonuses, security, and mobile optimization. You can rest assured that we rigorously test each platform to ensure we're recommending only the best online casino sites.
What to look for in an online casino
There’s a lot to consider when choosing an online casino. Using our PlaySmart™ System, we focus on five aspects of online casinos to determine which websites and apps stand a cut above the rest in New Jersey. Let’s look at how our PlaySmart™ System works and what you should look for before joining an online casino.
Bonuses and promotions
We’ve already introduced some of the best offers at NJ online casinos, but these promos regularly change. Make sure you find a site with generous welcome bonuses and promotions and read the terms of the offers carefully before signing up.
Banking and payout speed
At most online casinos, you can deposit funds via debit card, credit card, bank transfer, or a range of e-wallet options. Ultimately, every site has different rules and payout times, so check out which methods are supported at your chosen site and how long you should expect to wait to see your winnings.
Software and games
Games are the bedrock of any online casino. Look for titles from the likes of NetEnt, Evolution, and Microgaming, and choose a casino that offers a vast selection of table games, live dealer experiences, and classic and progressive slots.
Security and trust
Find out if your chosen site is licensed to operate in NJ and read independent reviews to learn more about the online experience. At Covers, we only recommend licensed and regulated NJ online casinos.
Mobile experience
Online casinos in the Garden State have purpose-built mobile apps that you can download on iOS and Android, meaning you can download and play online at any time from anywhere in the state.
Most popular real money casino games in New Jersey
Let's look at some of the games you can enjoy at reputable online casino sites in New Jersey.
Baccarat
This classic French table game is an excellent option for beginners. Your job is to predict which of the dealt hands in front of you will be closer to nine. If it's good enough for James Bond, it's good enough for the rest of us!
Blackjack
You might know blackjack as 21 or pontoon. This much-loved casino game is easy to learn as you seek to beat the dealer and get your card's total as close to 21 without busting. Online casinos offer variations like face-up 21 and perfect pairs bonus games to keep things interesting.
Craps
Craps is a legendary table game and one of the most popular online casino games today. The aim of the game is to predict the roll of a pair of dice, and you can place multiple bets on various outcomes.
Live dealer
Instead of playing computerized versions of your favorite table games, you can enjoy live dealer experiences. This is where you play with a real-life dealer, which provides a gratifying and immersive online experience.
Poker
Online poker is especially popular in New Jersey. Whether you're a fan of 7-card stud or Texas hold 'em, try your luck at your favorite online casino for a chance to win big.
Roulette
Roulette is perhaps the most accessible online casino game. Your job is to predict where the ball will land after spinning the wheel, and most gamblers opt for black or red to get started.
Slots
The sheer variety of slot games online ensures there is something for everyone. With themed games and much-loved titles offering players huge jackpots, you will be amazed at the variety of the slots provided at your chosen online casino.
Sports betting
Online sports betting in NJ is also legal. So, once you're done at the poker table, you can build an NHL parlay for the upcoming New Jersey Devils game at an online sportsbook without logging out of your casino account.
How to start playing online casino games in NJ
Getting started at an online casino in NJ is straightforward, as we explain below.
1
Select an online casino
Look for an online casino that satisfies your list of “must-haves.” Whether it’s competitive welcome bonuses, an excellent user experience, an enormous library of casino games, or lightning-quick payouts, make sure you choose a platform that meets your expectations.
2
Register online
Follow the instructions and create an account on your chosen site. Be prepared to share your personal information and confirm that you’re physically located in New Jersey.
3
Deposit funds
Consider the deposit requirements and choose a payment method to add funds to your new online casino account. Remember that your first deposit typically yields a bonus, so read the terms carefully.
4
Choose a casino game
You can get started by playing a traditional table game or spinning the reels on an exciting slot — it’s entirely up to you. Try a demo if you need a refresher on the game's rules.
5
Start playing
After making your selection, place your bets and start playing. It’s always a good idea to bet small at the start so your bankroll lasts longer.
6
Withdraw funds
You can withdraw your winnings if you’ve hit the jackpot or beat the dealer. Remember that most online casinos in NJ have withdrawal times between one and five days.
Legal NJ online casinos
In the state of New Jersey, eight land-based casinos in Atlantic City hold licenses that permit them to operate online casinos. These casinos can partner with up to five skins — or brands — each. The following online casinos are live in New Jersey.
Legal NJ land-based casinos
As of 2023, there are nine land-based casinos in the state of New Jersey, and they are all situated in Atlantic City. The New Jersey Casino Control Commission regulates all casinos. Atlantic City attracts visitors from all over the world who enjoy the incredible atmosphere on the casino floors at the following locations:
| Casino |
Address |
Phone number |
Hours |
| Bally’s Atlantic City |
1900 Pacific Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401 |
(609) 340-2000 |
Open 24 hours |
| Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa |
1 Borgata Way, Atlantic City, NJ 08401 |
(609) 317-1000 |
Open 24 hours |
| Caesars Atlantic City |
2100 Pacific Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401 |
(609) 348-4411 |
Open 24 hours |
| Golden Nugget Atlantic City |
600 Huron Ave, Atlantic City, NJ 08401 |
(609) 441-2000 |
Open 24 hours |
| Hard Rock Hotel & Casino |
1000 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401 |
(609) 449-1000 |
Open 24 hours |
| Harrah's Resort Atlantic City |
777 Harrah's Blvd, Atlantic City, NJ 08401 |
(609) 441-5000 |
Open 24 hours |
| Ocean Resort Casino |
500 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401 |
(609) 783-8000 |
Open 24 hours |
| Resorts Casino Hotel Atlantic City |
1133 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401 |
(609) 340-6300 |
Open 24 hours |
| Tropicana Casino Resort Atlantic City |
2831 Boardwalk, Atlantic City, NJ 08401 |
(609) 340-4000 |
Open 24 hours |
New Jersey online casino updates
Land-based casinos have been legal and thriving in Atlantic City since the 1970s. What’s more, the Garden State took the initiative regarding online gambling, first proposing legislation in 2010, as we explain below:
March 21, 2016: PokerStars NJ goes live and becomes the dominant poker network in the state.
Nov. 26, 2013: Multiple online casino sites launch in NJ, including 888, FanDuel, Borgata, and Caesars, among others.
Feb. 26, 2013: New Jersey Governor Chris Christie signs bill A2578, approving licenses for online gaming sites in the state. The licensed online casinos are told that they must partner with existing land-based casinos in Atlantic City.
March 3, 2011: Gov. Chris Christie vetoes a bill that would’ve legalized online casino gambling.
Nov. 2, 1976: Casino gaming was legalized in Atlantic City in an effort to regenerate the urban area.
NJ land-based casinos vs. online casinos
While a weekend break in Atlantic City is hard to beat, the legalization of online casinos in NJ has made gambling much more accessible to NJ residents and visitors. You can now play at an online casino and choose from a huge selection of classic and contemporary casino games from the comfort of your own home or anywhere else in New Jersey.
Responsible gaming in New Jersey
As gambling has been legal in New Jersey since the seventies, the state supports a range of initiatives to assist with problem gambling. The New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) ensures strict industry standards are followed. The DGE works alongside the New Jersey Casino Control Commission, which licenses and regulates online gambling sites in the state.
Moreover, the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey has a free helpline and provides resources, workshops, and meetup groups for those struggling with gambling addictions in the Garden State.
Visit the Council on Compulsive Gambling of New Jersey
Affiliate Disclosure: Covers boasts more than 25 years of sports betting experience. Our long-standing relationship with regulated, licensed, and legal gaming sites allows our active community of 20-million users to access expert analysis and recommendations. Covers may receive an advertising commission if you visit a sportsbook or casino betting site via select affiliate links across our site, create an account, and make a deposit. However, no amount of money ensures that an operator will get listed.
PlaySmart™ Rating: 4.4/5
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