The sports betting world is booming, and apps like FanDuel are leading the charge. If you’re thinking about creating your own sports betting app, you’re entering a fast-growing market. But to succeed, you’ll need more than just a great idea—you’ll need a solid understanding of the app’s features, the development process, and the costs involved. Partnering with a reliable sports betting software development company can help ensure that your app is secure, scalable, and engaging.

This guide walks you through everything you need to know to build a sports betting app like FanDuel, from essential features and revenue models to development costs and choosing the right development partner.

Sports Betting App Development: The Basics

Developing a sports betting app involves several key components, from user-friendly design and real-time data handling to security and regulatory compliance. Working with experienced developers can help guide you through each step, ensuring your app is intuitive, secure, and meets legal standards. Whether you’re starting with a simple version or aiming for advanced features, understanding the basics is essential for building a successful sports betting platform.

What is a FanDuel App, and How Does It Work?

FanDuel is a popular sports betting platform that offers various options, including traditional bets, daily fantasy sports (DFS), and live betting. FanDuel’s appeal lies in its easy-to-use interface, real-time data, and secure payment options. Partnering with developers who understand the ins and outs of platforms like FanDuel can help you build a similar app that appeals to users and provides a smooth, enjoyable betting experience.

How FanDuel Works

FanDuel’s appeal lies in its simplicity and range of options, making it a versatile platform. Here’s a quick overview of how it works:

1. Account Creation and Verification: Users create an account and go through a verification process to ensure they meet legal betting age requirements and are within a jurisdiction that allows sports betting.
2. Funding the Account: After registration, users can add funds to their account using the secure payment options provided. This balance can be used for DFS entries, sportsbook wagers, and casino games.
3. Placing Bets or Joining Contests: Users can navigate to different sections of the app to join DFS contests, place traditional bets on upcoming games, or engage in live betting. For DFS, users draft teams with salary caps and compete for prizes based on players’ performances.
4. Real-Time Tracking and Results: Once a bet or contest entry is placed, users can track results in real-time. This includes live score updates, player stats, and dynamic odds adjustments, which are all integrated into the app to enhance user engagement.
5. Withdrawing Winnings: Users can easily withdraw winnings through secure methods, often the same as their deposit option, making it a straightforward process.

FanDuel’s success can be attributed to its comprehensive and flexible platform, appealing to a diverse audience of sports fans. If you’re looking to develop a similar app, partnering with developers who understand platforms like FanDuel can ensure your app is engaging, user-friendly, and fully equipped to handle real-time data and secure transactions.

Market Overview of FanDuel App

The sports betting market has seen exponential growth in recent years, and FanDuel has captured a significant share. Since the U.S. Supreme Court lifted the federal ban on sports betting in 2018, the industry has boomed. According to recent data, the U.S. sports betting market is expected to reach $140 billion by 2028, growing at a rate of 10-12% annually. FanDuel itself has consistently been one of the top-grossing apps in this space, with a user base growing by over 20% each year. This rapid growth indicates a strong and increasing demand for betting platforms, making it an ideal time for new entrants to consider building a similar app.

 

How Much Does It Cost to Build a Sports Betting App Like FanDuel?

The cost to develop a sports betting app like FanDuel can vary significantly depending on your app’s complexity, desired features, and development timeframe. Here’s a breakdown of costs:

• Basic Version: $10,000–$15,000. This includes core features like user registration, basic betting options, and simple UI/UX design.
• Mid-Tier App: $15,000–$30,000. This app includes additional features like real-time odds, betting API integration, and secure payment gateways for handling transactions.
• High-End App: $30,000+. This level of app includes premium features such as live streaming, advanced analytics, multi-level user accounts, and comprehensive security features to handle larger volumes of users and data.

Key Factors Affecting the Cost:

1. App Design: A high-quality, user-friendly design requires investment but is essential for user satisfaction.
2. Backend Development: Real-time data processing, betting logic, and secure transactions form the backbone of the app.
3. Compliance and Licensing: Licensing costs vary by region but are necessary for legally operating a betting app.
4. Advanced Features: Integrating features like gambling payment gateway options and betting API integration adds cost but boosts the app’s appeal.

Working with an experienced sports betting software development company helps ensure cost-effective and efficient development. They can guide you through each phase, ensuring you get the features you need without compromising on quality.

How Does FanDuel’s Betting App Make Money?

FanDuel has multiple revenue streams, including:

• Transaction Fees: A percentage is taken from each transaction.
• In-App Advertising: Revenue from ads and partnerships with sports leagues.
• Premium Features: Offering additional features or exclusive bets for a fee.
• Loyalty and Engagement Programs: Promotions and loyalty bonuses encourage users to place more bets, increasing revenue.

Understanding FanDuel’s revenue models can help you decide on the best ways to monetize your app effectively.

How to Develop a Betting App Like FanDuel: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating a sports betting app like FanDuel requires careful planning. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

• Define Your Business Model
  Decide how your app will make money. Options include transaction fees, ads, or paid features. Choose a model that aligns with your target audience.
• Research Legal and Compliance Requirements
  Different countries have distinct regulations for sports betting. It’s essential to meet these requirements to avoid legal issues.
• Choose Essential Features
  Key features include betting options, real-time odds, and user accounts. Integrating a betting API can make accessing real-time data easier, while a gambling payment gateway will ensure secure, fast transactions.
• Partner with Data Providers
  Betting relies on real-time data, so partner with a reliable data provider for accurate odds and game statistics.
• Select a Tech Stack
  Choose technologies that support scalability, security, and real-time data handling. Node.js for the backend, Swift for iOS, and Kotlin for Android are popular choices.
• Build the Backend
  Develop a robust backend that can handle user data, betting calculations, and real-time game updates securely.
• Integrate Payment Gateways and Betting APIs
  Work with a sports betting software development company to incorporate secure payment options and integrate betting APIs to support real-time betting.
• Rigorous Testing
  Testing for functionality, user experience, and security is crucial before launch.
• Launch and Market the App
  A strong launch strategy, along with user engagement tactics like promotions, is essential for success.

This process can be complex, but working with an experienced development partner can simplify it and ensure your app meets all industry standards.

Key Features for a Sports Betting App Like FanDuel

To make your app competitive, consider including these essential features:

• User Registration and Profile Management: An easy signup process with options for personalized accounts.
• Multiple Betting Options: Single bets, parlays, and live betting options.
• Live Streaming and Real-Time Odds: Engages users and adds excitement with live updates.
• Secure Payment Gateways: Integrate gambling payment gateway options like PayPal, credit cards, and crypto to facilitate smooth and secure transactions.
• Push Notifications: Real-time alerts for odds updates, promotions, and game events.
• Social Sharing and Leaderboards: Features like these allow users to share bets and compare results with friends.
• Advanced Security Features: SSL encryption and two-factor authentication to protect user data and transactions.
• Betting API Integration: Using betting API integration allows your app to access real-time sports data and odds, making the betting experience seamless and accurate.

These features can help you build a powerful sports betting app that attracts users and keeps them engaged.

How to Choose a Sports Betting App Development Company to Create an App Like FanDuel

Selecting the right development partner is key to a successful app launch. Here’s what to consider when choosing the best sports betting app development company:

Industry Experience: A development company with a portfolio of successful sports betting apps is essential.

Expertise in Real-Time Data and API Integration: Real-time odds and game data are central to sports betting, so the company should be experienced with betting API integration and real-time updates.

Knowledge of Compliance and Legal Issues: Choose a company that understands the regulatory environment for sports betting.

Customizable Solutions: You want a company that can offer custom solutions tailored to your needs rather than one-size-fits-all packages.

Post-Launch Support: Ongoing support for updates, bug fixes, and maintenance is essential for long-term success.

A skilled sports betting software development company will guide you through each phase of development and ensure that the app meets all industry standards.

Conclusion

Developing a sports betting app like FanDuel in 2025 is an exciting opportunity in a fast-growing industry. To succeed, you’ll need to carefully consider features, user experience, security, and compliance. Partnering with a sports betting software development company can help ensure your app is well-built and ready to compete in a demanding market. With the right approach and features, your app can attract a loyal user base and drive consistent revenue.

Common Questions about Sports Betting App Development

1. What are the essential features for a sports betting app like FanDuel?

Essential features include user registration, multiple betting options (such as single bets, parlays, and live betting), real-time odds updates, secure payment processing, live streaming, push notifications, and user account management. Advanced features may include social sharing, analytics, loyalty programs, and responsible gaming tools.

 

2. How much does it cost to develop a sports betting app like FanDuel in 2025-2026?

The cost to develop a sports betting app can vary widely depending on complexity, features, and location of developers. Basic versions may start at $10,000–$15,000, while a full-featured, FanDuel-like app with live streaming, secure payment options, and real-time data integration can range from $15,000 to $30,000 or more.

3. What technology stack is best for building a sports betting app?

For the backend, popular choices include Node.js, Ruby on Rails, and Python. For mobile development, Swift (iOS) and Kotlin (Android) are ideal. Real-time data can be managed through WebSocket or REST APIs, and Firebase or MongoDB are suitable for database management. For payment processing, secure gateways like PayPal or Stripe are recommended.

4. How long does it take to develop a sports betting app similar to FanDuel?

Development timelines can vary, but for a basic version, expect around 6–8 months. A more complex app with advanced features like live streaming and in-play betting may take 12–18 months, especially if you’re integrating third-party APIs and ensuring compliance with regulatory standards.

5. What are the steps involved in creating a sports betting app like FanDuel?

Key steps include market research and planning, defining app features, choosing a tech stack, designing the UI/UX, backend and frontend development, integrating real-time data and payment systems, testing, securing regulatory compliance, and launching with a marketing plan.

6. How can a sports betting app generate revenue?

Sports betting apps generate revenue through transaction fees on bets, in-app advertising, premium features, and partnerships. Some also offer subscription models for premium access to exclusive data and analytics. FanDuel, for example, charges fees on daily fantasy sports contests and generates ad revenue through partnerships with leagues and brands.

7. Is it legal to develop and operate a sports betting app like FanDuel?

Legality depends on the region. Sports betting is regulated in many countries and U.S. states. You’ll need to comply with local gambling laws, obtain licenses, and follow regulatory guidelines to legally operate a sports betting app. Consulting with a legal expert on gambling laws is advised.

8. How does real-time data integration work in a sports betting app?

Real-time data integration is typically achieved through APIs from data providers that deliver live scores, player stats, and odds. These APIs feed data directly into the app, allowing for live betting options and updating odds as events unfold. Popular providers include Sportradar, BetRadar, and Stats Perform.

9. What security measures should be in place for a sports betting app?

Security is essential for sports betting apps, as they handle sensitive data and payments. Key measures include SSL encryption, two-factor authentication, secure payment gateways, anti-fraud tools, regular security audits, and compliance with industry standards like PCI-DSS for payment security.

 

10. What are the best practices for choosing a sports betting app development partner?

Look for a partner with experience in sports betting apps, expertise in real-time data and API integration, knowledge of compliance requirements, and strong post-launch support. Reviewing their portfolio and client testimonials is also helpful to ensure they can handle the unique challenges of sports betting app development.