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Iowa Sports Betting: Best IA Online Sportsbook Sites Dec. 2024

Legal Iowa sports betting launched in August 2019 and has only grown. The best sportsbooks in IA — such as top-rated DraftKings, FanDuel, and Caesars — continue offering new players generous Iowa sportsbook promos, including potent welcome bonuses.

Iowa sportsbooks

21+ and present in IA. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-BETS-OFF.

#1

Up To $1,500 Back In Bonus Bets

Bonus bets will expire in 7 days. One new customer offer only. Additional terms and conditions apply.

Features

  • Some of the best live-betting odds.
  • Great deposit options.
  • Earn MGM Rewards from betting activity.
Bet Now

BetMGM Review

BetMGM is one of the top-rated sportsbooks in the U.S. offering some of the best live betting odds in the industry. They’re also the largest iGaming operator across the U.S.

Features

#2

Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets

Deposit required. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply. 21+. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-BETS-OFF

Features

  • Extensive live betting options.
  • More markets than any other sportsbook.
  • One of the best apps in the industry.
Bet Now

bet365 Review

Terms and conditions: Deposit required. Bonus Bets wager excluded from returns. T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply.

bet365 is one of the largest and most popular sportsbooks globally. With a well-received mobile app, popular same-game parlays, and a wide variety of sports leagues to bet on it’s no wonder 80 million sports bettors worldwide continue to use bet365.

Features

#3

Bet $1, Get 10x 100% Profit Boosts

New users only. Must use promo code. Min. $10 deposit. Max. additional winnings $2.5K per token. Tokens expire in 14 days. Void where prohibited. Full terms.

Features

  • Earn Caesars Rewards from betting activity.
  • Live streaming of NFL games.
  • User-friendly mobile app.
Bet Now

Caesars Sportsbook Review

Caesars is proving to be one of the most aggressively expanding brands in sports betting. Unfortunately, like all major U.S. sportsbooks, they are quick to limit you if you go on a tear and their odds boost promos offer low maximum bet limits.

Features

#4

Win $150 + NBA League Pass 🏀

New customers only. Deposit min. $5. Place first bet of $5+ and win $150 in Bonus Bets (within 72 hours).

Features

  • Top-tier app experience.
  • Same Game Parlays and SGP+.
  • Extensive promos and odds boosts.

FanDuel Review

FanDuel reigns supreme right now as the No. 1 betting site in America. And it has largely earned that spot on the strength of superior brand recognition, an easy-to-use product, an overwhelming number of markets for North America’s most popular sports, and representation in every state in which it is permitted to offer legal sports betting.

Features

#5

Get up to $1,000 in No Sweat Bets

Terms and conditions apply.

Features

  • Live in 21 states
  • Extremely powerful brand history and recognition
  • FanCash reward system is great for sports fans

Fanatics Sportsbook Review

Fanatics Sportsbook has launched its app in 22 states already, with plans to expand to more in the near future. Fanatics is poised to be a major player in the sports betting industry.

Features

#6

Bet $5, Win $150 in Bonus Bets

Terms and conditions apply.

Features

  • Lots of promos and odds boosts.
  • Wide range of sports and bet types.
  • Seamless integration with DFS.

DraftKings Review

DraftKings had a solid reputation as the leading DFS provider in the country, so the shift to legal sports betting felt natural. They offer one of the most voluminous collections of ongoing promos and odds boosts in the industry as they cater to the beginner crowd.

Features

Each product featured on our website has been meticulously researched and selected by our team of experts. If you sign up through our links, we may get a commission.

Iowa betting promos and bonuses

It’s a great time to be a new Iowa online sportsbook bettor. All but two operators are offering welcome bonuses in the form of first bet insurance, bonus bets, and deposit match bonuses. While first-time players are the only ones eligible for the sign-up offers, the novice bettors among them can enjoy a safety net of sorts with first bet insurance or bonus bets at a number of sportsbooks:

  • BetMGM: Up to $1,500 in bonus bets
  • Caesars: Bet $1, get double your winnings on next 10 bets
  • DraftKings: Bet $5, win $150 in bonus bets

Veteran bettors or those who have already signed up at one or more of Iowa’s online sportsbooks can still get in on the action in the form of daily and weekly promotions found after you log into your account. These promos include same-game parlays, boosted odds on select events, reduced juice/vig on some matchups, and loyalty rewards, which can be collected and redeemed for future bets and VIP experiences.

Iowa sportsbook 🏆Welcome bonus 💰Promo code ✅
⭐ BetMGMUp to $1,500 in bonus betsSBRBONUS
⭐ FanDuelBet $5, win $150 in bonus betsNo Code Required
⭐ bet365Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets or $1,000 first betSBRBONUS
⭐ CaesarsBet $1, get 10x 100% profit boostsSBRBONUSDYW
⭐ FanaticsUp to $1,000 in bonus betsNo Code Required
⭐ DraftKingsBet $5, win $150 in bonus betsNo Code Required
⭐ Bally BetBet $25, get $150 in bonus betsNo Code Required
⭐ Betfred Sports$105 on FredNo Code Required
⭐ Circa SportsSharp OddsNo Code Required
⭐ DRF SportsbookBonus bet up to $500No Code Required
⭐ Elite SportsbookBonus bet up to $500No Code Required
⭐ Q Sportsbook100% match bonus up to $300No Code Required
⭐ TipicoDeposit $200, get $250No Code Required
⭐ BetRiversUp to $100 second chance betNo Code Required
⭐ ESPN BETUp to $2,000 in bonusesNo Code Required

Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER.

Top Iowa betting sites

All Iowa betting sites offer similar betting markets, betting types, and betting odds. However, to gain your business, operators of sportsbooks in Iowa need to separate themselves from the rest of a crowded field. This is why each market has unique and generous welcome bonuses for new players and lucrative promotions for those already signed up.

Online sportsbooks in Iowa are always looking for the following product features or gimmicks to gain bettors’ attention. Below are what Iowa’s 15 online sportsbooks are best known for these days.

IA sportsbookBest known for
Bally BetDaily odds boosts
bet365Great live betting
Betfred SportsOngoing promotions
BetMGMKing of Parlays
BetRiversAward-winning parent company
CaesarsCaesar Rewards
Circa SportsHigh limit sports betting
DraftKingsIndustry leading products
DRF SportsbookPlayer trusted
Elite SportsbookFirst online sportsbook to launch in Iowa
ESPN BETUnique personality-driven promos
FanaticsGreat merchandise tie-ins
FanDuelTop-rated sports betting app
PointsBetPointsBetting System ™
Q SportsbookLoyalty Rewards
TipicoPartial Cash Out Option

Why DraftKings is the best sportsbook in Iowa 👑

Before DraftKings was one of the first online sportsbooks to enter the Iowa market, they were ahead of the sports betting curve with their daily fantasy sports offerings. They parlayed that success into an industry-leading sports betting app, which — as you can see below — is beloved by Apple and Android users.

New players can take advantage of a bet $5, win $150 in bonus bets welcome offer — no DraftKings promo code necessary. To earn bonus bets, new users must win their first bet. If they lose, they won't receive any bonus bets. From there, they can enjoy daily promotions like boosted odds, reduced juice on select events, and loyalty rewards.

Best of all, DraftKings is best in class regarding customer service. Should you ever have a question, there are plenty of ways to contact DK support and get answers ASAP.

DraftKings Iowa 
⭐ App Store rating4.7/5.0 ⭐ (5K reviews)
📈 Google Play rating4.6/5.0 ⭐ (129K reviews)
🏆 Best featureLoads of micro-betting options
📺 Live streamingYes
💰 Current welcome offerBet $5, win $150 in bonus bets
💵 Payout speedWithin 24 hours
⬇ Download size466.3 MB
🗺 States active25

Where to bet on sports in Iowa: DraftKings review. See how DraftKings compares to another top sportsbook: FanDuel vs. DraftKings.

Screenshot of DraftKings Sportsbook mobile app for iOS devices.
DraftKings iOS App

Other Iowa online sportsbooks and sports betting apps

Caesars Iowa 🏛

Caesars is one of the more aggressive online sportsbook operators when it comes to welcome bonus promotions. Its latest welcome bonus is a bet $1, double your winnings on your next 10 bets, unlocked when new users enter Caesars Sportsbook promo code SBRBONUSDYW during registration.

The global betting brand knows they have an advantage over other online sportsbooks in Iowa because of its longevity and name recognition. The cherry on top is that they’ve produced an elite sports betting app that is popular with all their users.

Payouts at Caesars Sportsbook are lightning quick and processed within five business days.

Caesars Iowa 
⭐ App Store rating4.6/5.0 ⭐ (55K reviews)
📈 Google Play rating4.2/5.0 ⭐ (23K reviews)
🏆 Best featureFrequent odds boosts
📺 Live streamingYes
💰 Current welcome offerBet $1, get 10x 100% profit boosts
💵 Payout speedWithin 24 hours
⬇ Download Size226.7 MB 
🗺 States active22 (+DC)

Where to bet on sports in Iowa: Caesars Sportsbook review

Screenshot of Caesars Sportsbook mobile app for Android devices.
Caesars Android App

FanDuel Iowa 🔵

The app ratings speak for themselves: Sports bettors in Iowa love FanDuel. Apple users rate the product a 4.8, while Android users rate it a 4.7. No other competing operator can match those ratings.

To up the proverbial ante, FanDuel is offering new players a bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets welcome offer on a qualifying first wager win. No FanDuel promo code is required here.

Already have a FanDuel account? No need to worry, as new and existing users will receive a daily boost or bonus throughout the summer.

FanDuel Iowa 
⭐ App Store rating4.7/5.0 ⭐(41K reviews)
📈 Google Play rating4.7/5.0 ⭐(267K reviews)
🏆 Best featureSame-Game Parlay+
📺 Live streamingYes
💰 Current welcome offerBet $5, win $150 in bonus bets
💵 Payout speedWithin 24 hours
⬇ Download size142.4 MB 
🗺 States active22 (+DC)

Where to bet on sports in Iowa: FanDuel review

Screenshot of FanDuel Sportsbook mobile app for Android devices.
FanDuel Android App

BetMGM Iowa 🦁

The self-proclaimed "King of Parlays" continues to roll on with its welcome bonus promotion of up to $1,500 in bonus bets.  If your initial bet loses, BetMGM will credit your account with bonus bets equal to the amount of that bet. Just remember to use BetMGM bonus code SBRBONUS during registration.

Initial bets of $49 or less will be awarded as a single bonus bet, whereas bets of $50 or more will be split into five equal pieces. For example, a $250 initial bet that loses will grant five separate $50 bonus bets.  

On top of a tantalizing welcome bonus, Iowa bettors can enjoy a best-in-class user experience on the BetMGM app and take advantage of live in-game betting, same-game parlays and player prop odds. Payouts are processed and transferred within 2-8 business days.

BetMGM Iowa 
⭐ App Store rating4.8/5.0 ⭐ (186K reviews)
📈 Google Play rating4.1/5.0 ⭐ (25K reviews)
🏆 Best featureExcellent rewards program
📺 Live streamingYes
💰 Current welcome offerUp to $1,500 in bonus bets
💵 Payout speed1-2 days
⬇ Download size114.3 MB 
🗺 States active22 (+DC and PR)

Where to bet on sports in Iowa : BetMGM review

Screenshot of BetMGM Sportsbook mobile app for Android devices.
BetMGM Android App

BetRivers Iowa ⚡

BetRivers doesn’t earn as many headlines as DraftKings and FanDuel, but its parent company, Rush Street Interactive, is a perennial award winner at global gaming industry summits. Currently, BetRivers Iowa offers new players a second chance bet of up to $100 without the need for a BetRivers bonus code.

BetRivers Iowa 
⭐ App Store rating4.4/5.0 ⭐ (3.2K reviews)
📈 Google Play rating3.3/5.0 ⭐ (1.4K reviews)
🏆 Best featureLive-betting options
📺 Live streamingYes
💰 Current welcome offerUp to $100 second chance bet
💵 Payout speed2 - 5 business days
⬇ Download Size184.4 MB
🗺 States active14

Where to bet on sports in Iowa: BetRivers review

Screenshot of BetRivers Sportsbook mobile app for Android devices. 
BetRivers Android App

Fanatics Iowa 🧢

Fanatics is an extremely successful sports merchandiser that entered the sports betting industry after acquiring PointsBet's US business. Fanatics Sportsbook is only available on mobile app, which is one of the best in the sports betting space thanks to the operator's customer service experience.

New users can score up to $1,000 in bonuses without entering a Fanatics promo code at sign-up. The relatively new operator doesn't have as much market share as DraftKings or FanDuel, but a $1,000 bonus offer could help change that. 

To take advantage of the full $1,000 offer, new users must sign up, and then place a bet up to $100 each of their first 10 days with the app. If any of their first daily bets lose, users will be awarded bonus bets equal to the amount wagered and lost. Users must opt-in every day after Day One. They don't need to wager on all 10 days to take advantage of part of the promo.

Fanatics Iowa
⭐ App Store rating4.7/5⭐ (29.2K reviews)
📈 Google Play rating4.5/5⭐ (6.73K reviews)
🏆 Best featureFast banking options
📺 Live streamingYes
💰 Current welcome offerUp to $1,000 in bonus bets
💵 Payout speedWithin 24 hours
⬇ Download size305.6 MB
🗺 States active21

Where to bet on sports in Iowa: Fanatics review

Fanatics Screens

Iowa sportsbooks honorable mentions

While the following online sportsbooks came up a little short in cracking our top six online sportsbooks in Iowa, it’s  worth the time to check out some of them to see if their welcome bonus, user experience and available betting markets suit your needs better than the operators above.

Iowa sports betting key developments and updates

Nov. 27, 2024: BetMGM combines its Rewards Points program into a single digital account, allowing Iowa users to carry over points across jurisdictions.

Nov. 25, 2024: Caesars Sportsbook updates its welcome offer in Iowa. New users now get ten (10) 100% Profit Boosts when they bet $1.

Nov. 18, 2024: DraftKings updates its welcome offer for new Iowa users to bet $5, win $150. 

Nov. 12, 2024: The Iowa sports betting handle grew year-over-year by 15.5% to over $294.9 million in October. However, revenues dropped 23.8% to $18.4 million compared to $24.1 million in October 2023.

Nov. 12, 2024: ESPN BET updates its Iowa welcome offer, allowing new users to earn up to $2,000 in bonus bets. As part of the welcome offer, new users can claim a First Bet Reset of up to $1,500 and a 200% first deposit match of up to $500.

Nov. 5, 2024: bet365 unveils a new Iowa welcome bonus, offering new users $150 in bonus bets.

Oct. 28, 2024: FanDuel updates their welcome offer with a bet $5, win $150 bonus. In addition, new users who bet $5 will get three free months of NBA League Pass whether their first bet wins or loses.

Oct. 14, 2024: The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission released a report showing that the 19 Iowa casinos combined to collect more than $131 million in adjusted gross revenue.

Sept. 20, 2024: DraftKings offer goes to a bet $5, get $200.

Sept. 16, 2024: ClutchBet closes its (virtual) doors in the U.S., including its online sportsbook in Iowa. 

Aug. 31, 2024: ClutchBet announces it will exit all U.S. markets, including Iowa, on September 16, 2024. 

July 10, 2024: Betway announces it will exit the entire U.S. legal sports betting market, including Iowa.

July 10, 2024: The IRGC reports Iowans bet roughly $146.7 million on sports in June, a 19.6% decline from May. However, the June figures are a 20.7% year-over-year increase from June 2023.

May 14, 2024: The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission reports $209.5 million in sports betting handle for April. This is an increase from April 2023 ($172.5 million) and the lowest monthly handle in 2024.

Apr. 30, 2024: Caesars switches its IA welcome bonus back to a $1,000 first-bet insurance deal.

Apr. 3, 2024: The Women's Elite Eight game between LSU and Iowa (with star player Caitlin Clark) was the most bet women's basketball game ever, according to BetMGM executive Seamus Magee.

Mar. 6, 2024: Fanatics announces its Iowa welcome bonus: up to $1,000 in bonus bets ($100 per day for the first ten days).

Feb. 8, 2024: Fanatics Sportsbook goes live in Iowa! The merchandising giants have now launched their sportsbook in 12 U.S. states and counting. 

Nov. 14, 2023: ESPN BET officially goes live in Iowa, along with 16 other states, as the "worldwide leader In sports" kicks off a new business venture of legal sports betting.

Aug. 14, 2023: Hard Rock Bet leaves the Iowa betting market, leaving the state with 17 active books and one more to launch later in 2023 (BallyBet).

Aug. 2, 2023: Iowa State University quarterback Hunter Dekkers is accused of betting on team events and tampering with records, following an investigation by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigations. 

June 2023: bet365 goes live in Iowa.

January 2023: Tipico Sportsbook launches in Iowa to boost the number of sportsbooks back up to 18.

October 2022: Fubo Sportsbook shuts down its operations in Iowa. Online sportsbooks now number 17.

January 2021: After a wonky rollout that required individuals to visit a land-based retail casino to register their sportsbook account, Iowa finally initiates 100% remote registration.

August 2019: Three months after the governor signed the bill, the first batch of retail and mobile sports betting operators launched.

April / May 2019: Iowa lawmakers make quick work of sports betting bill SF-617, as it passes the House and Senate. The following month, Governor Kim Reynolds signs Bill SF-617 into law. Sports betting is coming to the Hawkeye State.

May 2018: The United States Supreme Court strikes down the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), opening the proverbial door for individual states to determine whether or not to legalize sports betting.

Iowa sports betting summary

IA sportsbook quick facts
🚀 Launch DateAugust 2019
➡️ Legal sports betting age 21+
🔔 Iowa regulatorIowa Racing and Gaming Commission
▶️ Sports betting licenses19
📱 Online sports bettingYes
🎰 Retail sports bBettingYes
🖥️ Online casinosYes
🃏  Online pokerNo
📱  Sports betting apps15
🌎 State Population3.19 million
💵 Projected 2024 HandleRoughly $3 billion

How we rate and review Iowa sportsbooks

Sportsbook Review’s team of experienced bettors are from different regions and conduct unbiased evaluations and assessments of the top Iowa online sportsbooks and IA sports betting apps. If you're new to online sports betting, it can be challenging to determine which features are most essential.

Fortunately, SBR aims to simplify the process and clarify our rating and review criteria. We thoroughly analyze the most crucial aspects and only include the best operators in our top sportsbook rankings.

Welcome bonuses and promotions 💰

To create a positive first impression, operators strive to capture the attention of potential players with attractive welcome bonuses and promotions. These promotions include deposit matches, bonus bet bonuses, and first-bet insurance to encourage new players to be bolder in their initial wager.

Once the sign-up offers have ended, players can still benefit from reduced juice, odds boosts, bonus bets, no-risk bets, and loyalty reward programs. These perks offer players points on every bet, which can be redeemed for future bets, entry into tournaments, and exclusive VIP experiences unavailable elsewhere.

User experience 📱

Evaluating user experience can be pretty subjective since everyone has different preferences. Nevertheless, we all recognize a positive experience as a negative one. The app should perform seamlessly without any freezing or crashing issues. The site must be user-friendly and allow for easy navigation. 

The process of creating a betting slip should be straightforward, and banking options should be easily accessible. As more states and operators launch, we have discovered that a seamless process leads to a better user experience. The fewer clicks needed to reach your destination, the smoother the experience will be.

Sports bet variety ⚽

Sportsbooks must go beyond offering odds of just the four major US sports and provide bettors with access to a diverse range of markets. At SBR, we evaluate sportsbooks based on their offerings for European soccer, PGA majors, tennis majors, UFC events, and heavyweight boxing bouts.

It's not just about the variety of sports but also the types of bets available. Novice bettors will appreciate moneyline, point spread, and point totals betting options, but we also look for sportsbooks that offer live in-game betting, player props, parlays, teasers, and futures odds. A wide range of bet types ensures that there's something for everyone, regardless of skill level.

Banking options 💳

Before legal sports betting came to Iowa, potential players' banking options were a primary concern. However, this is no longer an issue, as most online sportsbooks in the state now accept major credit and debit cards, PayPal, bank wire transfers, and other e-wallet options.

Payout speed 💸

SBR's editorial team evaluates the withdrawal process for each of the 15 online sportsbooks in Iowa. Most sportsbooks take five business days to process payout requests, although requesting a physical check may take up to 15 business days. A faster payout speed results in a higher rating from SBR.

Security and customer service 📞

Ensuring the security of personal and financial information is paramount regarding online sports betting in Iowa. That's why Iowa sportsbooks use the latest encryption software and prioritize data security to safeguard bettors' information. It's crucial to avoid bad actors accessing your data by having proper firewall protections in place.

In case you encounter any problems, Iowa sportsbooks need to have easily accessible customer service reps available at all times. Most sites and apps now offer live chat functions, which provide quick responses to your queries rather than waiting on hold via phone or waiting for an emailed response. The customer service team available through live chat can answer all your questions on demand and provide the assistance you need.

How to start betting in Iowa

Suppose you're looking to get in on the action of Iowa sports betting, whether it's putting money on the Hawkeyes to win the Big Ten or backing the Chicago Cubs to win the World Series. In that case, there are a few things to remember before placing your first bet with an online sportsbook in the Hawkeye State. Here's a quick and easy guide on how to get started betting with Iowa online sportsbooks.

Select a Sportsbook Licensed in Iowa

The first step is to research by reviewing some or all of the online sportsbooks available in Iowa. With more than a dozen operators to choose from, it's important to choose a sportsbook that is licensed and regulated by the state to ensure that your funds are safe and secure. Take some time to read reviews and compare odds and promotions before deciding which sportsbook to register.

Register Online

Once you've found a sportsbook that suits your needs, it's time to register your account. The registration process is quick and easy, taking less than five minutes to complete. You'll need to provide some basic personal information like your full name, home address, email address, phone number, date of birth, and social security number. This information is used to verify your identity and prevent fraud.

The operator will likely send a verification email to authorize and activate your account. After that’s done, you’ll create a unique password. The strongest sportsbook passwords are a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers and special character at least eight characters.

Deposit and Claim a Bonus

After you've completed the registration process, it's time to fund your account. Most sportsbooks offer various deposit options, including credit cards, debit cards, bank transfers, and popular e-wallets like PayPal and Skrill. Make sure to check for any welcome bonuses or promo codes that you can use to boost your bankroll. Just read the terms and conditions carefully to ensure you understand any wagering requirements or restrictions that may apply.

Select and Finalize Your Bet

Now that you have a funded account, it's time to start betting. Iowa sportsbooks offer a wide range of betting markets, including popular sports like football, basketball, baseball, and hockey, as well as niche sports like MMA, boxing, and golf. Use the sportsbook's user-friendly interface to browse the available betting options and add your selections to your bet slip. Once you're satisfied with your picks, finalize the wagers by submitting your bet slip.

Win and Withdraw Your Payout

If your bets are successful, you'll want to withdraw your winnings as soon as possible. Most sportsbooks offer several payout options, including bank transfers, e-wallets, and physical checks. Be aware that some payout methods may take longer than others, so check the processing times before making a request.

Remember to always gamble responsibly and within your means.

Iowa sports betting handle

Iowa sportsbooks raked in a betting handle of $2.34 billion in 2022, up from $2 billion in 2021. Operators enjoyed a record $165.5 million in revenue, nearly double that of the 2021 fiscal calendar. All the action generated $11.9 million in Iowa tax revenue.

As the Iowa sports betting industry continues to thrive, the projected betting handle for 2023 was expected to exceed $3 billion. In the end, they fell a bit short of this number, bringing in $2.42 billion for the year. 

Easing sports betting limitations like new legislation allowing bets to be placed on the NFL Draft will go a long way to increasing the monthly handle when NFL and college football are out of season. Iowa sports betting is off to a hot start in 2024, as evidenced by the numbers below.

2023 Iowa Sports Betting Handle
January$233.6 million
February$193.8 million
March$232.6 million
April$172.5 million
May$147.7 million
June$115.5 million
July$109.6 million
August$141.2 million
September$245.7 million
October$255.2 million
November$289.6 million
December$282.7 million
Total$2.42 billion
2024 Iowa Sports Betting Handle
January$259.5 million
February$220.6 million
March$272.3 million
April$209.5 million
May$182.5 million
June$146.7 million
July$138.1 million
AugustTBD
SeptemberTBD
OctoberTBD
NovemberTBD
DecemberTBD
Total$1.43 billion

Iowa sports leagues and teams to bet on

Although Iowa isn’t home to any professional sports teams, bettors who grew up in the region share their allegiance with a wide swath of “local” teams from Chicago, up to Minnesota and even Kansas City and St. Louis.

While it’s always fun to root, root, root for the “home” team, the practice makes for a shaky sports betting strategy. It’s always better to wager with your brain rather than your heart. Do your homework before any bet and don’t blindly wager on the team or teams you like the most.

Check on weather reports, injury updates, suspensions and keep up-to-date on breaking news that may impact the outcome of the event. This will allow you to wager with peace of mind and keep your bankroll in better shape than risking too much on the hometown squad.

NFL 🏈NBA 🏀MLB ⚾ NHL 🏒
Chicago BearsMinnesota TimberwolvesMinnesota TwinsChicago Blackhawks

Outside of the Big Four North American pro leagues, there are plenty of other options. Sporting Kansas City of MLS plays just a few hours South of the Iowa state line, and there are four NCAA Division I athletic programs in the state, including the Iowa State Cyclones and the University of Iowa Hawkeyes

Iowa’s best online sportsbooks are not limited to just the big four sports leagues, those being the NFL, NBA, MLB and NHL. Sports betting markets can be found around the globe including European pro soccer, PGA tour events, international tennis tournaments like Wimbledon and the Australian Open, UFC bout cards and heavyweight boxing matches, just to name a few. Don’t settle for a sportsbook that only offers odds from the four major sports and look to expand your horizons.

Sports bettors can check out the top sportsbooks for specific sports, leagues, playoffs, and categories:

Of Iowa’s 15 active online sportsbooks, three joined the party since the start of 2022: DRF, Tipico, and, most recently, Fanatics. What’s crazy is how much larger the Iowa sports betting landscape can grow in the years to come because the current law states that up to 57 online sportsbook licenses can be issued. That’s more than three times the number of online sportsbooks and sports betting apps Iowans have to choose from today!

Additionally, bettors can play Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) at any of the legalized sportsbooks that offer it. Check out our list of the best DFS sites to learn more. 

Iowa’s Online and Mobile Sportsbooks

Online Sportsbooks and Sports Betting AppsLaunch Date
Bally BetJune 2021
bet365 June 2023
Betfred SportsSeptember 2020
BetMGMJanuary 2021
BetRiversJanuary 2021
CaesarsAugust 2019
Circa SportsOctober 2021
DraftKingsFebruary 2020
DRF SportsbookJanuary 2022
Elite SportsbookAugust 2019
ESPN BETNovember 2023
FanaticsFebruary 2024
FanDuelSeptember 2020
PointsBetNovember 2019
Q SportsbookNovember 2019
TipicoJanuary 2023

Land-Based VA Sportsbooks

There are 17 retail sportsbooks found in Iowa’s 19 land-based casinos. Part of the sports betting law required online sportsbook operators to partner with at least one retail location. Caesars Sportsbooks went above and beyond and can be found inside five different Iowa sportsbooks including Harrah’s Council Bluffs and Isle Casinos in Bettendorf and Waterloo.

Retail SportsbookLocation
Betfred SportsbookGrand Falls
Caesars SportsbookHarrah’s Council Bluffs
Caesars SportsbookHorseshoe Casino
Caesars SportsbookIsle Casino Bettendorf 
Caesars SportsbookIsle Casino Waterloo
Caesars SportsbookPrairie Meadows 
Draft DayRhythm City
Draft DayRiverside Casino
DraftKingsWild Rose Clinton
DraftKingsWild Rose Emmetsburg
DraftKingsWild Rose Jefferson
DRF SportsbookLakeside
FanDuelDiamond Jo Dubuque
FanDuelDiamond Jo Worth
Hard Rock SportsbookSioux City 
PointsBet SportsbookCatfish Bend
Q SportsbookQ Casino

Who Can Bet on Sports in Iowa?

Legal Age 🎂

You must be at least 21 years old to wager on sports in the state of Iowa.

Mobile Betting 📱

Mobile betting has been legal in the Hawkeye State since August 2019. You can wager via online sportsbooks, while at a local coffee shop or download a sports betting app to your Apple or Android smart device.

Remote Registration 💻

After online sports betting went live in August of 2019, Iowa was a little bit behind on the remote registration process. For more than a year, bettors had to visit a physical brick and mortar sportsbook to complete their registration. However, as of January 2021, remote registration became the new normal and mobile sports betting sign-up can take place anywhere. It will take less than five minutes to complete.

Within State Borders 🌎

You do NOT need to be a full-time resident of Iowa to wager at online sportsbooks, sports betting apps or retail sportsbooks. However, for those interested in mobile betting, you must be located within state borders when you log into your preferred sports betting site and/or app. Operators are now using geofencing software to determine your location. If you’re outside Iowa state lines, the software will not let you place a wager.

Retail Sportsbooks 🏢

Iowa residents and visitors to the state can find 17 retail, land-based sportsbooks. Caesars has the most visibility inside five different retail sportsbooks in the state.

Taxable Winnings 💸

While online sportsbook operators are taxed on 6.75% of their annual revenues, individual bettors who make more than $600 must report their winnings and are taxed at 5%. This is separate from the 24% federal tax rate. Remember, sports betting losses can offset winnings. Be sure to keep accurate records of your wins and losses throughout the year to help reduce your tax burden.

What you can and can't bet on in Iowa

The Hawkeye State is pretty relaxed in their sports betting markets. With 15 online sportsbooks to keep happy, the more options for players, the better. However, there are a few categories that are still prohibited. So, you won’t be able to find betting odds at legal Iowa online sportsbooks.

Politics ❌

You know it’s primary season when presidential hopefuls start showing up in Iowa. Unfortunately for those “in the know,” betting on politics is illegal in the United States. So, you won’t find any odds to win the 2024 presidential election at any Iowa online sportsbook, sports betting app or retail, land-based sportsbook.

Entertainment Award Ceremonies ❌

Unfortunately, you can’t wager on popular award shows like the Grammys, Emmys or Oscars. Since some states around the country do allow online sportsbooks to post these odds, Iowa may update their legislation to allow for these wagers in the future.

A recent update to Iowa law now allows for sportsbook operators to list betting odds on the annual NFL Draft and individual player awards handed out at season’s end like Most Valuable Player and Coach of the Year.

Esports ❌

Betting on sanctioned eSports events is currently prohibited in the Hawkeye State. However, that may soon change as legislation and efforts by various operators are working towards a solution to make betting on sanctioned video game tournaments legal in Iowa down the road.

What about Iowa College Sports? 🎓

It is legal to bet on college sporting events no matter if the matchup features an Iowa school. This is great come the Big Ten / Big 12 Tournaments and March Madness when Iowa and Iowa State are in the mix. You can not wager on college player prop odds, however.

Responsible sports betting in Iowa

The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (IRGC) is the governing body in charge of legal sports betting oversight. The IRGC reviews applications, issues licenses, performs regular audits, enforces laws and, when necessary, issues fines. Their mission states that they are responsible to ensure the integrity of licensees and the sports betting public.

The IRGC makes sure that each online sportsbook partners with at least one land-based, retail sportsbook during the licensing process. The license fee is $45,000 and sports betting revenue is taxed at 6.75%, which is quite low compared to other states around the country.

The IRGC also helps fund and lead initiatives to address, prevent and treat problem gambling. Portions of tax revenues garnered from sports betting are applied to these programs and resources. Individuals interested in learning more are encouraged to call 1-800-BETS OFF.

National U.S. gambling helpline: 1-800-GAMBLER

Sportsbooks to avoid in Iowa

Prior to legal sports betting coming to Iowa in 2019, players were limited in their access to safe sportsbooks. Aside from a trip to Las Vegas, many would take the chance on offshore sportsbooks and sports betting apps. These illegal sites are not regulated by state or federal entities, which could put your personal and financial information at risk. This can lead to things like bank fraud and identity theft. Additionally, many offshore sportsbook operators have been shut down over the years for not fulfilling payout requests and scamming players out of their own money.

BetOnSports ❌TopBet ❌ 131Sport ❌
Blacklisted since 2006Scam sportsbookBlacklisted since 2007
Over $16 million owedOver a dozen reported confiscated winningsHistory of scams
Players got pennies on dollar in settlementOffline with $45,000 unpaid to players

This is why it is better to avoid offshore and illegal sportsbooks and stick with legal Iowa online sportsbooks and sports betting apps.

Growth of sports betting 📈

When the U.S. Supreme Court repealed PASPA in 2018, the growth of legal sports betting in the United States skyrocketed. Close to three dozen states have since legalized some form of sports betting, with the most common legislation including the licensing of online sportsbooks and mobile betting apps. Check our legal sports betting tracker to find out more about any state you're interested in. 

Over the past few years, large states like Ohio and Massachusetts have enjoyed massively successful online betting launches. Sports fans get an extra way to engage with their favorite teams, and the states earn plenty of much-needed revenue from licensing fees and taxes.

More recently, legal North Carolina sports betting arrived on March 11, 2024, bringing eight of the best sportsbooks in the country to the Tar Heel state. And with events like the Copa America and Euro 2024 soccer tournaments happening all Summer long, the excitement and opportunities for sports betting enthusiasts continue to grow.

Iowa sports betting FAQs

Is sports betting legal in Iowa?

Yes, sports betting became legal in Iowa in 2019 and launched both retail and mobile sportsbooks in August of that year.

When did sports betting go live in Iowa?

Sports betting went live in Iowa in August of 2019 when two sportsbooks – William Hill and Elite Sportsbooks launched on the same day.

Where can I bet on sports in Iowa?

You can place a sports bet at one of 15 online sportsbooks and sports betting apps – like DraftKings and FanDuel – or visit one of 17 retail land-based sportsbooks, five of which are branded as Caesar properties around Iowa state.

How many online sportsbooks are there in Iowa?

There are 15 online sportsbooks – each with its own sports betting app – available in Iowa.

What sportsbooks are legal in Iowa?

Iowa has 15 online sportsbooks to offer interested players: bet365, BetMGM, BetRivers, Caesars, Bally Bet, Betfred, Circa Sports, DraftKings, DRF Sportsbook, Elite Sportsbook, ESPN BET, FanDuel, Fanatics, Q Sportsbook, and Tipico.

Iowa also has 17 land-based retail sportsbooks if you’re interested in placing a wager in-person.

  • Betfred at Grand Falls
  • Caesars at Harrah’s Council Bluffs
  • Caesars at Horseshoe Casino
  • Caesars at Isle Casino Bettendorf
  • Caesars at Isle Casino Waterloo
  • Caesars at Prairie Meadows
  • Draft Day at Rhythm City
  • Draft Day at Riverside Casino
  • DraftKings at Wild Rose Clinton
  • DraftKings at Wild Rose Emmetsburg
  • DraftKings at Wild Rose Jefferson
  • DRF Sportsbook at Lakeside
  • FanDuel at Diamond Jo Dubuque
  • FanDuel at Diamond Jo Worth
  • Hard Rock Sioux City
  • PointsBet at Catfish Bend
  • Q Sportsbook at Q Casino

Can you bet on Iowa-based teams in Iowa?

With no pro sports teams in the Hawkeye State, it’s a good thing Iowa allows betting on in-state collegiate events. This allows bettors to wager on Iowa football, Iowa State basketball and more!

Do you have to live in Iowa to bet online?

No, you don’t have to be a full-time Iowa resident to wager at online sportsbooks. However, state law does require sports bettors to be located within state lines at the time of logging into their sportsbook and at time of placing a wager. Operators use geofencing software within their products to verify your location at all times.

How do you place a sports bet in Iowa?

Iowa sports bettors have three options when placing a sports bet in the state via retail, land-based sportsbooks, online sportsbooks via laptop or desktop computer or sports betting apps, which can be accessed via smart device.

Are sports betting apps legal in Iowa?

Yes, sports betting apps and mobile sports betting became legal in 2019 and launched in August of that year.

What is the minimum age to bet in Iowa?

You must be at least 21 to bet on sports in Iowa.