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Iowa Sports Betting: Best Iowa Sportsbooks March 2024

Written by: Rhianna Padman
Fact-checked by: James Whitelock
Updated March 4, 2024
11 min read

Sports betting is legal in Iowa

In August 2019, legal online sports betting launched in Iowa and the state hasn’t looked back since. Currently, there are 17 online sportsbooks available to Iowa bettors. We’re covering all the details of Iowa sports betting on this page, as well as the best sign up bonuses you can claim right now.

Best Iowa Sportsbooks in March 2024

Logo #1

FanDuel

4.8/5

Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets

21+ | Terms and conditions apply

🔥 Claimed by 144 people this week!

Logo #2

Caesars

4.3/5

$1,000 First Bet on Caesars

21+ | T&Cs Apply. Gambling problem? Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER.

🔥 Claimed by 43 people this week!

Logo #3

DraftKings

4.8/5

Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets Instantly

21+ | T&Cs apply

🔥 Claimed by 138 people this week!

Logo #4

BetMGM

4.4/5

Get Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets!

21+ | T&Cs apply. *Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Add’l terms.

Logo #6

Betway

4.5/5

Bet $50, Get $200 in Bonus Bets

21+ | T&Cs Apply

Logo #7

BetRivers

4.1/5

$500 Bonus Bet

21+ | VA only | Gambling problem? Call 1-800-532-3500

How We Rated the Top Iowa Sports Betting Sites

Our process for rating sportsbooks is straightforward. It is simply guided by our own hands-on experience. We take the time and effort to personally test each sportsbook, as we believe that this is the only way to fully evaluate a platform and its betting process

Our team is required to spend at least 2 hours researching and testing each of the following areas for every review: 

  1. User Experience: We understand that the user experience is a fundamental part of creating an enjoyable and convenient betting experience. Our team dedicates time to exploring and navigating the sportsbook platform and evaluating how intuitive and well-designed it is. We look at both the desktop and mobile versions to ensure that there is a uniform experience across different devices. 

  2. Features: We value sportsbooks that have a deep range of sports and betting markets. We also look at any additional features, such as cash-out, live betting, picking services, and Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) options

  3. Promotions: We like sportsbooks that have a variety of bonuses that keep you engaged with their site, starting with a great welcome offer. We make sure to opt in and try out these offers personally to see if they are worth your time, while looking in detail at the T&Cs. We also spend time delving into any loyalty schemes, their rewards, and how to earn points. 

  4. Deposits and Withdrawals: We want a sportsbook to offer a smooth payment process. This includes having a range of payment methods, whether traditional options like debit cards or bank transfers and modern methods such as e-wallets and cryptocurrencies. We test out every single method, taking into account processing times, limits, or any fees. 

  5. Customer Support: We know that customer service is essential, so we personally try out the available support channels to see how helpful and quick they are. This involves messaging the live chat, calling the phone number, and emailing support. We use the same set of questions for every book, so we can compare their efficiency. We also evaluate the effectiveness of the FAQs on offer. 

  6. Responsible Gambling: We hold sportsbooks in the highest regard and are committed to promoting responsible gambling. We assess the availability of helpful links, information, and hotlines, as well as tools such as deposit/wager limits, self-exclusion options, and reality checks. 

Our process does not end there, as we have a team of post-publication editors that spend 5 hours per month to check that each review is accurate and updated.  

Why You Should Trust Us

At WSN, we are dedicated to being a trustworthy and authentic source of information for our readers. Our expertise is built on a comprehensive understanding of the betting industry from years of active involvement, first as fans and then as professional writers. 

For every page we write, we employ a first-hand perspective on the overall betting experience by immersing ourselves in the platform. This hands-on approach allows us to provide you with insights that go beyond the surface and offer in-depth reviews, calling out both the positives and negatives we find.

Our aim is to help you make informed betting decisions through our experience so that you can easily navigate the world of sports betting in Iowa and beyond. 

In-Depth Look at the Best Online Sportsbooks in Iowa

Sports Betting Iowa

1. FanDuel Sportsbook

Best for: Mobile app

FanDuel is our top pick for a US sportsbook providing a premium betting experience; this is evidenced by the fact that it claimed the title for the highest total betting revenue in 2022. If you are looking for a platform that delivers an unbeatable experience, whether on the desktop or mobile, look no further than this sportsbook. 

New players are welcomed to FanDuel with $200 in bonus bets after making a deposit and wagering $5 on the moneyline, as long as the initial bet wins. There are a whole host of other regularly updated promotions that can be found at FanDuel. Including profit boosts and a Refer a Friend offer. 

The mobile app is our standout feature of this sportsbook, earning a stellar rating of 4.8/5 on the App Store and 4.7/5 on the Google Play Store. FanDuel’s app is a user-friendly and convenient platform that works just as seamlessly on mobile as on a desktop. 

Another praiseworthy attribute of FanDuel is the speed of the withdrawal processing time. By using PayPal, Venmo, and Prepaid+, you can enjoy your winnings within 24 hours. 

Pros

  • Industry-leading app

  • Most used sportsbook

  • Speedy withdrawal times

Cons

  • VIP scheme could be improved

  • Further payment options could be added

Have a look at our in-depth FanDuel review to learn more.

FanDuel Sportsbook Iowa Promo

2. Caesars Sportsbook

Best for: Loyalty scheme 

Caesars is a widely recognized brand in the US, and its sportsbook lives up to its excellent reputation. If you are looking for a trusted platform, then check out Caesars Sportsbook.

Loading the homepage, you are greeted by a clean and sleek platform that has a premium feel. After signing up with promo code WSN1000, if you lose your first bet, you will receive up to $1,000 in bonus bets. It is a great introduction to the platform, whether you are a newcomer or an already experienced bettor. 

On top of the welcome bonus, new players are given 1,000 Tier and Reward Credits. The sportsbook’s loyalty scheme is fantastic, as it provides rewards that utilize other aspects of the Caesar’s brand. With each bet, you receive Caesar Rewards points, which determine your level and rewards. Top prizes include trips to Caesar’s Resorts, premium events, and room upgrades. 

If you do run into any issues, then there are several ways that you can contact customer support, including 24/7 automated live chat, phone numbers, email, or social media.

Pros

  • Rewarding loyalty scheme

  • Responsive customer service

  • Generous welcome package

Cons

  • Fewer ongoing bonuses

  • The automated live chat is a little convoluted

Dive into our in-depth Caesars Sportsbook review for further information.

Caesars Iowa Promo

3. DraftKings Sportsbook

Best for: All-round platform

Starting off as a DFS platform, DraftKings expanded its reach to sports betting after its legalization and has since grown to be a leading platform across the US. If you are looking for a platform that has excellent extra features, then try out DraftKings. 

At DraftKings, you can get a $1,000 safety net bet. You'll get up to that amount in bonus bets if your first bet loses. Rewards can also be gained through ‘DraftKings Dynasty’, the sportsbook’s generous loyalty scheme. Deposits and withdrawals are also a breeze with a wide array of 13 payment methods, including traditional and modern options. The sportsbook has the lowest minimum deposit in the industry, at just $5. 

Along with the largest selection of sports and betting markets in the industry, you can find plenty of other features such as DFS, live betting, same-game parlay options, and cash out. All of this can be enjoyed through DraftKings' top-rated mobile app, available on iOS and Android. If you have any queries, you can either consult their useful betting guides or contact the responsive and helpful customer service. 

Pros

  • Fantastic mobile app

  • Frequent promotions

  • Low deposit limits

Cons

  • Cryptocurrencies not accepted

  • No phone support

Learn more in our detailed DraftKings review.

Lebron James Super Bowl Bet DraftKings

4. BetMGM Sportsbook

Best for: Welcome bonus

BetMGM has a renowned reputation within the betting industry, operating as a subsidiary of MGM Resorts. If you are on the search for a reputable brand that plentifully rewards its dedicated players, then check out this sportsbook.

Whether you are looking for mainstream sports such as basketball and football or more niche options like darts or badminton, there are plenty of markets at BetMGM. The sportsbook also has a fantastic live betting service, where you can watch games through a live stream and view detailed statistics while you bet. BetMGM’s app is excellent, too, providing its full range of deep betting markets like props, SGPs, and live betting on the go.

BetMGM has a valuable loyalty scheme called MGMRewards, where you earn points through every wager made. Your points can be converted into bonus credits, but they can also unlock special rewards such as dinners, hotel stays, and trips integrated with MGM Resorts. 

As an introduction to the platform, you can claim $150 in bonus bets after wagering just $5.

Pros

  • $158 welcome bonus bet

  • Top rewards scheme

  • Fantastic live betting

Cons

  • Fewer regular promotions

  • No betting history stats

Take a closer look at our BetMGM review for more insights.  

BetMGM Promo Offer

5. bet365 Sportsbook

Best for: Selection of bonuses

A well-established name in the UK, bet365 has expanded across the sea, launching in six US states. If you want an across-the-board consistent platform that has a variety of bonuses, then bet365 is a great option to consider.

When signing up, bettors are given the choice between two great welcome offers. You can either opt for a $1,000 second chance bet or $150 in bonus bets after a $5 wager. It is particularly impressive that bettors are given the flexibility to choose an offer that aligns with their betting risks and preferences.

Bet365 is renowned for having excellent live betting options, and it does not disappoint. You can find convenient live streaming, stats, and betting data for an enjoyable real-time betting experience. These features are also available on the sportsbook’s dedicated app, which has an impressive 4.8/5 on the App Store and 4.6/5 on the Google Play Store. If mobile betting is your preference, it is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

  • Choice between welcome bonuses

  • Reputable global name

  • Highly-rated mobile app

Cons

  • A lot of information on the screen at all times

  • Only legal in six states

Check out our in-depth bet365 review to learn about its features.

bet365 promo offer

6. Betway Sportsbook

Best for: Detailed statistics on events

Betway has been in the betting business for 25 years, developing into a reputable platform that is licensed to operate in dozens of countries worldwide. If you choose Betway as your preferred sportsbook, then you are opting for a user-friendly and reliable experience. 

After signing up, new bettors are eligible for up to $250 in bonus bets if they lose their first bet. You can also find regular promotions, both on popular, topical events and simply general on-running offers, like weekly parlay bonuses. Looking at the interface itself, it is sleek and functionally-arranged, with the look of a classic sportsbook. 

Bettors can explore a good array of 21 sports with a great variety of markets in each. For each sporting event, helpful statistics can be viewed that tell you everything that needs to be known about the two teams. This can aid you in making informed betting decisions and save time on external research.  

Customer service at Betway is top-notch with several ways to get in touch with an agent. You can email, call, or even use Twitter, but the easiest and quickest way to receive a response is through the 24/7 live chat. 

Pros

  • Detailed statistics for most sports

  • Multiple customer support options

  • Excellent ongoing promotions

Cons

  • No rewards scheme

  • $250 second chance offer isn’t the highest

For a detailed overview, take a look at our Betway review.

Betway Iowa Sports Betting Promo

7. BetRivers Sportsbook

Best for: On-running promos

BetRivers simplifies the sports betting process with an intuitive and easy-to-use platform. If you are a newcomer, then BetRivers is an ideal choice for you to get started. 

As a new player, there is a second chance bet bonus of up to $100. It is not as large as that of other sportsbooks, but it is a great taste for beginners who are trying out betting for the first time. At BetRivers, you can also find regular promotions for major leagues like the NFL, NBA, and NHL almost every week.

The strength of BetRivers lies in its simplicity. The platform is clearly laid out and streamlines the betting process for beginners. You can also find helpful tips and in-depth statistics that you can research before making any betting choices.

Another great aspect of the sportsbook is the loyalty scheme called iRush Rewards. Bettors can progress through 11 tiers to receive increasingly attractive rewards such as free bets, bonus cash, and other prizes. 

Pros

  • Easy-to-use platform

  • Underrated choice

  • Great loyalty scheme

Cons

  • App design could be improved

  • No 24/7 live chat

If you wish to learn more, read our comprehensive BetRivers review

  • WSN rating: 4.1/5

  • Sign-up offer: $100 Second Chance Bet 

  • App rating: 4.4/5 (iOS); 3.5/5 (Android)

Betrivers Iowa Promo

Full List of Legal Sportsbooks in Iowa

The full list of all 17 legal online sportsbooks that are available in Iowa is here: 

  • Bally Bet

  • bet365

  • Betfred Sports

  • BetMGM

  • BetRivers

  • Betway

  • Caesars Sportsbook

  • Circa Sports

  • ClutchBet

  • DraftKings 

  • DRF Sportsbook

  • ESPN Bet

  • FanDuel

  • PointsBet

  • Q Sportsbook

  • SuperBook

  • Tipico

Iowa Online Sports Betting Sites

Online SportsbookRetail PartnerMobile AppOnline CasinoLaunch Date
Bally BetElite Casino ResortsxJune 30, 2021
bet365 Casino Queen MarquettexJune 5, 2023
Betfred SportsGrand FallsxSept. 10. 2020
BetMGMDiamond Jo CasinoxJan. 4, 2021
BetRiversWild RosexJan. 1, 2021
BetwayWild RosexOct. 1, 2021
Caesars SportsbookGrand FallsxAug. 1, 2021
Circa SportsDiamond Jo CasinoxOct. 7, 2021
ClutchBetQ CasinoxSept. 19. 2022
DraftKingsWild RosexFeb. 19, 2020
DRF SportsbookLakeside CasinoxJan. 25, 2022
ESPN Bet-xNov. 14, 2023
FanDuelDiamond Jo CasinoxSept. 3, 2020
FanaticsCatfish BendxJan. 4, 2021
Q SportsbookQ CasinoxNov. 12. 2019
SuperBookIsle Casino WaterlooxOct. 27. 2022
TipicoIsle Casino Hotel BettendorfxJan. 11, 2023

Iowa Retail Sportsbooks

SportsbookRetail PartnerAddressPhone NumberLaunch Date
Betfred Grand Falls1415 Grand Falls Blvd., Larchwood, IA 51241(712) 777-7777Jan. 30, 2020
Caesars SportsbookHarrah's Council Bluffs1 Harrah's Blvd, Council Bluffs, IA 51501(712) 329-6000Aug. 15, 2019
Caesars SportsbookHorseshoe Casino2701 23rd Avenue Council Bluffs, IA 51501(712) 323-2500Aug. 24, 2019
Caesars SportsbookIsle Casino Bettendorf1777 Isle Parkway, Bettendorf, IA, 52722(563) 441-7000Aug. 15, 2019
Caesars SportsbookIsle Casino Waterloo777 Isle of Capri Blvd, Waterloo, IA 50701(877) 475-3946Aug. 15, 2019
Caesars SportsbookPrairie Meadows1 Prairie Meadows Dr, Altoona, IA 50009(515) 967-1000Aug. 15, 2019
DraftKings Wild Rose Casino & Hotel Clinton777 Wild Rose Dr, Clinton, IA 52732(563) 328-8000Oct. 24, 2019
DraftKings Wild Rose Casino & Hotel Emmetsburg777 Main St, Emmetsburg, IA 50536(712) 852-3400Oct. 24, 2019
DraftKings Wild Rose Casino & Hotel Jefferson777 Wild Rose Drive, Jefferson, IA 50129(515) 386-7777Oct. 24, 2019
DRF SportsbookLakeside Hotel and Casino777 Casino Dr, Osceola, IA 50213(641)-342-9511March 3, 2022
FanDuel SportsbookDiamond Jo Dubuque301 Bell St,  Dubuque, IA 52001(563) 690-4800Aug. 29, 2019
FanDuel SportsbookDiamond Jo Worth777 Diamond Jo Lane, Northwood, IA 50459(877) 323-5566Aug. 29, 2019
PointsBet SportsbookCatfish Bend3001 Winegard Dr., Burlington, IA 52601(319) 753-2946Aug. 15, 2019
Q SportsbookQ Casino1855 Greyhound Park Rd., Dubuque, IA 52001(563) 582-3647Aug. 27, 2019

Is Sports Betting Legal in Iowa?

Yes, sports betting is legal in Iowa as of Aug. 15, 2019, when the first sportsbook launched. Governor Kim Reynolads signed Bill SF-617 into law in May 2019, which allowed for the legalization of retail and online sports betting. Now, 17 online sportsbooks are available in the state of Iowa. 

Previously, Iowa bettors were required to register in person for online sportsbooks at their retail locations. However, as of January 2021, this process changed and now remote registration is available, which - is far easier for bettors. 

How to Start Betting in Iowa

It is a simple process to register and place your first bet at a sportsbook in Iowa. Below, we have made a step-by-step guide on exactly how to start your sports betting journey. 

  1. Choose a licensed sportsbook. Firstly, you must check that the sportsbook is licensed and regulated by the gambling authority of the state. This ensures that they are a legitimate platform, protecting your financial and personal information. The sportsbooks recommended on this page are all legit sites in Iowa.

  2. Sign up for an account. When joining a sportsbook, you will be asked to register your account and provide certain personal information. This includes details such as your name, email, date of birth, and address. 

  3. Verify your identity. Some platforms will require you to confirm your identity, depending on the info you provide. You may have to submit documents such as your ID or passport for security reasons. This is a legal requirement for all Iowa sportsbooks. 

  4. Claim your welcome offer. It is always worth making the most of the sportsbook’s welcome bonus. The offer can vary, but you will often have to deposit and wager a specific amount to trigger your bonus or use a promo code. It is important to always read the T&Cs and be aware of any criteria related to your offer.

  5. Deposit money. You will need to top up your account with funds in order to place any bets. Our recommended sites have various payment options to suit your preferences. Certain welcome bonuses will also require you to deposit and wager a qualifying amount.

  6. Place your first bet. Browse the sports markets on the sportsbook’s menu. Within each sport, you can find different betting markets. After deciding, you can select your specific bet and add it to your betslip. Here, you can enter the amount that you wish to wager and then confirm your bet.

Iowa Sportsbook Betting Promos

SportsbookSign Up OfferPromo Code
bet365$1,000 Safety Net Bet OR $150 in Bonus BetsClick to claim and use promo code WSN365
BetMGMGet Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets!Click to claim and use promo code WSNMGM
Betway$250 Second Chance BetClick to claim
Caesars$1,000 First Bet on CaesarsClick to claim and use promo code WSN1000
DraftKingsBet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets InstantlyClick to claim
FanDuelBet $5, Get $200 in Bonus BetsClick to claim

Sportsbooks in IA provide an array of welcome bonuses designed to encourage bettors to sign up and start betting on their platform. It is necessary to always read the T&Cs carefully before claiming any welcome bonuses and to take note of any additional requirements. Let’s take a look at the most common kinds of bonuses that you might come across. 

Bonus Bet

A bonus bet allows you to place a wager without using your own money. It is a kind of voucher provided by the sportsbook. Bonus bets are a common welcome bonus, with many sportsbooks offering them in exchange for signing up, making a deposit, and qualifying wager. Currently, bet365, BetMGM, and FanDuel have welcome bonuses where you can receive bonus bets after you sign up. 

Second Chance Bets

A second chance bet does, as the name suggests. The sportsbook offers you the opportunity to recover some or all of your initial wager if it loses. It’s a kind of safety net, and your refund comes in the form of site credit or bonus bets. At the moment, you can find this kind of offer at BetRivers, Betway, DraftKings, and Caesars.

Deposit Match Bonuses

With a deposit match bonus, the sportsbook will match a specific percentage or all of your deposit up to a limit. Essentially, the more that you deposit, the more you can gain from this bonus.

No-Deposit Bonuses

A no-deposit bonus requires no deposit or wager on your part, it's entirely free. You simply have to sign up to claim the bonus bets. It is often a smaller amount, around $10 or $20.

What Sportsbooks Apps Are Accessible in Iowa?

Nowadays, bettors value the convenience of accessing sportsbooks from their mobile phones, marking a significant shift in how we engage with such online platforms. Each of our top sportsbooks in Iowa has a high-quality mobile app, ensuring a seamless and user-friendly way to bet anywhere and at any time.

Explore our best apps for premium mobile sports betting:

  1. FanDuel - 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.7/5 (Android)

  2. DraftKings - 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.6/5 (Android)

  3. Bet365 - 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.6/5 (Android)

  4. BetMGM - 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.2/5 (Android)

  5. Caesars Sportsbook - 4.6/5 (iOS); 4.3/5 (Android)

  6. Betway - 4.8/5 (iOS); 4.2/5 (Android)

  7. BetRivers - 4.4/5 (iOS); 3.5/5 (Android)

Iowa Betting Markets 

Iowa’s sportsbooks have a diverse variety of betting markets for each sport. From traditional to specialized bets, the options might seem a bit confusing at first so we have explained the most popular types that you will find.  

Moneyline

This is a very popular type of bet where you simply wager on which team or individual will win a game or event. Higher positive odds represent a lower probability of winning, while lower negative odds mean that side is the favorite to win. Take a look at this example of college football teams:

  • Memphis (+240)

  • Iowa State (-298)

Iowa State is the favorite, so you would need to make a bet of $298 to win $100 for a total payout of $398 if they win. Meanwhile, for Memphis, you would only need to bet $100 to make a profit of $240, with a total payout of $340 if they are successful.

Point Spreads

A point spread bet is where you are wagering on the margin of victory rather than the outcome of the game. The sportsbook sets a spread of points that one team must win by for the bet to be successful. It creates a more balanced betting situation, especially if the teams vary considerably in perceived skill. It can look like this:

  • Memphis +7 (-110)

  • Iowa State -7 (-110)

If you bet on Memphis, they would need to win by 7 points or more. However, if you bet on Iowa State, they would have to win the game or avoid losing by 7 points.

Totals

A total bet is where you predict whether the combined final score of both teams will be over or under a specified amount set by the sportsbook. For this reason, it is often also called an over/under bet. Here is an example to illustrate:

  • Memphis vs. Iowa State

  • Over 57 (-110)

  • Under 57 (-110)

Futures

When making a future bet, you are betting on the result of a future event or championship, often when the season has not started yet. For instance, if you think a specific team will win the NBA championships, you can make a future bet before the season begins. 

Prop Bets

A prop bet involves wagering on specific events or situations within the game that are unrelated to the final outcome. These bets can cover a range of possibilities related to a team's or player’s performance, statistics, or other events. Popular examples include touchdowns in an NFL game, three-pointers in the NBA, and yellow cards in a soccer match. 

Parlays

A parlay is slightly different in that you can combine multiple individual wagers on a single ticket. Winning the parley is only possible if all the individual bets within it are successful. This type of bet offers the potential for higher payouts but with greater risk. A teaser bet allows you to adjust the point spreads or totals in your favor by a set number of points. However, there is a reduced potential payout compared to parlay. 

Live Betting

Live betting allows you to place wagers on a game or event after it has already started. Bettors can change their bets based on what is happening in the game in real-time. Most Iowa sportsbooks have their own dedicated live sections, where the odds are continually updated to reflect the game. 

What Are the Restrictions on Betting in Iowa?

Iowa sports betting is subject to the following restrictions:

  • Online casinos have not been legalized in the state of Iowa. 

  • You cannot wager on any future sporting awards such as ‘Rookie of the Year’ or ‘Player of the Year’.

  • It is not allowed to bet on the NFL Draft. Additionally, high school sports, Tier 2, and minor league events are also not permitted.

  • Bettors also cannot wager on politics, e-sports, or any entertainment events.

  • High school sports and events where competitors are under the age of 18 are not allowed and can not be bet on.

Betting on College Sports in Iowa

Betting on college sports is legal in Iowa. It is a major part of the sports culture in the state, particularly popular due to the absence of major league teams.

The full list of NCAA Division 1 College Programs:

  • Drake Bulldogs

  • Iowa Hawkeyes

  • Iowa State Cyclones

  • Northern Iowa Panthers

Iowa Sports Betting Facts

Iowa Sports Betting Quick Facts
Online launch dateAug. 15, 2019
Legal betting age21
Retail tax rate6.75%
Online tax rate6.75%
Retail sportsbooks17
Online sportsbooks19
Betting on College Sports
Online casinox
Online pokerx

How Does Iowa Online Sports Betting Compare to Other States?

In September of 2019, the first full month of betting in Iowa, the state reported $38 million in total handle. This is considerably lower than other states, but it must be taken into consideration that bettors had to register for online sportsbooks in person. 

Therefore, a more accurate reflection would be in January 2021, when remote registration was legalized, and the total handle reached $149 million. Considering Iowa has a population of only 3.2 million, this is quite a standard amount. For instance, Arizona reported $291 million for its first month and has double the population of Iowa. Other states have far higher figures, like Ohio, with $1 billion in the first month of legalization, but it is the 7th most populous state.  

Iowa has a flat tax rate for retail and online sportsbooks of 6.75%, which is quite low compared to other states. New York has a huge tax rate of 51%, while states such as Michigan have an 8% tax rate and Arizona with 10%. Iowa sportsbooks are required to pay a $45,000 licensing fee and, subsequently, $10,000 per year. This is considerably lower than in states like Pennsylvania, for example, where sportsbooks must pay $10 million to enter the market.

Unlike other states, Iowa’s laws allow for wagers on college sports and DFS but do not permit bets on esports.

History of Iowa Sports Betting

Following the repeal of PASPA, it was a relatively quick process for Iowa to legalize sports betting and launch several sportsbooks. Here is a detailed timeline highlighting the milestones of this process:

  • Feb. 28, 2024 - Iowa State University athletes push for dismissal of the underage sports betting charges, claim the evidence is inadmissible.

  • Feb. 13, 2024 - Despite the decline, Iowa sports betting still brought in over $250 million in wagers in January.

  • Feb. 6, 2024 - Fanatics Sportsbook launches in Iowa.

  • Feb. 5, 2024 - Iowa Department of Public Safety claims the evidence in the Iowa-Iowa State case was obtained in a "constitutionally permissible manner."

  • Jan. 28, 2024 - Iowa DCI may have engaged in an illegal search during the Iowa sports betting probe, according to one of its agents.

  • Jan. 15, 2024 - Betting revenue in Iowa reached $26 million in December 2023. The Hawkeye State ended 2023 with almost $200 million in sports betting revenue.

  • Nov. 24, 2023 - A Black Friday game between Iowa Hawkeyes and Nebraska Huskers had the lowest betting total in college football history.

  • Nov. 14, 2023 - ESPN Bet launches in Iowa and 16 other states.

  • August 2023 - Iowa aims to tighten KYC and account sharing rules amid rampant student athlete betting.

  • June 5, 2023 - bet365 launches operations in Iowa. 

  • Jan. 11, 2023 - Tipico goes live in the state.

Is Daily Fantasy Sports Legal in Iowa?

Yes, DFS was legalized in Iowa at the same time as sports betting in 2019. Both DraftKings and FanDuel’s DFS platforms are available in Iowa. 

Major Sports Teams in Iowa

Iowa does not have any major league teams. However you can find support for teams from neighboring states. NFL teams like the Minnesota Vikings and Green Bay Packers, in addition to NBA teams like the Chicago Bulls, have large fan bases in the Hawkeye State. Aside from this, Iowa has a thriving college sports scene. 

Iowa Sportsbook Partnerships

As Iowa has no major league teams, there are no sportsbook partnerships with any specific teams.

Seeking Assistance: Responsible Gambling in Iowa

The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commision (IRGC) is the regulatory body that oversees legal sports betting in Iowa. The IRGC is responsible for giving permission for sportsbooks to launch in the state, in addition to ensuring that they adhere to stringent rules and provide a safe gambling environment. As part of this, the IRGC allocates a portion of the tax revenue from sportsbooks to fund initiatives aimed at preventing and helping with gambling issues. 

On the IRGC site, you can find lots of helpful resources such as links, hotlines, and articles. You have the option of calling 1-800 BETS-OFF or visiting ‘Your Life Iowa’ for direct assistance. Alternatively, those with gambling problems can opt for voluntary self-exclusion which bans them from betting sites for 5 years or life through the IRGC.

Many Iowa Sportsbook provide their own tools to help manage your betting:

  1. Custom wager/deposit limits: This can help you manage your spending and ensure that you do not overspend.

  2. Reality Check: The sportsbook checks in with you and suggests a break if required.

  3. Cool Off Period: It is similar to self-exclusion but only lasts for a week or two.

Iowa Sports Betting FAQ

Is sports betting legal in Iowa?

What online sportsbooks are available in Iowa?

Is Daily Fantasy Sports legal in Iowa?

How old do you need to be to bet on sports in Iowa?

Do I need to be inside the state of Iowa to place a bet?

21+ | Terms and conditions apply
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AUTHOR

Rhianna Padman

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Rhianna started her career in iGaming after graduating from the University of Exeter in 2022. She was introduced to the world of iGaming while living in Malta, developing a keen interest in sports and casino betting.

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