Best Iowa Sportsbooks January 2023
As soon as the Supreme Court made its ruling, a number of states started bringing regulations regarding this gambling form. One year has passed when the Hawkeye State officials decided to jump on the sports betting bandwagon. Finally, in mid-August 2019, Iowa sports betting became legal and regulated.
Several casinos have already been licensed to run Iowa sportsbooks. And that’s something that includes betting in-person, as well as mobile and online betting.
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Updated on : 01/27/2023
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| Online Sportsbooks · States · Iowa |
Iowa sports betting has been legal for years. It’s possible to bet for real money on a few sportsbooks. The government authorized sports betting in Iowa in August 2019, meaning IA online sportsbooks offer a popular pastime.
The big news in Iowa is that as of January 1st 2021, in-person registration isn't required anymore! Now, anyone within the Iowa state lines can register, deposit and bet from their homes or anywhere with internet access.
🗞️ STATE OF IOWA SPORTSBOOKS
Each month, legal betting states release information regarding handle (amount of money in accepted wagers), gross revenue, taxes, leading sportsbooks, etc. The latest data from the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission is from November 2022.
| Metric | November 2022 |
|---|---|
| 🤝 Total Handle | $247,476,284 |
| 📈 Revenue | $5,802,261 |
| 🧾 Taxes | $1,596,412 |
| 🏆 Top Iowa Sportsbooks | Caesars Sportsbook |
Come check out other states' sports betting handles and revenue.
CONTENTS
- Top Iowa Online Sportsbooks
- Betting Laws in Iowa
- Iowa Retail Sportsbooks
- Iowa Sportsbook Apps
- Iowa Sportsbooks: Events & Betting Markets
- Iowa Sports Betting Sites Features
- Sports Teams in Iowa
- FAQ - Iowa Online Sports Betting
- Iowa Casinos
- Conclusion : Iowa Sportsbooks
TOP IOWA ONLINE SPORTSBOOKS
BETMGM SPORTSBOOK
Longtime casino fans may already know MGM for its casino locations. Through their online service BetMGM, sports fans can access their virtual sportsbook.
They’ve got great offers to coincide with the launch of Iowa sportsbooks. Check out their insured bet offers, where you’re guaranteed to end up with some cash whether your bet falls through or not. They’ve also got weekly free bet promotions to get you started.
Last Updated January 27, 2023 10:38 AM ET
POINTSBET
PointsBet Sportsbook, already an online sportsbook in NJ, was quick to launch in Iowa thanks to a deal with Catfish Bend Casino. New players can begin the signup process online at PointsBet's website.
DRAFTKINGS
The DraftKings online sportsbook is an exciting experience for bettors. Sports bettors in IA will now be able to place bets on all major sports in the U.S. DraftKings has partnered with the three Wild Rose Casinos to make the DraftKings online betting app available.
BARSTOOL SPORTSBOOK
Barstool Sportsbook, is now live in Iowa. Ride or fade your favorite Barstool personalities now. Thanks to Penn National Gaming, they are responsible for Barstool sportsbook brand across the nation.
BETFRED SPORTSBOOK
Betfred, a UK-based brand making big waves in the US market, is now live in Iowa as of summer 2022! Users there can get online with this well-rounded, attractive sportsbook and bet on competitive lines for their favorite markets. Remember to check the availability of bonus offers, because there's usually a good incentive to start a new account with some free credit or bet insurance.
BALLY BET
The Sinclair Group is a media giant known for its FOX Sports products and other things, and now in a partnership with Bally's, have released the Bally Bet app. Now, users can get online with this solid platform that's easy to find and access no matter your device. There's also a straightforward welcome offer waiting for new accounts that haven't placed their first wager, so be sure to check that out.
CIRCA SPORTS
Circa Sportsbook has some notoriety for having one of the largest in-person sportsbooks in the US. Now available in Iowa, this sportsbook is best suited for the intermediate to expert bettor that's looking for a no-nonsense betting experience. Circa provides that from top to bottom, with a well-crafted interface and competitive lines. No promotions to speak of, but that's because Circa claims to opt for offering the most competitive odds in the market. If you're looking for value and you're an experienced bettor, try Circa.
SUPERBOOK
SuperBook has officially launched in Iowa. Users can log on and bet from anywhere in the state. SuperBook is one of the most well known brands in Vegas, and they have finally started to launch in other states. Currently we are not offering a promo code, but users can find any bonuses on their app!
Last Updated January 27, 2023 10:38 AM ET
Check out current offers in Iowa and how each sportsbook stacks up below!
| Operator | ||
| BetMGM IA | (T&C's apply, 21+) | |
| PointsBet IA | (T&C's apply, 21+) | |
| Caesars Sportsbook IA | (T&C's apply, 21+) | |
| FanDuel IA | (T&C's apply, 21+) | |
| Betway IA | (T&C's apply, 21+) | |
| BetRivers IA | (T&C's apply, 21+) | |
| Betfred IA | (T&C's apply, 21+) |
IOWA SPORTSBOOKS & THEIR FEATURES
| Operator | In-Play Betting | Live Streaming | Parlays | Same-Game Parlays | Prop Bets | Loyalty Rewards Program | Mobile App |
| BetMGM | |||||||
| Caesars Sportsbook | |||||||
| FanDuel | |||||||
| Betway | |||||||
| BetRivers | |||||||
| DRF | |||||||
| Betfred | |||||||
| Barstool |
BETTING LAWS IN IOWA
IA online sportsbooks have many regulations set by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission. The Commission prohibits proposition wagers for the NFL draft and in-state collegiate athletes.
Individual athlete and prop wagers are not allowed unless pre-approved by the Gaming Commission. The Commission has a list of approved sports wagers for learning more about Iowa sports betting.
The legal age for fantasy "betting" in the state is 21. A law unique to Iowa online sportsbooks is that users must physically register for sportsbooks (DraftKings, FanDuel, Q Casino sportsbook, etc.).
The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission can also:
- Approve or deny licenses to operators.
- Create standards for licensing in the racing/gaming industry in IA.
- Determine the length of thoroughbred and quarter horse racing season.
- Determine standards for race meetings and facilities.
- Determine regulations for race purse money.
- Revoke or suspend licenses and collect fines of $1,000.
The Commission can grant a license for up to three years for racing activities. Applicants must comply with the regulations and restrictions set by the Commission, and it considers failure to do so or misrepresentation during application an aggravated misdemeanor.
The books and records that operators keep on races and sporting events are public records, according to Chapter 99E of the Iowa Code. Operators are also required to file an annual audit of their expenses and earnings and select a certified public accountant (CPA) in the state of IA, of which the Gaming Commission approves.
For approved in-game wagers, vendors and Iowa sportsbooks can set limits. You can direct further questions about the Iowa State Code and Gaming Commission to: Iowa Racing & Gaming Commission Iowa Racing & Gaming Commission (IRGC) 1300 Des Moines St., Ste. 100 Approved Sports Wagers Des Moines, IA 50309-5508
IOWA RETAIL SPORTSBOOKS
Iowa went live with legal sports betting in August of 2019. At first, registration for a mobile betting app was required through a land-based retail sportsbook. That law was amended early in 2021. Just like many other states, partnerships between online operators and land-based casinos have been formed.
DraftKings has a partnership with Wild Rose Casino & Resorts. Caesars is affiliated with six different retail gaming venues in Iowa. FanDuel teamed-up with Boyd Gaming, which is based out of Las Vegas. BetMGM was able to enter the Iowa market through its partnership with Diamond Jo Casino.
IOWA SPORTS BETTING APPS
Once you get one of Iowa betting apps on your device, you’ll be able to use the following perks:
- Sign up and log in through your smartphone/tablet
- Collect a welcome bonus given by the sportsbook
- Make quick deposits and cash withdrawals
- Bet on live events
- Access all kinds of information relevant to sports events
- Get in touch with live support
IOWA SPORTSBOOKS: EVENTS & BETTING MARKETS
Most forms of Iowa online sports betting are allowed, although there’s one exception. Although you can lay bets on collegiate events, you’re not allowed to make prop bets on in-state college teams. For example, you can’t bet live that a non-offensive player from Iowa State Cyclones will score.
TYPE OF BETS
Bettors generally seek out the local Iowa sportsbooks due to the variety of casinos that offer sportsbooks. Iowa sports betting has plenty of options.
Main types of bets on Iowa online sportsbooks include the following:
- Match winner
- Over/under
- First half result
- Handicap betting
- Player betting
- Live betting
BEST IOWA BETTING EVENTS
Although in-game props are not allowed in collegiate events involving teams from this state, you can place bets before games. Iowa online betting legal acts allow you to make pre-match bets on any sporting event involving the following colleges:
Apart from state-related sporting events, you can also bet on country-wide or even global events. Actually, you can bet on literally any major sporting events in Hawkeye State sportsbooks. We’re talking basketball events (NBA), football events (NFL), baseball (MLB) events, among others.
Popular Iowa events include dog and horse racing, football, basketball, baseball, and golf. There are many other sports, motor racing among them, to bet on, but the most popular are the ones previously listed. You can find a variety of popular events in IA online sports betting.
The state fair is usually a large event that creates plenty of opportunities for horse and dog racing. Iowa sportsbooks have to abide by the Gaming Commission’s regulations, but they can participate in local events and races.
FUTURE OF IOWA ONLINE SPORTSBOOKS
In the near future, Iowans will be able to participate in sports betting online. With legislation that passed in 2019, further approval of Iowa sportsbooks apps and operators continues as the market grows. Players are able to register online and conduct all gambling activities with their mobile devices.
Sportsbooks on mobile devices already have a grasp on the state’s gambling market. It’s only a matter of time before they receive further liberties. However, the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission oversees the operation of the Iowa sportsbooks and will be responsible for new markets.
As long as local government officials approve of sports betting, sporting events and gambling will prosper in the Hawkeye State. Representatives have yet to reveal further legislation regarding betting in Iowa.
DAILY FANTASY SPORTS IN IOWA
Many casinos offer sports betting. Although players still must register in person, you can access DFS and other Iowa sportsbooks ran by casinos through online platforms like mobile apps.
Iowa betting sites make it easy to place bets and participate in fantasy leagues. Sportsbooks head up the activity with a slew of markets in Iowa online sports betting.
Recent legislation passed that allows college teams to participate in Fantasy leagues. This will likely cause an increase in interest for DFS sportsbooks in Iowa sports betting. Iowa betting sites should incorporate these teams into their playbook.
BETTING ON PRO SPORTS TEAMS IN IOWA
Iowa's legal market allows bets to be placed on pro sports teams in national and international leagues. There are some restrictions for international, such as a $1,000 wagering limit for the Korean Baseball Organization, but many sports are available.
You can bet on the NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, and professional golf in IA sports betting. Although not all prop bets are possible, there are many prop bets that are available at sportsbooks. Iowa sportsbooks include international leagues too.
Aside from prop bets, total bets, head-to-head, totals, and player statistics over/unders are legal in sports betting. It’s not hard to find an eligible Iowa sportsbook because many casinos in the state have one.
NFL BETTING
Prop bets on the NFL draft are not allowed by law for betting in Iowa, but a number of other options are available to Iowa betting enthusiasts. The following player props are allowed in IA sports betting:
- Futures/Outrights.
- Totals (Total yards in a game, total points scored, etc).
- Player statistic over/under totals.
- Golf (End of round leaders).
- Place Betting.
- Head-to-Head.
Those betting in Iowa once had their own pro football team, but no more. And now that the state has no NFL team of its own, fans tend to support the Kansas City Chiefs, the Green Bay Packers, or the Minnesota Vikings in Iowa sports betting. Iowa betting sites include wagers for all of these IA sports betting teams.
Green Bay Packers betting
Aaron Rodgers heads this squad as one of the league’s most talented quarterbacks for betting in Iowa. The team is from Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Minnesota Vikings betting
This longtime rival of the Packers hails from Minneapolis, Minnesota. They play at their home stadium, US Bank Stadium, in Minneapolis.
Kansas City Chiefs betting
The 2020 Super Bowl defending champion trains in St. Joseph, Missouri. Although the team’s stadium and headquarters are in Kansas City, the program decided to move operations to St. Joseph due to support from the local university and their athletics program. Shortly after the team’s relocation for training, they grabbed Super Bowl LIV.
NBA BETTING
Much like NFL or MLB betting, NBA betting in the state has a variety of bet types for betting in Iowa. Furthermore, you can bet on lots of different outcomes and teams on IA sportsbooks.
Iowa Wolves betting
Part of the NBA G League, the Minnesota Timberwolves own and operate the Wolves. They were once named the Iowa Energy and now play at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines.
Minnesota Timberwolves betting
Like other states that don’t have many professional teams, sports betting in the Hawkeye State allows for a variety of in and out of state teams to take the stage.
NHL BETTING
Just as they don’t have a pro football team, the Hawkeye state doesn’t feature an NHL team. They do have an AFL team and several squads in the United States Hockey League (USHL), though. Iowa betting sites make up for the lack of NHL teams by offering options from other states.
Iowa Wild betting
The Wild, an affiliate of the Minnesota Wild, has their headquarters in Des Moines. The team started in 2013, and play at Wells Fargo Arena.
Minnesota Wild betting
They are the big brother of the Iowa Wild. Sports betting apps include them as the main option for NHL fans in the state. Iowa betting focus points to this team as its primary NHL option.
Des Moines Buccaneers betting
The Buccaneers are part of the USHL and have four Clark Cups. They also have four Anderson Cups, which makes them a formidable opponent on the ice and in IA sportsbooks.
Cedar Rapids RoughRiders betting
The RoughRiders hold three Anderson Cups and one Clark Cup. The team started in 1983 and is currently on hiatus.
Dubuque Fighting Saints betting
The Fighting Saints hold two Clark Cups and three Conference Championships. They play at the Mystique Community Ice Center.
Waterloo Black Hawks betting
The Black Hawk’s head coach is P.K. O’Handley, who heads the team at Young Arena in Waterloo. The team has three Anderson Cups and one Clark Cup under their belts.
North Iowa Bulls betting
The Bulls are part of the North American 3 Hockey League. They play home games at the Mason City Multipurpose Arena.
MLB BETTING
If you’re into online sports betting, it’s likely that you’re also familiar with the major sports leagues in the US. The MLB provides players with a chance to diversify their portfolio and enjoy an exciting sports bet. You can hit home runs with Salvador Peréz, Alex Gordon, and Chris Getz.
Iowa sportsbooks offer a variety of players from many leagues. You’ll have to analyze which squads can help you the most with your IA DFS wins.
Many betting sites post information about IA sports betting players and teams, so you can decide who will bring in more points in Iowa online sports betting.
If you’re searching for a way to get familiar with Iowa sports betting, the MLB provides plenty of options. Iowans generally root for the Royals, Cubs, Twins, Cardinals, and other teams that are nearby.
Kansas City Royals betting
The Royals dominate sporting events in their region. Along with the Chiefs, their NFL counterpart, they populate Iowa sports betting apps due to the state’s lack of pro teams.
Chicago Cubs betting
This popular MLB team has three World Series Championships. Sports betting apps wouldn’t even think to leave them out.
BETTING ON IOWA SPORTS TEAMS
When searching for teams at Iowa betting sites, you’ll find several categories. From there, you can choose teams from all of the major leagues and many smaller or junior leagues in Iowa sports betting too.
In basketball, you can search for players in the NCAA Division I and II, and college football will include the Big Ten and Big Twelve. Betting in Iowa can be competitive.
You’ll find the Iowa Wolves in the NBA G League and the Iowa Cornets in the WBL. In hockey, you’ll find the Cedar Rapid RoughRiders and the Dubuque Fighting Saints. In the International Fight League (IFL), you can gamble on the Quad City Silverbacks.
NCAA FOOTBALL BETTING
IA online sports betting has to include a large portfolio for football. It’s one of the state’s strongest college sports. That’s why Iowa betting sites strive to highlight their college football sections.
The schools in this state have some of the longest and proudest histories in college sports. They've produced some high caliber athletes that went on to compete in the major leagues.
The state’s college football team, the Hawkeyes, is well-known, and has competed in the West division of the Big Ten Conference since 1900. The team accounts for a large part of the football market in Iowa.
As the Hawkeye state, Iowa dominates in college football. People come from all around the state to see the Hawkeyes and Cyclones compete. The Iowa Wolves are another attraction for sports lovers and those who follow (and bet on) college ball.
Iowa Hawkeyes
This Big Ten West giant brings many talented players to the field. Among the players, this team has sent to the NFL are Jeff Drost, Brian Bulaga, Adrian Clayborn, Mike Daniels, and Carl Davis.
The Hawkeyes battle at Kinnick Stadium in Iowa City, where they've competed against some of the toughest teams in the nation. The Hawkeyes bowl game record is 17-15-1.
Iowa State Cyclones
The Cyclones are part of the Big 12 conference, and their head coach is Matt Campbell. The Cyclones play at Jack Trice Stadium in Ames.
NCAA BASKETBALL BETTING
The best way to bet on state basketball is through fantasy sports. Essentially all fantasy sports are legal in Iowa's sports betting market. Therefore, it’s easy to place bets on your favorite teams at your preferred sportsbooks.
If you’re a fan of college sports, this is a good state to be in. There are many talented players on the Iowa betting scene.
The ever-present Hawkeyes and Cyclones are two of the state’s biggest competitors in this sport. If you want to place bets on college basketball, then you can bet on the outcomes of the games, but you won’t be able to place props on your favorite players.
Iowa sportsbooks make it easy to place bets and follow along in real-time. You can check the scores of games and other team stats like win/loss records, all from Iowa sportsbooks.
Iowa Hawkeyes
The Hawkeyes prevailed this time (2019-20 season) and beat the Cyclones in a thrilling match, 68-84. For those who want to add some of college basketball’s best athletes to their squad, this is a team to keep an eye on.
Iowa Cyclones
The rivalry between the Hawkeyes and the Cyclones has fueled many exciting games. Top players compete at a high level to provide fans with an exhilarating Iowa sports betting experience.
In 2019-20, the Cyclones had a tough year, pulling out a record of 12-20 (win/loss). No matter, the Cyclones are sure to improve over the coming years and become a large part of online sports betting in the Hawkeye State.
IOWA ONLINE BETTING FAQ
Here are a couple of questions and answers that should make everything about Iowa betting legal status crystal clear.
IS SPORTS BETTING LEGAL IN IOWA?
As of summer 2019, it is! However, it’s possible to bet only at licensed establishments and on apps within the state. Players are also allowed to make online/mobile bets while on the premises of those casinos. And those who want to bet from home, first need to get approved by the sportsbook operator in person.
WHO CAN PLACE A SPORTS BET IN IOWA?
Anyone who is older than 21 is allowed to bet in this state and in-person registration isn't necessary anymore.
IS MOBILE BETTING AVAILABLE IN IOWA?
Since August 2019, it’s possible to bet via apps of licensed sportsbooks/casinos. Moreover, to get to use Iowa betting apps, you don't need to confirm your age in person in a licensed establishment anymore.
IOWA CASINOS
Iowa is one of the most liberal states when it comes to gambling. You can basically find every single form of gambling in the numerous land-based casinos. However, sports betting and Iowa online casinos are the only forms of gambling that haven’t been regulated yet.
Besides Iowa sports betting, there are lots of options for gambling. Many casinos and venues exist in IA for bettors and enthusiasts alike. Here are some certified venues in the state:
- Rhythm City Casino.
- Riverside Casino and Golf Resort.
- Wild Rose - Clinton.
- Prairie Meadows Racetrack & Casino.
- Q Casino.
- Wild Rose - Emmetsburg.
- Isle Casino Hotel Waterloo.
- Lakeside Casino.
- Casino Queen - Marquette.
- Harrah's Council Bluffs Casino & Hotel.
- Wild Rose - Jefferson.
- Horseshoe Casino - Council Bluffs.
- Isle of Capri - Bettendorf.
- Diamond Jo - Worth.
- Ameristar II.
- Catfish Bend Casino.
- Diamond Jo - Dubuque.
- Grand Falls Casino Resort.
- Hard Rock Casino.
Many of these casinos partner with DraftKings and FanDuel to provide top sportsbooks for Iowa online sports betting.
Iowa will have to keep pace with the latest trends, by opening Iowa online casinos. Then, probably all the famous online casinos will become available in IA too.
FINAL THOUGHTS ON BETTING IN IOWA
Iowa sports betting has been steadily increasing and is sure to thrive this year.
