This guide to the best Iowa sports betting sites explores the legal betting landscape in the Hawkeye State. We begin the piece with rankings and overviews of the top five licensed sportsbooks in Iowa, then continue with an in-depth overview of betting services and markets available in IA.

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Best Iowa Sports Betting Sites and Apps

BetOnline Sports logo

50% Up To $250 + 100 Free Spins

5 Stars Play Now
Bovada Sports logo

Get a Welcome Bonus of up to $750

5 Stars Play Now
BetWhale logo

125% up to $1,250

5 Stars Play Now
Everygame Sports logo

50% up to $1,000 Welcome Bonus

4.5 Stars Play Now
MyBookie Sports logo

100% Deposit Bonus up to $1,000 + $10 Casino Chip

4.5 Stars Play Now
BetUS Sports logo

125% Sign Up Bonus Up To $2,625

4.5 Stars Play Now
TG.Casino Generic Offer USA logo

Get INSTANT 200% deposit bonus up-to 10ETH

5 Stars Play Now
BUSR Sports logo

100% Deposit Bonus up to $2,500

5 Stars Play Now
Lucky Block logo

200% Welcome Bonus Up to €25,000 + 50 Free Spins

5 Stars Play Now
Jazz Sports logo

75% Sports Welcome Bonus Up To $2,500

5 Stars Play Now
Sportsbetting AG Sports logo

50% Welcome Bonus Up To $500

4.5 Stars Play Now
WSM Casino logo

200% Bonus Up To $25,000 + 10 Free Spins

5 Stars Play Now
BetNow Sports logo

100% up to $1,000 Welcome Bonus

5 Stars Play Now
XBet Sports logo

50% Bonus up to $200

4 Stars Play Now
Mega Dice Offer logo

200% Bonus up to 1BTC + 50 Free Spins

5 Stars Play Now

Iowa Sports Betting at a Glance

Iowa legalized sports betting both in-person and online in 2019. Up until 2021, people would have to register in person to place mobile bets but now users can complete a sign-up procedure online. The current sports betting market in the state is outlined below.

  • Legal Sports Betting: All Forms of Sports Betting are Regulated
  • Minimum Sports Betting Age in Iowa: 21 (inland), 18 (through offshore sites)
  • Offline Betting in Person: Yes at 18 locations
  • Online Sportsbooks: Inland and offshore
  • Live/In-Play Betting: Inland and offshore
  • College Sports Betting: Inland and offshore
  • Horse racing: Inland and offshore
  • Estimated Sports Betting Revenue: Over $7.5 million
  • Permitted Sports Betting Operators: All existing casinos in the state
  • Licensing Fee: $45,000 initial fee and a yearly fee of $10,000
  • Tax Rate: 7.5% (6.75% goes to the state, 0.75% goes to a casino’s qualified sponsor organization)
  • Tax Funded: State General Fund

The Best Iowa Online Sports Betting Sites and Apps List 2024

The following providers offer the best online betting in Iowa:

  1. BetOnline – Overall best Iowa online sports betting site 2024
  2. Bovada – Best Iowa sports betting online site for live streaming
  3. MyBookie – Top Iowa sportsbook with great promos
  4. Everygame– Best parlay betting site for Iowa online sports betting
  5. XBet – Best new sports site for horse racing
  6. Lucky Block – Excellent crypto sports betting website with speedy payouts
  7. BetUS – Largest welcome bonus for sports betting in Iowa
  8. BetNow –Best Iowa sports betting site for major contests
  9. BUSR – Great selection of exotic prop bets for the NFL
  10. Jazz Sports – Largest daily horse racing rebate

Best Iowa Online Sports Betting Sites Reviewed

1. BetOnline – Overall Best Iowa Online Sports Betting Site 2024

Iowa Online Sports Betting Sites and Apps - Top 10 Best IA Online Sportsbooks in [cur_year]

BetOnline is one of the largest and most experienced sportsbooks, having been established back in 2001. The bookie prides itself on providing the best experience in online gaming and betting to all of its users. Whether your interest is in sports, casino, poker, or entertainment then BetOnline has it all, coupled with great promos and amazing customer service.

When it comes to promotions, this top Iowa sports betting site offers a bounteous welcome bonus! This is available for all new bettors upon signing up, there is also an abundance of bitcoin, crypto, casino, poker and reload bonuses on offer.

There’s a huge variety of sports betting markets available at BetOnline,  including Major League Baseball, NBA and College Basketball, NFL and College Football, as well as mixed martial arts. International sports are also included such as darts, rugby, cricket, and Aussie rules football.

You will consistently find BetOnline’s odds across all the sports they have markets on to be some of the best around. They also get their odds up earlier than most other sites meaning you can get your bets in early. Once a game starts BetOnline also offers an intuitive live betting interface where you can even stream some matches.

There is also a substantial range of Esports available to bet on, including, CS: GO, LoL, Dota 2, Valorant, FIFA, Call of Duty & Rainbow Six.

As well as supporting a whole host of deposit methods including debit, credit, and cryptocurrency, BetOnline is one of the safest and most secure sportsbooks in the market so you can rest assured that you are in safe hands should you place your bets here.

What we like:

  • Great welcome bonus
  • Huge range of sports markets
  • Good customer service and payment methods
  • Secure, industry-leading sportsbook

What we don’t:

  • Does not accept PayPal

 

2. Bovada – Best Iowa Sports betting Online site for Live Streaming

Iowa Online Sports Betting Sites and Apps - Top 10 Best IA Online Sportsbooks in [cur_year]

If it’s live betting and live streaming that is paramount to you then Bovada is our top pick, with a huge range of betting options available. Bovada offers an impressive prop builder feature with various ways to add to your virtual betting slip with lots of interesting and alternative lines.

You can wager on a range of sports and major events like the Super Bowl, there is also a virtual racebook if you’d prefer to bet live on horse racing. Esports, college sports, and all major US sports leagues are also covered in abundance.

This is one of the best sportsbooks in Iowa for a diverse range of offers. Bovada’s welcome offer is not the biggest out there but it’s still competitive and the rollover requirements are more than achievable compared to other sites. There is also a substantial Bitcoin welcome bonus, reloads, as well as casino and poker offers.

What we like:

  • Great live betting options
  • Impressive prop builder function
  • Extensive welcome offers
  • Low rollover requirements on bonuses

What we don’t:

  • No e-wallet payments

 

3. MyBookie – Top Iowa Sportsbook with Great Promo Codes

Iowa Online Sports Betting Sites and Apps - Top 10 Best IA Online Sportsbooks in [cur_year]

If it’s easy deposits, fast payouts, fantastic odds, and an always-increasing selection of sports and odds you’re looking for, then MyBookie is one to mention. Since its inception in 2014, this top sportsbook has maintained its promise of providing great customer service and sports betting experience.

MyBookie offers a first deposit bonus of $1,000 to use across your favorite sports. There are also casino and horse racing promotions, as well as a rewarding and unlimited referral scheme for existing customers of 250% up to $250!

Whether you’re into NBA, NHL, NFL, MLB, or UFC, betting across any sports with MyBookie is extremely simple and accessible due to the parlay builder and interactive bet slip, which you can add to or edit with ease. On top of that, this bookie is great for live betting as you can place in-game bets and stream most events in HD.

What we like:

  • Extremely fast payouts
  • Lots of ongoing promo deals
  • Good odds compared to others

What we don’t:

  • Limited Esports selection

 

4. Everygame – Best Iowa Sports Betting Site for Parlay Betting

A screenshot of the Everygame sportsbook homepage

Find over 15 sports in the sportsbook provided by Everygame, arranged in a sidebar helpfully placed to the left of the screen. A category for top sports highlights some popular sports in the US. They have football, baseball, basketball, ice hockey, and tennis betting at the click of a button. They host markets for leagues in America as well as those further afield such as NPB, the Japanese baseball league.

Most matchups are displayed with the traditional moneyline, spread, and total odds. You can find further markets by clicking on a specific match. There is a huge range of markets in sports that are popular worldwide but the US leagues are a little underserved. For example, MLB matches offer moneyline, spread, and totals betting for the whole game or the first five innings. Whereas, an upcoming match in an obscure German league, the German Regionalliga North, offers around 14 markets.

A tab at the top of the page helps you quickly navigate to in-play matches. The screen that it takes you to is incredibly helpful. It shows all of the live matches in every sport with a live score and suggested markets. Also when you click odds anywhere on the site they are added to your betting slip where any available parlays will be displayed for you too.

New customers can claim a first deposit match worth 100% up to $500. They do not state a minimum deposit but the minimum allowed across the site is $5. You will have to rollover your bonus 8 times within 100 days of claiming your deposit. They allow deposits via major credit and debit cards, as well as Payz, Paysafe, or eZeeWallet. However, these methods are not available for withdrawals. Withdrawals are possible via check, bank transfer, User2User, or a pre-paid debit card delivered by post. Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, and Litecoin are options that can be used for both deposits and withdrawals.

What we like:

  • Good longevity
  • Great collection of sports bonuses
  • Multiview feature for live betting

What we don’t:

  • No live streaming
  • Not enough markets for US leagues

 

5. XBet – Best New Iowa Sports Betting Site for Horse Racing

Iowa Online Sports Betting Sites and Apps - Top 10 Best IA Online Sportsbooks in [cur_year]

XBet is tipped as one of the most exciting new betting sites in Iowa. We note that their welcome bonus isn’t as generous as others, but there are some other promotions to tempt you. For horse racing fans, you can claim a 7% cashback rebate which is paid to you daily, this is available when you wager on any qualifying track! There is also an unlimited refer-a-friend bonus of $100 per referral.

It’s one of the best Iowa sports betting apps with their all-new sports betting mobile platform, making betting easy and accessible from the safety and comfort of your own home or out on the go. You are guaranteed to never miss a bet!

XBet also supports a huge range of deposit methods, including all major cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, and Litecoin. More traditional payment methods like credit and debit cards are also accepted.

What we like:

  • Good horse betting cashback offer
  • Accepts a wide range of payment methods
  • Top betting app functions

What we don’t:

  • Smaller welcome bonus compared to others

 

6. BetUS – Largest Welcome Bonus for Iowa Sports Betting

Iowa Online Sports Betting Sites and Apps - Top 10 Best IA Online Sportsbooks in [cur_year]

BetUS is one of the oldest sports betting sites in Iowa, having been established back in 1994. You can wager on a diverse range of different sports, including football, basketball, baseball, hockey, golf, tennis, and motorsports. You can also choose to bet on a selection of different Esports.

This Iowa sportsbook has an array of promotions to be had. Their welcome bonus is unmatched – you can claim a 125% deposit match bonus, worth up to a huge $3,125! You can claim using the BetUS promo code JOIN125. The standout thing here too is that it includes a 100% sports bonus and a 25% casino bonus, giving Iowa bettors the option to place bets across either platform.

We also like the news articles and analysis covered in their ‘Locker Room’ feature. With coverage of all major sports, you can identify good bets as well as never miss out on the entertainment.

What we like:

  • Largest welcome bonus to be had
  • Long-standing bookie with good reputation
  • News articles and analysis with good tips

What we don’t:

  • Few payment options

 

7. BetNow – Best Iowa Sports Betting Site for Major Contests

A screenshot of the BetNow sportsbook homepage

There are around 10 sports to choose from in the BetNow sportsbook. They have popular US leagues like the MLB and the NHL along with betting on those sports in other countries. For example, the Japanese NPB for baseball and the Danish Superligaen for ice hockey.

They offer a great selection of markets in all sports but unlike most betting sites the different markets are found in the sidebar. So rather than navigating to a sport and clicking a match to see further markets, you click on a sport in the sidebar and choose from the markets that appear. Clicking a market will show you all of the matches coming up in that

When it comes to making a deposit at BetNow you can use most major credit and debit cards as well as bank wire and neteller. Withdrawals are available via MoneyGram, bank draft, bank wire, Neteller, or direct deposits. The best option they offer is Bitcoin because it is available for both deposits and payouts.

Use the offer code CRYPTO200 on your first deposit to enjoy a 200% match worth up to $200. It comes with a rollover of 20x that applies to your deposit and the bonus funds, and they require a minimum deposit of $10.

What we like:

  • Bitcoin for deposits and payouts
  • Offers betting on esports and politics

What we don’t:

  • Smallest collection of sports
  • Markets are organized strangely

 

Timeline of Iowa Sports Betting Legislation

Here’s a timeline summarizing the road that brought us to the regulation of sports betting across the state:

  • 2022 – The Hawkeye State cleared $2 billion in sports betting handle through remote registration in 2021. A DRF Sportsbook will be launched on March 3 at Lakeside and Hotel Casino. The sportsbook is owned and operated by Daily Racing Form, Lakeside’s sister company.
  • 2021 – In Iowa, you can now register for sports betting online. To complete the registration process, players do not have to go to a casino.
  • 2019 – Governor Kim Reynolds signed Iowa sports betting bill SF 617 on May 13. Specifics include a 6.75% tax on revenue, legal mobile betting, and a $45,000 licensing fee.
  • 2018 – After years of on-and-off legalization attempts, Representative Jake Highfill filed a sports betting bill and declared that legislators were determined to pass the bill in 2019.
  • 2010 to 2018 – Several attempts at pushing a sports betting bill through committee are unsuccessful.

Best Iowa Sportsbook Sites Comparison

Sportsbook Sign-Up Bonus Bonus Code Sports to bet on Live Betting Live Streaming
BetOnline 50% up to $1,000 INSIDERS 40+
Bovada 75% 3x up to $750 N/A 40
MyBookie 50% up to $1,000 INSIDERS 25+
Everygame 3x $250 up to $750 INSIDERS 40+
XBet 50% up to $500 INSIDEX 25+
Lucky Block 200% Bonus up to 10,000 EUR + 50 Free Spins N/A 40+
BetUS 125% up to $2,500 INSIDERS 25+
BetNow 150% up to $150 INSIDERS 12+
BUSR 150% up to $2, 500 INSIDER150 20+
Jazz Sports 50% up to $1,000 INSIDERS 15+

How We Rank the Best Iowa Betting Apps & Mobile Sites

As we mentioned above, we used a tried and tested set of criteria to find the best Iowa mobile sports betting platform. In this section, we will describe seven of the most important features to give you a better understanding of how we made our list.

Mobile Betting Experience

The overall mobile gambling experience an Iowa sports betting app provides is top of the list in what we consider when making selections. Customers should feel welcomed and well-catered to, and placing wagers on the app should be fun with no bugs or issues.

Web Betting Apps

While many new bettors love the idea of a native Iowa sports betting app, progressive web apps are the future. Iowa mobile sports betting websites are a lot lighter and tend to run smoother, with better usability than most downloadable apps.

Mobile Betting Bonuses

Bonuses can be really helpful when it comes to saving your own money or increasing potential payouts. This is why we made sure to look for Iowa sports betting apps that offer the most generous bonuses with flexible terms and conditions.

Live Mobile Betting and Streaming

Bettors have always loved to cheer on their favorite teams and horses and place bets while competitions, games, and contests are ongoing. This is why we feel that every mention-worthy Iowa sports betting app must offer live sports betting opportunities. Live streaming is also an added bonus.

Banking Options

Another must-have for every top sports betting app is a broad range of banking options. Not only will this make transactions more convenient for every customer, but it also allows users more free choices about how they transact.

Customer Service

Whenever something goes wrong, which can happen on any app, there needs to be a quality customer support system to iron out the kinks. As such, our review team will never recommend an Iowa sports betting app that’s lacking in this respect.

Instead, we only vouch for applications that offer quality customer service, whether by text, email, a toll-free phone line, live chat, or all of the above.

Licensing & Security

Iowans, like all bettors, need to be careful with their money online. We don’t want to see anyone from the Hawkeye State left out of pocket by a rogue, unregulated betting site.

Unlicensed apps with no reputation for trustworthiness are likely to scam you. We, therefore, make it a point to make sure that each Iowa sports betting app on this list is fully licensed and enjoys a strong reputation with past and present customers.

Who can Bet on Sports in Iowa

In Iowa, sports bets can only be placed by adults aged 21 and up. However, a legal sports betting website, mobile application, or retail sportsbook in Iowa can be used to place wagers.

Use an online sportsbook or sportsbook app to place your Iowa sports bets. In Iowa, all sports betting is regulated by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission.

It has been possible to register remotely in IA since January 2021. You can use a computer or a mobile phone to remotely complete the entire sign-up process. To complete their registration, Iowa gamblers had to go to a casino.

How to Sign Up with an Iowa Betting App & Mobile Site

The idea of signing up to an Iowa sports betting app or mobile site might sound intimidating to some bettors. That’s especially true if you’re never the most tech-savvy person in the room. Fortunately, the web apps on our list have straightforward sign-up processes. All you need to do is follow these simple steps:

Step 1: Create an Account

We’ll use our top-rated site, BetUS, to demonstrate the registration process. Once you’ve navigated your way to the site, click the “Join” or “Sign Up” button. Next, enter personal and contact information and click “Next.”

Best Iowa Sports Betting Apps - Register

Step 2: Make a Deposit

Next, you will need to verify your email account. Once that’s done, you can make your first deposit. Select a payment method that works for you, whether that’s your card, an eWallet, or crypto.

Best Iowa Sports Betting Apps - Deposit

Step 3: Claim your Bonus

It’s not a requirement, but claiming a bonus will enhance your gambling experience. Enter the correct promo code and claim your welcome offer.

Best Iowa Sports Betting Apps - Claim Bonus

Step 4: Find your Favorite Sports

Now all you have to do is find your favorite sports and browse through the different events and betting markets.

Best Iowa Sports Betting Apps - Place Bet

Step 5: Fill out your Bet Slip

Start adding wagers to your bet slip. Evaluate whether or not everything checks out, and finalize your bets.

Best Iowa Sports Betting Apps - Bet Slip

Iowa Betting Apps & Mobile Sites for iPhone & Android

If you have a phone, there’s a very high chance it’s either an iPhone or an Android phone (sorry Windows phone users). As such, the average Iowa sports betting app primarily caters to these operating systems. Let’s discuss what mobile gambling options for Iowans look like for these two platforms.

Android

All top Iowa sports betting apps on our list are made with android users in mind. Because android phones are much more liberal as far as what you can put on them, almost half of US residents use them. Android phones are also friendly to all kinds of APK installations, which makes them ideal for downloading apps that aren’t on the Play Store.

iPhone

Apple users don’t have as much customization leeway. But with progressive web sports gambling apps fitting perfectly on the stock iOS system, you don’t need to fret. iPhone users can choose any one of the mobile betting websites listed on this page and enjoy unparalleled-quality sports betting.

Mobile Site vs App for Betting in Iowa

In many cases, the experience of using an app and a mobile site is the same. But a couple of things can set them apart, and it’s important to know these things before you pick one. There is no right or wrong answer, and personal preferences typically win the day. These pros and cons may help you make a more informed choice

Mobile Site

Here’s how you can expect to benefit from simply using the mobile website. As we’ll show in the next section, it’s easy to create a progressive web app and get one-tap betting access.

What we like:

  • Faster loading time than most native apps
  • Compatible with more devices
  • More likely to be regularly maintained
  • Seamless translation from desktop platform

What we don’t:

  • No biometric security features

Mobile App

If you prefer to download and install a native Iowa sports betting app, here are the benefits and drawbacks you can expect to experience.

What we like:

  • More interactive than most mobile sites
  • Notifications for games and promotions
  • High-tech security features
  • Better-suited for specific devices

What we don’t:

  • Incompatible with many devices
  • Complex hardware requirements

How to Create a Betting App for an Iowa Sportsbook

You don’t have to navigate to your mobile browser and enter the sportsbook URL each time you want to place a bet. You can create your own customized progressive web Iowa sports betting app in a few seconds. All you need to do is follow the 5 easy steps we’ve laid down below.

Step 1: Visit the Sportsbook

If you’re reading this guide using your mobile browser, simply tap the “Visit Now” button to navigate to your preferred sportsbook’s homepage.

Best Iowa Sports Betting Apps - Progressive Web App

Step 2: Choose the Menu Option

At the bottom of the page, you’ll find the menu section. Here, you need to tap the square icon with an arrow pointing up. This will open the safari menu.

Iowa Sports Betting Apps - Web App Menu

Step 3: Add to Home Screen

Swipe down, find the “add to home screen” option, and tap.

Iowa Sports Betting Apps - Add To Home Screen

Step 4: Customize the App

Here you can add the name of the sportsbook, though, it will automatically name it the way the sportsbook’s link appears on google.

Iowa Sports Betting Apps - Web App Name

Step 5: Enjoy One-Tap Access

At this point, the app should be on your device’s home screen and you can go ahead and start using it.

Iowa Sports Betting Apps - BetOnline Web App Icon

Is Sports Betting Legal in Iowa?

Iowa has had legal offline and online sports betting since 2019. There are currently more than 12 sports betting apps in Iowa, and almost all state-based physical casinos offer sports betting services in some capacity.

The Hawkeye State was one of the few that aggressively pushed for legalized sports betting well before the US Supreme Court overturned PAPSA.

An unusual quirk of Iowa’s sports betting regulations was that opening a betting account demanded a personal visit to a land-based casino; luckily, this requirement expired in January 2021.

Gambling Tax in Iowa

Winnings for gambling in Iowa are subject to a 5% state tax and a 24% federal tax. All winnings exceeding $600 in a fiscal year are reportable, and you must include them on your federal tax returns. To report your winnings, use form IA 1041.

Remember that regional laws require Iowa casinos to report winnings beyond a specific amount using W2-G forms, so ensure your reporting matches the casino’s report.

Payment Methods available at Iowa Online Sports Betting Sites

Iowans can deposit and transfer funds to legal betting sites using online bank transfers and electronic wallets. Throughout this article, we will outline the advantages and disadvantages of the most popular payment methods to choose the one that is right for you.

Crypto Betting Options

According to estimates, the number of Bitcoin betting sites is expected to reach hundreds by 2022. In addition, due to increased competition among Bitcoin betting sites, high rollers, and gamblers now receive higher bonuses.

Betting sites that accept Bitcoin and cryptocurrency have become more popular as they provide more games compatible with Bitcoin and altcoins, fast withdrawals, and low fees.

There is no doubt that Bitcoin is the currency most widely accepted by gambling websites. The exchange also supports Ethereum, Ripple, Bitcoin Cash, and Bitcoin.

eWallet Betting Options

Most online sportsbooks accept major electronic wallets such as PayPal, Neteller, and Skrill. On offshore sites, Iowans can quickly create an eWallet. This service is also free. In some cases, eWallets can earn Iowans exclusive rewards.

Traditional Payment Methods at Iowa Betting Sites

Credit cards remain the most popular banking option. All Iowans can deposit money at the offshore sportsbooks listed here using a credit card. However, some sportsbooks may require clients to complete credit card authorization forms. Sites like BetOnline and BetNow accept American Express, Visa, and MasterCard.

Bonuses and Promo Codes at Iowa Online Sports Betting Sites

You’ll encounter three types of bonuses in your sports betting career:

Matched deposit bonuses

The sportsbook matches your first deposit up to a maximum value. An example of this type of bonus is DraftKings’ welcome promotion, which awards a prize equal to 20% of your initial deposit, up to a maximum of $1,000.

Keep the following possible restrictions in mind when enrolling in a matched deposit bonus:

  • Wagering requirements (WR): You won’t be able to withdraw your bonus until you play through it a certain number of times.
  • Validity date: You may have to claim your bonus within a certain time after opening your sports betting account.
  • Minimum odds: For example, at DraftKings, only wagers at -300 or longer odds contribute towards meeting WR.

Free bet

Free bet promotions are distinct from matched deposit bonuses in that the former allows you to place a single bet, whereas the latter can be used to place multiple bets. Several Iowa sportsbooks, offer free bets equal in size to any losses you incur from placing your first real-money wager.

To avoid accidentally voiding a free bet offer, ask yourself the following questions before enrolling:

  • Minimum deposit: Do you have to deposit a certain minimum to participate in the promotion?
  • Minimum wager: Do you have to place a wager using your own money before you can claim the free bet?
  • Validity: Does the free bet expire?
  • Eligible markets: Can you use your free bet on any betting market? Parlays are frequently problematic.
  • Eligible sports: Are there restrictions on the sports you can use your free bet on?

Place Your Bets On The NFL Games

BetOnline betting lines

Sports fans in Iowa can place NFL football bets. Live bets, straight bets, and parlay bets can be placed online during the football season.

To educate and assist their members, many sites offer guides on how to stake a bet. BetOnline is the most comprehensive online bookmaker when it comes to professional and collegiate football. You can place NFL futures, spreads, and teasers on this outstanding website. That is great news for Minnesota Vikings fans.

Betting On NBA Teams: A Variety of Options

Betting on favorite teams in the NBA is a popular pastime for Iowans. There is only one NBA team in Illinois, so fans cheer for the Bulls. BetOnline has bets available for live events, parlays, NBA futures, teasers, spreads, and straights.

Visit our NBA betting guide for more NBA betting tips. Sports fans in Iowa can also wager on basketball events in Argentina and Australia through BetOnline. BetOnline also offers NBA Draft betting to residents of Iowa.

You Can Hit A Home Run With The MLB

A popular MLB team in Iowa is the Chicago Cubs, which Iowans can bet on. Those interested in betting on professional baseball should stick with BetOnline if they live in Iowa. In Iowa sports betting, you can bet on international baseball leagues such as Japan.

Something is Captivating About NHL Bookie Pays

Iowa sports bettors pay close attention to the Chicago Blackhawks, one of the NHL teams. Therefore, if you have not chosen BetOnline as your sportsbook destination, we encourage you to do so now. In addition, IA residents can bet on future hockey games played in European leagues by placing straight bets, spreads, teasers, and parlays.

Live Betting & Streaming

Iowa Online Sports Betting Sites and Apps - Top 10 Best IA Online Sportsbooks in [cur_year]

All the top Iowa sports bookmakers we endorse on this page offer live betting options and streaming services for significant events. Still, available live betting markets vary between sites.

The same rule applies to streaming. For example, right now, XBet is a great place to be if you enjoy horse race streams, but not as good if you’re looking for basketball or baseball live feeds, in which case BetOnline and BetUS are better choices.

Bets That Are Illegal in Iowa

Iowans can place a wager on most sports events – locally and internationally – but there are a few that are off-limits.

Politics

Iowa law prohibits all forms of political betting. So the only thing you can do is discuss the Iowa caucus betting odds.

eSports

Though Iowa has not yet legalized esports betting, there seems to be growing momentum in this area. Congressman Bobby Kaufmann has introduced a bill that would regulate esports betting, along with pro game drafts and player awards.

NFL Draft

Iowa is one of only a few states in the U.S. to forbid wagering on the NFL Draft, the league’s signature offseason event.

Awards Shows

Iowans cannot wager on much-hyped celebrity and pop-culture events, such as the Academy Awards.

How Iowa Sports Betting Compares to its Neighbors

As compared to states such as Minnesota, Wisconsin, or Nebraska. The state of Iowa is the wild (midwestern) west. With a two-year monitored rollout, Iowa will be able to legalize sports gambling in 2019 and generate new taxes for the state without raising taxes on citizens.

Gambling has been tolerated in Iowa for a long time. As a result, IA probably has the most permissive gambling laws compared to the rest of the Midwest. Counting Nevada, New Jersey, and South Dakota as early legalizing states, we were even the first to legalize riverboat casinos. This first step towards larger gambling permissions may have resulted from our proximity to the Mississippi River, where riverboat casinos were able to dock throughout the 1800s and 1900s.

In Iowa, their state budget practices are amongst the healthiest in the nation. Their government smartly takes advantage of new opportunities for tax revenues when they arise instead of raising income or businesses outright. The decision to reflect on the reality that gambling will occur regardless of legal permissions was a pragmatic one in 2019, in line with our pragmatic history in the industry.

What Sports Can You Bet On in Iowa?

Iowa sports betting sites offer lines on almost every popular sport. At the very least, you can expect betting options on the following:

  • Football
  • Baseball
  • Basketball
  • Golf
  • Martial arts
  • Hockey
  • Badminton
  • Darts
  • Rugby
  • Motorsports
  • Tennis
  • Soccer

The coverage within each sports discipline is extensive and spans everything from majors such as the NBA, NFL, MBL, and PGA Tour, through semi-pro leagues like the American 7s, MFL, EFL, and AFL, to minor tournaments you’re unlikely to have heard of.

For the broadest availability of sports and competitions to bet on, we recommend that you sign up with at least three of the Iowa sports betting sites we recommend above.

Esports Betting in Iowa

Unfortunately, Iowa’s sports betting bill explicitly bans betting on eSports, and we can’t predict when this will change. To bet on League of Legends, CS:GO, Dota, Overwatch, and other competitive video games, register an account with one of the best offshore betting sites licensed by an overseas jurisdiction.

Keep in mind that by playing at an offshore sportsbook, you violate several Iowa laws. Still, to our knowledge, no Iowa resident has ever been prosecuted by the authorities for this infraction.

Horse Race Betting

Horse race betting is legal in the state. The Prairie Meadows Racetrack in Altoona, which opened in early 1989, remains the state’s lone horse race betting venue. Along with betting on on-site races, the racetrack offers simulcasting of nationwide and international races, with the ability to watch the action unfold in real time.

Additionally, off-track sports betting in IA is alive and well. Here’s a list of prominent OTB locations in the state:

  • Prairie Meadows Racetrack & Casino in Altoona
  • Catfish Bend Casino in Fort Madison
  • MississippiBelle II in Clinton
  • Harrah’s Casino in Council Bluffs
  • Ameristar Casino* Hotel in Council Bluffs
  • Bluffs Run Casino in Council Bluffs
  • Dubuque Greyhound Park & Casino in Dubuque
  • Diamond Jo Casino in Dubuque
  • Wild Rose in Emmetsburg
  • Isle of Capri in Marquette
  • Terrible’s Lakeside Casino Resort in Osceola

Regarding horse race betting online and via phone, Iowa offers several legal advance-deposit wagering (ADW) services.

Daily Fantasy Sports

The sports betting law signed in May 2019 by Governor Reynolds legalized and regulated daily fantasy sports contests.

Initially, only contests involving professional sports were allowed; however, contests involving collegiate players became legal in 2020 as well.

Types of Betting Markets

What follows is a brief overview of the betting markets you’ll encounter at the top IA betting sites:

Moneylines

Very popular among beginners. You simply bet on who will win the match. If draws are possible in your chosen sport, you’ll be able to select a “draw” as a possible outcome on the moneyline.

Spreads

Contrary to popular opinion, spreads are great for beginners as well. In spread betting markets, the oddsmaker assigns a handicap to a given team. A bet on the favorite succeeds if they win by more than the handicap spread, while a bet on the underdog succeeds if the underdog either wins outright or loses by less than the value of the handicap.

Proposition bets

Examples include predicting the total number of goals or points, predicting the number of passes by a particular player, and so on. Proposition bets are usually not as sharp as moneyline or spread lines, making them a great way to turn a profit.

Totals

Examples include betting on the combined total goals scored by both teams in a soccer or hockey match.

Futures

Futures markets involve wagering on an event or series that will take place in the future. An example would be attempting to predict who will place first or second in the next NBA season.

Parlays

A parlay involves combining several wagers into a single bet. The potential parlay payout exceeds the combined potential winnings of its constituents; however, this extra potential profitability is balanced by the difficulty of constructing a successful parlay.

Iowa Mobile Betting Apps

Iowa Online Sports Betting Sites and Apps - Top 10 Best IA Online Sportsbooks in [cur_year]

Mobile betting activity is responsible for the bulk of revenues generated by the best IA sportsbooks. Nowadays, a bookmaker cannot hope to attract customers unless it offers an Iowa sports betting app that:

  • Is optimized for iOS and Android devices
  • Works well on smartphones and tablets with different screen sizes and resolutions
  • Mirrors the functionality of the browser-based site

So, at the very least, you can expect the perks above when you download and install an Iowa sports betting app from our recommended providers.

Still, there are some differences between individual apps. For instance, the MyBookie mobile application is a state-of-the-art piece of software that makes you forget desktop betting exists; all options load blazing fast, creating parlays is a piece of cake, and making deposits and withdrawals is rockets.

How to Compare IA Sportsbooks

When choosing a platform for online sports betting in Iowa, consider the following factors:

Range of Markets

Available Iowa betting markets range from two-way and three-way moneylines, through point spreads, prop bets, and totals, to complex parlays and unique markets available only for specific events.

Of course, sportsbooks differ in several ways, including the range of markets they offer.

Bonuses

The most common bonuses at the best Iowa sportsbooks are free bets and deposit match offers.

When choosing an IA sports betting site, ensure it offers a bonus that complements your goals. For example, if you plan to make a large deposit, a deposit match bonus is almost always better than a free bet.

Additionally, most bonuses come with certain restrictions on how and when you can use your bonus; consult the “Bonuses at Iowa Sports Betting Sites” section further up this page for information that will help you make an educated decision.

Payment methods

The safety of your funds should be a top concern, so make sure to only register with sportsbooks that offer banking options hosted by reputable financial institutions.

Verify that your selected bookmaker supports the payment options you intend to use, and remember that deposit and withdrawal options don’t always overlap; just because you can deposit through PayPal doesn’t mean you can withdraw via PayPal as well.

Licensing & Security

Our top sportsbooks are partnered with Iowa-based gambling companies licensed by the Tall Corn State. This affiliation ensures that each bookie’s services adhere to the industry’s highest security and safety standards.

List of Sportsbooks at Iowa Casinos

Iowa is home to dozens of land-based sports betting parlors:

  • Isle Casino Hotel, Bettendorf
  • Buffalo Wild Wings, Davenport
  • Rhythm City Casino Resort, Davenport
  • Buffalo Wild Wings, Burlington
  • Buffalo Wild Wings, Clinton
  • Buffalo Wild Wings, Coralville
  • Buffalo Wild Wings, Iowa City
  • Buffalo Wild Wings, Muscatine
  • Catfish Bend Casino, Burlington
  • Pzazz! Entertainment Complex, Burlington
  • Riverside Casino & Golf Resort, Riverside
  • Buffalo Wild Wings Merle Hay, Des Moines
  • Buffalo Wild Wings SE, Des Moines
  • Buffalo Wild Wings West, Des Moines
  • Prairie Meadows, Altoona
  • Ameristar Council Bluffs, Council Bluffs
  • Buffalo Wild Wings, Ames
  • Buffalo Wild Wings, Ankeny
  • Buffalo Wild Wings, Council Bluffs
  • Buffalo Wild Wings, Fort Dodge
  • Buffalo Wild Wings, Sioux City
  • Grand Falls Casino & Golf Resorts, Larchwood
  • Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Sioux City
  • Harrah’s Casino, Council Bluffs
  • Horseshoe Casino, Council Bluffs
  • Lakeside Hotel Casino, Osceola
  • Wild Rose Casino and Resort, Clinton
  • Wild Rose Casino & Resort, Emmetsburg
  • Wild Rose Casino & Resort, Jefferson
  • Buffalo Wild Wings, Dubuque
  • Diamond Jo Casino, Dubuque
  • Q Casino and Hotel, Dubuque
  • Isle Casino Hotel, Waterloo
  • Buffalo Wild Wings Blairs Ferry, Cedar Rapids
  • Buffalo Wild Wings, Cedar Falls
  • Buffalo Wild Wings, Mason City
  • Diamond Jo Worth, Northwood

IA Legislative Resources

For residents of Iowa interested in finding out more information on current legislation to do with sports betting and gambling in the state or would like to contact local and state representatives to express their opinions or concerns on the subject they can use the links below.

IA Gambling Resources

If you believe that you or someone you know has a gambling problem, then we encourage you to get in contact with the NCPG Iowa, IRGC or the State of Iowa Department of Health and Human Services found at the links below, they can provide advice and local information, and treatment services in your area.

Wrapping up

Legal sports betting in Iowa is a maturing industry, with over a dozen sportsbooks skirmishing for online dominance. New promotions pop up constantly, and the list of betting markets and sports is ever-expanding.

And the best part? You can join the action in less than 10 minutes! Simply open a free account with our recommended IA bookmakers, make an instant deposit, and place your first real money wager.

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Iowa Online Sports Betting FAQs

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Author photo
Joseph Yarnold
Gambling Journalist

Joe Yarnold joined the Basketball Insiders team in October 2021, as a content editor and writer. He obtained his Master’s degree from Framingham State University and has experience writing educational and explanatory articles on all forms of gambling. Although he specializes in casino gaming, NFL, soccer and NBA betting, he has well-rounded knowledge and insight of most sports. His expertise also include researching and analyzing the latest federal and state gambling laws and regulations in the US.

All posts by Joseph Yarnold
Author photo
Joseph Yarnold Gambling Journalist

Joe Yarnold joined the Basketball Insiders team in October 2021, as a content editor and writer. He obtained his Master’s degree from Framingham State University and has experience writing educational and explanatory articles on all forms of gambling. Although he specializes in casino gaming, NFL, soccer and NBA betting, he has well-rounded knowledge and insight of most sports. His expertise also include researching and analyzing the latest federal and state gambling laws and regulations in the US.

All posts by Joseph Yarnold