Iowa Sports Betting: Top 5 Iowa Sportsbooks December 2025

Iowa has a full section of online sportbooks to choose from, so it can feel overwhelming for new bettors to jump into. We've researched each one using the key factors on our how we rate page so that we can help you find the sportsbook that best fits your betting style.

1. BetMGM Iowa

BetMGM Iowa stands out as one of the premier options for sports bettors, delivering a smooth and intuitive experience for users of all skill levels.

Its sleek interface ensures easy navigation, whether you're placing your first bet or you're a seasoned bettor. What truly sets BetMGM apart is its comprehensive sports coverage. From major leagues like the NBA and MLB to more specialized betting options, the platform offers a wide range of markets that cater to all types of sports fans.

With exclusive NFL betting lines, flexible parlay options, and a robust rewards system, BetMGM Iowa takes a seat atop our betting site rankings.

• App Store: 4.8 out of 5 ⭐ (234.7K reviews)
• Google Play: 4.3 out of 5 ⭐ (35.6K reviews)
• Welcome bonus: Up to $1,500 in bonus bets
• Bonus code: SI1500
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

Read our BetMGM review for a complete look at one of the top U.S. NFL betting sites.

2. Caesars Sportsbook Iowa

Caesars Sportsbook Iowa offers a top-tier betting platform packed with value and variety, making it a standout choice for bettors in the Hawkeye State.

One of its most significant advantages is the expansive Caesars Rewards program. Every wager you place earns you points that can be used toward hotel stays, fine dining, entertainment, and more, which turns your bets into real-world benefits.

The app also features NFL live streaming, a wide range of betting markets, and some of the best-rated customer support in the business. Whether you're in it for the action or the perks, Caesars delivers a polished and rewarding experience.

• App Store: 4.7 out of 5 ⭐ (86.3K reviews)
• Google Play: 4.5 out of 5 ⭐ (27.9K reviews)
• Welcome bonus: Bet $1, double your winnings on next 20 bets
• Bonus code: SICZR20X
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

Check out our Caesars Sportsbook review for a full breakdown on one of the best prop betting sites.

3. FanDuel Iowa

FanDuel Iowa brings a strong legacy from its time in the daily fantasy sports space. It offers a refined and enjoyable betting platform, excellent sports coverage, and a range of solid features and options for bettors.

FanDuel stands out from the competition with a top-notch user experience. The app runs smoothly with fast load times, clean navigation, and innovative features like same-game parlays that make building custom bets quick and easy. Paired with consistently competitive odds across a broad range of sports, FanDuel delivers a betting experience that’s both seamless and satisfying.

• App Store: 4.9 out of 5 ⭐ (1.8M reviews)
• Google Play: 4.7 out of 5 ⭐ (371.9K reviews)
• Welcome bonus: Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets if you win
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

Be sure to check out our FanDuel review, which covers everything you need to know about the operator and why it's one of the best parlay betting sites in the industry.

4. DraftKings Iowa

DraftKings Iowa stands out as the best sports betting app in the state, offering a top-tier experience across the board. It covers everything bettors need, with fast performance, easy-to-use navigation, data-rich prop markets, and customizable same-game parlays.

The platform offers a comprehensive selection of betting options, including over 30 sports, a diverse range of player and game props, and a robust live betting section equipped with valuable tools and real-time updates.

• App Store: 4.8 out of 5 ⭐ (833.2K reviews)
• Google Play: 4.3 out of 5 ⭐ (168.4K reviews)
• Welcome bonus: Bet $5, get $200 in bonus bets if you win
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

Our in-depth DraftKings review provides a thorough overview and outlines everything you need to know before you get started. The betting site is also one of the fastest payout sportsbooks in the business.

5. Fanatics Sportsbook Iowa

Fanatics Sportsbook Iowa offers a standout welcome bonus, complemented by a sleek, high-performing mobile app that has won us over with its speed, layout, and functionality.

One of the platform’s best features is the FanCash Rewards program, which lets you earn rewards as you place bets. You can redeem your FanCash for bonus bets or use it to purchase Iowa Hawkeyes gear directly from the Fanatics website, adding extra value to every wager.

• App Store: 4.8 out of 5 ⭐ (111.7K reviews)
• Google Play: 4.7 out of 5 ⭐ (23.7K reviews)
• Welcome bonus (option #1): Up to $2,000 in FanCash
• Welcome bonus (option #2): Bet $50, get $250 in FanCash
• Payout speed: Within 24 hours

Read our full Fanatics Sportsbook review for valuable insights from our betting experts. Fanatics also offers one of the best sportsbook referral bonuses among its peers.

Yes, sports betting is legal in Iowa. Thanks to Senate File 617, which was signed into law by Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds on May 13, 2019, Iowans received access to legal sports betting both at the state's casinos and online sportsbooks.

Iowa officially launched sports betting on Aug. 15, 2019, and Caesars Sportsbook Iowa was one of the first books to go live.

With multiple Iowa sports betting accounts, you can access and claim multiple new welcome bonuses across the best Iowa sports betting apps. Here are some of the best Iowa sportsbook promos to check out:

BetMGM - Up to $1,500 in bonus bets

New BetMGM Iowa users can unlock up to $1,500 in bonus bets using our exclusive BetMGM bonus code SI1500. Just deposit a minimum of $10 and place your first wager. If it doesn’t win, you’ll get bonus bets back. 

💡 If your first bet doesn’t hit and you’re awarded bonus bets, stick to sports or markets you know well, which will give you the best chance to capitalize on this welcome bonus.

Caesars Sportsbook - Bet $1, double your winnings on next 20 bets

Sign up with Caesars Sportsbook Iowa using our promo code SICZR20X to unlock a special offer. After making a minimum deposit of $10 and placing a $1 bet, you’ll receive 20 profit boost tokens. Each token can be used on bets with minimum odds of -10000, a maximum stake of $25, and potential boosted winnings are capped at $2,500 per token.

💡 Unlike some other Iowa sports betting sites, Caesars gives you 14 days to use your tokens. We recommend taking advantage of that extended period to find bets you're most comfortable with.

FanDuel - Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets if you win

Get started at FanDuel Iowa by depositing $5 and placing a qualifying $5 wager. If you win, you'll receive $150 in bonus bets, and no FanDuel promo code is needed.

Note: You can only claim the welcome offer on the FanDuel app.

💡 With no odds restrictions tied to this welcome bonus, make sure you pick a betting market that is set up to win so you can claim your bonus bets easily.

DraftKings  - Bet $5, get $200 in bonus bets if you win

The DraftKings promo code unlocks a solid welcome bonus for Iowa users. By depositing and placing a qualifying $5 wager, you’ll receive 8 $25 bonus bets if you win.

There’s also a secondary offer that gives you 20% of your first deposit back as bonus bets, up to $1,000. While appealing to high rollers, this option may not be ideal for the average bettor due to its larger deposit and playthrough requirements.

💡 Since you must win your first bet, play the smart move with a massive favorite.

Important terms and conditions:

GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit http://gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY).Please Gamble Responsibly. 888-789-7777/visit http://ccpg.org (CT), or visit Home (MD).21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 21+ and present in most states. (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). Void in ONT/OR/NH. Eligibility restrictions apply. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Pass-thru of per wager tax may apply in IL. 1 per new customer. Must register new account to receive reward Token. Must select Token BEFORE placing min. $5 bet to receive $200 in Bonus Bets if your bet wins. Min. -500 odds req. Token and Bonus Bets are single-use and non-withdrawable. Token expires 1/11/26. Bonus Bets expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Terms: http://sportsbook.draftkings.com/promos. Ends 1/4/26 at 11:59 PM ET. Sponsored by DK.

Fanatics Sportsbook - Claim multiple offers

This Iowa Fanatics Sportsbook promo lets you stack two different promos, including up to $2,000 in FanCash.

Up to $2,000 in FanCash

The Fanatics Sportsbook promo for Iowa is a solid offer. Place wagers for 10 consecutive days, and if you lose, receive your stake back in FanCash, up to $200 per day. 

Bet $50, get $250 in FanCash

The first offer lets Iowa users place a $10 or larger bet on any market with odds of -500 or longer for five consecutive days within seven days of opening their account. You’ll receive $50 in FanCash each day.

💡 Keep in mind that you have to keep the streak going for 10 consecutive days to reach the full bonus. If you miss a day, you forfeit that $200 of the bonus. 

Legal sports betting in Iowa is overseen by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission, ensuring a safe and secure experience for all players.

Iowa-licensed sportsbooks are required to follow strict rules regarding data protection, fair play, and transparency, unlike offshore unregulated sites. That means your personal details and funds are safeguarded, and you have access to trusted payment methods and responsible gambling tools.

With strong regulatory oversight in place, betting with a licensed Iowa operator isn’t just legal; it’s a more innovative and secure way to wager. When you choose a regulated sportsbook, you’re protected by the state and playing within a trusted framework designed with your safety in mind.

Iowa offers a strong lineup of licensed sportsbooks, and selecting the right one can significantly impact your overall experience. To help you pick the ideal Iowa sports betting app, consider these essential elements based on your personal preferences and betting habits:

🎁 Welcome offers and promos

Welcome bonuses can vary widely, and most Iowa sports betting apps design their offers to appeal to different kinds of bettors. Ensure you choose a bonus that suits your style and comes with reasonable terms, making it both valuable and easy to unlock.

📱 Mobile app performance

Placing bets should be a stress-free and straightforward process. The top Iowa sports betting sites offer fast load times, intuitive layouts, and smooth navigation, making it easy to find your preferred markets without any hassle.

💳 Flexible payment options

When it's time to deposit or withdraw funds, speed and security are key. The best Iowa online sportsbooks support trusted payment options, including PayPal, debit cards, ACH transfers, and Apple Pay. Be sure to check for minimum deposit and withdrawal requirements, as well as any potential fees. You should always review what’s accepted before you fund your account.

⚡ Fast payouts

Nobody wants to wait a long time for their winnings after they hit a bet. Legal Iowa sportsbooks should have an expeditious process for you to withdraw any winnings.

🔒 Trusted security

Before creating an account with any Iowa sportsbook app, confirm that the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission fully licenses it. Also, look for key security features, such as encryption and two-factor authentication, to help keep your personal and financial information safe.

🏈 Wide range of betting markets

The top Iowa sportsbooks feature expansive betting markets. Beyond the popular options like basketball and hockey, the best platforms also allow you to wager on sports such as MMA, NASCAR, soccer, and even darts. A broader selection means more ways to bet on what you love.

🤝 Reliable customer support

Reliable customer support is a key feature of the best Iowa sports betting apps, even if it’s often overlooked. Choose sportsbooks that provide 24/7 live chat, responsive email support, and comprehensive help centers. A strong social media presence can also be a helpful backup when you need quick assistance.

You can start placing wagers with the best sports betting apps in just a few minutes. Follow the steps below to create your account and start betting legally and securely in the Hawkeye State.

1. Choose a sportsbook

You can download and use as many sportsbooks as you want, and it’s actually a smart strategy. Keeping at least three accounts active allows you to compare odds across platforms and take advantage of ongoing promotions.

2. Download the betting app 

Once you choose which sportsbook you want to use, you must download the respective mobile app for that sportsbook to bet online.

3. Register

Regardless of which sportsbook you choose, you'll need to set up an account by providing some basic personal details. This typically includes your name, address, date of birth, and Social Security number for identity verification and tax reporting purposes. Rest assured, licensed sportsbooks prioritize your privacy and employ multiple layers of security to safeguard your information.

4. Claim a bonus

New bettors signing up at leading Iowa sportsbooks can take advantage of welcome bonuses. Some offers are guaranteed, while others depend on the outcome of your first bet, whether you win or lose. Please review the terms and conditions carefully to avoid missing out on your bonus.

5. Deposit

You’ll need to deposit funds into your account. Since most sportsbooks that offer welcome bonuses come with a minimum deposit requirement, it’s essential to review the terms and conditions before making a deposit. Iowa sportsbooks offer a variety of payment options, such as PayPal, Venmo, debit cards, bank transfers, and cash deposits at physical locations.

6. Place a bet

At the top Iowa sports betting sites, placing a wager is straightforward. With extensive betting markets and easy-to-use platforms, you can effortlessly explore options like player props, moneylines, and more. After choosing your bet, it will show up on your betting slip, where you can enter your stake, check the odds, and review your potential payout before finalizing the bet.

7. Withdraw winnings

You can withdraw your winnings from Iowa sportsbook accounts through various payout methods, including debit cards, bank transfers, and PayPal. Depending on the sportsbook and the method you select, funds may be available instantly or may take up to five business days to process.

With a double-digit number of Iowa sports betting apps available for you to sign up for an account with, there is no shortage of options. While some bettors may feel like just one or two of these is enough, you should have as many as you can.

Here are some of the reasons we think you should try multiple sports betting apps:

🌟 Find your favorite

Every Iowa sports betting app offers a unique experience. From design and navigation to how bonuses and rewards are earned, each platform offers something unique.

Testing out a few different Iowa sportsbooks is a smart way to determine which one best suits your preferences.

🛍 Line shopping

Securing the best odds and lines for your bets is one of the smartest moves you can make as a sports bettor. In a market where edges are getting smaller, this strategy remains one of the few ways to gain an advantage over oddsmakers.

Using several Iowa betting sites gives you more chances to shop for the best line before placing your wager.

📚 Sportsbook rules

Each sportsbook comes with its own set of rules, whether it’s the timeframe to use your bonus bets before they expire or how dead-heat situations work in paying out the wager. With multiple Iowa online sportsbooks available, you can select the ones whose rules work best for you.

🎁 Welcome bonuses

This is a significant reason to have several sports betting apps ready to use. For example, BetMGM Iowa offers you up to $1,500 back in bonus bets if you lose your first wager, while FanDuel features a popular bet $5, get $150 if you win bonus.

🧑‍⚖️ Legal age

The legal age to bet on sports online and in person in Iowa is 21 years old.

📲 Remote registration

As long as you're physically located in Iowa, you can sign up and use online sportsbooks without ever having to leave your house.

📍 Geolocation rules

Iowa sportsbooks use geolocation technology to verify your physical location. You don’t need to live in Iowa, but you must be within state lines and have location services enabled on your device to place a legal bet.

🏦 Tax on sports betting winnings in Iowa

Winnings that exceed $600 must be reported to the state and taxed at 5%, in addition to the 24% federal tax applied to all gambling income. 

Iowa sports betting law explicitly prohibits wagering on specific events to maintain ethical standards and ensure fair play. The following are off-limits or have restrictions:

🎮 Esports

Esports is not currently included in Iowa’s approved betting markets.

⛹🏾 In-state college player props

You can’t bet on local college teams' player props at college football betting sites in Iowa.

🏆 Awards shows

In Iowa, you cannot bet on celebrity and pop culture awards shows, like the Emmys or the Academy Awards.

🏈 NFL Draft

Iowa residents can bet on the NFL Draft, but with limits: Markets must shut down 24 hours before the draft, and you cannot place bets on the draft while it's in progress or between rounds.

🗳️ Politics

Wagering on elections or political outcomes is not permitted, as is the case in nearly all states.

While Iowa doesn’t have major pro franchises, the Hawkeye State’s sports culture runs deep thanks to powerhouse college programs and some unique local teams. From intense college rivalries to AAA baseball, Iowa fans always have something to root for, and bettors have plenty of angles to explore.

🏈 Iowa Hawkeyes (University of Iowa)

The black and gold are a force in Big Ten football, regularly contending for conference titles. Home games at Kinnick Stadium, especially with the famous “Hawkeye Wave” to the children’s hospital, are some of the most iconic moments in college football.

🏈 Iowa State Cyclones (Iowa State University)

Based in Ames, the Cyclones bring high-energy Big 12 football every fall. The annual Cy-Hawk rivalry against Iowa is one of the most heated matchups in college sports, perfect for bettors who love a grudge game.

🏀 Drake Bulldogs

A mid-major darling in NCAA basketball, Drake has been making noise in the Missouri Valley Conference and becoming a favorite Cinderella pick during March Madness.

⚾ Iowa Cubs (Triple-A Affiliate of the Chicago Cubs)

Based in Des Moines, the Iowa Cubs give baseball fans a close look at future MLB stars before they make it to Wrigley Field. Summer betting fun meets classic ballpark vibes.

⚾ Cedar Rapids Kernels (High-A Affiliate of the Minnesota Twins)

This minor league squad is a community favorite, offering fans a chance to watch young talent develop in a fun, family-friendly atmosphere.

🗓️ Feb. 2023: Blackbird Bend Casino begins offering in-person sports betting at its facility. It is the first casino on tribal land to offer in-person sports betting in the state.

🗓️  July 1, 2022, Expanded sports betting, including wagering on drafts and league awards, takes effect.

🗓️  March 2022: An attempt to legalize esports betting in Iowa passes the House. (HF 2497).

🗓️ Nov. 2021: The in-person registration requirement expires at the start of the year, marking a significant change in the state. As such, Iowa sets a new all-time handle record of $287 million in November, for a total of $2 billion in bets for the year.

🗓️ Dec. 2020: In December, Iowa’s monthly sports betting handle surpasses the nine-figure milestone for the first time, reaching a combined total of $104 million in wagers. By the end of the year, the state records over $500 million in total bets placed.

🗓️ Aug. 15, 2019: Online and retail sports betting officially launches in Iowa.

🗓️ May 13, 2019: Iowa’s governor signs sports betting into law.

🗓️ May 2018: Efforts to legalize sports betting gain further traction after a US Supreme Court ruling, but the year closes without notable progress.

The Iowa sports betting handle has grown significantly every year since becoming legalized in 2019. With numerous online sportsbooks to choose from and a low state tax rate, Iowans enjoy fewer barriers to betting on sports.

Yearly breakdown

Monthly handle

Iowa bettors have access to most of the top legal sports betting apps in the U.S., including BetMGM, FanDuel, and DraftKings.

Despite the overall favorable betting conditions, though, Hawkeye State bettors still face some drawbacks:

Pros

✅ Remote registration

The ease and convenience of registering remotely on one’s mobile device is a massive plus for Iowa bettors. Players using Iowa sports betting apps don’t have to leave their homes, and can go from unregistered to placing wagers in a matter of moments.

✅ Low taxes for operators

A 6.75% operator tax is one of the lower nationwide rates for sports betting taxes, which means that Iowa betting sites can offer more favorable odds to sports bettors.

✅ Plenty of retail sportsbooks

There are a whopping 17 Iowa retail sportsbooks available to visit in the Hawkeye State.

Cons

✖ NFL Draft betting restrictions

Iowa is a unique case of NFL Draft betting, where any betting markets on the draft will close 24 hours before the event begins. This means you cannot live bet the draft or bet in between rounds.

✖ No credit card deposits

Iowa is one of several states that do not allow credit cards for sportsbook deposits.

✖ College betting limits

You cannot wager on college player props in Iowa, despite the state allowing in-state and nationwide college sports betting.

In Iowa, licensed sportsbooks offer robust consumer protections, guaranteeing the safety of your funds and personal information. On the flip side, offshore sportsbooks don't provide these safeguards, leaving you at risk. To ensure a secure and trustworthy betting experience, always choose licensed platforms.

Here are some sportsbooks to avoid in Iowa:

In Iowa, there are numerous online and retail options available for sports bettors. Here is a complete list of licensed Iowa sports betting sites and physical locations.

Licensed online sportsbooks

Read our bet365 bonus code page for a look at one of Iowa' best sportsbooks.

Physical retail sportsbooks

Yes, online gambling in Iowa is legal, offering bettors a variety of options beyond sports betting. 

🎰 Casinos

Online casino games are not yet legal in Iowa. However, there are 23 full-service casinos in the Hawkeye State, including one riverboat casino.

🐴 Horse racing

Horse race betting is legal in Iowa, both in person and online.

🏆 Daily fantasy sports (DFS)

While daily fantasy sports is legal in Iowa, they were one of the last states to do so. You also cannot use the popular DFS operator Underdog in the state either.

DFS has been legal in Iowa since SF 617 was signed into law in 2019.

📈 Sports prediction markets

While making sports predictions isn’t technically illegal in Iowa, state regulators have scrutinized platforms like Kalshi and Robinhood for offering prediction markets, leading to multiple investigations into the legality and structure of their services.

🎟️ Iowa Lottery

Iowa residents aged 18 and older can participate in a wide range of gambling options, including popular lottery games such as Powerball, Mega Millions, and Lotto America.

Iowa sports betting offers several banking options for safe and secure deposits and withdrawals.

Iowa sports bettors have access to numerous resources for additional sports betting information or the latest updates.

• Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission
• Casinos in Iowa
• Iowa sports betting rules

Legal sports betting is in a handful of states across the country, and Missouri is set to join the action soon. Missouri sports betting is launching in December 2025, with both online and retail options on the way. Our state-specific guides help you track what’s legal and what’s coming.

The state of Iowa takes strong measures to ensure that everyone participating in Iowa sports betting does so in a responsible manner. The state is committed to promoting responsible gaming and sports betting practices.

Here are some of the responsible gaming resources that Iowa has to offer.

• Office of Problem Gambling Prevention & Treatment Services
• Iowa Gaming Association on Responsible Gaming
• Iowa Problem Gambling Resources