Iowa Sports Betting: Best Iowa Sportsbooks December 2024

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.

OR

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» Discover more in our detailed review of Caesars Sportsbook.

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Caesars Sportsbook IA Ratings

⭐ WSN Rating: 4.3/5
⭐ Apple App Store: 4.6/5
⭐ Google Play Store: 4.3/5
⭐ Trustpilot: N/A

Claim Your Caesars Sportsbook Bonus

3. 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 get up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets.

» Explore our comprehensive review of BetMGM Sportsbook here.

💰 Sign-up offer: Get Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets
🤩 Promo code: WSNSPORTS

BetMGM Sportsbook IA Ratings

⭐ WSN Rating: 4.4/5
⭐ Apple App Store: 4.8/5
⭐ Google Play Store: 3.6/5
⭐ Trustpilot: 1.2/5

Claim Your BetMGM Sportsbook Bonus

4. 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 a 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.

» Read our full review of bet365.

💰 Sign-up offer: $1,000 Safety Net Bet OR $150 in Bonus Bets
🤩 Promo code: WSN365

bet365 Sportsbook IA Ratings

⭐ WSN Rating: 4.5/5
⭐ Apple App Store: 4.7/5
⭐ Google Play Store: 4.6/5
⭐ Trustpilot: 1.3/5

Claim Your bet365 Sportsbook Bonus

5. 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. 

» You can find out more in our full BetRivers review.

💰 Sign-up offer: Up to $100 in Bonus Bets.

BetRivers Sportsbook Ratings

⭐ WSN Rating: 4.1/5
⭐ Apple App Store: 4.4/5
⭐ Google Play Store: 3.3/5
⭐ Trustpilot: 1.7/5

6. 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 bet $5, get $250 in Bonus Bets. All you have to do is place your first money bet of at least $5 and you'll score $250 in bonus bets.

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. 

» Find out more in our in-depth DraftKings Sportsbook review.

💰 Sign-up offer: Bet $5, Get $250 in Bonus Bets

DraftKings Sportsbook Ratings

⭐ WSN Rating: 4.8/5
⭐ Apple App Store: 4.8/5
⭐ Google Play Store: 4.6/5
⭐ Trustpilot: 1.2/5

Full List of Legal Sportsbooks in Iowa

The full list of all 13 legal online sportsbooks that are available in Iowa is here: 

• Bally Bet

• bet365

• Betfred Sports

• BetMGM

• BetRivers

• Caesars Sportsbook

• Circa Sports

• ClutchBet

• DraftKings 

• ESPN Bet

• Fanatics

• FanDuel

• Q Sportsbook

Iowa Online Sports Betting Sites

Iowa Retail Sportsbooks

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, 13 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

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.

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.

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. 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

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.

Iowa Sports Betting News and Updates

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:

• Aug. 31, 2024 - Australian-owned ClutchBet announces exit from all U.S. markets, including Iowa, on Sept. 16, 2024.

• July 22, 2024 - SuperBook Sportsbook is no longer accepting bets or new registrations in Iowa. Betway also officially exited the state.

• June 26, 2024 - Tipico Sportsbook will exit Iowa in the coming months as the company’s US operations were sold to BetMGM.

• May 14, 2024 - Iowa sportsbooks collect lowest handle of 2024 in April, receiving a 23.1% month-over-month decrease. 

• May 2, 2024 - Sportstrade launches iOS betting app in Iowa, allowing bettors to buy and sell bets in real time. 

• April 29, 2024 - Twenty-six Iowa athletes sue over sports betting investigation that claim violated their constitutional rights. 

• April 24, 2024 - DRF sports data to close on April 30 in Iowa, but DRF Sportsbook to continue operating as normal.

• April 16, 2024 - Iowa sports betting handle rose to $272.3 million in March, up 23.4% from February and 17% year-over-year.

• April 5, 2024 - In a recent hearing, Iowa legislators voted to delay implementing rules aimed at preventing student-athletes from betting on their own games. The lawmakers decided the proposed rules may be too hard for sportsbooks to follow.

• April 1, 2024 - The No. 1 seed Iowa Hawkeyes women’s basketball team advanced to the Elite Eight in women’s March Madness, where Caitlyn Clark will face fellow star Angel Reece and No. 3 LSU.

• March 1, 2024 - Iowa prosecutors drop sports betting charges against former Iowa State athletes who were among group accused of identity theft and record tampering surrounding underage wagering.

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

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.

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 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. 

Seeking Assistance: Responsible Gambling in Iowa

The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission (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.