Iowa Sports Betting

Iowa might not always be top of mind when you think of sports betting. Not compared to flashy states like Nevada or New York. But this Midwestern state got into the legalized betting party earlier. It’s still at the party, dancing away whether people are paying attention or not.

We see it, which is why you’re about to get a complete rundown of Iowa’s betting scene right here — from the best apps to use to other gambling types besides sports. Let’s dive into what makes Iowa one of the most bettor-friendly states in the country.

Is Sports Betting Legal In Iowa?

It’s been legal in Iowa, as a matter of fact. It went live in August of 2019 — about a year after the federal ban was lifted. This was among the earliest in the country. Initially, the state launched an in-person registration model that forced bettors to sign up in person before being allowed to wager online. This was dropped in 2021, and it’s only boomed the industry even more.

Five years of being live has allowed 14 different sportsbooks to operate inside the state. This is a lot for a state with a population under four million. That’s why we want to spend the next few sections breaking down the best of these sportsbook apps.

International Online Sportsbooks Available In Iowa

Iowa has embraced legal sports betting, offering a variety of options for enthusiasts. However, state-regulated sportsbooks come with specific restrictions that bettors need to keep in mind. For instance, Iowa sportsbooks cannot accept wagers on political events or entertainment props, and there are limitations on betting involving in-state college teams such as the University of Iowa and Iowa State University. These regulations can limit your options, especially if you're looking to bet on local college games or more specialized markets.

This is where international sportsbooks can be a game changer. Offshore platforms provide the flexibility to bet on political outcomes, engage with a full range of college sports without the same restrictions, and explore unique markets that aren’t available through Iowa’s legal sportsbooks. Whether you're interested in local college matchups or significant political events, international sportsbooks can broaden your betting experience.

While some may have concerns about the safety of offshore betting, the international sportsbooks we recommend have been thoroughly vetted for reliability and security. Our team has utilized these platforms for years, ensuring they offer fast payouts, fair treatment, and excellent customer support. By choosing these trusted offshore operators, you can confidently expand your betting options while feeling secure about your funds and personal information.

Legal Online Sportsbooks Available In Iowa

Iowa took a progressive step in the realm of sports betting by legalizing the activity in 2019, with the first bets officially placed in August of that year. The state offers both online and in-person wagering, allowing bettors to place their bets via mobile devices or visit licensed physical sportsbooks located throughout Iowa. Since its launch, Iowa has cultivated a diverse sports betting market, providing a wide array of options across popular sports like football, basketball, and baseball. With numerous major sportsbooks actively operating, the state fosters a competitive environment for bettors. Iowa’s regulatory framework ensures a secure and fair betting experience, making it an appealing destination for sports enthusiasts.

Iowa Online Sportsbook Comparison

The first thing any Iowa bettor should know is what they value most out of an app. Is it bonuses? Perhaps a variety of betting options? Customer service? Decide this THEN pick the sportsbook that best does that particular thing. This is why we’ve made several sportsbook suggestions below based on different features a bettor might covet:

Best sportsbook for bonuses: Iowa bettors can expect BetMGM to be routinely offering them big bucks. They are consistently switching up their offerings, but as an example, BetMGM is currently giving out a risk-free bet promotion for new users. A first bet that fails to hit will be refunded in full up to $1500 in free play. It’s a great way to get started without the pressure of losing your initial bet — while leaving room for big upside.

Best sportsbook for betting options: FanDuel gets the slight edge. We say slight because most operators offer strikingly similar betting options and even odds. But FanDuel wins here because they consistently deal out “boosted odds” which reprice betting lines to benefit bettors more. This ends up in bigger savings and payouts for bettors, which matters big time.

Best sportsbook for live betting: DraftKings' live betting in Iowa has already been impressive — smooth functionality, lightning-fast live odds, and a huge variety of in-play options. But it looks like it’s about to get even better. The site has acquired Simplebet, a microbetting software company, with plans to integrate it into its app. This likely means even more betting options and faster line changes, making live betting on DraftKings even more dynamic for in-state bettors.

Best sportsbook for rewards: Fanatics Sportsbook brings something fresh to the table — not only can you place your bets, but you can also rack up FanCash along the way. Unlike traditional sportsbooks that only offer bonus bets, Fanatics lets you redeem that FanCash for actual sports gear from their massive merchandise selection. No other bookmaker can offer anything quite like that, which separates Fanatics form the pack.

Best sportsbook for user experience: FanDuel is our selection here. We mean, they are the number-one used app in the state and the whole country. Would that be the case if the user experience wasn’t top-notch? No way. We’re here to confirm the platform indeed works like a charm — whether on a computer or desktop. Bettors will have no issue finding their way around the easy-to-use app.

Iowa Quick Facts

What You Can’t Bet On In Iowa?

Iowa has looser than usual betting regulations, compared to other states at least. However, there are some betting no-nos worth calling out right now:

College player props: Individual player props in college sports are a no-go statewide. It doesn’t matter if it’s a local team like Iowa State or a national powerhouse — all of it is prohibited.

Online casino: iGaming is banned in Iowa — despite the presence of physical casinos.

Non-sports events: Iowa doesn’t allow betting on non-sporting events. This includes things like predicting the winner of presidential elections, award show outcomes, or even the results of scripted WWE matches.

Want to bet on these things despite being in Iowa? We encourage you to look into an offshore sportsbook. They are much less regulated than licensed apps and freely offer these betting markets.

Who Can Legally Bet In Iowa?

Let’s shift our focus to what Iowa does allow betting-wise. This list is a lot larger than the don’ts list and includes the following:

Legal age: If you want to place sports bets in Iowa, make sure you’re at least 21. But if you’re feeling lucky on a lottery ticket, anyone 18 and up is good to go.

Mobile betting: Iowa is all in on mobile betting. Thanks to apps like DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM, you can bet from anywhere in the state — whether you’re lounging on your couch or sipping cold ones at the bar.

Retail sportsbooks: Iowa houses five physical sportsbooks. These aren’t as convenient or anytime, anyplace betting of an app, but they are a fun social experience. Nothing beats swearing out a bet with other gamblers and sharing the misery of losing or the joys of winning.

Remote registration: Want to get started? You won’t need to visit a physical location. Signing up with a sportsbook in Iowa is fully online. Most sign-up processes can be completed in minutes.

Taxable winnings: Don’t forget, winnings are taxable income. So, when tax season comes around, both the state and Uncle Sam will want their cut. Make sure to keep track of those earnings or else be prepared to be a +600 underdog against the government come tax season.

Iowa Casinos and Sportsbooks

There are 13 casinos in Iowa that are licensed to operate as a sportsbook. If you want to use the corresponding mobile accounts for any of these venues, you will need to visit the casino and register for a mobile sports betting account before you can use the app or sportsbook mobile site.

• Ameristar III Casino in Council Bluffs
• Catfish Bend Casino in Burlington
• Diamond Jo – Worth in Northwood
• Grand Falls Casino in Larchwood
• Harrah’s Council Bluffs in Council Bluffs
• Horseshoe Council Bluffs in Council Bluffs
• Isle of Capri Casino Hotel in Bettendorf
• Isle of Capri Casino Hotel in Waterloo
• Lakeside Hotel and Casino in Osceola
• Prairie Meadows Casino, Racetrack and Hotel in Altoona
• Q Casino & Hotel in Dubuque
• Rhythm City Casino Resort in Davenport
• Riverside Casino and Golf Resort in Riverside

Iowa Sports Betting Legalization Timeline

Iowa's timeline to legalize was super fast — more so than most other states. See below for a quick summary:

2019: A Fast Legalization

SF366 was the first attempt to legalize sports betting in Iowa. It got some early support and was recommended by the committee in just one day. It eventually stalled, but it still showed that there was an appetite for this. This provided an impetus for the House to pass a bill, sending it over to the Senate in April.

The Senate approved it very quickly and by May, the governor had already signed the bill into law. There was a special clause in Iowa that we do not see in many other states. More on that later.

2020-2021: Success and Expansion

Because sports betting was so successful in Iowa, more and more revenue came into the state's coffers. With this in mind, they wanted to expand it even more.

Iowa had previously had a clause where you had to go to a retail location to register in-person to be able to bet online. In 2021, they removed this requirement, facilitating betting in Iowa.

Latest Iowa Betting News

Jul 2, 2024 12:14 AM

After Sale to BetMGM, Tipico Sportsbook Operator Exiting Iowa Sports Betting Market

Jun 8, 2023 07:31 PM

Numerous NCAA Athletes Under Investigation Amid Iowa Sports Betting Scandal

Feb 25, 2022 05:23 AM

Iowa Keeps Setting Sports Betting Records Ahead of 2022 March Madness

Oct 13, 2021 08:53 AM

Iowa Sets Sports Gambling Revenue Record But Uncertain About Future

Latest Iowa Legal Betting Updates

Sep 26, 2024 12:12 PM

In a court filing, a special agent with the Division of Criminal Investigation testified that the DCI employed an "illegal search" of student online accounts during the investigation of the Iowa sports betting case.

A Brief Timeline of the Legality of Iowa Sports Betting

How To Bet On Sports In Iowa?

Iowa sportsbooks offer similar betting markets across the board, with fairly consistent odds from one app to another. However, depending on your preferred sport, there are some key betting opportunities to focus on:

How To Bet On Football In Iowa?

Football is the lifeblood of sports betting in Iowa. Between the NFL and college football, the bulk of betting action centers on these two. The biggest betting moment of the entire year will be the Super Bowl in February. This is also when you’re most likely to find a killer deal from an Iowa sportsbooks as they’re all vying for your betting money.

How To Bet On Basketball In Iowa?

Basketball is a fan favorite, whether it’s NCAA hoops or the NBA. The game's fast pace and constant action give bettors plenty of wagering options — check out in-play if you’re looking to up the thrill. Also save your money for March Madness too. You don’t want to be spent once NFL ends because the hoops tourney is another must-bet moment. Very often you’ll see the Iowa Hawkeyes and Iowa State Cyclones qualify for March Madness, which adds to the excitement.

How To Bet On Baseball In Iowa?

Baseball stands out as one of the best sports for opportunistic bettors. With games almost every day for six months, it offers endless betting opportunities. Savvy bettors who follow trends, pitcher matchups, or line movement can find real value here. The slow and strategic nature of baseball makes it a favorite for those who like to dive deep into the stats before placing their bets.

How To Bet On Fighting In Iowa?

Combat sports like UFC and boxing may not have the volume of other sports, but there’s no shortage of action. With major fight cards almost every weekend, Iowa bettors can dive into a wide range of betting options. From moneylines to round-specific bets, the fight game offers plenty of betting chances for those willing to go beyond the major matchups.

Betting On Iowa Teams

Iowa is a flyover state. We like it, but it’s definitely not a booming metropolis that warrants a pro sports team. The closest pro teams are likely in Chicago and Minnesota — but even then, they’re not all that nearby either. But what the states lack in professional teams, they make up for in collegiate programs.

Betting On Iowa NCAA Teams

The state is divided into two, by its chief programs — the Hawkeyes and Cyclones. You almost have to pick sides as a resident, but as a bettor too. Anytime the two rivals lock up, it makes for fireworks, especially in basketball where both excel at. As a bettor, you have to familiarize yourself with the Cy-Hawk rivalry. Every year, those are the most fun betting opportunities the state has to offer.

Iowa Betting Revenue Statistics

Since Iowa had betting from almost the jump, we're not seeing explosive year-over-year growth in revenues like many other states which legalized late. This is not a bad thing, but a sign of a market that's maturing. Everyone who wants to be in Iowa, pretty has already during the last five years.

But being around this long makes it useful to judge the market since the very beginning. Since first going legal, Iowa has banked $9 billion in sports betting revenues.

Other Types Of Betting In Iowa

In addition to sports betting, Iowa offers several other forms of legal gambling. The most obvious alternative is the Iowa Lottery, which includes scratch-off cards, draw games like Powerball and Mega Millions, and local draw games like Pick 3, Pick 4, and Lotto America. Entries can be bought at your usual gas station for these games.

Iowa also allows in-person casino gambling. The state is home to a mix of commercial casinos, tribal ones, and even riverboat casinos. All three offer the usual staple of casino games such as slots, table games like blackjack and poker, and more.

It should be mentioned horse-race betting is all allowed in Iowa. The last active track is Prairie Meadows Casino Racetrack and Hotel (yes, it’s a racino hybrid) in Altoona. So bets can be made over here in person, but there are also online options.

Sports Betting Rules In Each State

Iowa isn’t the only state we’ve crafted one of these in-depth betting guides for. Not at all — we’ve actually put together guides for every single state across the country. Check out the full list below:

Responsible Gaming In Iowa

Every bettor in Iowa should keep a close eye on potential red flags that indicate problem gambling. We say that, but the thing is, many bettors are NOT aware of these in the first place. So we’re going to name some tell-tale warning signs to look for in yourself and other bettors you know:

Chasing losses: Constantly betting more to make up for previous losses, believing that the next win will fix everything.

Betting beyond your means: Spending more money than you can afford on bets, dipping into funds meant for bills or essentials.

Lying about betting: If you find yourself hiding your betting activities or how much you’re losing from friends and family.

Betting as an emotional escape: Using gambling to cope with stress, anxiety, or other personal problems.

If you find yourself even doing one of these, it might be a good idea to have an honest conversation with yourself. But if you’re doing multiple of these, then you might want external support. We’ve rounded up some handy resources the state has to offer:

Your Life Iowa (https://yourlifeiowa.org)

A confidential resource offering 24/7 support for Iowans dealing with problem gambling. Reach out by calling 1-800-BETS-OFF for help.

Iowa Gambling Treatment Program (https://idph.iowa.gov)

This program offers free counseling and support for individuals dealing with gambling-related issues, ensuring you get the help you need to regain control.

National resources are available too:

Gambling Addiction Support Network (https://www.gamblingaddictionsupport.org/)

A non-profit organization providing resources and support for individuals struggling with gambling addiction.

Center for Responsible Gaming (https://www.centerforresponsiblegaming.org/)

The Center for Responsible Gaming (CRG) is a research institution dedicated to promoting safe gambling practices and addressing gambling-related issues.

24/7 Gambling Support Line (https://www.gamblinghelponline.org/24-7-helpline)

A round-the-clock helpline offering immediate assistance and guidance for those experiencing gambling-related problems."