Iowa Sports Betting Guide – Compare the Best IA Sportsbooks

The Hawkeye State is one of the most progressive states when it comes to wagering on sports. As one of the few that pushed for legalization as soon as the Supreme Court of the United States repealed PASPA, Iowa sports betting became available to residents in 2019. Since then, the industry has flourished. 

In this guide, we fill you in on everything you need to know about IA sports wagering, from the popular sports to bet on to the taxes you can expect to pay on winnings. We also rank and review five of the top online sportsbooks in the state and show you how to sign up and start betting. So, read on to learn more.

List of the Best Iowa Sports Betting Sites

Presently, there are over 17 legal, regulated online Iowa sports betting sites. While each offers excellent betting options, we have selected the top five, which you’ll find listed below.

1- DraftKings – Best Iowa Sports Betting Site Overall

2- BetMGM – Top IA Sports Betting Site for Speedy Withdrawals

3- FanDuel – Leading IA Sportsbook for Props Betting

4- PointsBet – IA Sportsbook with an Excellent App

5- BetRivers – Top Rewards Program of all the IA Sportsbooks

The Latest Iowa Sports Betting News

Since Iowa sports betting legalized in 2019, bettors have had the opportunity to enjoy placing wagers on their favorite sports teams. However, a few changes have come into effect, so let’s look at the recent timeline of IA sports betting.

• March 2022: HF 2497, an attempt to legalize esports betting in Iowa, passed in the House.
• March 2022: The Lakeside Casino and Hotel launched a sportsbook in partnership with the Daily Racing Forum.
• Jan 2022: Iowa cleared $2 billion in sports betting via remote registration in 2021.
• 2021: Iowa abolished the requirement that bettors must register for an online betting account at a local casino. As a result, players can now sign up online instead.

Reviews of the Best Betting Sites in Iowa

To complement our list of the top five Iowa sports betting sites, we have reviewed each of them below, giving insight into what they offer, what makes them stand out and whether they would be the right option for you.

1. DraftKings – Best Iowa Sports Betting Site Overall

DraftKings is an American company that offers players a large selection of gambling options, including a sportsbook and daily fantasy sports. DraftKings launched in Iowa on 19 February 2020 and accepts players in the state that are 21 years or older. Since it partners with Wild Rose Casinos, players can access DraftKings online or at a Wild Rose Casino. 

Players visiting the online sportsbook will discover a large selection of bonuses that they can use to boost their bankrolls when funding their accounts by inputting a DraftKings promo code. However, players will find that this Iowa sports betting site offers only a few payment methods, including bank wire transfers, credit cards like Visa and MasterCard, DraftKings gift cards, PayPal and cash which players can pay in at select locations. 

When it comes to sports, DraftKings covers all the favorites, including NCAA sports, the NFL, NBA, NHL, MLB, soccer, Esports, snooker and cricket. However, the site also ranks as one of the best NFL betting sites in IA. Furthermore, DraftKings offers players several ways to wager, including spreads, totals, moneylines and props. Additionally, players can visit the live betting suite for some in-game action. Finally, DraftKings offers a mobile app that makes it simple for players to access the sportsbook from anywhere in Iowa.

 

2. BetMGM – Top IA Sports Betting Site for Speedy Withdrawals

Another fully-licensed and regulated Iowa sports betting site that we recommend trying is BetMGM. Since the sportsbook established a partnership with Jo Diamond Worth Casino, it has opened retail and online sportsbooks within The Hawkeye State. When it comes to sports, BetMGM offers over 14 options for fans to wager on, from the NBA and NHL to the MLB, NASCAR, lacrosse, Formula1 and boxing. In addition to ranking as one of the best NBA betting sites in IA, the sportsbook provides players with a selection of betting lines, including moneylines, spreads, totals, futures, parlays and props. Players can also visit the site’s live betting suite. 

Players visiting BetMGM can enjoy a selection of promotions and bonuses for new and existing players, which they can access using BetMGM promo codes. While the sportsbook provides extensive options in other areas, its banking methods remain limited. As a result, bettors can fund their accounts using online banking, Apple Pay, PayPal, Bank Wire Transfers and credit cards like Visa, MasterCard and Discover. However, despite the limited options, players will find the sportsbook processes withdrawals quickly and easily.

 

3. FanDuel – Leading IA Sportsbook for Props Betting

While most bettors recognize FanDuel as a leading Daily Fantasy Sports site, it also ranks as one of the top Iowa sports betting sites. Firstly, the sportsbook covers a wide selection of sports markets, including baseball, basketball, hockey, soccer, football, collegiate sports, ice hockey, motorsports and Aussie Rules. However, complementing this extensive collection of sports is a range of betting lines, like spreads, totals, moneylines, a parlay builder and a live betting suite. But FanDuel stands out for its exceptional selection of props betting options that cover a range of fun bets that make it simple to win big. 

Bettors funding their accounts will discover an assortment of payment options for funding their accounts. While cryptocurrencies are not an option, bettors can use credit cards, PayPal, FanDuel gift cards, Green Dot MoneyPak, PayNearMe, money orders or checks and bank wire transfers. However, a bank wire will incur a $15 fee. Lastly, players visiting FanDuel on mobile via the app or online with a computer can enjoy several exciting promotions. However, to unlock them, players must use a FanDuel promo code.

 

4. PointsBet – IA Sportsbook with an Excellent App

 

Although all the Iowa sports betting sites in this guide offer an app, PointsBet stands out for its offering. Besides featuring a simple-to-navigate interface, the app is quick to download and provides all the website’s features, making it one of the best Iowa sports betting apps in the US. 

Whether players sign up using the app or the online site, they can access a range of unique promotions using PointsBet promo codes. However, players must input these codes when funding their accounts, which they can do using several payment methods, including PayNearMe, eCheck, online banking with Trustly and a debit or credit card from Visa or MasterCard. 

When it comes to sports, PoinstBet provides plenty, including the MLB, NHL, NFL, NBA, NCAA, darts, MMA, cycling, Aussie Rules and cricket. Bettors can enjoy a selection of betting lines whether they place pre-game wagers or visit the live betting suite. For instance, players can wager parlays, moneylines, spreads, totals, teasers, fixed odds, player props, game props and lightning bets. Additionally, the sportsbook offers players a blow-by-blow of each team’s stats and recent performance, making it more straightforward to place an informed bet.

 

5. BetRivers – Top Rewards Program of all the IA Sportsbooks

Another sportsbook affiliated with the Wild Rose Casinos is BetRivers. As a result, the state features several in-person and online BetRivers sportsbooks and a fantastic BetRivers downloadable app compatible with iOS and Android. However, BetRivers caught our attention thanks to its outstanding rewards program, which offers players iRush Rewards, which allows them to gather points and move up tiers while claiming exciting bonuses along the way. For example, players can earn rewards like VIP dinners, BetRivers Swag, cash prizes and promos. Additionally, BetRivers also offers new and existing players several exciting promos they can redeem using BetRivers promo codes. 

Players can use several payment options when funding their accounts since BetRivers offers far more options than its competitors. As a result, bettors can opt for PayNearMe, Vanilla, Play+ prepaid cards, PayPal, eCheck, online banking, bank wire transfers and credit cards like Visa, Discover and MasterCard. Another feature of this sportsbook that stands out is its extensive sports markets, which include the favorites like the MLB (it ranks as one of the best MLB betting sites), NHL, NBA, NFL, NCAA, MMA and golf. Additionally, players can find other sports like motorsports, rugby, jai alai, cycling and boxing. Finally, players can place several types of wagers, from live bets to spreads, wins and totals and even stream several matches live.

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Iowa Sports Betting

What is the legal gambling age for Iowa sports betting?

Those wanting to legally wager on sports in the Hawkeye State must be 21 years or older. While most states reserve this age limit for in-person sportsbooks and casinos that serve alcohol, Iowa applies it to its online sportsbooks and betting apps as well.

Is online Iowa sports betting legal?

Yes. Iowa sports betting became legal in 2019 after the Supreme Court of the United States repealed PASPA and Iowa governor Kim Reynolds signed sports betting into law. Furthermore, sports betting became active in the state in early 2020,and as a result, several online and in-person sportsbooks like DraftKings launched.

What organization oversees online IA sports betting?

Iowa sports betting, be it in-person, online, or over mobile is governed by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission. As a result, this organization is responsible for issuing licenses and managing the operation of sportsbooks in the state.

Is mobile Iowa sports betting legal?

Yes. When governor Kim Reynolds signed sports betting into law, this covered in-person, online and mobile sports betting. As a result, many of the sportsbooks that offer online betting also have downloadable sports betting apps that players can utilize. Furthermore, all the regulated sportsbooks on our list provide a downloadable app compatible with iOS and Android devices.

Where can I bet on sports in IA?

Presently, bettors in IA can place wagers online from home, anywhere in the state using a mobile app, or by visiting a regulated in-person sportsbook located at one of the affiliated casinos.

 

Comparing Sportsbooks in Iowa

While reading reviews is one way to pinpoint the best Iowa sports betting site for you, comparing the features of each side-by-side can also be helpful. So, we created the table below:

 

Is Iowa Sports Betting Legal?

Following the Supreme Court of the United States’ decision to repeal PASPA, Governor Kim Reynolds signed HF 2497, bringing Iowa sports betting into law. Included in this bill were provisions to legalize in-person, online and mobile sports betting. 

However, sportsbooks must form a partnership with an established land-based casino to operate an in-person or online sportsbook in the state. Initially, players wanting to wager on sports online had to first register in person at a participating land-based casino. However, in late 2021, lawmakers abolished this measure, allowing players to register online instead. 

Presently, Iowa is home to 18 legal, regulated in-person and online sportsbooks where players can wager on their favorite sports matches, events and athletes. Furthermore, if you’re looking for the top five Iowa online sports betting sites legally operating within the state, check out our best five listed above.

 

Who can Legally Bet on Sports in Iowa?

Although anyone can browse state-regulated online sportsbooks in Iowa, those wanting to register, claim promotions and place wagers must first meet a few stipulations. For instance, players must be of legal gambling age as outlined by the state. While most states set the limit for online sports betting at 18, Iowa sports betting legislation takes a more intensive approach, setting the legal sports betting age at 21 years or older. So, whether you want to wager in person or online, you must be older than 21.

 

How to Bet on Sports Online in Iowa

While most sites offering sports betting in Iowa are relatively straightforward to navigate, the registration process is a little more convoluted. However, by following the quick steps below, bettors can easily sign up, make a deposit and start wagering on their favorite sports.

Step One – Register with DraftKings

Firstly, launch the DraftKings website. Then, click the green “Log In” button on the top right of the screen, before selecting the option to “Sign Up.” Following this, a page with a registration form will open. So, complete the form before clicking “Next.”

 

Step Two – Verify Your Account

Once you’ve registered, you’ll need to verify your DraftKings account. So, head to your email inbox and locate the mail sent to you by DraftKings. Then, open the email and click the link inside to verify your new account before signing back into DraftKings using your new credentials.

 

Step Three – Fund Your Account

Before you can place a wager, you must first deposit funds into your DraftKings account. So, click the green “Deposit” button on the top right of the screen. Then select your preferred payment method from the options provided and add in the amount you wish to deposit. Fill in your bonus promo code and then click “deposit.” Finally, follow the prompts to complete your payment.

 

Step Four – Start Wagering

Once your funds reflect in your DraftKings account, you’re good to go. So head to the sportsbook section and find the sport or match you want to wager on. Then, fill in your bet amount onto the best slip on the right of the screen before clicking “Place Bet.”

 

Previous Iowa Sports Betting Bills

Since Iowa legalized sports betting relatively soon after the Supreme Court repealed PASPA, it has had few prior bills to legalize IA sports betting. However, lawmakers introduced one bill in early 2018, which failed in committee.

2018
HS Bill 592 – A bill to legalize sports betting in Iowa should SCOTUS repeal PASPA. However, it failed in committee.

Tax on Sports Betting Winnings in Iowa 

If a bettor’s winnings exceed $600 after deducting the wager amount, the bettor is subject to a 5% tax in Iowa. If the earnings surpass $5,000, they must pay a federal income tax of 24%.

Payment Methods available at Iowa Betting Sites 

Iowa sports betting sites provide bettors with several ways to deposit and withdraw funds from their wagering accounts. Besides making things more convenient for bettors, it casts a wider net, allowing more sports fans to sign up. So, let’s look at the most common payment options offered by state-regulated IA sports betting sites:

Crypto Betting Options

Cryptocurrencies like Ethereum, Bitcoin, Ripple, Tether, Dogecoin and Litecoin all offer players anonymous betting. Additionally, they have no transaction fees since third-party financial institutions like banks do not manage them. However, state-regulated Iowa sports betting sites do not accept cryptocurrencies as a method of payment.

eWallet Betting Options

Another form of payment that provides players with additional protection against fraud is eWallets. Since these systems act as a middleman between a bettor’s bank account and online sports betting account, they offer greater protection from hacking. As a result, many of the best Iowa sports betting sites work with eWallet providers. So, for the best PayPal sportsbooks, head to DraftKings or FanDuel.

Traditional Payment Methods

Since most players prefer using traditional payment methods to fund their betting accounts, sites offering sports betting in IA accept several fiat currency payment options. As a result, players can deposit funds using options like credit cards, debit cards, checks, online banking and bank wire transfers. So, to fund your IA betting account using Visa or MasterCard, visit any of the sportsbooks on our list.

Bonuses Available at Iowa Sports Betting Sites

Iowa sports betting sites provide bettors with a selection of generous promotions. Generally, these bonuses encourage new players to sign up and existing bettors to keep visiting the site. However, these rewards come in all shapes and sizes, so below, we look at some of the best bonuses offered by IA sports betting sites.

Match Deposit Bonuses

Unquestionably, one of the most common IA sports betting promos is the matched deposit. Offered as a welcome o reload bonus, the matched deposit rewards bettors for funding their accounts by matching their deposits up to a specific amount. For example, an Iowa sports betting site offering a 100% matched deposit of up to $1,000 will give a player depositing $400 an additional $400 to wager.

No Deposit Bonuses

In contrast to a match deposit that requires players to fund their accounts first, the no deposit bonus rewards them for simply registering with the sportsbook. In this case, the Iowa sports betting site gives a player complimentary credits that allow them to explore the site and place risk-free wagers. However, bettors often deposit their own funds to continue betting once the credits run out, scoring a new player for the sportsbook. While these bonuses are a great way to encourage more skeptical players to sign up, they are rare.

Free Bets

Another form of bonus that Iowa sports betting sites offer bettors is free bets. Generally, the best free bets come as site credits, coupons, or vouchers that allow bettors to place wagers risk-free. In other words, if a player places a bet and loses, they don’t forfeit any of their funds. But if they win, they can keep their earnings. Other free bets players can enjoy include odds boosters and sports-specific rewards. For instance, FanDuel may offer a $50 free bet on the NFL.

Popular Sports to Bet on in Iowa

Sites offering sports betting in IA cover a wide range of sports that range from more popular options to less common sports like snooker, darts and rugby. Below, we look at some of the most-loved sports offered by Iowa sports betting sites:

NFL Wagering at Iowa Sports Betting Sites

One of the most popular sports in the US is football and it’s no different in Iowa. While the state has no NFL team of its own, the state-regulated sportsbooks in IA offer bettors the option to wager on the sport. As a result, bettors can place spreads, totals, moneylines, futures and game and player props.

IA NBA Wagering

When it comes to basketball, bettors in IA don’t have an NBA team of their own to back. While the state initially had an NBA team, The Waterloo Hawks, it folded in 1951. However, the state has a minor-league basketball team, the Iowa Wolves. Despite the state not having an NBA team, sports betting IA sites still offer point spreads, totals, props and moneylines on other NBA teams from across the US.

MLB Betting in Iowa

Baseball is one of America’s favorite pastimes and the MLB (Major League Baseball) factors into this significantly. However, not all states have an MLB team of their own and Iowa is one of them. But players can still place runlines, totals, moneylines, or props on their favorite teams from across the continent by visiting sites like FanDuel, DraftKings and BetRivers.

NHL Wagering at Sports Betting IA Sites

Ice hockey is another popular sport in the US, with major events like the Stanley Cup taking center stage. Bettors visiting the top state-regulated Iowa sports betting sites can place wagers on the NHL, including moneylines, spreads, totals, props and futures. Although Iowa doesn’t have any other major league teams, it does have an NHL team, the Iowa Wild, that began play during the 2013-2014 season.

NCAA Football Betting in Iowa

Iowa has hundreds of college football teams and is one of the few states that allow wagering on collegiate-level sports. As a result, bettors can visit sites like DraftKings and  FanDuel to place wagers like spreads, totals, moneylines, player props, futures, game props and build parlays. Additionally, bettors can place live bets on NCAAF matches as they play out in real time.

Below are some of the state’s top NCAAF teams:

• Iowa Hawkeyes – The gold standard of college football in the state
• Iowa State Cyclones –  Is a member of the Big 12 Conference and competes in NCAA Division I
• Northern Iowa Panthers – The home team of famed quarterback Kurt Warner

NCAA Basketball  

When it comes to NCAAB or collegiate-level basketball, players can place point spreads, moneylines, props and totals at regulated Iowa betting sites like DraftKings and PointsBet. Since the state offers legal NCAA wagering, players have hundreds of teams to wager on, including the state’s own NCAAB team, the Iowa Hawkeyes.

Golf 

While Iowa is home to many smaller golf tournaments, it also forms a leg of the PGA and is home to over 440 golf courses. As a result, golf is a popular sport in Iowa, with many regulated sports betting IA sites offering wagering on golf.

Horse Racing

Iowa is home to one racetrack, Prairie Meadows, located in Altoona. Here, three Grade 3 races run annually, the Cornhusker Handicap, the Iowa Derby and the Iowa Oaks. Since horse racing is popular and legal in Iowa, bettors can place legal wagers like exactas, trifectas, places, wins and parlays at state-regulated sites like DraftKings and BetRivers.

DFS

When Governor Kim Reynolds legalized sports betting in Iowa in 2019, Daily Fantasy Sports was part of the bill and, as a result, also became legal in the state. Since bettors can legally wager on their fantasy games and teams in IA, they can visit sportsbooks like DraftKings and FanDuel that offer DSF wagering.

Live Betting with Iowa Sports Betting Sites

In addition to placing pre-game wagers, players can also place live or in-play wagers at regulated Iowa sports betting sites. Here, the sportsbook allows players to place bets on games already in play, offering an action-packed and nail-biting experience. 

Besides providing in-play betting, these IA sports betting sites (the ones on our list anyway) allow players to live-stream specific sports games as they play out, making it easier for players to keep tabs on their teams and wagers. So, for the best live betting, head to BetRivers.

Bets that are Illegal in Iowa 

Although Iowa is a relatively progressive state when it comes to wagering, there are a few things bettors cannot wager on. Firstly,  bettors cannot place bets on politics since IA low prohibits all wagering on political events and outcomes. 

Another event players cannot wager on in Iowa is awards shows like the Grammys and Academy Awards. Finally, bettors in the state are prohibited from wagering on the NFL Draft, one of the league’s major offseason events. Iowa is one of the few states that classify wagering on the drafts as illegal.

How Iowa Sports Betting Compares to its Neighboring States

Since Iowa is one of the most progressive states in the US, bettors can enjoy legal in-person, online and mobile sports betting. However, bettors in surrounding states are less fortunate. 

While Minnesota and Missouri prohibit sports betting altogether, states like Wisconsin and South Dakota only offer in-person wagering at a select few sportsbooks. However, Nebraska offers players legal in-person and online sports wagering and has several top NE sportsbooks for players to enjoy.

Casinos with Iowa Sports Betting

When Iowa sports betting became legal in 2019, the legislature included the legal operation of retail sportsbooks provided they partnered with established land-based casinos. Below, we look at five of the best land-based casinos in Iowa that operate sportsbooks of their own:

Wild Rose Jefferson

• Address: 777 Wild Rose Drive, Jefferson
• Opening hours: 10am – 12am

The Wild Rose partnered with several sportsbook operators, including DraftKings and BetRivers. However, players can enjoy a DraftKings sportsbook onsite. Besides a sportsbook, the casino offers 518 slots and 11 table games, along with a luxury hotel. 

Harrah’s Council Bluffs

• Address: 1 Harrah’s Blvd, Council Bluffs
• Opening hours: 24 hours

Bettors visiting Harrah’s Council Bluffs will find that this extensive casino, which sits near the border to Nebraska, features a Caesar’s sportsbook. Additionally, bettors can enjoy over 500 slots, ten table games, several restaurants and a stylish hotel.

Diamond Jo

• Address: 301 Bell St, Dubuque
• Opening hours: 24-hours

Owned by Boyd Gaming, Diamond Jo operates 24 hours a day, offering players over 800 slot machines and several high-action table games. However, the real drawcard here is the FanDuel sportsbook that offers bettors exciting ways to back their favorite sports teams.

Catfish Bend Casino

• Address: 3001 Winegard Dr, Burlington
• Opening hours: 10am – 2am

If you’re looking for a PointsBet sportsbook, Catfish Bend Casino in Burlington, Iowa, is the place to go. Here bettors can wager bets on sports or visit the casino to enjoy over700 games, including slots, table games and a private poker room.

Prairie Meadows Casino and Hotel

• Address: 1 Prairie Meadows Dr, Altoona
• Opening hours: 24 hours

Prairie Meadows is a large betting complex located in Altoona. Here, players will find the state’s only horse racing track, a hotel,  a Caesar’s sportsbook and a casino that operates 24/7. When visiting the casino, bettors can enjoy 1,900 slot machines and a large variety of table games.

The Best Sports Betting Site for Iowa

Iowa takes a progressive stance towards sports betting and has offered bettors legal online, mobile and in-person sports wagering since 2019. The state has improved its offerings at every turn, leaving bettors with excellent state-regulated sportsbooks that provide a top-notch betting experience. 

While we recommend visiting any of the regulated sportsbooks on our list, our top pick goes to DraftKings. In addition to offering exciting promotions, generous rewards and a wide selection of sports and betting markets, the sportsbook offers excellent odds and an outstanding reputation. So, don’t miss out. Instead, sign up with DraftKings and claim your welcome bonus.