In a state loaded with casinos, it can be difficult to know if online gaming is legal. Here, we answer all of your Iowa online casino gaming questions.
Is gambling legal in Iowa?
Iowa offers a mixed online gambling scene in 2025. Sports betting and DFS are legal, while real money online casinos and poker are not. The state’s gambling environment includes regulated sports betting platforms like BetMGM and Unibet, and sweepstakes options for casino and poker enthusiasts.
Top Iowa Sportsbooks & Online Casino Sites 2025
- Bet365 Iowa – best new sportsbook app, promo code for IA – USB365
- FanDuel Sport Betting in Iowa
- DraftKings Iowa
- BetMGM Iowa
- Caesars Sportsbook Iowa
- BetRivers Iowa – bonus code USBTRV
- Fanatics Sportsbook Iowa
- ESPN BET Iowa
- Hard Rock Bet Iowa
- Bally Bet Iowa
- Q Sportsbook Iowa
- DRF Sportsbook Iowa
- Circa Sports Iowa
- Elite Sportsbook Iowa
- Betfred Iowa
- SuperBook Iowa
Here is an overview of Iowa’s sports betting legal online landscape in 2025, along with top Iowa Sportsbook Promos. Read our reviews of top platforms like Bet365 IA, Fanatics Sportsbook, ESPN Bet, and FanDuel. These sites are ideal for Iowa residents eager to place wagers on local favorites such as the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Iowa State Cyclones.
TOP Sports Betting Online Sites in Iowa
Bet365 Iowa – The Best for Live and In-Play Wagers
We’ll start with a newcomer to the Iowa sports betting market, with European giants Bet365 launching in June 2023 after entering into a multi-year partnership with Casino Queen Marquette. The bet365 Iowa sportsbook site brings a mature tech stack, superb customer service, and a comprehensive range of ante-post and in-play betting markets. Iowa Sportsbook Promos rule.
We certainly like the live wagering features and selection of in-play markets available. For example, you can access a vast range of same game parlays across multiple sports, which can be combined to create unique and high-value wagers. Bet365 live streams more than 600k sporting events globally every year. At the same time, the innovative unique ‘Bet Editor’ feature enables you to alter selections and stake amounts after in-play wagers have been confirmed.
Each of these features can be accessed through native apps on iOS and Android, too, which have respective user ratings of 4.6/5 and 4.5/5 at the time of writing.
BetMGM Iowa Sportsbook
BetMGM beat Bet365 to the punch by nearly four years, launching in Iowa as long ago as August 2019 and almost as soon as the market was initiated. Over time, the operator has become known for Iowa Sportsbook Promos that are incomparable.
its comprehensive coverage of both major and niche sports, including NASCAR, volleyball, hockey, snooker, and even surfing.
This broad range of sports categories is also home to thousands of ante-post and in-play wagering markets, while you can access competitive and often enhanced odds online. Further (albeit limited) odds boosts are also available for selected events, while BetMGM offers a particularly huge range of multi and same-game parlays relating to NFL and NBA games.
Like Bet365, BetMGM also offers an ‘Edit My Bet’ feature, which is highly convenient when wagering using native apps on iOS or Android. These apps have average ratings of 4.8/5 and 4.4/5 on the Apple and Google Play Stores, respectively, highlighting their full range of features and exceptional ease of use.
BetRivers Iowa – The Best Mobile App
An all-American casino and sports betting brand, BetRivers, launched in Iowa on January 1st, 2021. This sportsbook is partnered with the land-based Wild Rose casino, while it arguably offers the best mobile betting experience in the state (amid some genuinely tough competition).
It offers extensive live streaming, covering events you may not find on other US or Iowa sportsbooks (such as smaller European soccer leagues, KBO baseball, and lower-tier tennis events). The slick and intuitive mobile app also offers seamless access to detailed live data for informed in-play betting, including a comprehensive research and analysis hub packed with statistics.
The depth and quality of the BetRivers app is reflected in its average scores on the Apple and Google Play Stores. The iOS and Android apps have average scores of 4.8/5 and 4.7/5, making them among the highest-ranked sportsbook apps in the IA marketplace.
Best-Rated by Users Iowa Betting Apps
| Iowa Apps | Apple Store Rating | Google Play Rating | Features and highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings Sportsbook | 4.8/5 | 4.5/5 | It can offer higher payouts than traditional fixed-odds betting, Boosted Bets, Live in-game betting, and an easy cash-out feature. |
| FanDuel Sportsbook | 4.7/5 | 4.4/5 | Many betting markets. Limited customer service hours. |
| BetMGM Sportsbook | 4.8/5 | 4.2/5 | Competitive odds, daily odds boosts. Customer support can be slow to respond. |
| ESPN Bet App | 4.5/5 | 3.8/5 | High user ratings, Live in-game betting and a cash-out feature |
| Caesars Sportsbook | 4.6/5 | 4.0/5 | High user ratings, Live in-game betting, and a cash-out feature |
| BetRivers Sportsbook | 4.7/5 | 4.2/5 | Loyalty program, best welcome offer. Odds are not the highest on the market. |
| Hard Rock Sportsbook | 4.4/5 | 3.9/5 | Not available in all states, Odds may not always be as competitive as other sportsbooks |
DraftKings Sportsbook, FanDuel Sportsbook, and BetMGM Mobile are the top-rated apps. They have high user ratings and similar features, including a user-friendly interface, live in-game betting, and multiple betting options.
Caesars Sportsbook offers a loyalty program that rewards customers for their betting activity. While BetRivers Sportsbook offers an iRush Rewards program that also rewards customers for their betting activity.
So, Hard Rock Sportsbook has a lower user rating compared to other sportsbooks. But, it still offers a user-friendly interface, live in-game betting, multiple betting options, and a VIP program.
It’s important to note that ratings and features may vary based on the sportsbook and the user’s location, so it’s always a good idea to check the sportsbook’s website or app for the most up-to-date information.
Top Retail Sportsbooks in Iowa
You can get involved with sports betting in Iowa at several land-based sportsbooks attached to casinos. Here are some of the best gambling locales:
- Prairie Meadows Casino in the Des Moines suburb of Altoona has a Caesars Sportsbook in it, plus a racetrack.
- The Riverside Casino in the town of the same name, meanwhile, contains an Elite Sportsbook.
- Diamond Jo operates two casinos in Iowa, with the Northwood franchise having a FanDuel Sportsbook.
Professional Teams in Iowa
Iowa has no major professional sports teams, but residents can still bet on professional teams from other states. The most popular professional sports leagues that people in Iowa bet on include the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL. Iowa also has several college sports teams that residents can bet on. These include the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Iowa State Cyclones. Use Iowa Sportsbook Promos for wagering on these Iowa teams!
How to Get Started with Sports Betting in Iowa
As an Iowa resident, you have access to one of the largest selections of state-licensed sportsbooks in America. While each of these 21 operators is trusted and well-regulated, we’d recommend that you wager at one of our five recommended sportsbooks to maximize your online betting experience.
Gambling Legal Status in Iowa
The state of Iowa has witnessed significant advancements in its approach to online gambling, creating a diverse landscape for bettors. This article delves into the legal status of various online gambling verticals in Iowa, providing insights into the current regulations, examples of legal sites, and addressing commonly asked questions.
| Gambling | Legal Status in Iowa | Sites |
|---|---|---|
| Sports Betting | Legal | BetMGM, Unibet, Caesars, PointsBet |
| Online Casinos | Not Legal (Sweepstakes allowed) | Sweepstakes only |
| Online Poker | Not Legal (Sweepstakes allowed) | |
| Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) | Legal | DraftKings, FanDuel |
| Lottery | Offline only | N/A |
Iowa’s approach to online gambling provides a mix of regulated and non-regulated options. While sports betting and DFS are legally established, real money online casinos and poker are yet to find a legal footing. The state’s gambling landscape continues to evolve, highlighting the importance for residents to stay informed and exercise caution, especially when engaging in non-regulated gambling activities. With ongoing discussions and potential legislative changes, the future of online gambling in Iowa is a space worth watching.
Iowa Sports Betting
Online sports betting has been legal in Iowa since May 2019. Bettors must be at least 21 years old and physically present within the state borders to participate. The market includes prominent platforms like BetMGM, Unibet, Caesars, and PointsBet, offering a wide range of betting options. With no restrictions on the types of sports, except for college player props, bettors can enjoy a comprehensive betting experience.
Iowa Online Casinos
As of 2025, real money online casinos are not allowed in Iowa. However, residents can participate in sweepstakes casino games, which operate under different regulations and offer cash prizes. Despite the lack of real money online casinos, Iowa residents can still enjoy online gaming through sweepstakes casinos. These platforms, like Chumba and LuckyLand, operate by allowing players to play casino-style games for free, with the potential to win cash prizes.
Online Poker
Similar to online casinos, poker played online for real money is not permitted. Nonetheless, sweepstakes-based poker sites like Global Poker are available and accessible to Iowa residents. For poker enthusiasts, the absence of real money online poker sites has been supplemented by the availability of sweepstakes-based poker platforms. These sites offer a similar experience to traditional online poker but operate on a model that complies with Iowa’s gambling laws.
Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS)
DFS has been legal in Iowa since the passage of the bill SF 617 in 2019. Platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel offer a range of DFS contests with varying prize pools and sports options. DFS platforms in Iowa provide an innovative way for sports fans to engage with their favorite games. Players create virtual teams and compete based on real-life performances, offering a unique blend of sports knowledge and strategy.
Lottery
The Iowa Lottery offers various games, including scratch-offs and draw games. However, the online sale of lottery tickets is not permitted, requiring players to make their purchases at brick-and-mortar retail locations.
- Is it legal to bet on sports online in Iowa? Yes, online sports betting is legal in Iowa, with platforms like BetMGM and DraftKings offering sports betting services to residents over the age of 21.
- Can I play real money online casino games in Iowa? No, real money online casino games are not currently legal in Iowa. However, sweepstakes casinos are available as an alternative.
- What are my options for playing poker online in Iowa? While real money online poker is not permitted, Iowans can play on sweepstakes-based poker sites like Global Poker.
- Can I participate in Daily Fantasy Sports in Iowa? Yes, Daily Fantasy Sports are legal and operational in Iowa. Platforms like DraftKings and FanDuel offer DFS legally to Iowa residents.
- Is it possible to buy lottery tickets online in Iowa? No, the Iowa Lottery does not permit the online sale of lottery tickets. Purchases must be made at licensed retail locations.
You can place bets on horse racing in Iowa.
Who regulates Iowa online gambling?
The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission regulates gambling in the state with an age limit of 21 for all forms of gambling.
Where can I get help with problem gambling in Iowa?
Gambling is enjoyable for many but for some it can become problematic; if you, or a friend or relative, is struggling to cope with their gambling, help is available Iowa – National Council on Problem Gambling (ncpgambling.org). Sports bettors can also self-exclude from betting by filling out a form with the Iowa Racing & Gaming Commission.
There are several gambling addiction support groups available in the state, including the Gamblers Anonymous (www.gamblersanonymous.org) and Iowa Gambling Treatment Program (www.idph.iowa.gov/igtp).
Iowa Online Casinos
In Iowa, you are not presently permitted to play at online casinos, but there are several land-based options.
Iowa has long been one of the more open states to casino gaming. While not as brazen as Nevada, the Hawkeye State has established a buzzing casino gaming scene that’s powered by a legacy built around the Mississippi River.
With over 20 casino operations dotted around the state, you’d be forgiven for thinking that Iowa online casino sites were thriving, too. Despite the state’s current gambling scene being more modern, Iowa hasn’t legalized online or mobile casino gaming.
Online Casino Real Money Gaming Sites in Iowa
Iowa online casino sites are still illegal. While Iowa got involved in the gambling reforms that swept the United States, the focus has been establishing a healthy land and remote sports betting scene. However, this is seemingly at the expense of an online casino in Iowa, which is still illegal to operate or use in the state.
Based on the current laws in Iowa BetMGM, Hard Rock, Betrivers are among the first casinos expected to go live in the state in 2025.
Iowa Online Casino Sites/Apps Expected in 2025
- BetMGM Casino
- Hard Rock Bet Casino
- Bet365 Casino Iowa
- Betrivers Casino
- Fanduel Casino
Online Casino Games in Iowa
Online casino games in Iowa are still illegal. Without an online casino in Iowa to offer the games, the gambling scene still doesn’t play host to the best games available online. Of course, the busy land-based casino scene has enough action to keep venues competitive and are always seeking that next innovative breakthrough, but the latest and greatest games online remain out of reach to residents.
Best Online Casino Apps in Iowa
Online casino apps in Iowa are still illegal. Just as you can’t find a legal online casino in Iowa, you also can’t tap your way to a regulated casino app: casino apps are invariably tied to casino sites. As sports betting is present on land and via mobile, it seems likely that Iowa online casino apps would emerge if the activity is legalized. Check back on Offers Bet for future developments.
Top Land-based Casinos in Iowa
You’re welcome to explore the state’s many in-person casinos in Iowa. The Hawkeye State is one of the most open to in-person casino gaming, with there being over 20 venues to shape the Iowa gambling scene. Among these, you’ll find Native American halls and a riverboat casino. For the most iconic experience, it’s tough to look beyond the water-based Ameristar Casino Hotel Council Bluffs. The all-entertainment package of Diamond Jo Casino in Dubuque also proves popular.
Bonuses in Iowa
In Iowa, you are not permitted to claim online casino bonuses. The Hawkeye State doesn’t permit online casino play for real money and hasn’t licensed any operators. So, it’s currently illegal to sign-up to an online casino and claim the bonuses on offer.
Top Three Bonus Offers in Iowa
In Iowa, you can’t access the best online casino bonus offers. The top bonus offers are designed to appeal to newcomers and give them even more gaming time, such as through bonus funds or free spins. However, without legal casinos in the state, there aren’t any top bonuses for you to claim.
Here are the answers to some of the most popular questions about Iowa gambling.
What tax rates are gambling winnings subject to in Iowa?
In Iowa, you must report wins over $600 on your tax report. Everyone in the United States is subject to income tax on their gambling winnings via their federal tax returns. Your annual gambling wins are subject to a 24 percent rate in federal taxes and 5 percent withholding in Iowa.
When will Iowa have online casinos?
There isn’t a concerted effort to legalize online casino games in Iowa, with lawmakers being content with the current state of gambling in the state.
Can I use mobile casinos in Iowa?
Mobile casinos invariably come under the same umbrella as online casinos, both outlawed in the state.
What is the Legal Gambling Age in Iowa?
You must be at least 21 to play casino games in Iowa. You can only partake in one Iowa gambling activity before turning 21, bingo, which allows 18-year-olds.
TOP Sports Betting Online Sites in Iowa
Bet365 Iowa – The Best for Live and In-Play Wagers
We’ll start with a newcomer to the Iowa sports betting market, with European giants Bet365 launching in June 2023 after entering into a multi-year partnership with Casino Queen Marquette. The bet365 Iowa sportsbook site brings a mature tech stack, superb customer service, and a comprehensive range of ante-post and in-play betting markets. Iowa Sportsbook Promos rule.
We certainly like the live wagering features and selection of in-play markets available. For example, you can access a vast range of same game parlays across multiple sports, which can be combined to create unique and high-value wagers. Bet365 live streams more than 600k sporting events globally every year. At the same time, the innovative unique ‘Bet Editor’ feature enables you to alter selections and stake amounts after in-play wagers have been confirmed.
Each of these features can be accessed through native apps on iOS and Android, too, which have respective user ratings of 4.6/5 and 4.5/5 at the time of writing.
BetMGM Iowa Sportsbook
BetMGM beat Bet365 to the punch by nearly four years, launching in Iowa as long ago as August 2019 and almost as soon as the market was initiated. Over time, the operator has become known for Iowa Sportsbook Promos that are incomparable.
its comprehensive coverage of both major and niche sports, including NASCAR, volleyball, hockey, snooker, and even surfing.
This broad range of sports categories is also home to thousands of ante-post and in-play wagering markets, while you can access competitive and often enhanced odds online. Further (albeit limited) odds boosts are also available for selected events, while BetMGM offers a particularly huge range of multi and same-game parlays relating to NFL and NBA games.
Like Bet365, BetMGM also offers an ‘Edit My Bet’ feature, which is highly convenient when wagering using native apps on iOS or Android. These apps have average ratings of 4.8/5 and 4.4/5 on the Apple and Google Play Stores, respectively, highlighting their full range of features and exceptional ease of use.
BetRivers Iowa – The Best Mobile App
An all-American casino and sports betting brand, BetRivers, launched in Iowa on January 1st, 2021. This sportsbook is partnered with the land-based Wild Rose casino, while it arguably offers the best mobile betting experience in the state (amid some genuinely tough competition).
It offers extensive live streaming, covering events you may not find on other US or Iowa sportsbooks (such as smaller European soccer leagues, KBO baseball, and lower-tier tennis events). The slick and intuitive mobile app also offers seamless access to detailed live data for informed in-play betting, including a comprehensive research and analysis hub packed with statistics.
The depth and quality of the BetRivers app is reflected in its average scores on the Apple and Google Play Stores. The iOS and Android apps have average scores of 4.8/5 and 4.7/5, making them among the highest-ranked sportsbook apps in the IA marketplace.
Best-Rated by Users Iowa Betting Apps
| Iowa Apps | Apple Store Rating | Google Play Rating | Features and highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| DraftKings Sportsbook | 4.8/5 | 4.5/5 | It can offer higher payouts than traditional fixed-odds betting, Boosted Bets, Live in-game betting, and an easy cash-out feature. |
| FanDuel Sportsbook | 4.7/5 | 4.4/5 | Many betting markets. Limited customer service hours. |
| BetMGM Sportsbook | 4.8/5 | 4.2/5 | Competitive odds, daily odds boosts. Customer support can be slow to respond. |
| ESPN Bet App | 4.5/5 | 3.8/5 | High user ratings, Live in-game betting and a cash-out feature |
| Caesars Sportsbook | 4.6/5 | 4.0/5 | High user ratings, Live in-game betting, and a cash-out feature |
| BetRivers Sportsbook | 4.7/5 | 4.2/5 | Loyalty program, best welcome offer. Odds are not the highest on the market. |
| Hard Rock Sportsbook | 4.4/5 | 3.9/5 | Not available in all states, Odds may not always be as competitive as other sportsbooks |
DraftKings Sportsbook, FanDuel Sportsbook, and BetMGM Mobile are the top-rated apps. They have high user ratings and similar features, including a user-friendly interface, live in-game betting, and multiple betting options.
Caesars Sportsbook offers a loyalty program that rewards customers for their betting activity. While BetRivers Sportsbook offers an iRush Rewards program that also rewards customers for their betting activity.
So, Hard Rock Sportsbook has a lower user rating compared to other sportsbooks. But, it still offers a user-friendly interface, live in-game betting, multiple betting options, and a VIP program.
It’s important to note that ratings and features may vary based on the sportsbook and the user’s location, so it’s always a good idea to check the sportsbook’s website or app for the most up-to-date information.
Top Retail Sportsbooks in Iowa
You can get involved with sports betting in Iowa at several land-based sportsbooks attached to casinos. Here are some of the best gambling locales:
- Prairie Meadows Casino in the Des Moines suburb of Altoona has a Caesars Sportsbook in it, plus a racetrack.
- The Riverside Casino in the town of the same name, meanwhile, contains an Elite Sportsbook.
- Diamond Jo operates two casinos in Iowa, with the Northwood franchise having a FanDuel Sportsbook.
Professional Teams in Iowa
Iowa has no major professional sports teams, but residents can still bet on professional teams from other states. The most popular professional sports leagues that people in Iowa bet on include the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL. Iowa also has several college sports teams that residents can bet on. These include the Iowa Hawkeyes and the Iowa State Cyclones. Use Iowa Sportsbook Promos for wagering on these Iowa teams!
How to Get Started with Sports Betting in Iowa
As an Iowa resident, you have access to one of the largest selections of state-licensed sportsbooks in America. While each of these 21 operators is trusted and well-regulated, we’d recommend that you wager at one of our five recommended sportsbooks to maximize your online betting experience.
FAQs About Iowa Online Betting
BetMGM, BetRivers, and Bet365 are some of the top choices in Iowa. Each offers unique bonuses and a wide range of betting markets.
Yes, sportsbooks like BetMGM and Bet365 offer tailored bonuses for Iowan bettors, such as BetMGM’s up to $1,500 in bonus bets and Bet365’s $5 to get $200 bonus.
Absolutely. You can sign up for multiple sportsbooks and take advantage of their respective bonuses. Just ensure you meet the terms and conditions for each.
Legal sportsbooks in Iowa are licensed by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission. You can also check reviews and listings on Offers.Bet for legal and reputable options.
Yes, most bonus offers have an expiration date, usually within 7 to 30 days. It’s important to check the terms and conditions to ensure you use your bonus bets before they expire.
There are taxes to pay from any winnings generated by betting in Iowa. The state withholds roughly 5% of these. This is in line with other US states. A much greater proportion of your gambling profits, 24%, is to pay federal taxes.
View the complete Offers.bet guide to the best sportsbook promos and pick the top sportsbook to place your bets. Gamble responsibly. 21+. If you want to play games for real money, check out our online casino list.
