Illinois was one of the early movers in U.S. sports betting — and it shows. Since launching online sportsbooks in 2020, the Prairie State has become one of the top three betting markets in the country, consistently pulling in billions in monthly handle. If you’re 21 or older and physically located in Illinois, you’ve got access to ten fully licensed sportsbook apps, including big names like FanDuel, bet365, and DraftKings. If you are not located in Illinois you can also check our best betting sites in United States review
I’ve personally tested every legal Illinois sportsbook you’ll find on this list. I created real accounts, claimed bonuses, placed bets, and went through the withdrawal process to see how each one really performs. This guide covers the state’s legal background, current apps, betting restrictions, and which Illinois sportsbooks are actually worth your time (and money) in 2025.
Illinois was one of the first states in the Midwest to legalize sports betting, and it hasn’t looked back since. From the moment the first retail bet was placed in 2020 to today’s billion-dollar monthly betting handles, the Prairie State has become a national heavyweight in the sports betting space.
The biggest shift came in March 2022, when the state dropped its in-person registration requirement. Before that, you had to physically visit a partnered casino to activate your sportsbook app — a major barrier to entry. Now, you can sign up, deposit, and place bets online from anywhere within Illinois.
The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) oversees all legal sportsbooks and ensures each one follows strict rules for security, identity verification, and responsible gambling. As long as you’re 21+ and inside state lines, you can legally use any of the ten licensed Illinois sportsbooks.
That said, there are a few limitations. You can’t bet on in-state college teams (like the Illini or Northwestern), even when they’re playing out-of-state. College player props are also off-limits. But for everything else — NFL, NBA, MLB, parlays, live betting, futures — you’re good to go.
Illinois boasts a competitive sports betting scene, with a mix of established names and rising platforms all vying for your action. The following seven sportsbooks lead the pack in 2025 — offering standout features, competitive odds, quality mobile apps, and trusted performance across the board. Each has been fully licensed by the Illinois Gaming Board and tested by our team.
Best for: Cross promotions with land-based MGM resorts
BetMGM Sportsbook has the highest number of betting markets in the entire industry. If you’re looking for a platform to bet on the likes of Teasers, Odds Boosts, Parlays, and SGPs, BetMGM is ideal.
Another great thing about BetMGM is how the online site is tied to the brand’s retail casinos through MGM Rewards. This gives the sportsbook’s reward program a step up on the competition, especially if you’re a frequent flier who sometimes stays the weekend at one of BetMGM’s world-class resort casino properties.
If you’re a sports fan who loves watching sports via the internet, you’ll be happy to learn that the BetMGM Sportsbook allows for live streaming within its licensed Illinois app. This provides an extra incentive for customers to place real money wagers and then stream the actual sports contest as it happens.
Sign up for a new BetMGM Sportsbook Illinois account to get up to $1,500 in bonus bets. You can also learn more about BetMGM promotions in our BetMGM Bonus Code review page.
BetMGM has a very detailed FAQ section within its app, and you can also contact customer support at any time via the 24/7 live chat feature.
BetMGM Sportsbook IL Ratings
PlayOffs Rating: 4.9/5
Apple App Store: 4.8/5
Google Play Store: 4.3/5
Trustpilot: 1.2/5
BetMGM Sportsbook Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
Best for: User-friendly interface and Same Game Parlays
FanDuel Sportsbook is one of the most popular betting platforms in Illinois — and it’s easy to see why. With a clean layout, lightning-fast navigation, and smart bet-building tools, it offers one of the smoothest sportsbook experiences on the market. Whether you’re new to betting or a regular chasing value on player props, FanDuel’s interface makes everything feel accessible.
The standout feature here is Same Game Parlays. FanDuel was one of the first sportsbooks to roll them out at scale, and it remains the best in class. You can combine multiple outcomes within a single event — like total points, player touchdowns, and the final result — all from one streamlined slip. The app also supports live betting with constantly updating odds, giving you more flexibility if you prefer to wager as the game unfolds.
New Illinois players can sign up and bet $5 to receive $200 in bonus bets if that first wager wins. It’s a low barrier to entry, and it opens the door to exploring everything the app offers with minimal risk. You can also learn more about their promotions on our Fanduel Promo Code review page.
FanDuel’s app is available on both iOS and Android, and it ranks among the highest-rated in either store. The Apple App Store version holds a near-perfect score, thanks to its design, speed, and reliability under pressure. It’s ideal for bettors who want performance on mobile without compromising on features.
Customer support is available through 24/7 live chat, and users can also access an extensive help centre within the app for common account or betting queries. The only area where FanDuel lags slightly is in traditional loyalty rewards, which are more limited than competitors like BetMGM.
FanDuel Sportsbook IL Ratings
PlayOffs Rating: 4.8/5
Apple App Store: 4.9/5
Google Play Store: 4.7/5
Trustpilot: 1.3/5
FanDuel Sportsbook Pros and Cons
Pros
User-friendly interface
Same Game Parlays
Live betting and real-time odds
Top-rated mobile app
Cons
Limited rewards program
Customer service limited to live chat
Best for: Deep betting markets and daily promotions
DraftKings Sportsbook is a powerhouse in Illinois, offering one of the most comprehensive and user-friendly platforms in the market. With a vast array of betting options, including moneylines, spreads, totals, parlays, teasers, round robins, futures, in-game betting, and a variety of prop bets, it caters to both novice and seasoned bettors.
One of DraftKings’ standout features is its Same Game Parlay (SGP) function, allowing users to combine multiple bets from a single game for higher potential payouts. Additionally, the app provides real-time updates and live betting opportunities, enhancing the overall betting experience.
New users in Illinois can take advantage of a welcome offer: bet $5 and receive $200 in bonus bets if the initial bet wins. The platform also offers regular promotions, odds boosts, and a refer-a-friend program, providing ongoing value to its users.
DraftKings’ customer support is accessible via 24/7 live chat, ensuring assistance is readily available. The app is available on both iOS and Android devices, boasting high ratings for its performance and reliability.
DraftKings Sportsbook IL Ratings
PlayOffs Rating: 4.8/5
Apple App Store: 4.8/5
Google Play Store: 4.6/5
Trustpilot: 1.3/5
DraftKings Sportsbook Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
Best for: Profit boosts and Caesars Rewards® integration
Caesars Sportsbook brings the grandeur of its Las Vegas heritage to Illinois bettors, offering a platform that combines traditional sportsbook features with unique perks. The app provides a comprehensive selection of betting options, including moneylines, spreads, totals, parlays, teasers, round robins, futures, in-game betting, and a variety of prop bets.
A standout feature is the Caesars Rewards® program, which allows users to accumulate points with every wager. These points can be redeemed for various benefits, such as hotel stays, dining, and entertainment at Caesars properties nationwide. This integration offers added value for users who frequent Caesars establishments.
New users in Illinois can take advantage of a welcome offer: bet $1 and receive 10 Profit Boost Tokens, each providing a 100% boost on winnings for bets up to $25. These tokens are valid for 14 days, encouraging users to explore different betting markets.
The Caesars Sportsbook app is available on both iOS and Android platforms, boasting a user-friendly interface that facilitates easy navigation through various sports and betting options. Users can also access live betting features, allowing for real-time wagering as games unfold.
Customer support is accessible through live chat and a comprehensive FAQ section within the app, ensuring assistance is readily available when needed.
Caesars Sportsbook IL Ratings
PlayOffs Rating: 4.7/5
Apple App Store: 4.7/5
Google Play Store: 4.4/5
Trustpilot: 1.2/5
Caesars Sportsbook Pros and Cons
Pros
Cons
Best for: Live betting and international sports coverage
bet365 is a global heavyweight in the online betting space — and its recent arrival in Illinois brings something genuinely different to the local sportsbook scene. While other platforms lean into NFL and NBA coverage, bet365 excels in live betting, in-play props, and markets from around the world, including lower-league soccer, cricket, rugby, and more.
One of the biggest strengths of bet365 is its live betting interface, which updates odds constantly and allows you to react to game flow in real time. This is backed up by live streaming, giving you the option to watch and wager simultaneously on select matches. Not many sportsbooks offer this at the same level of speed and clarity.
New Illinois players can start with a bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets promotion — no win required. That’s one of the most accessible offers in the state and a strong value play if you’re looking to try the platform with minimal risk.
Another area where bet365 shines is in its bet editing and early cash-out features. These tools let you adjust open wagers or settle them before the final whistle — ideal for strategic bettors who want more control over their slip.
The app is available for both iOS and Android and is one of the top-rated platforms in the market, with a 4.8/5 score in the App Store and 4.6/5 on Google Play. It’s fast, intuitive, and well-structured for both casual and high-volume users.
Customer support is available via live chat, but it’s not fully 24/7. However, the in-app help section is thorough and covers everything from withdrawals to bet types clearly.
For Illinois bettors who enjoy a more dynamic betting experience — especially those who follow international sports — bet365 delivers where most others don’t.
bet365 Sportsbook IL Ratings
PlayOffs Rating: 4.8/5
Apple App Store: 4.8/5
Google Play Store: 4.6/5
Trustpilot: 1.3/5
bet365 Sportsbook Pros and Cons
Pros
Extensive live betting and streaming
Wide range of international markets
Bet editing and early cash-out
Top-rated mobile app
Cons
Few promotions beyond the welcome offer
Customer support not 24/7
Best for: Low rollover bonuses and local Chicago roots
BetRivers has been part of the Illinois sports betting scene since day one — and it still holds its own in 2025 thanks to a low-barrier welcome offer, strong local ties, and an easy-to-use platform that suits both casual and experienced bettors. The operator is run by Rush Street Interactive, a Chicago-based company, which gives it a homegrown feel that sets it apart from some of the bigger national brands.
New users in Illinois can claim a $500 Second Chance Bet, but what really makes this promo stand out is the 1x playthrough requirement. That’s as low as it gets — no hoops, no extended wagering. If your first bet loses, you’ll get the amount back as a bonus, and you only need to wager it once to turn it into real, withdrawable cash.
The sportsbook covers all the core betting markets — spreads, moneylines, totals, parlays, futures, and props — and includes extras like same-game parlays and early cash-out tools. Live betting is well integrated, and while the platform doesn’t offer as many fringe markets as some competitors, it does the fundamentals very well.
BetRivers also offers live streaming for select events, a perk that enhances in-play wagering and adds value for regular users. Add to that the iRush Rewards program — where you earn points for every real-money bet and redeem them for bonus bets and other perks — and the platform gives steady, ongoing value.
The app is available on iOS and Android, with performance that’s solid if not flashiest. Some users may find the interface a little dated compared to FanDuel or DraftKings, but it’s reliable, responsive, and gets the job done without unnecessary clutter.
Customer support is accessible via live chat and a full in-app help section. It’s not available 24/7, but during normal hours, response times are fast and helpful.
BetRivers Sportsbook IL Ratings
PlayOffs Rating: 4.6/5
Apple App Store: 4.7/5
Google Play Store: 4.6/5
Trustpilot: 1.2/5
BetRivers Sportsbook Pros and Cons
Pros
Low 1x rollover on bonus bets
Local Chicago-based operator
Live streaming for select events
iRush Rewards loyalty program
Cons
Customer support not available 24/7
App interface could be more modern
Best for: Seamless integration with ESPN content and parlay-focused promos
ESPN BET is the newest arrival in Illinois, but it’s backed by two heavyweights: ESPN and PENN Entertainment. What you get is a slick, well-designed sportsbook that feels familiar thanks to ESPN branding, but still delivers all the essentials — plus a few clever extras aimed at high-frequency bettors.
The welcome offer is a bet $10, get $100 in bonus bets promo, with the added bonus of a 30-day ESPN+ subscription. That crossover gives ESPN fans something tangible from the start — especially if you already use the app to follow sports.
The interface itself is clean, intuitive, and tightly integrated with ESPN’s sports content. You can track betting lines in real time and follow relevant editorial from ESPN directly within the app. There’s also the Mint Club, which links your ESPN and ESPN BET accounts and unlocks things like personalized promos and streamlined navigation between apps.
ESPN BET offers all the expected markets — moneylines, spreads, totals, props, parlays, and in-game bets — with a solid live betting interface. One unique standout is the Parlay Club, which gives you a $10 bonus bet every week when you place four $10+ parlays with four or more legs. It’s a smart reward mechanic for active users who enjoy building high-risk, high-reward slips.
The app performs well on both iOS and Android, with ratings of 4.9/5 on the App Store and 4.4/5 on Google Play. From our experience, it loads fast, toggles smoothly between bet types, and holds up well under live betting pressure.
Customer support is available through live chat and an in-app help centre, though it’s not staffed around the clock. That’s one of the few downsides on an otherwise well-rounded product.
For Illinois players who follow sports religiously and want a betting app that feels native to that experience, ESPN BET brings something genuinely different to the table.
ESPN BET Sportsbook IL Ratings
PlayOffs Rating: 4.7/5
Apple App Store: 4.9/5
Google Play Store: 4.4/5
Trustpilot: 1.3/5
ESPN BET Sportsbook Pros and Cons
Pros
Integration with ESPN content
Parlay Club rewards
Bonus ESPN+ subscription
Clean and modern app layout
Cons
Customer service not 24/7
Fewer ongoing promos outside parlay offers
Best for: High-stakes bettors seeking low-margin odds and no-frills betting
Circa Sports made its Illinois debut in September 2023, bringing a sharp, no-nonsense sportsbook to a state already packed with big-name competitors. What sets Circa apart is its appeal to serious bettors — those who value tighter lines, higher limits, and a stripped-down experience that focuses entirely on the odds.
There’s no welcome bonus, no loyalty club, and no gimmicks. Instead, Circa leans into its reputation for ultra-competitive odds with low hold percentages, meaning better value on every bet. You’re also unlikely to get limited for winning — Circa has made it clear they welcome sharp action, which isn’t something every book can say.
The app is simple by design — clean, fast, and focused. You’ll find core markets like spreads, totals, moneylines, and futures, but you won’t find same-game parlays or many live betting options. This is a book built for traditional wagering, not bells and whistles.
In Illinois, Circa Sports operates through its retail location at American Place Casino in Waukegan, alongside the statewide mobile app. It’s a focused offering, but if you’re the kind of bettor who wants pure sportsbook utility — with limits that let you bet big — Circa delivers.
Circa Sportsbook IL Ratings
PlayOffs Rating: 3.7/5
Apple App Store: 3.7/5
Google Play Store: 3.5/5
Trustpilot: N/A
Circa Sportsbook Pros and Cons
Pros
Extremely competitive odds
High betting limits with no cap on winners
Minimalist app that runs smoothly
Cons
No welcome bonus or promos
No live chat or phone support
Limited live betting and no same-game parlays
Best for: Sports merchandise integration and loyalty rewards
Fanatics Sportsbook launched in Illinois in April 2024 and wasted no time carving out a niche by blending two worlds — sports betting and official sports merchandise. If you’ve ever bought a jersey online, you already know the brand. Now, it lets you earn FanCash from your bets and use it on Fanatics.com for everything from hats to hoodies.
The sportsbook offers two sign-up paths: Bet $50, Get $250 in bonus bets, or go with a No Sweat Bet promo that refunds up to $1,000 in losses over your first ten days — capped at $100 per day. It’s flexible and gives you a nice early runway depending on how often you plan to bet.
Fanatics stands out for its FanCash rewards program, which gives you up to 5% back on bets (5% for parlay, 3% for straight bets, 1% on odds boosts). You can use that for bonus bets or real Fanatics merchandise — a crossover that’s smart and well-executed.
The app is one of the sleekest on the market. The Withdrawal Tracker is a standout feature, giving you real-time updates on where your cashout is in the process. Add in a curated Discover tab, sharp odds, and full live betting coverage, and it’s clear Fanatics is playing to win.
There’s no desktop version yet, and some features like same-game parlays are missing, but for mobile-first bettors who like to get rewarded with more than just site credit, Fanatics is one of the most exciting new arrivals in Illinois.
Fanatics Sportsbook IL Ratings
PlayOffs Rating: 4.2/5
Apple App Store: 4.8/5
Google Play Store: 4.7/5
Trustpilot: N/A
Fanatics Sportsbook Pros and Cons
Pros
FanCash rewards for real merch
Sleek, user-friendly mobile app
Live betting and fast withdrawals
Cons
No desktop platform
Same-game parlays not yet available
Customer service limited to help center and email
Best for: Music-themed experience and retail sportsbook access
Hard Rock Bet officially launched in Illinois in August 2024, adding its signature rock-and-roll flair to the local sportsbook scene. If you’re someone who wants a sportsbook with a bit more personality, this one’s worth a look — especially if you’re near the Hard Rock Casino Rockford, which has a fully integrated retail sportsbook onsite.
The welcome offer is simple but solid: Bet $5, Get $100 in bonus bets, available to new Illinois users. For casual bettors or first-timers, it’s an easy way to get started with low risk and a decent return.
The mobile app has received high marks for its sleek layout and speed — 4.9 stars on the App Store and 4.8 on Google Play. Navigating between markets is seamless, and you get all the usual suspects: moneylines, spreads, totals, props, parlays, and live bets. The in-play interface is particularly intuitive, letting you track games and place bets without any slowdown.
Hard Rock also brings in a solid Loyalty Rewards Program, which lets you earn points for your real money wagers. These points can be redeemed for bonus bets or other perks within the app, giving regular bettors something extra for their action.
The one major knock is that customer support isn’t 24/7 — it’s limited to email and help center functions for now. But overall, Hard Rock Bet offers a strong mix of usability, bonuses, and in-person integration that should appeal to bettors who like a bit of atmosphere with their action.
Hard Rock Bet Sportsbook IL Ratings
PlayOffs Rating: 4.3/5
Apple App Store: 4.9/5
Google Play Store: 4.8/5
Trustpilot: N/A
Hard Rock Bet Sportsbook Pros and Cons
Pros
Easy-to-claim welcome bonus
Retail sportsbook at Hard Rock Casino Rockford
Strong mobile performance
Loyalty Rewards Program adds long-term value
Cons
Customer service not 24/7
Same-game parlays not widely available
| Sportsbook | Welcome Bonus | Min Deposit | Fastest Withdrawal | Payout Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FanDuel | Bet $5, Get $200 (if bet wins) | $10 | Venmo / PayPal | Within 24 hrs |
| DraftKings | Bet $5, Get $200 | $5 | Venmo / PayPal | 24–48 hrs |
| Caesars | Bet $1, 10x 100% Profit Boosts | $10 | Play+ / PayPal | 24–72 hrs |
| BetMGM | Up to $1,500 Bonus Bets (if 1st bet loses) | $10 | Play+ / Bank Transfer | 1–3 business days |
| bet365 | Bet $5, Get $150 | $10 | PayPal / Bank Transfer | 1–2 business days |
| BetRivers | Up to $500 Second-Chance Bet | $10 | Play+ / PayPal | 24–48 hrs |
| ESPN BET | Bet $10, Get $100 + ESPN+ | $10 | PayPal / Venmo | 24–48 hrs |
| Circa Sports | No bonus | $10 | Bank Transfer | 1–2 business days |
| Fanatics | Bet $50, Get $250 or $1,000 No Sweat | $10 | Bank Transfer / PayPal | 24–72 hrs |
| Hard Rock Bet | Bet $5, Get $100 | $10 | Play+ / PayPal | 24–72 hrs |
If you’re betting in Illinois, you’re almost definitely doing it on your phone — and the good news is, the apps here are some of the best in the U.S. Each legal sportsbook operating in the state offers a dedicated app for iOS and Android, and I’ve tested every single one.
Honestly? They’re not all created equal.
Some apps are clean and fast. Others are cluttered or glitchy. Some reward you for betting consistently. Others just feel like a skin on a website.
So here’s the truth — if I had to pick just one sportsbook app to recommend in Illinois right now, it’s FanDuel. The layout is unbeatable. It loads fast, the Same Game Parlay builder is smoother than anything else on the market, and it rarely crashes — even during NFL Sundays when most apps start to groan under pressure. Whether you’re placing quick bets or building out props across multiple legs, it just works.
That said, FanDuel isn’t the only good option:
App ratings across the App Store and Google Play reflect most of this — with top-tier options like FanDuel and bet365 hovering around 4.8 to 4.9 stars, while others lag slightly behind.
All Illinois sportsbook apps require geolocation (so yes, you do need to be physically in the state), and they all allow full access to deposits, withdrawals, and support right from your phone.
At the end of the day, I recommend starting with FanDuel — but if you’re the kind of bettor who needs deeper stats, more global markets, or ties to a casino rewards program, you’ve got great options too.
Signing up at Illinois sports betting sites is straightforward — and thanks to a 2022 rule change, you no longer need to register in person. Everything can be done online, from account creation to your first withdrawal.
Here’s how to get started:
Illinois has one of the strongest sports betting markets in the U.S., but there are a few important rules you’ll want to know before placing a wager — especially when it comes to college sports and in-state teams.
You can legally bet online in Illinois if you’re 21 or older and physically located within state lines. All online sportsbooks must be licensed by the Illinois Gaming Board, which also oversees compliance, responsible gambling, and operator conduct.
Here’s what you need to know about what’s allowed — and what’s not — on Illinois sports betting sites.
These restrictions are part of the state’s effort to protect amateur athletes and maintain integrity around college-level sports. While you’ve got full access to pro leagues and out-of-state colleges, you won’t be able to bet on the Illinois Fighting Illini or Northwestern Wildcats online — at least until the law changes (currently set for review in July 2025).
Bottom line: Illinois sports betting laws are flexible for pros, cautious with college, and backed by some of the strictest regulatory standards in the country.
Legal sports betting in Illinois is designed with guardrails — and every licensed sportsbook is required to offer tools that help users stay in control. Whether you’re placing a few weekend wagers or betting more frequently, the resources are there to help you set limits and take a break when needed.
If you’re ever concerned about your betting habits — or someone else’s — here are the key responsible gambling programs available in Illinois:
Betting should be fun, not stressful. If it starts to feel like something you can’t control, Illinois has real, local resources to help you hit pause — and reset.
Our rankings are based on hands-on testing and real-world experience — not just what the sportsbooks claim in their ads. Each Illinois sportsbook is evaluated across key categories:
We don’t rank based on affiliate payouts. We rank based on what actually matters once you open the app and start betting.
I’ve personally tested every sportsbook listed in this guide — not just once, but regularly. That includes setting up real accounts, claiming welcome offers, placing bets, and cashing out winnings.
If a bonus is slow to pay, I’ll say so. If an app crashes on Sundays, I’ll mention it. And if a site truly delivers a smooth, trustworthy experience? It earns its spot on the list.
This isn’t a marketing piece — it’s a guide written by someone who actually bets in Illinois and knows what players expect from top-rated Illinois sports betting sites.
Illinois has one of the most active sports betting markets in the U.S., and the options available in 2025 are stronger than ever. Whether you’re into live betting, big parlay swings, or just want to claim the best Illinois sportsbook promos, there’s something here for every kind of bettor.
If you’re not sure where to start, FanDuel is my personal pick for the best overall experience. But every sportsbook in our Top 7 list has something unique to offer — from BetMGM’s luxury tie-ins to bet365’s unmatched live odds.
Just make sure you’re betting with a licensed Illinois operator, understand the rules around college betting, and set limits that work for you.
Is sports betting legal in Illinois?
Yes. Online and retail sports betting is fully legal and regulated in Illinois for players aged 21+.
What sportsbooks are legal in Illinois?
Ten sportsbooks are licensed, including FanDuel, DraftKings, bet365, Caesars, BetRivers, BetMGM, and ESPN BET.
Can I bet on Illinois college teams?
Not online. You can bet on final results of in-state college teams at retail sportsbooks, but not on props or live markets.
What’s the best sportsbook app in Illinois?
FanDuel ranks highest for usability, live betting, and mobile performance. DraftKings and bet365 are close behind.
What’s the minimum age to bet in Illinois?
You must be at least 21 years old and physically located in Illinois to place a legal online sports bet.
