Sports betting in Iowa has come a long way since the days of driving to a casino just to place a wager. These days, whether you’re watching the Cyclones on your couch in Cedar Rapids or sweating a fourth-quarter cover from your tractor cab (hey, we’ve seen it), you can bet legally and easily from your phone.
Since launching in 2019 and switching to mobile sign-ups in 2021, Iowa has become one of the most convenient states in the country for sports bettors. With over a dozen Iowa sportsbooks live and licensed, there’s no shortage of betting options, but let’s be honest, some are better than others.
I’ve tested every major IA sportsbook, from the big national names like FanDuel and BetMGM to homegrown options like Elite Sportsbook and Q Casino’s app, to find out which ones are fast, fair, and worth your time.
This guide breaks down the best Iowa sportsbooks in 2025, covering app performance, payout speed, bonuses, and everything else you need to know before placing your next bet in the Hawkeye State. If you are not in Iowa feel free to check our best betting sites in the United States guide.
| Sportsbook | Welcome Bonus | Payout Speed | Best Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| FanDuel | Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets | 24–48 hours | Smooth app with top-tier live betting |
| BetMGM | Up to $1,500 paid back in bonus bets | 2–5 business days | Great parlay boosts and MGM Rewards |
| DraftKings | Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets | 24–72 hours | Deepest market coverage in Iowa |
| Caesars | First bet on Caesars up to $1,000 | 2–5 business days | Strong VIP program and daily boosts |
| bet365 | Bet $1, get $365 in bonus bets | 24–48 hours | Elite live betting and cashout features |
| BetRivers | 2nd chance bet up to $500 | 1–3 business days | Consistent promos for existing users |
| PointsBet | Five $50 bonus bets over 5 days | 2–4 business days | Unique points betting system |
| Circa Sports | No bonus, just sharpest lines in the market | 24–48 hours | Best odds for serious bettors |
| ClutchBet | Bet $10, get $100 in bonus bets | 2–3 business days | Iowa-first book with solid interface |
| Barstool | 100% first bet match up to $1,000 | 2–5 business days | App ties into Barstool media ecosystem |
Welcome Bonus: Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets
Best For: Clean app experience and fast live betting
App Store Rating: 4.8 (iOS) / 4.7 (Android)
Trustpilot Score: 3.8 / 5
FanDuel remains one of the top picks for Iowa bettors, and for good reason. The app is fast, well-designed, and incredibly user-friendly, whether you’re placing a same-game parlay on the Cyclones or live betting the Hawkeyes mid-drive.
I’ve used it across multiple devices and never had issues with lag or crashes. The layout makes it easy to jump between markets, and odds are updated quickly during live games. FanDuel also runs regular odds boosts and “no sweat” promos, especially during peak NFL and NBA seasons.
Withdrawals typically process within 24 to 48 hours, and PayPal is especially smooth. While the promos could be more generous after the welcome offer, FanDuel nails the fundamentals better than just about anyone. You can also learn more about their promotions on our Fanduel Promo Code review page.
Pros:
Cons:
Welcome Bonus: Up to $1,500 paid back in bonus bets
Best For: Big promos and MGM Rewards integration
App Store Rating: 4.8 (iOS) / 4.4 (Android)
Trustpilot Score: 3.6 / 5
BetMGM delivers a polished betting experience in Iowa, especially if you’re into parlays, player props, and ongoing promos. It stands out for its partnership with the Diamond Jo Casino, giving you both mobile and retail access under one brand.
The app offers daily “Lion’s Boost” odds and frequent parlay insurance promos. Plus, if you’re part of the MGM Rewards program, your sportsbook activity can earn perks at physical resorts across the country.
Withdrawals usually take 2 to 5 business days, which is a bit slower than FanDuel or bet365. But for bettors who enjoy chasing promos and racking up loyalty rewards, it’s a great pick. You can also learn more about BetMGM promotions in our BetMGM Bonus Code review page.
Pros:
Cons:
Welcome Bonus: Bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets
Best For: Stats lovers and market variety
App Store Rating: 4.8 (iOS) / 4.6 (Android)
Trustpilot Score: 3.9 / 5
DraftKings offers one of the deepest menus of betting options in Iowa. From player props and alternate lines to flash bets and live stats overlays, the app is packed with features designed for more engaged bettors.
The UI is sleek, and navigating between games, parlays, and promos is smooth. DraftKings also offers one of the most robust in-play betting setups, with rapid line updates and early cash-out options.
Withdrawals are processed in 24 to 72 hours, depending on method. I found Venmo and PayPal to be the quickest.
Pros:
Cons:
Welcome Bonus: First bet on Caesars up to $1,000
Best For: VIP perks and retail betting access
App Store Rating: 4.6 (iOS) / 4.3 (Android)
Trustpilot Score: 3.7 / 5
Caesars leans into its legacy brand feel, offering big bonuses, wide betting limits, and a retail tie-in with Isle Casino Hotel in Bettendorf. The app is well-designed and offers regular odds boosts on major leagues, especially during football and basketball seasons.
The big differentiator here is the Caesars Rewards program, which lets you convert your sports bets into hotel comps, dinners, and more at Caesars properties.
Withdrawals typically take 2 to 5 business days, which is about average for Iowa sportsbooks.
Pros:
Cons:
Welcome Bonus: Bet $1, get $365 in bonus bets
Best For: Live betting and early cashouts
App Store Rating: 4.7 (iOS) / 4.6 (Android)
Trustpilot Score: 4.2 / 5
bet365 might not have the loudest marketing in Iowa, but it’s easily one of the strongest sportsbooks for experienced bettors. Its live betting system is second to none, with fast odds updates, streaming integrations, and reliable early cashout options.
The interface is minimal but efficient. If you want a flashy homepage, look elsewhere. But if you’re serious about finding value in live plays, this app is hard to beat.
Withdrawals usually process in 24 to 48 hours, with PayPal and online banking among the fastest.
Pros:
Cons:
Welcome Bonus: 2nd chance bet up to $500
Best For: Loyalty rewards and casual play
App Store Rating: 4.5 (iOS) / 4.3 (Android)
Trustpilot Score: 3.5 / 5
BetRivers is a good fit for everyday bettors who want a straightforward app and consistent bonus offers. It’s tied to the Wild Rose Casinos across Iowa, which gives it solid name recognition in the state.
The app isn’t as sleek as FanDuel or DraftKings, but the iRush Rewards program adds long-term value. You’ll find regular parlay boosts and profit multipliers across most major leagues.
Withdrawals are fairly quick – usually within 1 to 3 business days, with Play+ and PayPal leading the way.
Pros:
Cons:
Welcome Bonus: Five $50 bonus bets over 5 days
Best For: Unique PointsBetting feature
App Store Rating: 4.4 (iOS) / 4.2 (Android)
Trustpilot Score: 3.6 / 5
PointsBet offers something different in the Iowa market: a unique betting mechanic called PointsBetting, where your payout scales with how right you are (or how wrong). For bettors who like risk and reward, it’s a thrill ride.
That said, it’s not just a gimmick. PointsBet also offers traditional fixed-odds betting, with a sleek interface and solid props and parlay markets. They’ve also partnered with Catfish Bend Casino, so there’s a local retail tie-in as well.
Withdrawals are smooth and usually land in 2 to 4 business days, depending on your method.
Pros:
Cons:
Welcome Bonus: No welcome bonus
Best For: Sharp odds and low juice
App Store Rating: 4.5 (iOS) / 4.2 (Android)
Trustpilot Score: 4.1 / 5
Circa Sports is built for serious bettors. If you’re looking for flashy promos or free bets, this isn’t your book. But if you care about getting the best price on spreads, totals, and moneylines, Circa delivers.
The app is stripped down but reliable. What you get is low-vig lines, high betting limits, and fast-moving markets. Circa also posts some of the earliest lines in the state, which can be a big edge if you know what you’re doing.
Withdrawals are usually processed in 24 to 48 hours, with no issues during testing.
Pros:
Cons:
Welcome Bonus: Bet $10, get $100 in bonus bets
Best For: Iowa-focused betting with local appeal
App Store Rating: 4.3 (iOS) / 4.1 (Android)
Trustpilot Score: 3.5 / 5
ClutchBet is a newer sportsbook that launched specifically for the Iowa market. It feels local, leans into regional branding, and runs Iowa-specific promos around teams like the Hawkeyes and Cyclones.
The app is clean and functional, with a good mix of fixed-odds markets, parlays, and live betting. It’s not as deep as the national giants, but it hits all the basics and adds value with Iowa-only promos and familiar references.
Withdrawals take around 2 to 3 business days, depending on your method.
Pros:
Cons:
Welcome Bonus: 100% first bet match up to $1,000
Best For: Media tie-ins and casual bettors
App Store Rating: 4.6 (iOS) / 4.2 (Android)
Trustpilot Score: 3.7 / 5
Barstool Sportsbook mixes betting with content, offering exclusive promos tied to Barstool personalities and podcasts. If you’re part of the Barstool crowd or like seeing custom bets from Big Cat or Portnoy, this book is made for you.
The app is responsive and easy to use, though it lacks the depth of more established sportsbooks like DraftKings or bet365. That said, it covers all the major leagues and runs frequent bonus bet promos and parlay insurance offers.
Withdrawals land in 2 to 5 business days, and customer support was responsive during testing.
Pros:
Cons:
When it comes to Iowa sportsbooks, you’ve got two main options: place your bets in person at a retail location, or do it all from your phone using one of the many Iowa sports betting apps. Both are legal, licensed, and regulated, but one offers a whole lot more flexibility.
Retail sportsbooks are available at casinos across the state, including Horseshoe Council Bluffs, Wild Rose, Diamond Jo, and Q Casino. These in-person venues give you a traditional experience, complete with betting kiosks, teller windows, and lounge seating.
Why retail works:
Where it falls short:
Retail is still worth trying if you’re near a casino or want the full sports bar vibe. But for regular bettors? There’s a better way.
Since January 2021, Iowa law has allowed full remote registration. That means you can sign up, deposit, and bet through your phone using fully licensed Iowa sports betting sites, no trip to a casino needed.
Operators like FanDuel, BetMGM, DraftKings, bet365, and ClutchBet offer robust IA sportsbook apps with the same markets, better bonuses, and way more convenience.
Why mobile is the move:
What’s missing:
For most players, mobile wins hands down. You get all the benefits of the top Iowa sports betting sites, including fast payouts, sharper odds, and easy access to your account 24/7. Retail is still fun, but mobile is where the real value is.
Yes, sports betting is 100% legal in Iowa. Both retail and online sportsbooks are licensed and regulated by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission, and the market has been live since August 2019.
Since January 2021, bettors no longer need to visit a casino to sign up. You can now register, deposit, and place bets using any of the state’s legal Iowa sports betting apps, all from your phone or desktop.
Key legal facts:
Iowa’s low tax rate and open market have made it one of the most accessible states for sports betting. Whether you’re betting on mobile or at a retail book, the state has built a safe, legal ecosystem that works for casual and serious bettors alike.
Iowa was one of the first states to jump into legal sports betting after the federal ban was lifted, and it’s paid off. Here’s a quick timeline of how it all unfolded:
Today, Iowa is home to some of the best Iowa sportsbooks in the country, offering a mix of national brands and regional operators. It’s a legal, regulated market that continues to grow, with more apps, better promos, and easier access than ever before.
Iowa offers a wide betting menu through its legal sportsbooks, but like every state, there are a few restrictions in place. Here’s what you can and can’t legally wager on with Iowa sportsbooks and apps.
In short, Iowa gives bettors access to a wide range of professional and college games through its legal sportsbooks, with only a few common-sense restrictions. If you’re sticking to team-based markets, major leagues, and live bets on pro events, you’re in the clear.
Nearly every major Iowa sportsbook offers a welcome bonus, but not all promos are created equal. If you want to turn bonus bets into real returns, you need a smart approach. Here’s how to get the most out of your Iowa sports betting sites bonuses:
Read the terms carefully
Before you claim anything, check the fine print. Look for wagering requirements, minimum odds, time limits, and restrictions on which bets count toward the bonus.
Start with safer bets
Bonus bets aren’t the place to chase +800 longshots. Stick to bets in the -110 to +200 range to give yourself a real chance of turning the bonus into withdrawable cash.
Claim multiple offers
There’s no reason to stop at one. Most Iowa betting sites offer welcome promos, and you can sign up at all of them. That means more chances to win and more bonus money to work with.
Look for ongoing promotions
After the welcome bonus, check for weekly boosts, parlay insurance, and other limited-time offers. FanDuel, DraftKings, and BetRivers all run regular promos worth claiming.
Track bonus expiry dates
Some bonuses expire after just 7 days. If you’re juggling multiple Iowa sportsbooks, set reminders so you don’t lose out on unused bonus funds.
Don’t over-deposit
Some offers sound like they’re tied to big deposits, but many unlock with as little as $5 or $10. Start small, especially if you’re testing a new platform.
Iowa doesn’t have any major pro teams, but that doesn’t stop fans from betting; far from it. Between in-state college powerhouses and nearby pro franchises, Iowa sportsbooks see plenty of action every week. Here are the most popular and profitable teams to watch in the Hawkeye State.
Arguably the most bet-on team in the state. The Iowa Hawkeyes bring in huge handle during college football season, especially in matchups against Big Ten rivals like Michigan, Penn State, and Wisconsin. The basketball program is also a March Madness regular.
The Cyclones are another top betting option, especially with their track record of covering spreads in underdog spots. Known for upsetting ranked opponents, Iowa State games are often where smart bettors find value.
While they don’t draw the same volume as Iowa or Iowa State, these schools are worth watching during college basketball season. Drake, in particular, has become a solid ATS team in Missouri Valley Conference play.
Without pro franchises of their own, many Iowans back regional teams like:
The Chiefs, in particular, have been one of the most profitable teams to bet on since 2020, especially in player props and teasers. The Vikings also have strong regional support and often see sharp action in Iowa.
Not all Iowa sportsbooks are built the same, and we don’t rank them based on ad dollars or flashy slogans. Every app listed here was tested with a real account and real money.
Here’s what we look at when reviewing Iowa sports betting sites:
I’ve personally tested every major Iowa sportsbook on this list from sign-up to withdrawal. That includes verifying odds, claiming bonuses, contacting support, and placing actual bets on college and pro games.
This guide isn’t copy-pasted from a press release. It’s based on real use, and it’s written to help you make informed choices, not just chase promo codes. I’ve bet across multiple Iowa betting sites and only included platforms that are legal, licensed, and worth your time.
Sports betting should be fun, not stressful. If you ever feel like it’s getting out of hand, there are free resources available to help you set limits or take a break.
Support resources for Iowa bettors:
You can also use built-in tools on most Iowa sports betting apps to set deposit limits, cool-off periods, or self-exclusion options.
Iowa has quietly become one of the best states for legal sports betting. With over a dozen licensed apps, remote sign-up, low taxes, and a strong local sports scene, it’s never been easier to get started or to find value.
Whether you’re betting on the Hawkeyes, live-tracking an NFL parlay, or grabbing a same-day cashout on your mobile app, the tools are there. The key is choosing the Iowa sportsbooks that work for your style and taking advantage of the bonuses, features, and odds that give you the best edge.
From the big players like FanDuel and DraftKings to local names like ClutchBet and Elite Sportsbook, the options are legit, regulated, and ready to go. You don’t need to visit a casino, and you don’t need a massive bankroll. You just need to bet smart and start with the right book.
What are the best Iowa sportsbooks in 2025?
Top-rated options include FanDuel, BetMGM, DraftKings, Caesars, and bet365. These Iowa sportsbooks stand out for app quality, betting markets, and bonus value.
Is sports betting legal in Iowa?
Yes. Sports betting has been legal in Iowa since 2019, with mobile registration allowed since 2021. All legal Iowa betting sites are licensed by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission.
Can I bet on college sports in Iowa?
Yes, you can bet on college games, including Iowa and Iowa State. However, college player props are not allowed under Iowa law.
What’s the legal age for sports betting in Iowa?
You must be 21 or older and physically located in the state to place bets using any Iowa sports betting app.
Do Iowa sportsbooks offer bonuses?
Yes. Most Iowa sports betting sites offer welcome bonuses like second-chance bets, bet credits, and odds boosts. Bonus terms vary, so always check the fine print.
How do I deposit and withdraw on Iowa betting apps?
You can use PayPal, Venmo, online banking, debit cards, and Play+ on most apps. Withdrawals usually process in 1 to 5 business days depending on the method.
Are Iowa sports betting apps safe?
Yes, as long as you use licensed operators listed on this page. Legal IA sportsbooks are regulated and must follow strict data security and payment protection rules.
