Iowa bettors have enjoyed a growing range of online sportsbooks since legalization in 2019. Offshore sites offer more to bettors with international leagues, bonuses and diverse markets. Explore our guide to the top sports betting apps for Iowans.
| SPORTSBOOK | TRUST SCORE | ONLINE SINCE | Expert Review | BONUS |
|---|---|---|---|---|
BetOnline
|
2001 | Read Review | ||
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Bovada
|
2011 | Read Review | ||
|
Heritage Sports
|
2001 | Read Review | ||
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Bookmaker
|
1996 | Read Review | ||
|
Everygame
|
1996 | Read Review | ||
|
BetAnySports
|
2002 | Read Review |
This year witnessed a 6.91% rise in the total sports betting handle compared to last October, along with a 3.88% increase over September 2023.
Iowa Sports Betting Apps FAQs
Can I bet on sports in Iowa?
Yes, sports betting is legal in Iowa. However, It is only allowed within the state, so the sportsbooks track the physical location of each bettor. Iowa bettors can also turn to offshore sportsbooks for more flexibility, better odds, more generous bonuses and a wide range of other benefits.
Is mobile betting legal in Iowa?
Yes, mobile betting is legal in Iowa. Players must first travel to a casino to prove age and identity before wagering on-site or on mobile apps. There are no mandatory wagering limits, but apps must provide an easy way for customers to set deposits, wagers or time limits.
Where can I bet on sports in Iowa?
In Iowa, you can bet on sports both online and in person. Currently, 17 legal online sportsbooks are available in the state, as well as retail sportsbooks at 15 of Iowa’s 19 casinos. You can also use any offshore platform that you prefer.
What online sports gambling is legal in Iowa?
You can gamble on both professional sports teams and collegiate teams in Iowa. Some states have laws regarding collegiate team betting, but Iowa is not one of them.
How do I place a virtual bet?
To place a virtual bet, choose an online betting platform, create an account, deposit funds, select the event you want to bet on, decide on your wager and confirm the bet. Ensure the platform is reputable and understand the betting rules involved.
Table of Contents
Best Iowa Sports Betting Apps
Our experts searched through hundreds of online sportsbooks to narrow down the best mobile betting platforms for Iowa bettors. We found these 10 sites below to provide the most value, safety and consistency in the mobile betting scene.
- BetOnline – Offers unique ongoing and one-off promotions for bettors
- Bovada – Great prop options for Iowa residents
- Heritage Sports – Offers diverse cashback bonuses for users
- BetAnySports – Features reduced juice for Iowa bettors
- Everygame – Provides the best mobile poker options in Iowa
- WagerWeb – Features sign-up bonuses for crypto users
- SportsBetting.ag – Provides fastest payouts in Iowa
- BetUS – Features expert analysis options for new bettors
- JustBet – Offers generous deposit match bonuses for Iowa residents
- BookMaker – Provides early lines for observant bettors
Each of our top ten online sportsbook apps provides an excellent mobile sports betting experience. Sports bettors in Iowa can bet on their favorite teams and players across all major sports leagues, college sports and even niche sports markets with any of our recommended online sports betting sites.
Timeline of Sports Gambling in Iowa
The state of Iowa has witnessed a significant transformation in its sports betting landscape, marked by a series of notable developments and strategic shifts. This section provides a detailed account of the major events that have contributed to the evolution of sports gambling in Iowa:
This year witnessed a 6.91% rise in the total sports betting handle compared to last October, along with a 3.88% increase over September 2023.
The gross revenue from sports betting reached $182.8 million, marking an increase from $139.5 million in the previous fiscal year, with the handle also rising by over 23.7%.
Iowa state casinos reveal a 6.07% month-over-month decline.
Sports betting in Iowa saw a decline in revenue of almost 29% for the month, following the end of March Madness
The 19 casinos in the state generate a combined adjusted gross income of $159.9 million, according to the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission.
The Blackbird Bend Casino becomes Iowa’s first tribal casino to feature in-person retail sports betting.
Unibet departs Iowa’s market of online operators.
Iowa’s governor signs a law allowing online sports betting registration, making it easier for Iowans to sign up for sports betting accounts remotely.
Iowa launches its online sports betting market, allowing customers to place bets through licensed mobile apps and websites.
Iowa’s legislature legalizes sports betting in the state, allowing for both in-person and online betting and setting a tax rate of 6.75% on sports betting revenue.
The U.S. Supreme Court overturns a federal ban on sports betting, paving the way for states like Iowa to legalize sports betting on their own.
Iowa legalizes riverboat casinos, becoming the first state in the country to do so. Over the next several years, several more casinos open throughout the state.
As Iowa continues to navigate through the dynamic landscape of sports betting, it remains a key player in the national sports gambling scene, showcasing innovation and resilience.
Comparing the Top Mobile Sportsbooks in Iowa
From our top 10 list, we have included reviews of our top five mobile sports betting apps for Iowa sports betting. You will not find downloadable apps for these online sports betting sites, but they do offer online apps that you can easily access via mobile browser.
Their mobile interfaces are polished enough to rival some of the most popular mobile betting apps on the market. Beyond their sports offerings, you will also find casino gambling at each of these sites with a variety of games, including slots and table games. Keep reading to discover which betting app suits you best:
1. BetOnline: Best for Unique Sports Promos
Key Features:
- Opinionated lines (odds of -107 and -113)
- Unique sports promos
BetOnline is an excellent choice for those seeking a comprehensive sportsbook, racebook and casino. The poker room offers a wide range of tournaments and cash games. Its racebook provides high daily rebates while the casino boasts a vast array of slot games and games dealt by an actual person, many exclusive to BetOnline.
The mobile sportsbook at BetOnline offers a great variety of bets and live betting markets across global leagues and sports. Although its prop builder isn’t top-rated, it offers a good range of alternate lines.
BetOnline also hosts numerous sports contests with significant prizes and features unique sports promotions, including bad beat insurance for betting on your favorite sports. Known for high limits, ongoing promotions, fast payouts and diverse payment options. The BetOnline promo codes are especially attractive for those interested in a multifaceted betting experience.
2. Bovada: Best for Props
Key Features:
- Great player prop builder
- Suggest your own creative prop bets or specials
Bovada excels in offering a wide selection of betting opportunities on professional and college teams, along with international sports leagues. It features one of the market’s finest prop builders. The Bovada mobile app is also notable for its live betting options and a highly user-friendly mobile site.
For new users, Bovada offers a crypto deposit bonus of up to $750, with a reasonable 5x playthrough requirement. While Bovada has fewer regular promotions for existing users compared to other sites, it compensates with a rewards program where points never expire. Bovada promo codes can also be used for free poker tournament entries.
Bovada is also well-regarded for its online poker offerings, catering to those interested in poker tournaments and cash games.
3. Heritage Sports: Best Option for Cashback on Mobile Sports Wagers
Key Features:
- Good reduced juice (-108) lines
- Cashback on sportsbook every quarter
Heritage Sports began as an invite-only platform and soon, went on to become one of the most popular sports betting websites. Now, all players, including those from Iowa, are welcome in on the action. Renowned for its excellent mobile site design, it excels in live betting with many international markets.
The platform’s strength lies in its cash-back programs and reduced juice (-108 lines) across various markets. Bettors enjoy daily cashback on racebook bets, weekly on net casino losses and quarterly on total sportsbook volume. Additionally, bonus bets at Heritage come with low rollover requirements and no usage restrictions, not even college betting.
While it doesn’t provide substantial deposit , it compensates with unique offerings like a free birthday parlay and making every eighth deposit free. A wide selection of promotions and free trials for casino games, including table games, add to its appeal, making Heritage Sports a truly high-quality betting app for Iowa residents.
4. BetAnySports: Best for Reduced Juice
Key Features:
- Best reduced juice (-105)
- Play the lottery from home
BetAnySports could rank higher with site design updates, as the presence of five different betting lines (American, Offshore, Premier, Super, Ultimate) can initially confuse new users. However, once accustomed, bettors have access to the best-reduced juice in the market, with -105 odds for many markets.
The prop bets section is notably well-crafted and the BetAnySports app offers a broad selection of sports and leagues globally. The site also supports live betting across various markets.
While welcome bonuses are smaller compared to giants like Bovada or BookMaker, BetAnySports compensates with periodic cashback rebates. Additionally, it features a robust selection of casino games and stands out as the only option in the list with a dedicated lottery section, adding diversity to its betting options.
5. BookMaker: Best for Early Lines
Key Features:
- Get the earliest lines in sports betting
- High limits and quick payouts
Since 1996, Bookmaker.eu has been a premier choice for early sports betting lines, gaining a reputation for offering the best numbers before they are shifted. This aspect makes it a go-to site for both favorite team and value picks.
BookMaker handles live betting effectively, providing a top-notch mobile site with a wide range of sports and leagues and a stellar selection of props markets that aren’t available on other sites. Its three-tier loyalty rewards program offers some great bonuses and cashback.
Notably, BookMaker doesn’t limit winning sharp bettors, which is particularly advantageous for sharp bettors. The platform supports high betting limits, catering to a range of betting preferences and strategies.
Is sports betting legal in Iowa?
Yes, the sports betting industry has successfully been operating in Iowa since 2019. They have recently added an 18th sports betting operator for online wagering and retail betting is continuing to increase with licensed sportsbooks making deals with the casinos throughout the state.
Users must be at least 21 years old in Iowa to bet on sports legally. The only real sports betting rule is that there are no betting markets for high school games. Professional sports and college sports are fine.
We will show you below where to find the best offshore sportsbook for more gambling options, including online action on international sports in Iowa.
Iowa’s History of Gambling Laws
Like many states around the country, Iowa could do little to legalize sports betting until the Supreme Court overturned PASPA in 2018. The 1992 ruling banned sports betting for most of the country, but this 2018 reversal opened the door for every state to choose to legalize sports betting.
It was in May 2019 when Iowa Governor Kim Reynolds signed the sports betting law SF 617 to legalize online sportsbooks, retail sportsbooks and daily fantasy sports (DFS) in the state.
On August 15, 2019, sports betting went live in the state for in-person and online wagers, with many licensed operators available. Sports bettors had to initially register in person at a casino to use the online platforms, but that would end on January 1, 2021, as remote registration was permitted.
Almost 20 online operators have conducted sports betting operations in the Hawkeye State. While Unibet left the market in December 2022, Tipico Sportsbook recently opened up shop in Iowa. In February 2023, the Blackbird Bend Casino became Iowa’s first tribal casino to have in-person retail sports betting.
Our Rating Methodology
We will get into our rating methodology in more detail below. Some of the factors we judged these sites on were the variety of games offered, the sportsbook bonuses, a wide range of payment methods, the mobile experience, strong customer service and anything else that would give you the best betting experience possible in this crowded sports betting industry.
In the following sections, we look at the key features that sports fans should expect to see from a top-tier offshore sportsbook or mobile platform. Sports betting operators should have competitive odds, generous bonuses, good security features, a quality live betting platform and a variety of banking methods.
Competitive Betting Odds
The best online operators in this competitive marketplace will find a way to give you the best odds possible for your picks on your favorite sports.
That could mean frequent odds boosts on select markets, reduced juice on select markets or the most reduced juice possible as we see from BetAnySports and Heritage Sports with -105 and -108 lines instead of the standard -110 betting lines. Odds shopping can help you get the best prices before you place your bets.
Betting Markets
For the sportsbook, you want to see the most betting markets possible. That means a wide variety of sports, plenty of leagues (international included) and many different betting markets in each (singles, parlays, round robins, teasers, futures, live bets, etc.).
Banking Options
When using the sportsbook, we look for sites that have the most payment methods for you, including deposit methods and withdrawal methods. This can range from old school methods like paying cash in person, or using credit cards and debit cards to more modern payment methods like eWallets and crypto banking options.
We also pay attention to the other important factors, like withdrawal minimums, processing fees and times associated with each of the methods. Crypto transactions are typically free and offer quick withdrawals at most sports betting sites. Checks take a long time as a withdrawal method.
Sportsbook Promo Codes & Bonus Offers
Bonuses are very important to sportsbook users. The welcome bonus is a big deposit bonus that is usually 100% of your initial deposit. You will get bonus bets with a rollover requirement that must be satisfied before you can withdraw any of that money.
Most sports betting sites also feature plenty of opportunities for players to reap rewards after the sign-up process. There are regular promotions and contests offered to existing users, and often, there are loyalty programs.
These VIP or loyalty programs offer frequent promotions, which could be anything from odds boosts to larger reload deposit matches, along with other additional features and perks.
Live Betting
Live betting is taking off as more people use their phones to bet on the go during live games. You can hedge your pregame bet or make an informed live bet on something you see from watching the game or following the stats. Live betting also can just make a game much more fun to watch.
This is why any top-tier mobile sportsbook will now have a good live betting section, including more than just live bets on spread, moneyline and total.
Mobile User Experience
Offshore sportsbooks lack a downloadable app from your phone’s app store, but they do have a site that is optimized for use on a mobile device and you can add it to your home screen to make it work just like an app.
This is big as it can provide quick access to bets, which is key for live betting and getting in your bets before the next game starts. We also want a site with a good interface that is well organized, making it easy to deposit money and check our bets.
Customer Support Options
Sports bettors may need more help than the average casino user if they want to argue a stat correction or player playing status for their bets. That is why we need good customer service, which is defined as a site that offers 24/7 hours with the most methods of reaching them (messages, emails, phone number and live chat).
Security Features
In this era of internet scams and data breaches, it is important for sites to use the latest security features to protect the user’s data. This is even more true for online gambling sites where we are sharing our personal and financial info.
When you log on to a trustworthy offshore sportsbook, you will see the padlock icon next to the URL to tell you your connection is secure and the data is encrypted. Always use trustworthy sportsbooks with a good reputation in the industry.
How to Create a Mobile Sportsbook Account
To create your online sports betting account, you just have to follow a simple sign-up process. The registration process usually follows the same basic steps, regardless of your chosen site.
1. Sign-Up With a Mobile Sports Betting Site: Begin the registration process by visiting the online sportsbook app you want to join. Start creating your account and give it a strong password you are not using elsewhere.
2. Verify Your Mobile Sportsbook Account Details: Your account will have to be verified in a quick process before it is finalized in the system. You will want to enter accurate information, including your name, email, address and phone number.
3. Deposit Your Funds: Using the deposit method of your choice (debit cards, bank transfers, prepaid cards, crypto, etc.), head to the deposit section and fund your account with money. Be advised that before you do this, you should read about the welcome bonus to see how much you want to deposit to take advantage of that one-time offer.
4. Begin Placing Bets: Now your account is verified and funded. You are ready to start betting on the sportsbook. Find some picks you like, build your betting slip and place your wagers.
Popular Sports to Bet on in Iowa
In Iowa, the enthusiasm for sports betting is evident, with several sports drawing significant attention from bettors. Here is a list of sports that Iowans frequently bet on:
- Football: Football commands a massive following in Iowa, especially during the NFL season and college football matchups. Bettors actively participate in weekly games, showing keen interest in the outcomes and statistics that the sport offers.
- Basketball: Both the NBA and college basketball seasons generate substantial betting activity in Iowa. The fast-paced nature of the game and the frequent scoring make basketball an exciting sport to bet on, with numerous games providing ample betting opportunities.
- Baseball: With its long season and daily games, baseball is a staple for Iowa bettors. The sport’s detailed statistics and historical data offer a rich ground for analysis, making it a favorite for those who enjoy a more strategic approach to betting.
- Soccer: Gaining traction among bettors, soccer offers a global array of matches to bet on. With major leagues in Europe and international tournaments, the sport provides a continuous flow of betting options throughout the year.
- Golf: Golf tournaments, known for their prestigious events like the Masters and the Open Championship, attract interest from bettors looking for a slower-paced, yet highly strategic betting experience.
For mobile bettors in Iowa, these sports offer a range of options to engage with. The convenience of mobile betting platforms allows bettors to easily access odds, place bets and track results on the go, ensuring they never miss out on the action.
Popular Sports Betting Options for Iowa Bettors
At the best offshore sites, you will find a good mixture of bet types to choose from. We go over some of the most popular bets in the following sections.
Moneyline
The moneyline bet is when you wager on a team to win the game outright. The margin of victory does not matter. You just have to pick the correct winner.
Parlays
These are a very fun but challenging form of betting. It is when you include multiple bets on the same bet slip. Every leg on the parlay must hit for you to win the bet. You can do same-game parlays with multiple picks from the same game and you can build larger parlays that combine multiple games and/or sports in one bet slip.
There are also sites that offer parlay insurance bets where if only one of your legs loses, you can still get some cashback in the form of bonus bets.
Spread Betting
Spread betting is an attempt to wager on the right side of the margin of victory in a game. You can bet on an underdog –denoted by a “+” in front of their point total– and that team must be able to win or not lose by more than their spread total for you to win the bet.
Betting on a favorite –denoted by a “-” in front of their point total– means the team must win by at least that many points to win the bet.
Betting on the spread differs greatly from the moneyline because the final scoring margin matters more than who just merely wins or loses the game.
Futures
Futures bets are for markets that will not be decided until well into the future. Common futures bets are for player awards for the season (Most Valuable Player) and which team is going to win the championship that season.
Proposition Bets
Proposition bets are commonly referred to as prop picks in the sports betting industry. Player props are the most popular, but there are also usually game props and team props for games.
Here are some examples of different prop bets available for an NFL game:
- Player props: Over/under on player passing yards, rushing yards, receiving yards, passing touchdowns, interceptions, sacks, receptions, etc.
- Game props: Over/under on total yards, will there be overtime, will there be a safety scored, which team will have more first downs, spread by half, highest scoring quarter, etc.
- Team props: Over/under on points scored for one sports team, field goals made by one team, turnovers by one team, etc.
Totals Betting
Totals betting is when you bet on the over or under for the total points or goals scored in a contest. You could also usually bet on the over/under for the total for just one team in the game instead of both teams.
A teaser is a bet on the spread or total where you tease the betting line by about 6 points in your favor. For example, instead of betting on the Cowboys as a 7-point favorite, you could tease them to a 1-point favorite, making it easier to win (but for less profit).
A pleaser moves in the other direction from the betting line. Now, instead of betting on the Cowboys as a 7-point favorite, you would be betting on them as a 13-point favorite, making it harder to win (but for more profit).
Round Robin Bets
A round-robin bet is when you take a parlay and break it down into smaller parlays, playing every combination possible to increase your chances of getting a win. For example, you can have a 6-leg parlay where all six legs must hit to win. But if you do a round-robin on those six legs by playing every 3-leg combination in a round-robin, you will have a series of parlays on the same ticket.
Fan-Favorite Iowa Sports Teams
Iowa has no major professional sports teams in the NFL, NBA, MLB or NHL. However, they do have four NCAA Division I teams that are notable in college sports, particularly the football teams and basketball teams:
- Drake Bulldogs
- Iowa Hawkeyes
- Iowa State Cyclones
- Northern Iowa Panthers
The Iowa Hawkeyes are the state’s most successful college football team. Iowa is also home to many amateur and semi-professional teams, including the Iowa Wild (AHL affiliate of the NHL’s Minnesota Wild) and the Sioux City Explorers of the American Association of Professional Baseball.
Tips for Mobile Betting in Iowa
When it comes to mobile betting in Iowa, making informed choices can significantly enhance your betting experience. Here’s a guide offering practical tips to help you navigate the process of mobile betting effectively:
- Understand the Basics: Before placing any bets, it’s crucial to grasp the fundamentals of sports betting. Get familiar with the different types of bets, such as moneylines, spreads and totals. Knowing the basics will help you make more informed decisions.
- Choose the Right Sportsbook: Selecting a reliable and reputable sportsbook is essential. Look for platforms with positive reviews, user-friendly interfaces and robust security measures. All of the platforms listed in our reviews are well-trusted and secure platforms that are worthy options.
- Set a Budget: Responsible betting starts with setting a budget. Decide on an amount you’re comfortable losing and stick to it. This helps prevent impulsive decisions and ensures your betting remains enjoyable.
- Stay Updated: Information is key in sports betting. Keep up with the latest injury news, weather conditions and any other factors that might influence the game’s outcome. Platforms offering real-time updates can provide an edge in making more informed bets.
- Learn to Shop for Odds: Odds can vary between sportsbooks. Take the time to compare odds across different platforms to ensure you’re getting the best possible value for your bets.
- Use Betting Guides & Resources: Make use of betting guides, sports betting analysis and predictions available on your chosen platform. These resources can provide valuable insights and improve your understanding of the betting landscape.
- Bet with Your Head, Not Your Heart: It’s easy to get swayed by personal bias, especially when your favorite teams are involved. Objective betting based on analysis and data is more likely to yield positive results than emotional betting.
- Track Your Bets: Keep a record of your bets, outcomes and the reasoning behind each bet. This not only helps in managing your budget but also in reviewing and improving your betting strategies over time.
By following these tips, you can enhance your mobile betting experience in Iowa. Remember, informed betting is smart betting.
Iowa Betting Guides
If you’re looking for the best Iowa sports betting sites for other forms of gambling, we suggest you check out our other guides for Iowa bettors:
