Online Gambling in Iowa: Best Iowa Gambling Sites for 2024

Gambling in Iowa
Casino N/A
Sports Legal since: 2019
Daily Fantasy Legal since: 2019
Poker N/A
Lottery N/A
If you’re looking for essential, up-to-date information that can help you navigate the Iowa online gambling landscape, you’re in the right place. We’ve examined the state’s licensed operators based on a strict set of criteria, including safety, game diversity, and mobile user experience. With our help, you can easily find an operator that suits your unique preferences.

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Last updated: February 21, 2024

Top Online Gambling Sites in Iowa for March

Iowa Gambling Sites Welcome Bonus Bonus Code Legal In Site Rating Pros & Cons Secure Link Terms
BetMGM 100% up to $1,000 New Player Offer
Not Required
AZ, CO, FL, DC, IL, IN, IA, KS, LA, MD, MI, MS, NV, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY
97% Excellent
+ Top-rated betting app + Live betting No desktop site Play Now! 21+. T&Cs apply.
Caesars Sportsbook Up to $1,000 Back in Bonus Bets
IGAMING1000
AZ, CO, DC, IL, IN, IA, KS, LA, MD, MI, NJ, NY, NV, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY
93% Excellent
+ 24/7 support + Competitive bonus PayPal not accepted Play Now! 21+. T&Cs apply.
Betway Up to $250 Back in Bonus Bets
Not Required
AZ, CO, IN, IA, NJ, OH, PA, VA
90% Excellent
+ Diverse markets + Soft odds availability No phone support Play Now! 21+. T&Cs apply.
ClutchBet 100% up to $250 in Bonus Bets
CLUTCH250
CO, IA, IN, LA
84% Very Good
+ Same game parlays + Variety of sports Outdated design Play Now! Only persons physically located in the state of Iowa are permitted to wager for real money on https://ia.clutchbet.com or in app. Must be 21 and over to hold a registered ADSW account. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem and wants help, call 1-800 BETS OFF. Visit https://yourlifeiowa.org/gambling to learn more.
Todd Winkler, Editor at online-gambling.com
Todd Winkler

Todd Winkler has been an editor at online-gambling.com for 6 years. His focus is on guides and articles about poker games, blackjack, and DFS. With relatives in New Zealand, he is also well aware of the gambling industry in the country.

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What Types of Online Gambling in Iowa Are Legal?

You can legally access two IA online gambling products from the state – sportsbooks and Daily Fantasy Sports (DFS) platforms. If you are eager to explore these types of gambling, you’ve come to the right place, as we’ve covered everything – from market diversity to odds. Despite being a limited market, Iowa offers several excellent options for sports fans.

Sports Betting

Sports betting was illegal in Iowa until 2019, when the state tabled a bill to legalize sportsbooks.[1] Casinos throughout the state can now offer betting both at their retail locations and online. Those who would prefer to bet online in Iowa can choose between mobile apps and desktop platforms.

Live Gambling in Iowa

While playing live casino games is illegal in the Hawkeye state, wagering on live sporting events is allowed for players aged 21 and above. With the legalization of this form of online gambling in Iowa, you can now also take advantage of betting platforms that offer live streaming of popular sporting events.

Live Betting in Iowa

Daily Fantasy Sports

DFS betting in the state was illegal until fairly recently. However, in May 2019, the state governor signed a bill to legalize daily fantasy sports in Iowa. This form of gambling is known for having no fixed odds and a less steep learning curve.

Casinos

Online casinos have seen significant advancements in the last decade, and regulated markets offer excellent opportunities to players across the globe. Unfortunately, you won’t see them among any list of Iowa online gambling sites, as they are still prohibited in the state. However, we’ll update you if something changes and IA casino sites become available.

Poker

Playing poker in this Northern state is only allowed at land-based casinos. Similar to other games, there isn’t a separate clause in the state’s legislation that permits playing poker on Iowa gambling sites. However, social poker platforms where you don’t play for real money are allowed.

Lottery

Playing the lottery online in Iowa is prohibited. If you want to play the lottery, you must buy tickets from land-based retailers in the state. Unfortunately, you will not find any apps or online portals that allow you to participate virtually.

Promo Codes & Bonuses at Iowa Gambling Sites

When it comes to gambling, whether it be online or at land-based establishments, there is one thing that always attracts the players’ attention. We’re talking about bonuses, and the best online gambling sites in Iowa we’ve selected have some of the most generous offers we’ve seen.

However, remember they all have terms and conditions like wagering requirements, validity, and minimum deposit. You can explore these conditions with our help or review them on the operator’s website. Everything that could affect your ability to bet and withdraw winnings should be clearly outlined.

Gambling Site Bonus Amount Bonus/Promo Code Ideal For Min Deposit Validity
BetMGM 100% up to $1,000 Not needed Sports Betting $10 7 days
Caesars Up to $1,000 Back in Bonus Bets IGAMING1000 Sports Betting N/A 14 days

Furthermore, note that there are different types of offers. Some bonuses require a deposit, while others are granted upon registration. Nevertheless, even those no-deposit offers have wagering requirements. So, we advise you to explore what Iowa online gambling sites provide and pick a promotion that fits your budget and betting style.

Deposit Bonuses

These bonuses require players to make a minimum deposit after registering. Once that step is completed, the operator will provide bonus money based on a predetermined deposit match percentage or grant you credits, tickets, free spins, etc. It depends on the specific gaming product and should be clearly stated in the terms and conditions.

Usually, land-based casinos and gambling sites offer these deposit bonuses as welcome offers for new players. After you make the required deposit, usually between $5 and $10, you will receive the additional funds, which can help you improve your chances of winning by increasing your budget and playtime.

No Deposit Bonuses

No-deposit bonuses do not require you to put any of your money into the account to be granted the bonus. Instead, you receive a free cash prize, a free bet, or another reward for registering with the operator. However, remember that most of these offers come with specific wagering requirements.

Gambling Apps in Iowa

Without a doubt, mobile betting has become one of the leading trends in the IA online gambling industry. Both land-based gaming establishments and sites are trying to modify their services and meet the preferences of those players who are frequently on the go.

New technologies have even made it possible for gamblers to bet on and stream live sporting events on their phones and tablets. You can visit an operator’s optimized mobile site through your device’s browser or download a native app. They’re available for iOS and Android and offer extra benefits like customized push notifications and biometrics login.

BetMGM 100% up to $1,000 New Player Offer
Click Here
Top-rated betting app 21+. T&Cs apply.

Many land-based casinos and gaming sites offer dedicated mobile bonuses to those who register for the first time through their smartphones. In addition to a competitive welcome bonus, the betting app we’ve highlighted for Iowans also boasts excellent mobile support and diverse payment methods.

Deposits & Withdrawals at Gambling Sites in IA

Players have many deposit and withdrawal options when online gambling in Iowa. The most preferred payment methods in the state are debit cards such as Visa or Mastercard, with eWallets becoming increasingly popular. In addition, note that deposits are instant, but cashouts can take between 1 and 5 working days.

Caesars Up to $1,000 Back in Bonus Bets
IGAMING1000
24/7 support 21+. T&Cs apply.

Online sports betting and DFS in Iowa were restricted until recently, so people are still more used to the payment methods available at land-based gaming venues, such as cash and debit cards. However, e-wallets like Skrill, Neteller, and PayPal have become more popular. Venmo gambling sites are also on the rise, so the industry is developing quickly.

Payouts and Odds

An online gambling platform’s average payouts and odds for individual sporting events are vital to consider when picking an operator. If you examine them carefully, you should be able to estimate your eventual chances of winning. However, if you’re new, you must first understand the terms and the theoretical nature of these figures.

Payout rates are not that relevant for Iowa players, as they primarily relate to online casinos. However, if this form of gambling becomes legal in the state, it’s good to know that the RTP is a theoretical percentage representing how much money wagered on a game could be paid back to players over time. It’s no guarantee of winning and should be taken with a grain of salt.

Understanding betting odds is much more critical, as they directly relate to sports betting. Also theoretical, they try to define the likelihood of an outcome for each side of a competition. They can be expressed in decimal and fractional formats, with the unfavorable outcome usually preceding the favorable one.

Casino Game Payout
Slots 95.75%
Roulette 97.45%
Blackjack 98.55%
Online Poker 94.70%
Keno 94.85%
Baccarat 98.80%
Sport Payout
Soccer 96.60%
Basketball 94.65%
Ice Hockey 95.00%
Cricket 96.30%
Boxing/MMA 94.85%
eSports 97.00%

Some casino game categories are considered to be more profitable than others. The same goes for sports, yet we advise you to consider this aspect in combination with factors such as your understanding of the sport, recent team statistics, etc. Relying solely on odds is not a good idea, as they are highly variable and often influenced by public perception.

How to Gamble Online in Iowa

With the latest changes in Iowa gambling laws, players can now bet on sports online, but where do you start? If you’re a beginner or haven’t gambled on a betting site before, we’ve outlined the essential steps, like registering and choosing a suitable payment method for your needs.

  1. Find the product and operator that’s right for you – You should first figure out which gambling activity you enjoy the most and look for an operator that provides it.
  2. Review the legal situation – Ensure the operator is licensed and that you meet all age and location requirements.
  3. Create an account – This may vary from operator to operator, but in general, you will be asked to provide some personal data and confirm your identity.
  4. Explore the welcome bonus – Before you make a deposit, you should check if there are any welcome bonuses or promo codes that you could use.
  5. Choose a payment method – You can top up your account by using one of the safe and secure payment methods that the operator accepts.

Once you go through the steps that we have described, you will be able to start playing safely at any of the licensed Iowa online gambling sites. Just remember to set a budget before you start betting. Responsible gambling is fundamental, whether you play online or in person.

Responsible Gambling in Iowa

The Iowa Department of Public Health provides most of the responsible gambling services people battling gambling-related issues in the state need. It offers a Gambling Treatment Program, which includes a live chat, a 24/7 phone helpline, and support via text message.

Another reputable institution that deals with gambling addiction is the National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG). It offers services to all US citizens who require help or information. The NCPG was first established in 1972 and works on a national level. However, the local affiliates in Iowa are those who coordinate the work of the institution.

Online vs. Retail Gambling

Gambling online brings many advantages, such as enhanced convenience, various bonuses, and more game diversity. However, just like land-based gaming, it also has some cons. You need to consider both to get a complete picture and decide which form suits your preferences better.

Online Gambling Offline Gambling
+ Various bonus offers + Better live casino experience
+ Diverse game selection + Faster payouts
+ Highly convinient + No registration procedures necessary
– Account verification procedures – Limited bonuses
– Slower withdrawals – Fewer bet types

It’s true that when you gamble online, you don’t have to leave the comfort of your home, but that also makes the experience less interactive. It also means you can’t receive your winnings immediately. However, while land-based gambling offers these benefits, it’s not as rich when it comes to bet types, bonuses, markets, and so on.

Land-based Gambling in Iowa

Gambling at land-based casinos in Iowa has been legal since 1972.[2] It’s strictly regulated by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission, which has licensed around 19 casino venues. Three of them are run by Native American tribes, while the rest are commercial.

You can also find many kiosks that sell lotto tickets. The state lottery has been running since 1985, and many Iowans still test their luck with its games. Poker is another form of gambling that players from the Hawkeye state can engage in at licensed physical casinos.

Horse and dog racing are next on the list of legal forms of gambling in the state. Both have been around since 1983, when the Pari-Mutuel Wagering Act was passed. The final step was the legalization of online DFS and sports betting in 2019.

Iowa Gambling Laws

Iowans who like to bet on sports are in luck, as this form of online gambling is legal in the state. Before 2019, you could only engage in pari-mutuel betting on horse and greyhound competitions, which can be fun but is not for everyone. Nowadays, you can bet on all types of popular sports, like basketball, baseball, and football.

Unfortunately, Iowa’s online gambling laws are more strict when it comes to casino gambling. It is only allowed at land-based establishments, and there has been no news about online legalization. However, we hope the major change in sports betting laws will inspire action in other areas of the industry.

Legal Gambling Age in Iowa

Usually, online gambling in the US is only allowed for individuals aged 21 or above. The same rule applies when talking about the Iowa gambling age. For all types of gambling, whether it’s casino games at physical venues, purchasing lottery tickets, or betting online, you must be at least 21 and be able to provide a valid ID.

Some other states have lowered the legal gambling age from 21 to 18 to increase gambling revenues. However, Iowa’s authorities have strictly specified they have no plans to make changes in this area. If online casinos become legal, the same rule will apply to them.

  • Legal Gambling Age
    You must be 21+ to gamble in Iowa.
  • Legal Drinking Age
    The legal age for alcohol purchase and consumption in Iowa is 21+.
  • Legal Age for Marijuana
    Marijuana is only permitted for medical purposes in Iowa.

Expected Changes in Regulation

The most likely change to Iowa gambling laws is the legalization of additional products. However, there are no bills currently under observation, as there is some debate on how best to move forward. We will update you if anything changes.

History of Gambling in Iowa

Starting with the Pari-Mutuel Wagering Act of 1983, the state’s gambling history is intriguing. A considerable change occurred in 1991, when the state’s first riverboat casino became operational, setting an example for what has now become 19 locations both on and off the water. Following that event, there wasn’t much development until 2019, when online sports betting and DFS were legalized.

Iowa Gambling History
1983 The Pari-mutuel Wagering Act passed, allowing organizations to apply for a license to take pari-mutuel bets on horse and dog racing.
1984 The first group of licenses are approved for betting locations across the state.
1989 Simulcasting is approved, allowing the Iowan locations to take bets on races being run in other states.
1992 Compacts are signed and three Native American casinos are opened.
1994 24-hour gambling is legalized and the maximum bet of $5 per hand is raised.
2002 The tax on racino slot machines is changed.
2018 A bill is proposed to legalize sports betting, but it is not voted on in the session and does not pass.
2019 Sports betting and DFS were finally legalized in land-based establishments as well as online.

Iowa State Facts

Iowa, also known as the Hawkeye State, is one of America’s agricultural meccas. It produces more corn than any other state, but farming aside, it’s also the home to over 15 land-based casinos. In 2023, locals spent more than $2.2 billion gambling at these venues and online, contributing $13 million in state taxes.[3]

Facts About Iowa
Population 3,145,711
Min. Wage $7.25
Offline Location Sioux City
Commissioner
Languages English
Local Team
Tax Authority
State Law https://www.legis.iowa.gov/
Gambling Winnings Tax 5%
State Website https://www.iowa.gov/
Famous Local Gamblers Max Steinberg

Conclusion: Great Variety for New and Experienced Players

The Iowa online gambling industry is on the rise, with more reputable sportsbook operators joining the market. The top platforms we’ve recommended boast competitive welcome bonuses, live betting for both mobile and desktop, and a wide variety of sports, among other benefits. We’re confidant you can find a site or app that suits your preferences by examining the highlights our experts have provided.

References

  1. Dormann, T. (September 24, 2021), Iowa’s gambling flood gates opened 50 years ago, The Gazette, Retrieved January 9, 2024.
  2. Green, B. (July 11, 2023), Iowa sports betting hits $2.2 billion for 2023 fiscal year, CBS Iowa, Retrieved January 9, 2024.
  3. Gruber-Miller, S. and Opsahl, R., (May 14, 2019), Kim Reynolds signs sports betting and fantasy sports bill into law in Iowa, Des Moines Register, Retrieved January 9, 2024.

FAQ

If you still have questions about online gambling in Iowa, we’re here to help. Our experts have provided brief answers to the most frequent inquiries players have shared online, so the information might be useful to you, too.

1. What are the best online gambling sites in Iowa?

The list of top gambling sites in Iowa will vary from person to person, depending on individual preferences and budgets. We've provided some recommendations based on predetermined criteria like safety and market diversity, yet in the end, it all depends on your unique needs.

2. Is it legal to gamble online in Iowa?

According to the Iowa online gambling laws, you can legally bet on sports and DFS competitions. Online casinos and poker remain illegal in the state. Naturally, you should only trust operators licensed by the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission.

3. What is the gambling age in Iowa?

The legal gambling age in Iowa is 21 years. According to the state's laws, you cannot gamble online or in person if you don't meet this condition. Any attempt to do so is considered a felony and can have severe consequences.

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