Illinois sports betting apps have been available on mobile devices since 2020. Eight online sportsbooks, including DraftKings, Caesars, FanDuel, BetMGM, and BetRivers have launched across the state.
This page will help bettors understand the steps required to sign up and place bets with online sportsbooks in Illinois. We’ve reviewed the top Illinois betting apps and share exactly what makes them competitive. All apps and promo codes have been reviewed and tested. They are all legal and ready to use in March 2025.
Best Illinois (IL) Sports Betting Apps
We have reviewed all the major sports betting apps available in Illinois and detailed how they stay competitive in a crowded market. Read below for offers and details on the top five sportsbooks in Illinois.
Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Doesn't Win* *Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Add’l terms. 21+. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER Use Bonus Code: TODAY Bet $5 Get $150 in Bonus Bets Win or Lose 30% Extra on Same Game Parlay Profit T&Cs Apply. Gambling Problem? Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER 21+ Use Bonus Code: GTODAY Bet $5 Get $200 in Bonus Bets + Score a No Sweat Parlay Every Day PLUS Get a $50 Bonus Bet on Deposit PLUS up to $1,000 Deposit Bonus Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Get $200
Affiliate Disclosure: If you place a bet at a sportsbook through one of our links, we may earn a commission.
Caesars Sportsbook Illinois
Caesars Entertainment is an entertainment and casino giant that has cemented itself as a leader in the sports betting industry. Home to one of the most popular sportsbooks in the US, Caesars Sportsbook is known for its extensive rewards program that allows loyal customers to leverage their money in a maximum capacity. Caesars partnered with Grand Victoria Casino in Illinois to bring sports betting to the state.
Why We Like Caesars Illinois: Users who give the Caesars sportsbook high marks often cite its odds boosts – regarded as some of the best in the industry – its live streaming platform, and early cash out options. Caesars also has a sleek user interface and renowned rewards program in addition to solid welcome offers.
- Stream NFL Games In-App for Free
- 21+ Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
- Use Promo Code: TODAYDYW
Highlights of Caesars Sportsbook
- Key features: Rewards program, odds boosts, promos
- App Store rating: 4.7
- Google Play Store rating: 4.3
- Live streaming? Yes
- Recent notable partnerships: NHL, Buffalo Bills, New York Mets, Michigan State University
BetMGM Sportsbook Illinois
BetMGM is one of many assets owned and operated by MGM Resorts International. The BetMGM sportsbook app has gained popularity across the US for its competitive odds, ease of use for beginner bettors, and terrific loyalty program: BetMGM Rewards. Illinois bettors can visit Par-A-Dice Casino to bet in person with BetMGM Sportsbook.
Why We Like BetMGM Illinois: The BetMGM app is no nonsense when it comes to navigating it and finding the markets you with to bet on. The search bar at the top lets you find what sport you are looking for instantly and BetMGM is also known to offer some of the best sportsbook promos.
Up to $1,500 in Bonus Bets if Your First Bet Doesn't Win*
*Bonus Bets Expire in 7 Days. One New Customer Offer Only. Add’l terms. 21+. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Use Bonus Code: TODAY
Highlights of BetMGM Sportsbook
- Key features: Ease of use, user interface, odds value, rewards program
- App Store rating: 4.8
- Google Play Store rating: 4.5
- Live streaming? Yes
- Recent notable partnerships: X (Twitter), Washington Nationals, Nashville Predators, Boston Red Sox
FanDuel Sportsbook Illinois
FanDuel has shot to the top tier of the US sports betting market. Its competitive odds, seamless mobile app experience, and variety of betting markets make the FanDuel Sportsbook app popular among bettors in Illinois. FanDuel has a partnership with Fairmount Park Racetrack in Illinois.
Why We Like FanDuel Illinois: There is a reason why FanDuel is one of the most widely available and most popular sports betting apps in the industry. Its market depth is exceptional as it offers wagering on pretty much any sport and league that is properly regulated. It also has exceptional betting options, including parlays that are easy to build out, as well as live betting and streaming options.
Get $200
- Bet $5, Get $200 in Bonus Bets if Your Bet Wins
- Available on Desktop, Android & iOS
- Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. 21+
- To Claim: Click Play Now
Highlights of FanDuel Sportsbook
- Key features: Mobile app experience, betting markets
- App Store rating: 4.9
- Google Play Store rating: 4.5
- Live streaming? Yes
- Recent notable partnerships: Carolina Panthers, Indiana Fever, MLB
Fanatics Sportsbook Illinois
Fanatics is the rebranded version of the PointsBet app, but the sportsbook has carved out its identity over the last year. The Fanatics Sportsbook launched in Illinois in April 2024 and has quickly gained a loyal following. One of its standout features is the “FanCash” rewards program, which allows users to earn FanCash with every bet that can then be used to earn Fanatics merchandise.
This program has made the Fanatics app a favorite among bettors seeking added value. To get started, check out the Fanatics Sportsbook sign-up bonus.
Why We Like Fanatics Illinois: The Fanatics rewards program is one of its best-selling points, but it also has some key features that new and hardcore bettors appreciate. The app itself is very straightforward to navigate, with everything clearly labeled. Its live streaming is top-notch, and you can build out a variety of bets quickly and accurately.
- Bet and Get up to $1,000 in No Sweat Bets
- Earn FanCash & Spend it on Team Swag or More Bets
- 21+. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
- To Claim: Click Play Now
- Key features: Pre-game stats, pre-packaged same game parlays, early cashouts, strong live betting section
- Live streaming? Yes
- Available on: iOS and Android
- App Store Rating: Apple 4.7; Google 4.6
Bet365 IL Sportsbook Promotion
Bet365 Sportsbook is now live in Illinois! With the launch, the sportsbook offers new customers a decent sign-up bonus: $150 in Bonus Bets, Win or Lose when you bet $5.
There is also an Exclusive Super Boost on 1 point to be scored in the 1st game of the Men’s College Basketball Tournament on Thursday to +100. Sign up with our click-to-claim Bet365 Sportsbook promo code GTODAY to acquire the welcome bonus and check out this new operator in Illinois.
Bet $5 Get $150 in Bonus Bets Win or Lose
30% Extra on Same Game Parlay Profit
T&Cs Apply. Gambling Problem? Call or text 1-800-GAMBLER 21+
Use Bonus Code: GTODAY
Below are the terms and conditions for when you claim the offer. Please note the welcome offer is for new Bet365 customers only.
Must be 21+. GAMBLING PROBLEM? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Highlights of Bet365 Sportsbook
- Key features: live betting, live same-game parlays, international sports and leagues
- App Store rating: 4.8
- Google Play Store rating: 4.7
- Live streaming? Yes
- Recent notable partnerships: UEFA Champions League men’s competition, Men’s College Basketball Tournament
DraftKings Sportsbook Illinois
DraftKings first earned its stripes with its DFS platform but quickly became a leader in the sports betting space after PASPA was overturned. Arguably the most popular platform available to US bettors, DraftKings is beloved for its betting interface and unique features, customer support, and odds value. Users looking to bet with DraftKings in person in Illinois can do so at Casino Queen.
Why We Like DraftKing Illinois: DraftKings has ranked as one of the market leaders among sportsbooks due in part to its extensive available markets, live streaming options, and generous welcome bonuses. Its app is very functional with easy navigation features, including the ability to search players, teams and leagues to wager on. DraftKings also offers some of the best prop wagers compared to its competitors.
Bet $5 Get $200 in Bonus Bets + Score a No Sweat Parlay Every Day
PLUS Get a $50 Bonus Bet on Deposit
PLUS up to $1,000 Deposit Bonus
Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER
Highlights of DraftKings Sportsbook
- Key features: Live streaming options, customer experience, competitive odds
- App Store rating: 4.8
- Google Play Store rating: 4.7
- Live streaming? Yes
- Recent notable partnerships: Barstool Sports, Apple, NASCAR
How To Bet on Sports in Illinois
Here, we break down how to get started with an Illinois sports betting app.
Note: Meeting the minimum age requirement (21) is the main preliminary consideration for sports betting in Illinois.
Choose a Sportsbook App
Choose from the eight online sportsbook options in the state. Some things to consider when choosing the right one for you are the sportsbook bonus offers and promotions, betting markets, user interface, and quality of odds. The order of importance of these qualities will vary from user to user, so choose based on what is most important to you.
Claim the Welcome Bonus
Depending on the sportsbook, new users who sign up using Gaming Today’s links and codes can redeem welcome bonuses. Review available Illinois Sportsbooks Promos to learn more about what each one offers to its new users. Then, select one of the welcome offers to be taken straight to the sportsbook. Click one of our sign-up links and/or enter the promo code to have the bonus applied to your new account.
Create Your Account
Once the sportsbook and welcome bonus have been selected, create an account. To do so, you must provide personal information such as your legal name, date of birth, and Social Security number. These are all standard industry requirements that ensure a bettor meets the proper criteria to bet in Illinois.
Download the Sportsbook App
If you want to bet from your cellphone, downloading the mobile app from your respective app store is the easiest way to proceed. Apple (iOS) users can use the Apple App Store, and Android users can use the Google Play Store. Those looking to bet from their computers can use their preferred web browser to wager.
Deposit Funds
During the signup process, one step allows the user to deposit money into their new account. Some common deposit methods available at most sportsbooks are debit cards, PayPal, and online bank transfers. Some sportsbooks also offer Venmo and Apple Pay. If you have a bonus code, this is where it can be applied.
Place Your First Bet
Explore the betting markets and odds and select a wager to add to your betslip. If you’re using a bonus code, check the terms and conditions, as there are often odds limits on qualifying bets. Typically, the bonus will apply only to your first wager with the sportsbook unless it’s a multi-part offer.
If you are unsure what bet to place, check out this How To Bet page for tips.
What To Look for in Illinois Betting Apps
There are several criteria to consider when choosing the right sportsbook for you. Below are some factors you should consider when picking your next sportsbook(s).
Quality of Odds
Big sportsbooks like the ones available in Illinois will offer similar odds for any sporting event or outcome. However, there is typically some variance because sportsbooks balance expected profit and risk differently. While one may offer an outcome at -110 odds, another may offer the same outcome at -105 odds. This is only a slight difference, but it can significantly impact profitability over time if you consistently get the longest odds on the market. Comparing odds for the same event across different sportsbooks is called “line shopping.” By registering with multiple sportsbooks, you can always ensure you are getting the best odds for any given event.
Betting Market Variety
It is important for bettors looking to bet on various sports and events to ensure that a sportsbook has those options. Most sportsbooks will have standard spread, money line, total, and prop-betting options for most major sports leagues (NFL, MLB, NHL, NBA, etc.). But some have more options, whether there be more prop and parlay options or offering odds on niche sports such as tennis, cricket, rugby, golf, or MMA.
User Interface
Each Illinois sportsbook will look and act differently from its counterparts. Some things to consider when grading an interface are how fast the software runs, its navigability between pages, whether it’s organized in a way that makes sense, and how easy it is to find the wager you want. Some user interfaces are better than others but are constantly updated to improve user experience.
Offers and Promotions
Users new to sports betting should check the welcome offers and bonuses available at each sportsbook they are considering. Typically, a welcome offer is a bonus bet and/or some form of insurance on your first wager that allows you to get refunded (in bet credits) if it loses. Some sportsbooks offer both. Other sportsbooks have huge selections of promotions for existing users, including weekly promotions, parlay specials, and profit boosts. Check out our sportsbook promos page for more information.
Types of Bets at Illinois Sportsbooks
No matter what sportsbook you choose, there are plenty of Illinois sports betting options to choose from. Here, we review some of the most common types of bets you can place.
Moneyline
For those looking simply to wager on a team to win a game, place a moneyline bet. For example, if you wanted to wager on the Chicago Bears to beat the Green Bay Packers, you would wager on the Bears moneyline. This is just a straight wager betting that the Bears will win the game, not accounting for the margin of victory.
Typically, one team is the favored team to win, marked by a “negative” number such as -155. The “underdog” is marked by a “positive” number such as +130. However, at times, games between two similarly matched teams will produce two “negative” numbers (i.e., -110 and -115). This means oddsmakers predict such a close game that a clear favorite can’t be determined.
Point Spread
Betting on a point spread involves a margin of victory. You can bet on the underdog (team with + odds) to “cover the spread,” in which case they’ll have to win the game outright or lose by less than a specific number of points set by oddsmakers. When taking the favorite to cover the spread (team with – odds), they must win the game outright by a specific number of points set by oddsmakers.
Using the Bears vs. Packers game as an example, the point spread for the game might be 4.5 points. If a bettor wanted to wager on the Bears’ point spread (+4.5), they would be wagering that the Bears will lose by fewer than 5 points or win outright. If you were to wager on the Packers’ point spread (-4.5), you would be betting that they will win by at least 5 points.
Total (Over/Under)
Oddsmakers set a total (Over/Under) for every professional match and many college sports as well. The total represents the combined number of points that both teams are expected to score. Sticking with the Bears vs. Packers example, let’s assume that the oddsmakers set the total at 43.5 points. This means they expect the combined points scored by both teams to fall right around this number. As a bettor, you would decide whether you think the total will exceed 43.5 points (44 or above) or fall below 43.5 points (43 or below). This is called betting on the “Over” or the “Under.”
Prop Bet
Prop bets concern occurrences within a game, not its final outcome. You’ll find props on player-specific metrics, such as how many passing yards a quarterback will have in a game, or game-specific props, such as how many total touchdowns both teams will score. There are also some non-game options, such as the National Anthem’s length or the outcome of a coin toss.
Parlay
A parlay is a bundle of bets that usually offers long odds and a high payout. The catch is that all of the bets need to win for the parlay to cash. The bets can be related or completely separate, although this may affect the odds and payout.
For example, you could build a parlay that features the Bears’ moneyline, a Caleb Williams passing yards prop bet, and a Bears team total to exceed 22 points. By combining all three of these and betting that all three will happen, the odds get significantly longer. While this is risky, it is associated with a much higher payout than placing these three bets separate from one another.
Futures
A futures bet is also a high-risk, high-reward betting opportunity. Futures bets could be a bet placed at the beginning of a season on a Super Bowl or an MVP winner at the end of that season.
The Bears are currently listed at +3000 odds to win the Super Bowl next year. These are extremely long odds, so the payout would be huge if it were to happen. Depending on how the Bears’ season goes, these odds could get significantly shorter if they play well, and the payout would decrease as a result.
Sports To Bet on at Illinois Betting Sites
There are several professional teams and terrific options for bettors to choose from in the Prairie State.
NFL Betting in Illinois
Illinois, home to the Chicago Bears, sees more NFL wagers than any other type. The Bears are a franchise that has experienced its share of highs and lows. Their only Super Bowl win came in 1985 under Mike Ditka. Since that iconic season, they’ve had great and not-so-great seasons. They made their first playoff appearance in nearly a decade in 2018 (and again in 2020). Since then, they have not finished a season over .500.
Most recently, the team drafted quarterback Caleb Williams as the No. 1 overall draft pick in the 2024 draft and snagged wide receiver Rome Odunze to complement him.
Illinois bettors can wager on the Bears and the rest of the NFL all season long using the top NFL betting apps.
NBA Betting in Illinois
While the Chicago Bulls are one of the most popular basketball teams in the world, they have had some challenges since Michael Jordan’s days (six NBA titles). Most recently, they lost in the first round of the Eastern Conference playoffs in the 2021-22 season.
Today, the team’s leaders are DeMar DeRozan and Zach Lavine, the team’s lone All-Star selections since 2020. Chicago fans can use the top NBA betting apps to bet on the Bulls.
MLB Betting in Illinois
Chicago is home to two MLB teams. The Chicago Cubs are one of the most iconic teams in baseball, with a loyal fanbase that stuck with them during a 108-year World Series drought. That drought ended in 2016 when the Cubs beat the then-Cleveland Indians in seven games and overcame a 3-games-to-1 deficit. The Cubs play in the National League.
The Chicago White Sox last won the World Series in 2005. They have three World Series championships, but they are currently struggling in the American League.
With the top MLB betting apps, you can bet on the White Sox, Cubs, and more MLB favorites.
NHL Betting in Illinois
NHL betting is still one of the most popular sports betting options in Illinois. The Chicago Blackhawks have won six Stanley Cups, most recently in 2015.
Now they look to No. 1 overall pick Connor Bedard to reinvigorate the franchise.
College Sports Betting in Illinois
The professional sports landscape is certainly bigger in Illinois than the college sports betting options. You can bet on in-state college teams in Illinois at retail sportsbooks, but not online. The University of Illinois football program is steeped in history, with five national championships and 15 Big Ten crowns. Illinois’ basketball program has had success, with six Final Four berths and one national championship game appearance (2005).
The Northwestern Wildcats football team has won the Big Ten eight times, the last in 2000. The basketball program made NCAA Tournament appearances in 2017, 2023, and 2024.
Complete List of IL Sportsbooks
| 📱Sportsbook | 🤝 Local Partner | ✅ Mobile and/or Retail? |
|---|---|---|
| 📱Caesars IL | 🤝 Grand Victoria Casino | ✅ Mobile and Retail |
| 📱BetMGM IL | 🤝 Par-A-Dice Hotel and Casino | ✅ Mobile and Retail |
| 📱BetRivers IL | 🤝 Rivers Des Plaines Casino | ✅ Mobile and Retail |
| 📱FanDuel IL | 🤝 Fairmount Park | ✅ Mobile and Retail |
| 📱DraftKings IL | 🤝 DraftKings at Casino Queen | ✅ Mobile and Retail |
| 📱ESPN BET | 🤝 Argosy Casino Alton 🤝 Hollywood Casino Joliet | ✅ Mobile and Retail |
| 📱Fanatics | 🤝 Hawthorne Race Course | ✅ Mobile and Retail |
| 📱Circa Sports IL | 🤝 The Temporary by American Place | ✅ Mobile and Retail |
| 📱Hard Rock Bet | 🤝 Hard Rock Hartford Casino | ✅ Mobile and Retail |
| 📱Bet365 IL | 🤝 Walker's Bluff Casino Resort | ✅ Mobile |
Payment Methods at Online Sportsbooks in Illinois
Withdrawal and deposit options for Illinois sportsbooks will vary depending on the sportsbook. However, a few options, such as debit cards, bank transfers, credit cards, and ACH/E-Check, are available across the board. PayPal is another common deposit method offered by several sportsbooks, including Caesars, BetMGM, BetRivers, FanDuel, DraftKings, ESPN Bet, and Fanatics.
Venmo and Apple Pay are also becoming popular options, though they are not mainstream deposit methods yet. Sportsbooks that offer Apple Pay include FanDuel, DraftKings, ESPN Bet, Caesars, and BetMGM. All of those sites also accept Venmo, as does BetRivers.
Except for Apple Pay, which is not typically a withdrawal option, all these deposit methods can also be used to withdraw winnings. Those who use debit cards, PayPal, and Venmo as withdrawal methods will get their winnings instantly. For users who prefer bank transfers and ACH/E-Check, winnings often take 2-3 days to hit your bank account. Payout speeds may vary; check out the fastest-paying sportsbooks.
More States With Legal Betting Apps
Here’s a look at how the mobile sportsbook industry compares for a handful of major markets nationwide.
Florida
FL sports betting apps are permitted to take wagers on professional and college sports from anyone aged 21 or older in the Sunshine State. Hard Rock Bet is the only regulated online sportsbook in Florida right now, operating under the terms of a gaming compact between the state and the Seminole Tribe, which owns the Hard Rock brand. However, additional apps may be granted permission to launch in the future.
Kentucky
The Bluegrass State passed a law permitting online and in-person sports betting in 2023. There are now eight Kentucky sportsbook apps, including famous brands like BetMGM, bet365, FanDuel, DraftKings, and ESPN BET. The minimum age for legal sports betting is 18 in Kentucky, whereas most states have set the legal age at 21.
Maryland
Maryland sports betting apps were cleared to launch in November 2022. Several renowned online sportsbooks went live on the opening day, including Caesars, DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM. Several new apps have launched since then, including Crab Sports, Bally Bet, and LetsBetMD, and there are now 11 legal online sportsbooks available in the Old Line State.
Massachusetts
Massachusetts legalized online sports betting in 2022. The first Massachusetts sports betting apps were authorized to launch the following year, and there are now seven to choose from: DraftKings, FanDuel, Fanatics Sportsbook, BetMGM, Caesars Sportsbook, ESPN BET, and Bally Bet. They all offer welcome bonuses to attract new customers, and most offer a range of ongoing promotions, too.
Michigan
Legal online sportsbooks have been available in Michigan since January 2021. The top MI sportsbook apps take bets on over 20 sports, including football, basketball, baseball, hockey, tennis, soccer, golf, MMA, boxing, and NASCAR. They are also permitted to offer a full range of betting markets on college sports games, including any matchups that feature a team based in the state.
North Carolina
North Carolina ushered in a new era of legal sports wagering in March 2024. Professional and college sports betting are now legal at North Carolina sports betting apps, so fans can bet on teams like Duke, North Carolina, NC State, the Panthers, the Hornets, and the Hurricanes. South Carolina and Georgia do not have legal sports betting industries, so some bettors from those states cross the border to use NC sportsbook apps.
Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has one of the largest online gambling markets in the country. The Keystone State permits online sportsbooks, racebooks, casinos, and poker rooms. The first PA sportsbook apps launched in 2019, and there are now lots of high-quality options to choose from, creating a vibrant and competitive market for local sports bettors.
Illinois Sports Betting Apps FAQ
Yes. Online sports betting has been legal in Illinois since 2020. In-person sports betting at various locations is also legal.
Licensed sportsbook apps in the state currently include FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars, BetRivers, Fanatics, ESPN Bet, and Circa Sports. Hard Rock Bet is coming soon.
Yes. NFL betting is the most common wager type for Illinois bettors. Every sportsbook that is legal in the state offers a variety of NFL betting options.
Yes. DraftKings Sportsbook is live and legal in Illinois, both online and in-person at its Casino Queen location. Its DFS platform is also available.
Yes. FanDuel Sportsbook is live and legal in Illinois, both online and in-person at Fairmount Park. The FanDuel DFS platform is also available.
Illinois allows betting on both collegiate (limited) and professional sports. You can only bet on in-state college teams at retail locations. Online college betting is prohibited. Bettors can wager on the NFL, NHL, MLB, NHL, NCAAF, NCAAB, WNBA, MLS, and more. Some sportsbooks will offer odds on smaller sports such as tennis, golf, rugby, and cricket.
Yes, the Fanatics Sportsbook app went live in Illinois in April 2024. The app is available on iOS and Android.
To bet online and in person, bettors must be 21 years old and physically located in Illinois. Residency in the state is not required.
There are currently eight online sportsbooks operating in the state of Illinois. Some of the top apps in the state include Caesars, DraftKings, and FanDuel.
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