Illinois is home to a thriving legal sports betting market. The state is consistently among the top leaders in monthly betting handle in the US. Bettors can choose from 10 online sportsbooks, including major brands like BetMGM, Caesars, DraftKings, and FanDuel.
In this complete guide to Illinois sports betting, we have updated information on where you can legally place your bets. We take a detailed look at the top Illinois mobile betting apps, cover the latest bonuses and promotions, and show you how to sign up and claim the best offers.
Additionally, we’ll provide a comprehensive overview of the history of sports betting in Illinois. We also examine the rules and regulatory status, including pending changes to tax rates and wager fees. Read on for a guide to the best Illinois sportsbooks and what you need to know.
At a Glance: Our Current Favorite Welcome Bonuses in the State of Illinois
Contents
Best Illinois sportsbooks
Several industry titans are battling for the title of best Illinois sportsbook. For sports bettors in the state, that’s fantastic news. You can choose from many excellent options, and also have access to a wide range of bonuses and promotions. Let’s take a closer look at the best sites to bet on sports in Illinois today.
BetMGM Illinois
BetMGM Illinois offers a huge selection of sports and betting markets. You can wager on everything from major sports, such as the NFL and NBA, to niche sports that fly under the radar. Odds tend to be competitive, and there’s a steady stream of boosts and other promos.
For new users to BetMGM, a generous welcome offer is available upon signing up. Most users can claim a Bet $10, Get $150 If You Win promotion. Others might qualify for up to $1,500 back in bonus bets if their first bet loses offer.
As you complete the simple sign-up process, you can confirm your available offer prior to registering. The BetMGM app is rated 4.8 on iOS and 4.2 on Android. The app delivers a smooth experience overall, but some users have reported occasional slowness.
The sportsbook is connected to the MGM Rewards program. As you play, you can earn redeemable points and credits for use on travel, promos, and more. The cashier features numerous options, including online banking, PayPal, and Venmo.
If you’re looking for a huge menu, regular bonuses and promos, and a smooth overall experience, BetMGM is one of the top sportsbooks in Illinois.
Pros
- Huge selection of sports and bet types.
- Welcome bonus of “Bet $10, Get $150 If You Win” for new players.
- Earn redeemable points and credits with the MGM Rewards program.
- Smooth app and solid desktop platform.
- Bonus offers such as odds boosts and parlay promos.
Cons
- Occasional lags on mobile, while web navigation is awkward in spots.
- Limited selection of lookahead lines, a little slow on posting props at times.
Caesars Illinois
Caesars Illinois delivers a smooth betting experience wherever you choose to play. The sportsbook app is rated 4.7 on iOS and 4.5 on Android. If you’re playing on the web, navigation is a breeze, plus there’s a search bar to lean on to find what you want instantly.
If you’re a new player, you can claim one of two welcome offers: Bet $1, Double Your Winnings on Your Next 10 Wagers, or a First Bet Back up to $1,500. The first offer provides 10 100% profit boost tokens, valid for 14 days, while the second offers first bet insurance up to the offer limit.
The odds are fair and competitive across the extensive menu, with regular boosts and offers available. Virtually all sports and bet types are covered. If you’re into live-betting, there’s a dedicated “FireBets” menu, plus streaming on select games via the Watch and Bet feature.
Sports bettors can join Caesars Rewards, climb tiers, redeem points at Caesars destinations, and qualify for special offers. For banking, choose from PayPal and other options, with some withdrawals processed as quickly as 24 hours or less.
Customer support is available via live chat. It can be slow during busier times, but it is generally on point. Caesars is a top choice for Illinois sports bettors.
Pros
- Play in a user-friendly environment on both web and mobile.
- Join the industry-leading Caesars Rewards program.
- Regular selection of odds boosts and special parlay offers.
- Big menu of props for all of the major sports.
- Great for live-betting, featuring Firebets plus Watch and Bet.
Cons
- Some customers have reported lengthy customer service response times.
- Player prop lines and odds for some futures occasionally lag competitors.
DraftKings Illinois
DraftKings Illinois is known for its slick and speedy platform, which is packed with features. Players on the web will find a smooth layout that makes it easy to drill into what you’re into. You can easily scroll through available player props without endless hunting and pecking.
The app loads quickly and is easy to use. It boasts a rating of 4.8 on iOS and 4.4 on Android. DraftKings offers an extensive menu of sports and markets, featuring competitive odds. Standout features include a massive selection of player props and futures.
There’s a great offer to Bet $5, Get $150 in Bonus Bets Instantly for all new players. The bonus bets are yours, no matter what happens with your initial wager. As you continue playing, you’ll find a regular selection of odds boosts and other promos.
Moving money in and out is seamless, with options including online banking and PayPal. Most withdrawals are processed in under 24 hours. Customer service is available, including via live chat. It generally moves quickly, but there may be delays during busier times.
There is a Dynasty Rewards program, but it falls short in benefits compared to other top programs. All told, DraftKings is an excellent option for Illinois bettors.
Pros
- Straightforward welcome offer of bet $5, get $150 instantly.
- Big menu of sports and markets with regularly competitive odds.
- Incredibly slick performance on both web and mobile.
- Extensive selection of player props for major sports.
- Regular offers like odds boosts and no-sweat SGPs.
Cons
- Some users have reported delays in customer service response.
- The Dynasty Rewards program could offer clearer benefits.
FanDuel Illinois
FanDuel Illinois delivers a user-friendly experience. The mobile app boasts a 4.9 rating on iOS and 4.7 on Android. The website performance is just as smooth and slick, and completely packed with fair odds and markets for all of the sports you could ask for.
For new players, a Bet $5, Get $250 in bonus bets if you win your first wager offer is available. You simply sign up, make a deposit of $5 or more, and place your first wager. If it’s a winner, you’ll get back bonus credits that are valid for seven days.
No matter how you like to wager, you’ll find scores of options. There are dozens of player props, lots of same-game parlay opportunities, and live betting with streaming of select events. Boosts and other promos are regularly available, but there’s no loyalty rewards program.
FanDuel is quick on the trigger when it comes to banking. Funding options include debit cards, online banking, and PayPal. Many withdrawals are processed in less than 24 hours. If needed, customer service is readily available and consistently helpful.
FanDuel is an industry leader and one of the most popular books in all of its available markets. It’s a top choice for sports bettors in Illinois.
Pros
- A chance to earn bonus bets on your first wager with the welcome offer.
- One of the most user-friendly platforms you could ask for.
- A huge menu of player props for all of the top games and events.
- Regular selection of boosts and multi-leg wager promos.
- Recognized industry leader and go-to choice for many bettors.
Cons
- There is no loyalty rewards program for sports betting.
- Same-game parlay odds are occasionally less competitive than elsewhere.
Fanatics Sportsbook Illinois
Fanatics Sportsbook Illinois has been steadily climbing up the charts. The sports apparel giant expanded its reach into sports betting with the acquisition of the US arm of PointsBet. Now available in 22 states, plus Washington, D.C., the arrow continues to point up.
New customers who sign up and register can get one of two welcome offers. First up, you can get up to $1,000 in no sweat bets. For each of your first 10 days, you can bet up to $100 with some insurance on your side.
The other option is to bet $30 and receive $300 in bonus bets. This one is spread over three consecutive days, where you bet $10 or more to get back $100 in bonus bet credits. As you continue playing, there are other regular promos to choose from, plus the FanCash loyalty program.
The Fanatics Sportsbook app has a 4.8 rating on iOS and 4.7 on Android. It gets high marks on usability from reviewers. On the downside, those who prefer playing on desktop are out of luck for now, as the sportsbook is currently only available on the mobile app.
Fanatics has made significant progress in a relatively short period. If you’re a mobile player in Illinois looking for something new and great welcome offers, Fanatics fits the bill.
Pros
- Generous welcome offers for new players.
- FanCash rewards program where you can earn on every bet.
- Smooth and user-friendly app.
- Great coverage of major sports with fair odds.
- Trending same–game parlays to give you a sense of what’s hot.
Cons
- Smaller selection of markets compared to other books.
- Mobile-only with no desktop platform.
All legal online sportsbooks in Illinois
There are currently 10 legal online sportsbooks in Illinois. As the sixth-most populated state in the US, it immediately became an attractive market for top online sportsbook operators. Following the launch of BetRivers in 2020, four more debuted by the end of that year.
The market steadily expanded from that point. Notably, one book was rebranded in 2023. ESPN Bet debuted in November of that year, replacing Barstool Sportsbook under the PENN Entertainment umbrella. Here’s the complete list of legal Illinois online sportsbooks.
| Sportsbook Name | Welcome Bonus (Briefly) | Key Features/Description | Partner Casino (if applicable) |
|---|---|---|---|
| BetMGM Illinois | Up to $1,500 in bonus bets or Bet $10 to Win $150 in Bonus Bets | Broad market selection, generous welcome offer, edit my bet feature. | Par-a-Dice Casino |
| FanDuel Illinois | Bet $5 to win $250 in Bonus Bets | User-friendly platform, great for Same Game Parlays and frequent bonus offers. | FanDuel Sportsbook & Horse Racing |
| Caesars Illinois | Bet $1 for ten 100% profit boosts or double your payout | Excellent Caesars Rewards program, solid for live betting and streaming. | Grand Victoria Casino Elgin, Harrah’s Joliet, & Harrah’s Metropolis |
| DraftKings Illinois | Bet $5 to get $150 in bonus bets ibstantly | Incredibly slick app, huge menu of sports and markets, regular boosts and promos. | DraftKings at Casino Queen |
| BetRivers Illinois | Second Chance Bet up to $500 | Simple interface, iRush Rewards program, info-packed site and app. | Rivers Des Plaines |
| Fanatics Sportsbook Illionis | Bet $30 to receive $300 in Bonus Bets or No Sweat Bets up to $1,000 | Exclusive FanCash loyalty system, smooth mobile platform, no desktop version. | Hawthorne Race Course |
| ESPN BET Illinois | Bet $10 to receive $100 in bonus funds | New ESPN-branded book (formerly Barstool), simple platform. | Hollywood Casino Aurora & Hollywood Casino Joliet |
| Hard Rock Bet | Up to $100 back in bonus bets if your first bet doesn’t win | Smooth interface, trending bets section, loyalty rewards program | Hard Rock Casino Rockford |
| bet365 Illinois | First bet safety net up to $1,000 or bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets | Huge global presence, simple interface, and wide selection of markets. | Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort |
| Circa Sports Illinois | N/A | Las Vegas-based sportsbook known for competitive odds and high limits. | The Temporary by American Place |
Best Illinois sports betting bonuses and promotions
There’s a wide range of sports betting bonuses and promotions for Illinois sports bettors to choose from. It’s a competitive marketplace, with 10 top online sportsbooks battling for your attention. That’s a great problem to have, as you can pick and choose from the offers that work best for you. The table below can help you decide on the best current offers.
| Sportsbook Name | Welcome Bonus Offer | Minimum Deposit | Key Terms and Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| BetMGM | Up to $1,500 in bonus bets or Bet $10 to Win $150 in Bonus Bets | $10 | Sing up and place your first bet. If you lose, get your stake back, up to $1,500 in bonus bets which are valid for 7 days.. No code required. New users only. |
| Caesars | Bet $1, Receive Ten 100% Profit Boosts | $10 | Wager $1+ to get 10 profit boost tokens (max bet $25, max boost $2,500 each). Tokens valid for 14 days. New users only. No code required. |
| FanDuel | Bet $5, Win $250 in Bonus Bets (if your bet wins) | $5 | Place your first bet of $5 or more; if your bet wins, you’ll get $250 in bonus bets within 72 hours; bonus funds expire in 7 days; offer valid for new users only. No code required. |
| DraftKings | Bet $5, Get $150 in bonus bets instantly | $5 | Bet $5+ to unlock $150 in bonus bets instantly, win or lose. Bonus bets issued as six $25 tokens that expire in 7 days. New users only. No code required. |
| BetRivers | Second Chance Bet up to $500 | $10 | If first bet loses, get bonus bet refund up to $500. Must use on odds -200 or longer. Bonus expires in 30 days. New users only. No code required. |
| Fanatics | Up to $1,000 in No Sweat Bets or Bet $30, Get $300 | $10 | Bet $1–$100 daily for 10 days to match losses (max $1,000), or bet $10+ for 3 days to get $100/day. New users only. No code required. |
| ESPN BET Illinois | Bet $10 to receive $100 in bonus funds | $10 | Bet $10+ at odds of -250 or longer to get $100 in bonus bets (5 x $20 within 72 hours). Expires in 7 days. New users only. |
| Hard Rock Bet | Up to $100 back in bonus bets if your first bet doesn’t win | $10 | Deposit at least $10, and make a minimum bet of $5. If you lose, get back the amount of your wager, up to $100, as bonus bets. The bonus bet expires 7 days after being issued. New users only. |
| bet365 Illinois | First bet safety net up to $1,000 or bet $5, get $150 in bonus bets | $10 | For first bet safety net, get back your stake, up $1,000 in bonus bets, if you lose your initial wager, or Place a $5 wager with odds of -500 or greater. Receive $150 in bonus bets, win or lose. Bonus bets expire in 7 days. New users only. |
| Circa Sports Illinois | N/A | $20 | No current offers for new players. |
How to choose the best sportsbook bonuses in Illinois
Choosing the best sportsbook bonuses in Illinois comes down to a few simple factors. Since there are so many to choose from, you can go beyond the total value of the offer. No matter what you claim, it should align with your personal preferences.
For starters, the terms and conditions should make sense and provide a clear path toward realizing the full value of the bonus. Some offers are straightforward and reward you instantly upon settlement, while others may have playthrough requirements attached to unlock the offer.
As you continue playing at the sportsbooks of your choice, the same applies. When you check out odds boosts, same-game parlay offers, and others, look for what’s required. At a minimum, make sure the minimum odds and wager requirements align with your comfort level.
Betmgm: get up to $1,500 in bonus bets if you don’t win
The BetMGM bonus offer gives you substantial coverage on your first bet. After you sign up and make your first deposit of $10 or more, place your first qualifying bet. If you lose, get your stake back as bonus bets, up to the offer limit.
- Sign up for your new BetMGM account.
- Make an initial deposit of at least $10.
- If you lose, get your stake back as bonus bets, up to $1,500.
- For wagers of $49 or less, you’ll get back one credit for the same amount.
- For bets of $50 or more, you get back five bonus bets, each equal to 20% of your stake.
- Bonus bet credits are not eligible for withdrawal and must be used within seven days.
Trying out a new sportsbook with some insurance on your side is tough to beat. On size alone, this BetMGM offer is easily one of the biggest you’ll find.
Caesars: bet $1, double your winnings next 10 wagers
The Caesars bonus offer delivers a great reward with a small initial outlay. After you sign up and deposit $10+, just place a $1 bet of your choice. You’ll get back 10 chances to double your winnings that can be used over the next 14 days..
- Sign up and register with Caesars.
- Make your first deposit of $10 or more.
- Place your first bet of at least $1.
- Get back 10 100% profit boost tokens.
- The tokens are valid for 14 days.
- Maximum wager of $25 per token, with winnings capped at $2,500 for each.
Unlike other offers that are one-and-done, this Caesars bonus gives you plenty of time to explore the platform with chances to double your winnings.
Fanduel: bet $5, get $250 in bonus bets if your bet wins
The FanDuel bonus offer is straightforward. You simply sign up, make a first deposit of at least $5, and place a $5 wager of your choice. If the bet is a winner, you’ll have $250 in bonus bets coming back your way to use over the next seven days.
- Sign up to play at FanDuel.
- Make an initial deposit of $5 or more.
- Place your first wager of at least $5.
- If you lose, the promo is over. If you win, get back $250 in bonus bets.
- Bonus bets are valid for seven days and are not eligible for withdrawal.
- The bonus can be split and does not have to be used all at once.
For a simple bet and get, FanDuel delivers. New players have the opportunity for a substantial reward with a small initial deposit and their first bet of choice.
Legal status of Illinois sports betting
Illinois legalized sports betting in 2019 with the passage of the Sports Wagering Act. Retail sports betting made its debut in the state in March 2020, followed by the online launch in June. Initially, there was an in-person registration requirement for those who wanted to bet online.
The requirement was rescinded in March 2022, allowing bettors to complete registration online. The law allows for 23 master licenses for casinos, racetracks, and eligible sports venues, each of which can offer retail betting and one online skin, plus three mobile-only licenses.
Who regulates Illinois sports betting?
The Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) serves as the state’s primary regulatory and law enforcement agency for sports wagering. The IGB is responsible for licensing, monitoring operator compliance, and enforcing all state laws related to sports betting.
The board oversees the collection of taxes and fees, and has the authority to adopt rules, conduct investigations, and issue disciplinary actions. The IGB covers both online and retail betting. Its approval is required for any operator to enter or remain in the Illinois market.
Legal age and residency requirements in Illinois
The legal age for sports betting is 21 in Illinois. Age verification is required when you sign up to play online. As part of the registration process, you may be asked to submit government-issued identification. If you can’t prove you’re of legal age, your account will not be approved.
You don’t need to be a state resident to place wagers in Illinois. However, you are required to be within state lines when placing bets online or via regulated mobile betting apps. Sportsbooks use geolocation technology to confirm your location before accepting any bets.
Are there any state-specific rules for Illinois sports betting?
Illinois has a few state-specific rules that sports bettors should be aware of. You can’t bet on in-state collegiate teams. There was a brief carveout period that allowed wagering on these squads in person at the state’s retail sportsbooks, but that’s no longer allowed either. College player prop bets are also prohibited, and no wagering is permitted on high school sports.
Timeline of Illinois legal sports betting
Below is a complete timeline of Illinois legal sports betting, from the first green light to the most recent significant development.
- May 14, 2018: The U.S. Supreme Court strikes down PASPA, giving states the authority to legalize sports betting.
- June 28, 2019: Governor J.B. Pritzker signs the Illinois Gambling Act (SB 690), officially legalizing sports betting and establishing a regulatory framework for retail and online sportsbooks.
- March 9, 2020: The first legal sports bet is placed at Rivers Casino Des Plaines, marking the launch of retail sports betting in Illinois.
- June 18, 2020: Online sports betting becomes available with the launch of BetRivers, allowing residents to wager via mobile devices and computers.
- March 5, 2022: Illinois removes the in-person registration requirement for online sports betting accounts, making remote sign-up possible.
- March 9, 2023: The Illinois Gaming Board announces a ban on individual player prop bets involving college athletes, effective immediately.
- May 31, 2025: The Illinois General Assembly passes a new budget that includes a first-of-its-kind per-wager tax on sportsbooks: $0.25 per wager for the first 20 million annual bets per operator, and $0.50 per wager for each bet above 20 million annually. It’s set to take effect on July 1, 2025.
- June 10, 2025: FanDuel announces it will implement a $0.50 transaction fee on every bet placed in Illinois starting September 1, 2025, to offset the new state tax. The company states it will remove the fee if the state reverses the tax decision.
- June 12, 2025: DraftKings follows FanDuel’s lead, announcing the same plans: $0.50 fee on bets placed in the state to offset the new tax, effective September 1, 2025.
Illinois sports betting market overview
The Illinois sports betting market is massive. It shows no signs of slowing, but a proposed per-wager tax is set to be introduced, potentially shaking up the landscape. From its launch in March 2020 through April 2025, over $49.6 billion in wagering handle has been generated.
For the post-PASPA era, that ranks third among legal states, behind only New York ($69.8B) and New Jersey ($63.7B). On a monthly basis, the handle is regularly over $1 billion, with a slight dip under that threshold for the slower summer months.
Taxation and licensing structure
Illinois has established a comprehensive taxation and licensing structure for sports betting. It’s defined in state law and administered by the Illinois Gaming Board. The model provides clear guidelines for operator licensing, tax rates, and revenue allocation.
- Licensing Fees:
- Master sports wagering license fee for casinos, racetracks, and sports facilities: $5 million to $20 million.
- Online-only operator license: $20 million initial fee.
- Renewal Fees:
- Master license renewal: $1 million every four years.
- Online-only renewal: $20 million every four years.
- Tax Rates (Effective July 1, 2025):
- Tiered tax structure based on adjusted gross sports wagering receipts:
- 20% on the first $30 million annually.
- 25% on annual receipts between $30 million and $50 million.
- 30% on annual receipts between $50 million and $100 million.
- 35% on annual receipts between $100 million and $200 million.
- 40% on annual receipts above $200 million.
- Cook County surcharge: An additional 2% tax on wagers placed within the county.
- This tiered structure replaces the previous flat 15% tax on sports betting revenue.
- Tiered tax structure based on adjusted gross sports wagering receipts:
- Per-Wager Fee (Effective July 1, 2025):
- $0.25 per wager for the first 20 million bets per operator each year.
- $0.50 per wager for each bet above 20 million annually.
Illinois is one of the most tightly regulated sports betting markets in the country. The adjustment to tax rates will also make it among the most heavily taxed markets for sportsbook operators.
How the tax money is used
Illinois sports betting tax revenue is primarily allocated to the state’s Capital Projects Fund. The funds are then used to finance infrastructure improvements such as roads, bridges, schools, and other public works.
A portion of the tax revenue supports the General Revenue Fund to help pay for essential state services, such as education. A smaller share of the revenue is directed toward responsible gambling programs and regulatory oversight.
Illinois’ new per-wager tax explained
Illinois’ new per-wager tax, set to take effect July 1, 2025, requires sportsbooks to pay a tax on every online sports bet placed in the state. The law imposes a $0.25 tax per wager for the first 20 million bets each operator accepts annually. Once an operator surpasses 20 million wagers in a year, the tax rate doubles to $0.50 per bet for all subsequent wagers.
This tiered structure will most directly impact high-volume operators, such as FanDuel and DraftKings. The per-wager tax is on top of Illinois’ new progressive tax on sportsbook gross gaming revenue, making it one of the most expensive markets for operators in the country. The new fee is expected to generate tens of millions in additional annual revenue for the state.
How does this impact bettors?
Illinois’ new per-wager tax will have a direct financial impact on bettors, especially those who place frequent or smaller wagers. Starting September 1, 2025, major operators like FanDuel and DraftKings are responding to the tax by adding a $0.50 transaction fee to every online bet placed in the state.
Regardless of wager size, bettors will see an extra charge on each ticket, making low-stakes and high-frequency betting notably more expensive. Overall, the operator response to the tax means Illinois bettors will now pay more out-of-pocket for every wager, fundamentally changing the economics of sports betting in the state.
List of Illinois mobile betting apps
Illinois mobile betting apps are the primary way most residents access legal sportsbooks and place wagers anywhere within state lines. Players can sign up, deposit, and bet entirely from their mobile devices using top-rated apps. Geolocation technology ensures all bets are placed within Illinois borders. Here’s how the top Illinois mobile betting apps rank, according to users.
| Sportsbook Name | iOS App Rating | Android App Rating |
|---|---|---|
| FanDuel | 4.9 | 4.7 |
| DraftKings | 4.8 | 4.3 |
| BetMGM | 4.8 | 4.2 |
| Caesars | 4.7 | 4.5 |
| BetRivers | 4.8 | 4.6 |
| Fanatics | 4.8 | 4.7 |
| ESPN BET | 4.8 | 4.5 |
| Hard Rock Bet | 4.9 | 4.7 |
| bet365 | 4.8 | 4.6 |
| Circa Sports | 1.8 | 2.6 |
How to sign up and bet in Illinois
Signing up to bet in Illinois is a quick and straightforward process that can be completed entirely online from your desktop or mobile device. Here’s how you can get started with any of the state’s licensed sportsbooks:
- Download your preferred sportsbook app or visit their website.
- Click the “Sign Up” or “Register” button to begin creating your account.
- Enter the required personal information, including your name, address, date of birth, and the last four digits of your Social Security number to verify your identity.
- Choose a username and password for your account.
- Enter any available promo codes to claim a welcome bonus or special offer.
- Allow geolocation tracking so the app can confirm you are physically located within Illinois state lines.
- Agree to the terms and conditions and confirm you are at least 21 years old.
- Access your new account and head to the cashier section to make a deposit using banking options like debit cards, ACH/eCheck, PayPal, or online banking.
- Browse the available sports, markets, and odds.
- Select your wager, apply any applicable promos, and place your bet.
- When your bet settles, you can withdraw your winnings using your preferred withdrawal method.
Most deposits are processed instantly, while withdrawals may take up to a few business days, depending on the method chosen. The entire process is designed to be user-friendly and secure, allowing Illinois bettors to get in the game quickly and safely from anywhere in the state.
Retail sportsbook locations in Illinois
You can bet in person in Illinois at several retail sportsbook locations, including casinos, racetracks, and sports venues throughout the state. Rivers Des Plaines and Argosy Casino Alton were the first to open their doors in March 2020, with many more locations following. Here’s a complete list of where you can find retail sportsbooks in Illinois.
| Casino/Location | Sportsbook Partner | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Bally Bet Sportsbook in the Quad Cities | Bally's | Bally's Quad Cities Casino & Hotel, 777 Bally Blvd, Rock Island, IL 61201 |
| BetRivers Sportsbook at Rivers Casino | BetRivers | 3000 S River Rd, Des Plaines, IL 60018 |
| Caesars Sportsbook at Grand Victoria Casino | Caesars | 250 S Grove Ave, Elgin, IL 60120 |
| Circa Sports Illinois Sportsbook at The Temporary by American Place Casino | Circa Sports | 4011 Fountain Square Pl. Waukegan, IL 60085 |
| DraftKings at Casino Queen Sportsbook | DraftKings | 200 S Front St, East St Louis, IL 62201 |
| DraftKings Sportsbook at Wrigley Field | DraftKings | 1012 W Addison St, Chicago, IL 60613 |
| Fanatics Sportsbook at Hawthorne Race Course | Fanatics | 3501 S Laramie Ave, Cicero, IL 60804 |
| FanDuel Par-A-Dice Sportsbook | FanDuel | 21 Blackjack Blvd, East Peoria, IL 61611 |
| FanDuel Sportsbook & Horse Racing at Fairmount Park | FanDuel | 9301 Collinsville Rd, Collinsville, IL 62234 |
| Hard Rock Sportsbook at Hard Rock Casino Rockford | Hard Rock Bet | 7801 E State St, Rockford, IL 61107 |
| Sportsbook at Argosy Casino Alton | ESPN Bet | 1 Piasa St, Alton, IL 62002 |
| Sportsbook at Hollywood Casino Aurora | ESPN Bet | 1 W New York St, Aurora, IL 60506 |
| Sportsbook at Hollywood Casino Joliet | ESPN Bet | 777 Hollywood Blvd, Joliet, IL 60436 |
What sports and events are available to bet on in illinois?
Betting is available on a wide range of sports and events in Illinois. Legal sportsbooks in the state offer wagering on all major professional leagues, college sports, international competitions, individual events, and a variety of niche sports. Illinois sportsbooks feature all the popular wagering markets, including spreads, props, parlays, futures, and live-betting.
Pro sports leagues
Illinois offers betting on all of the major professional sports leagues. The state has a passionate fan base that covers all of the bases, with local NFL, NBA, NHL, and MLB squads to cheer on. You’ll also find wagers for other popular sports, including Soccer.
No matter which sport you’re interested in, there are numerous betting markets to choose from. Traditional pregame wagers always attract attention, and the same is true for player props and same-game parlays. Futures, such as the winner of the next Super Bowl, are also big draws.
College & amateur sports
Betting on college sports is available in Illinois. However, there are notable restrictions. Wagering is available for most college games across NCAAF and NCAAB. The standard pregame wagers of spreads, moneylines, and totals are top attractions.
No wagering is allowed on college player props, in-state collegiate programs, or high school sports. Regular season games attract plenty of interest, but attention ramps up for tentpole events such as the College Football Playoffs and March Madness.
Other sports and events
Illinois sportsbooks offer wagering on numerous other sports and events. Some of the top draws are Golf, Tennis, UFC, Nascar, and Boxing. There’s also a wide array of niche and international sports, such as darts, cricket, cycling, and rugby.
Markets are also available when it’s time for the Summer or Winter Olympics, plus massive international events like the World Cup. Esports betting is not yet authorized by the Illinois Gaming Board. Illinois law does not allow betting on non-sporting events such as the Oscars.
Popular local teams in Illinois
Illinois is a major sports hub with several popular local teams that attract significant betting interest throughout the year. Sportsbooks in the state frequently offer special promotions, odds boosts, and unique betting markets tied to these teams and their matchups. Below is a look at the most popular professional and college teams to bet on in Illinois.
Professional teams:
- Chicago Bears: The Bears have a storied history and a passionate fan base. Optimism is high for a return to playoff contention behind new stars like Caleb Williams.
- Chicago Bulls: The Bulls remain a staple for NBA bettors with a loyal following from their championship era and are fresh off a Play-In Tournament appearance.
- Chicago Cubs: After ending their 108-year championship drought in 2016, the Cubs continue to be a beloved franchise and a top draw for baseball betting.
- Chicago White Sox: Despite recent struggles, the White Sox have a dedicated fan base and see steady action throughout the MLB season.
- Chicago Blackhawks: The Blackhawks are rebuilding behind rising star Connor Bedard and remain a favorite among hockey bettors.
- Chicago Fire FC: The city’s MLS team, based at Soldier Field, has helped grow the soccer fan base in the Windy City and beyond.
- Chicago Sky: The Sky, featuring rising star Angel Reese, and the WNBA as a whole, are drawing increased attention from bettors.
College teams:
- Illinois Fighting Illini: The Illini compete in the competitive Big Ten conference and are a major draw during college football and basketball seasons.
- Northwestern Wildcats: Northwestern is another Big Ten squad that’s a popular attraction on the fall, winter, and spring sporting calendar.
- Northern Illinois Huskies: NIU is a perennial contender in MAC football and basketball, with a strong fan base and a history of conference championships.
- Loyola Ramblers: Loyola Chicago is best known for its men’s basketball program, highlighted by a 2018 Final Four run and consistent Atlantic 10 competitiveness.
Responsible gambling resources in Illinois
Responsible gambling resources are readily available in Illinois. The state prioritizes safe play through mandatory responsible gambling measures for all licensed operators, including self-exclusion programs, deposit limits, and prominent display of help resources.
Illinois residents can access free, confidential support via the Illinois Department of Human Services. If you or someone you know needs help, Illinois offers a comprehensive network of support to encourage healthy gambling habits and provide assistance when needed
Actions you can take
There are several actions you can take if concerns about problem gambling arise. Self-exclusion in Illinois is a voluntary program that allows individuals to restrict their access to all state-licensed casinos and sports betting platforms.
Illinois sportsbooks are also required to offer responsible gaming tools, allowing users to set deposit, wager, and time limits directly within their accounts. Bettors can take a timeout or temporary break, or opt for full self-exclusion.
Illinois gambling helplines & counseling
Several responsible gambling resources are available in Illinois to support individuals and families impacted by problem gambling.
- Illinois Department of Human Services: Offers a 24/7 confidential helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER, text support by texting “ILGAMB” to 833234, and live chat via the “Are You Really Winning?” website.
- Illinois Council on Problem Gambling: Provides education, awareness, and referral resources for those seeking help with gambling disorders.
- National Council on Problem Gambling: Access national resources and the 24/7 helpline at 1-800-GAMBLER for support anywhere in the U.S.
You’ll also find direct links to these resources on all licensed Illinois sportsbook apps and websites.
Conclusion
We can now consider Illinois to be a mature sports betting market. However, the growth period is far from over, as the betting handle is regularly over $1 billion per month. That said, there could be some disruption on the way due to a new per-wager tax that has received pushback from operators.
Sports bettors will have to wait and see how it all plays out. Potential fee increases aside, it’s a great state if you’re interested in wagering on sports. Just like any other legal state, there are clear leaders, but also a wide selection of other books for those who want something different.
The competition is also great news when it comes to bonus and promotion offers. New players can pick and choose from the deals they like best. For regular players, there’s a steady stream of boosts and other offers to compare and contrast before placing your wagers.
