Best Illinois Sports Betting Sites

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Online sports betting officially went live in the Land of Lincoln back in June 2020, and since then the industry’s biggest brands have planted their roots.

Top sportsbooks in IL

Bet $5 Get $300
In Bonus Bets If Your Bet Wins
Must be 21+ (18+ D.C.) and present in AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL IN, KS (in affiliation with Kansas Star Casino), KY, LA (excluding certain perishes), MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, or WY. Void where prohibited. New customers only. First online real money wager only. $5 first deposit and bet required. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. Expires on 10/27/2024 at 11:59 PM EST. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Call 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT) or visit FanDuel.com/RG. Data & text rates may apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Hope is here. GamblingHelpLineMA.org or call (800) 327-5050 for 24/7 support (MA). Visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). Call 1-877-8HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).
Up To $1,500 In Bonus Bets
If Your First Bet Loses
21+ only. First Bet Offer for new customers only. Min. first deposit of $10. Subject to eligibility requirements. Rewards are non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire in 7 days. Bonus bets amount equals lost stake up to $1500. Must be physically located in NC, NJ, IN, WV, DC, CO, PA, MI, IA, AZ, LA, TN, IL, VA, MD, MS, WY, MA, KS, OH, or KY. Void where prohibited. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. See BetMGM.com for Terms. US promotional offers not available in Mississippi, New York, Nevada, Ontario, or Puerto Rico. Please Gamble Responsibly. Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). Data & text rates may apply. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (Available in the US) Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA).
Up To $1,000 In A Bonus Bet
If Your First Bet Loses
Must be 21 or older and physically present in AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY or Washington, DC. New users only. Must register using eligible promo code. First bet to settle must lose to qualify. Max. Bonus Bet: $1,000. Bonus Bet expires 14 days after receipt. Void where prohibited. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms. Know When To Stop Before You Start®. Gambling Problem? CO, IL, KY, MD, MI, NJ, OH, TN, VA, WV, WY, KS (Affiliated with Kansas Crossing Casino), LA (Licensed through Horseshoe Bossier City and Harrah’s New Orleans), ME (Licensed through the Mi’kmaq Nation, Penobscot Nation, and Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, federally recognized tribes located in the State of Maine), NC (Licensed through Tribal Casino Gaming Enterprise), PA (Affiliated with Harrah’s Philadelphia): If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) or MD: visit mdgamblinghelp.org or WV: visit 1800gambler.net; AZ: Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP; IN: Call 1-800-9-WITH-IT; IA: Call 1-800-BETSOFF. ©2024, Caesars Entertainment. WASHINGTON, DC: It is unlawful for any individual who is noticeably intoxicated or impaired to engage in sports wagering. Know When To Stop Before You Start®. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or text 800426. OLG Class A licensed Operator. Data & text rates may apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. MA: CALL 1-800-327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org. NY: Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369)
Bet $5, Get $200
In Bonus Bets
21+ only (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). New customer only. Must be physically present in AZ/CO/DC/CT/IL/IN/IA/KS/KY/LA(select parishes)/MA/MD/ME/MI/NC/NJ/NY/OH/PA/TN
/VA/VT/WV/WY only. Void in ONT/OR/NH and where prohibited. Eligibility restrictions apply. 1 per new customer only. Min. $5 deposit. Min. $5 bet. $200 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Bets that expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Offer ends 10/31/24 at 11:59 PM ET. Terms: draftkings.com/sportsbook. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Please Gamble Responsibly. Call 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). Data & text rates may apply GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY).
Bet And Get Up To $1,000
In Bonus Bets
Must be 21+. New customers in AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, or WY only. Void where prohibited. Must apply this Promotion in your bet slip & place and settle $5+ cash wager with odds of – 200 or longer to get a Bonus Bet match (up to $100) each day for 10 straight days. Your 10 days begin the day you sign up. Bonus Bets expire 7 days from issuance. Bonus bets amounts are non-withdrawable and winnings exclude bonus bet stake. Add’l Terms apply – see Fanatics Sportsbook app. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), (888) 789-7777 or http://ccpg.org (CT), or 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), or 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), or www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), or morethanagame.nc.gov (NC), or 1800gambler.net (WV). Data & text rates may apply. GAMBLING PROBLEM? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (CO/IL/KS/KY/MD/OH/MI/NC/PA/TN/VA/VT/WV), (800)-327-5050 or http://gamblinghelplinema.org (MA), Call (877-8-HOPENY) or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).

Illinois sports betting: Key details

Online sportsbooks available7
Legal betting age21+
Sports betting regulatorThe Illinois Gaming Board
Types of sports betting availableOnline, retail, college sports betting, esports

Reviewing the best sportsbooks in Illinois

Below, you will find all you need to know about the seven best Illinois sportsbooks that you can sign up for and place your bets with in 2024: 

FanDuel Sportsbook

Welcome bonus: Bet $5, get $300 in bonus bets if your bet wins

Other types of promotions: Profit boosts, SGP insurance

Strengths of FanDuel:

  • Elite mobile app
  • Vast betting markets

App ratings: 4.7 (Google), 4.9 (Apple)

Bet $5 Get $300
In Bonus Bets If Your Bet Wins
No code required
Claim bonus Must be 21+ (18+ D.C.) and present in AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL IN, KS (in affiliation with Kansas Star Casino), KY, LA (excluding certain perishes), MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, or WY. Void where prohibited. New customers only. First online real money wager only. $5 first deposit and bet required. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. Expires on 10/27/2024 at 11:59 PM EST. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Call 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT) or visit FanDuel.com/RG. Data & text rates may apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Hope is here. GamblingHelpLineMA.org or call (800) 327-5050 for 24/7 support (MA). Visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). Call 1-877-8HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).
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FanDuel Sportsbook launched its site in Illinois in August 2020. They have since reached partnership agreements with the Chicago Blackhawks and the Chicago Bulls.

Few Illinois sportsbooks offer more betting markets than FanDuel — and notably, FanDuel provides very competitive futures odds for the Blackhawks and Bulls.

In addition to that, FanDuel boasts one of the best mobile apps in the business, making for arguably the best live betting experience of any Illinois sports betting site.

Currently, FanDuel owns a retail partnership with FanDuel Sportsbook & Horse Racing in Collinsville. They also have a land-based agreement with Par-A-Dice Casino.

BetMGM Sportsbook

Welcome bonus: First bet insurance up to $1,500

Other types of promotions: Odds boosts, SGP boosts

Strengths of BetMGM:

  • Clean interface,
  • Extensive banking options

App ratings: 4.4 (Google), 4.8 (Apple)

Up To $1,500 In Bonus Bets
If Your First Bet Loses
Promo Code
CBSSPORTS
Copied!
Claim bonus 21+ only. First Bet Offer for new customers only. Min. first deposit of $10. Subject to eligibility requirements. Rewards are non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire in 7 days. Bonus bets amount equals lost stake up to $1500. Must be physically located in NC, NJ, IN, WV, DC, CO, PA, MI, IA, AZ, LA, TN, IL, VA, MD, MS, WY, MA, KS, OH, or KY. Void where prohibited. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. See BetMGM.com for Terms. US promotional offers not available in Mississippi, New York, Nevada, Ontario, or Puerto Rico. Please Gamble Responsibly. Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). Data & text rates may apply. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (Available in the US) Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA).
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After going live in Illinois in March 2022, BetMGM Sportsbook teamed up with Par-A-Dice Hotel Casino in East Peoria for a retail sports betting partnership.

BetMGM has a lot to offer, beginning with its incredibly clean user interface and site/app design. This makes your betting experience aesthetically pleasing through and through.

While BetMGM doesn’t have any exclusive partnership with Illinois sports franchises, they do offer some unique markets, such as the following options for Chicago Blackhawks betting: Stanley Cup Winner from the Original Six, To Make the Playoffs and more.

Caesars Sportsbook

Welcome bonus: Get your first bet back up to $1,000

Other types of promotions: SGP bet & gets, profit boosts

Strengths of Caesars:

  • Improved mobile app
  • Favorable futures odds

App ratings: 4.3 (Google), 4.7 (Apple)

Up To $1,000 In A Bonus Bet
If Your First Bet Loses
Promo Code
CBS1000
Copied!
Claim bonus Must be 21 or older and physically present in AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY or Washington, DC. New users only. Must register using eligible promo code. First bet to settle must lose to qualify. Max. Bonus Bet: $1,000. Bonus Bet expires 14 days after receipt. Void where prohibited. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms. Know When To Stop Before You Start®. Gambling Problem? CO, IL, KY, MD, MI, NJ, OH, TN, VA, WV, WY, KS (Affiliated with Kansas Crossing Casino), LA (Licensed through Horseshoe Bossier City and Harrah’s New Orleans), ME (Licensed through the Mi’kmaq Nation, Penobscot Nation, and Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, federally recognized tribes located in the State of Maine), NC (Licensed through Tribal Casino Gaming Enterprise), PA (Affiliated with Harrah’s Philadelphia): If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) or MD: visit mdgamblinghelp.org or WV: visit 1800gambler.net; AZ: Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP; IN: Call 1-800-9-WITH-IT; IA: Call 1-800-BETSOFF. ©2024, Caesars Entertainment. WASHINGTON, DC: It is unlawful for any individual who is noticeably intoxicated or impaired to engage in sports wagering. Know When To Stop Before You Start®. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or text 800426. OLG Class A licensed Operator. Data & text rates may apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. MA: CALL 1-800-327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org. NY: Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369)
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The Chicago White Sox have integrated Caesars Entertainment and Caesars Sportsbook branding into the team’s marketing efforts, merchandise and experiences as a result of an exclusive partnership agreement.

Caesars certainly isn’t lacking in terms of betting markets and available bet types. You should particularly enjoy their favorable odds in the futures markets for various sports.

Meanwhile, Caesars has retail locations at both Harrah’s Joliet and Harrah’s Metropolis. The online sports betting site launched in Illinois during March 2022.

DraftKings Sportsbook

Welcome bonus: Bet $5, get $200 in bonus bets instantly

Other types of promotions: Profit boosts, prop boosts, bet & gets

Strengths of DraftKings:

  • Great mobile app
  • Tons of bet types

App ratings: 4.6 (Google), 4.8 (Apple)

Bet $5, Get $200
In Bonus Bets
No code required
Claim bonus 21+ only (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). New customer only. Must be physically present in AZ/CO/DC/CT/IL/IN/IA/KS/KY/LA(select parishes)/MA/MD/ME/MI/NC/NJ/NY/OH/PA/TN
/VA/VT/WV/WY only. Void in ONT/OR/NH and where prohibited. Eligibility restrictions apply. 1 per new customer only. Min. $5 deposit. Min. $5 bet. $200 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Bets that expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Offer ends 10/31/24 at 11:59 PM ET. Terms: draftkings.com/sportsbook. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Please Gamble Responsibly. Call 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). Data & text rates may apply GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY).
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It was also August 2020 when DraftKings Sportsbook joined the sports betting fold in Illinois. The operator has a retail partnership with Casino Queen in East St. Louis.

DraftKings is neck and neck with FanDuel in many regards, including betting markets, bet types, mobile experience and promotions.

Moreover, DraftKings inked what’s known as a “Year-Round Entertainment Experience” with Wrigley Field, the home of the MLB’s Chicago Cubs.

Finally, the DraftKings “bet & get” welcome bonus works as follows: Sign up for a new DraftKings account and place your first bet of at least $5 and you will instantly receive $200 in bonus bets.

Fanatics Sportsbook

Welcome bonus: Get a $100 bet match for 10 straight days

Other types of promotions: N/A

Strengths of Fanatics:

  • FanCash program

App ratings: 4.7 (Google), 4.8 (Apple)

Bet And Get Up To $1,000
In Bonus Bets
No code required
Claim bonus Must be 21+. New customers in AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, or WY only. Void where prohibited. Must apply this Promotion in your bet slip & place and settle $5+ cash wager with odds of – 200 or longer to get a Bonus Bet match (up to $100) each day for 10 straight days. Your 10 days begin the day you sign up. Bonus Bets expire 7 days from issuance. Bonus bets amounts are non-withdrawable and winnings exclude bonus bet stake. Add’l Terms apply – see Fanatics Sportsbook app. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), (888) 789-7777 or http://ccpg.org (CT), or 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), or 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), or www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), or morethanagame.nc.gov (NC), or 1800gambler.net (WV). Data & text rates may apply. GAMBLING PROBLEM? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (CO/IL/KS/KY/MD/OH/MI/NC/PA/TN/VA/VT/WV), (800)-327-5050 or http://gamblinghelplinema.org (MA), Call (877-8-HOPENY) or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).
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Fanatics Sportsbook is another new operator in the industry, and they just recently planted their roots in Illinois, going live in April 2024.

You can benefit from all of the usual key sportsbook features when betting at Fanatics, including live streaming, in-game betting and early cashout.

Fanatics is intent on creating an elite user experience, and that is accomplished in part by the FanCash Rewards program, where users can use the credit they earn from betting to purchase Fanatics merchandise.

Best Sportsbook welcome offers in Illinois

SportsbookWelcome offer
FanDuelBet $5, get $300 in bonus bets if your bet wins
BetMGMFirst bet insurance up to $1,500
CaesarsFirst bet insurance up to $1,000
DraftKingsBet $5, get $250 in bonus bets instantly
FanaticsGet a $100 bet match for 10 straight days

How to get started with an Illinois sportsbook

The first step to betting on sports in Illinois is narrowing down your search for a sportsbook. Consider aspects like each site’s welcome bonus, betting options and app quality. 

Once you decide – and it’s recommended you sign up for multiple sportsbooks to take advantage of more than one sign-up offer – it’s time to complete the registration process. 

A standard sign-up process looks something like this:

  1. Click “Join Now”, “Sign Up”, etc
  2. Provide info: Name, birthdate, address, mobile number, last four digits of your SSN
  3. Enter your email and create a password
  4. Agree to terms and conditions

After agreeing to the sportsbook’s terms and conditions, you will be taken to the homepage. Sometimes, the site will ask you to share your location. Other possible requests include verifying your email address and verifying your identity by uploading a form of ID. 

Next, you need to make an initial deposit to fund your newly-created account. Usually, the minimum deposit amount will be either $5 or $10. Remember to consider the site’s sign-up bonus when making this first deposit.

Once your account has money in it, you can begin placing bets. Simply navigate to the sport you wish to bet on, select a wager to add to your betslip and click submit. You can then view your active bets under a section that’s almost always titled “My Bets”. 

Illinois sports teams

The state of Illinois is home to five major professional sports franchises as well as some prominent college athletic programs. You can comfortably wager on your favorite Illinois sports teams at each of the seven aforementioned legal sportsbooks.

Illinois futures odds

The most successful professional sports team in Illinois this century has been the Chicago Blackhawks, winning Stanley Cup titles in 2010, 2013 and 2015. Check out the odds that each Illinois team has for winning their league’s next championship

All of the odds in the table below are provided by Caesars Sportsbook at the time of publication

TeamLeagueChampionship futures odds
Chicago BearsNFL+5500
Chicago BlackhawksNHL+25000
Chicago BullsNBA+100000
Chicago CubsMLBN/A
Chicago White Sox MLBN/A

Chicago Bears

Caleb Williams poses with NFL commissioner Roger Goodell after being selected by the Chicago Bears as the No. 1 pick in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.
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The Chicago Bears are currently in a multi-year partnership agreement with BetRivers Sportsbook, and the NFC North franchise will have a new signal caller under center in 2024 after drafting Caleb Williams first overall.

Chicago Blackhawks

The Chicago Blackhawks have a partnership with FanDuel Sportsbook, and are looking ahead to the 2024-25 NHL season.

Bet $5 Get $300
In Bonus Bets If Your Bet Wins
Must be 21+ (18+ D.C.) and present in AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL IN, KS (in affiliation with Kansas Star Casino), KY, LA (excluding certain perishes), MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, or WY. Void where prohibited. New customers only. First online real money wager only. $5 first deposit and bet required. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. Expires on 10/27/2024 at 11:59 PM EST. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Call 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT) or visit FanDuel.com/RG. Data & text rates may apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Hope is here. GamblingHelpLineMA.org or call (800) 327-5050 for 24/7 support (MA). Visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). Call 1-877-8HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).

Chicago Cubs

Illinois is represented by two MLB franchises, the Chicago Cubs and the Chicago White Sox. The Cubs play at the historic Wrigley Field and have three World Series titles in their history. After winning it all in 1907 and 1908, they went 108 years before winning another another one in 2016. The Cubs have a partnership agreement with DraftKings Sportsbook.

Chicago Cubs outfielder Mike Tauchman (40) high fives third baseman Christopher Morel (5) after scoring against the Pittsburgh Pirates during the fifth inning at Wrigley Field.
USATSI

Chicago White Sox

Chicago’s other MLB team, the White Sox, also only have three total World Series titles. As with the Cubs, only one of them (2005) came in the last 100 years. The White Sox have a partnership agreement with Caesars Sportsbook.

Chicago Bulls

Chicago Bulls guard Coby White (0) drives past New York Knicks guard Josh Hart (3) and center Isaiah Hartenstein (55) in the third quarter at Madison Square Garden.
USATSI

Finally, you have the Chicago Bulls who represent Illinois in the NBA as one of the league’s most historic franchises. Like the Blackhawks, (who share an arena with the Bulls), the Bulls also have a partnership with FanDuel.

Bet $5 Get $300
In Bonus Bets If Your Bet Wins
Must be 21+ (18+ D.C.) and present in AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL IN, KS (in affiliation with Kansas Star Casino), KY, LA (excluding certain perishes), MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, or WY. Void where prohibited. New customers only. First online real money wager only. $5 first deposit and bet required. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. Expires on 10/27/2024 at 11:59 PM EST. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Call 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT) or visit FanDuel.com/RG. Data & text rates may apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Hope is here. GamblingHelpLineMA.org or call (800) 327-5050 for 24/7 support (MA). Visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). Call 1-877-8HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).

Does Illinois allow betting on college sports?

Yes, you can bet on college sports in Illinois, but to bet on an in-state school, you must do so at a retail sportsbook location.

Wagering on out-of-state schools is permitted at online sportsbooks, but schools like the Illinois Fighting Illini can only be bet on in person.

Recommended list of Illinois sportsbooks

SportsbookOnline bettingRetail betting
FanDuel
DraftKings
BetMGM
Caesars
ESPN BET
BetRivers
Fanatics

Available sports and betting markets in Illinois

As you know by now, the biggest sportsbooks like FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, etc. are all operating in Illinois, and these top-tier sportsbooks offer all of the betting markets that you could want. 

Here are some examples of the most popular Illinois sports betting markets:

Football

There is no bigger sport to bet on in America than football, both the NFL and college football. One of the most popular football bets to make today is the “anytime touchdown” prop, where you’ll cash if the player you bet on finds his way into the end zone. Betting against the spread, however, is historically the most common way to bet on a football game.  

Basketball

Player props own the world of basketball betting as it’s such a player-centric sport, but there are also your standard moneylines, point spreads and totals bets available. Popular player props include points scored, rebounds, assists, made threes and more. 

Baseball

Betting on baseball is great because there are several games just about every day throughout the season. The most popular bet types include moneyline, run line, total runs and player props. Common player props you’ll find are “Player X to hit a home run” or “Player Y to have over/under Z strikeouts”.  

Hockey

The three main hockey bet types are moneyline, puck line and total. From there, the next most common hockey bets are player props like goalscorers and game props like who will win each period. 

Soccer

A unique aspect of soccer betting is the inclusion of ties/draws. Moneylines are generally divided into three (Team X, Team Y and draw), and you can regularly find plus odds on all three outcomes. You can also place a variety of player props, including goals, shots, assists, corners and even penalties.  

Golf

An individual sport like golf comes along with some unique betting possibilities. You can make wagers like tournament winner, round leader, round score, finishing position, head-to-head matchups and more. 

Tennis

The two most popular kinds of tennis bets are moneyline and set bets. 

Notably, these aren’t the only betting markets that are offered at the best Illinois sportsbooks. Niche markets are also available, such as combat sports, cricket, cycling, darts, handball, lacrosse, motor sports, rugby, snooker, table tennis and volleyball.

Pros and cons of sports betting in Illinois

ProsCons
The best sportsbooks availableNo online casinos operating
College sports betting allowedOnly in-person betting on in-state schools
Esports betting permitted
In-person betting authorized

How does Illinois compare to other states?

The Illinois sports betting scene is among the best in the United States, largely due to the fact that Illinois residents are offered the industry’s best sportsbooks

Illinois only trails New Jersey, New York and Nevada in overall sports betting handle and revenue. The synergy between the Illinois online sportsbooks and the land-based sportsbook locations makes for a user-friendly experience.

Illinois sports betting has everything going for it. The only minor drawback at this point is having to bet in-state college teams/games in person rather than being able to do so online. 

Still, that’s less restrictive than a state like Vermont where you can’t bet on in-state schools anywhere, except during national tournaments.  

Illinois sports betting news and updates

The most recent data shows that the state of Illinois brought in a handle of $1,286,243,926 in January 2024, to go along with a revenue of $129,511,642 that month. That happened to be the biggest month of revenue in Illinois online sports betting history. 

Meanwhile, Fanatics Sportsbook is the newest member of the Illinois sports betting tree, launching in April 2024. Before that, it was ESPN BET that entered the scene, which was back in November 2023.

Bet And Get Up To $1,000
In Bonus Bets
NO Code Required Claim bonus

Must be 21+. New customers in AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, or WY only. Void where prohibited. Must apply this Promotion in your bet slip & place and settle $5+ cash wager with odds of – 200 or longer to get a Bonus Bet match (up to $100) each day for 10 straight days. Your 10 days begin the day you sign up. Bonus Bets expire 7 days from issuance. Bonus bets amounts are non-withdrawable and winnings exclude bonus bet stake. Add’l Terms apply – see Fanatics Sportsbook app. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), (888) 789-7777 or http://ccpg.org (CT), or 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), or 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), or www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD), or morethanagame.nc.gov (NC), or 1800gambler.net (WV). Data & text rates may apply. GAMBLING PROBLEM? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (CO/IL/KS/KY/MD/OH/MI/NC/PA/TN/VA/VT/WV), (800)-327-5050 or http://gamblinghelplinema.org (MA), Call (877-8-HOPENY) or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).

Illinois sports betting handle and revenue chart

MonthHandleRevenue
April 2024$1.1 billion$169.3 million
March 2024$1.3 billion$103.8 million
February 2024$1.1 billion$77.2 million
January 2024$1.3 billion$129.5 million
December 2023$1.3 billion$126.4 million
November 2023$1.4 billion$73.3 million

Responsible gambling in Illinois

Illinois has always taken responsible gambling seriously — and over the years — they have created several resources to provide assistance to those who need it. 

For anyone who has or knows someone who has a gambling problem, please feel free to call 1-800-GAMBLER or text ILGAMB to 833234. These helplines are toll-free. 

Why use an online sportsbook in Illinois?

There is a high-quality online sports betting scene in Illinois in 2024. If you reside in or are visiting the state, you can choose from over half a dozen of the country’s most renowned online sportsbooks. 

Since accepting its first online sports wager in June 2020, the state of Illinois has managed to agree to terms with prominent brands like FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM and Caesars, among others.

Bet $5 Get $300
In Bonus Bets If Your Bet Wins
Must be 21+ (18+ D.C.) and present in AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL IN, KS (in affiliation with Kansas Star Casino), KY, LA (excluding certain perishes), MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, NY, OH, PA, TN, VA, VT, WV, or WY. Void where prohibited. New customers only. First online real money wager only. $5 first deposit and bet required. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable bonus bets that expire 7 days after receipt. Restrictions apply. Expires on 10/27/2024 at 11:59 PM EST. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Call 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT) or visit FanDuel.com/RG. Data & text rates may apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Hope is here. GamblingHelpLineMA.org or call (800) 327-5050 for 24/7 support (MA). Visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). Call 1-877-8HOPE-NY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY).
Bet $5, Get $200
In Bonus Bets
21+ only (18+ DC/KY/NH/WY). New customer only. Must be physically present in AZ/CO/DC/CT/IL/IN/IA/KS/KY/LA(select parishes)/MA/MD/ME/MI/NC/NJ/NY/OH/PA/TN
/VA/VT/WV/WY only. Void in ONT/OR/NH and where prohibited. Eligibility restrictions apply. 1 per new customer only. Min. $5 deposit. Min. $5 bet. $200 issued as non-withdrawable Bonus Bets that expire in 7 days (168 hours). Stake removed from payout. Offer ends 10/31/24 at 11:59 PM ET. Terms: draftkings.com/sportsbook. On behalf of Boot Hill Casino & Resort (KS). Please Gamble Responsibly. Call 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), or visit www.mdgamblinghelp.org (MD). Data & text rates may apply GAMBLING PROBLEM? CALL 1-800-GAMBLER, (800) 327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org (MA). Call 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY).
Up To $1,500 In Bonus Bets
If Your First Bet Loses
21+ only. First Bet Offer for new customers only. Min. first deposit of $10. Subject to eligibility requirements. Rewards are non-withdrawable bonus bets that expire in 7 days. Bonus bets amount equals lost stake up to $1500. Must be physically located in NC, NJ, IN, WV, DC, CO, PA, MI, IA, AZ, LA, TN, IL, VA, MD, MS, WY, MA, KS, OH, or KY. Void where prohibited. In partnership with Kansas Crossing Casino and Hotel. See BetMGM.com for Terms. US promotional offers not available in Mississippi, New York, Nevada, Ontario, or Puerto Rico. Please Gamble Responsibly. Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), 1-800-981-0023 (PR). Data & text rates may apply. Gambling problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER (Available in the US) Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY) Call 1-800-327-5050 (MA).
Up To $1,000 In A Bonus Bet
If Your First Bet Loses
Must be 21 or older and physically present in AZ, CO, IL, IN, IA, KS, KY, LA, ME, MD, MA, MI, NJ, NY, NC, OH, PA, TN, VA, WV, WY or Washington, DC. New users only. Must register using eligible promo code. First bet to settle must lose to qualify. Max. Bonus Bet: $1,000. Bonus Bet expires 14 days after receipt. Void where prohibited. See Caesars.com/promos for full terms. Know When To Stop Before You Start®. Gambling Problem? CO, IL, KY, MD, MI, NJ, OH, TN, VA, WV, WY, KS (Affiliated with Kansas Crossing Casino), LA (Licensed through Horseshoe Bossier City and Harrah’s New Orleans), ME (Licensed through the Mi’kmaq Nation, Penobscot Nation, and Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, federally recognized tribes located in the State of Maine), NC (Licensed through Tribal Casino Gaming Enterprise), PA (Affiliated with Harrah’s Philadelphia): If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) or MD: visit mdgamblinghelp.org or WV: visit 1800gambler.net; AZ: Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP; IN: Call 1-800-9-WITH-IT; IA: Call 1-800-BETSOFF. ©2024, Caesars Entertainment. WASHINGTON, DC: It is unlawful for any individual who is noticeably intoxicated or impaired to engage in sports wagering. Know When To Stop Before You Start®. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or text 800426. OLG Class A licensed Operator. Data & text rates may apply. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. MA: CALL 1-800-327-5050 or visit gamblinghelplinema.org. NY: Call 877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369)

Betting on local teams like the Bears, Bulls, Cubs, etc. is readily available at every Illinois sportsbook in operation. The Illinois sports betting industry is one of the best in America.

FAQ

Is sports betting legal in Illinois?

Yes, both in-person and online sports betting is legal in the state of Illinois for anyone who is at least 21 years of age. 

Can you bet on sports in Illinois?

You sure can. Sports betting in Illinois has been allowed since state Governor J.B. Pritzker signed the SB 690 bill back in June 2019. BetRivers became the first online sportsbook to launch when it did so in June 2020. 

How old do you need to be to sports bet in Illinois?

The state of Illinois requires you to be 21 years of age or older to place both in-person and online sports wagers within state lines.

What sports betting apps are legal in Illinois?

There are currently seven different sports betting apps legally operating in Illinois: FanDuel, DraftKings, BetMGM, Caesars, ESPN BET, BetRivers and Fanatics. 

Can you bet on college sports in Illinois?

Yes, but in-state schools like the Illinois Fighting Illini can only be wagered on at in-person sportsbook locations. 

How do you bet on sports in Illinois?

To bet on sports in Illinois, you just need to be over the age of 21 and physically located within state lines.