7 Best Online Sports Betting Sites in Illinois in 2023

Illinois online sports betting is now officially legal and live, offering convenience and accessibility to bettors nationwide. With a range of top-notch online sportsbook apps, in-state residents can quickly sign up and place bets from the comfort of their homes.

After a lengthy negotiation process, Illinois lawmakers successfully passed legal sports betting as part of a comprehensive capital bill on June 3, 2019. Governor J.B. Pritzker signed the bill into law on June 28. Spanning over 900 pages, the bill, known as SB 690, incorporated sports betting into its provisions to ensure its passage during an extended legislative session.

On March 9, 2020, at Rivers Casino, owned by Chicago-based Rush Street Interactive. The first legal wager in Illinois was placed. This milestone occurred just before the widespread shutdown of professional sports due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It was a momentous day when sports betting officially became a reality in Illinois. Thus, we’ll share the best seven online sports betting sites you should check out in Illinois. The top 3 choices are the following.

• Fanduel – Best Illinois Sportsbook Overall
• DraftKings – One of the Best Illinois Betting Sites for College Sports
• PointsBet – Best of the Illinois Sportsbooks for Baseball

The Illinois online sports betting scene has reached its pinnacle, with DraftKings and FanDuel engaged in an ongoing battle for supremacy. While both platforms started as daily fantasy sports sites, DraftKings emerged as Illinois’s top choice for College Sports betting. It has a sleek design, stylish interface, and user-friendly navigation. DraftKings offers exceptional daily odds boosts, insurance bonuses for Same Game Parlays, and bonus bet opportunities for straight bets, making it an all-around favorite.

Embark on the extraordinary DraftKings Sportsbook in Illinois journey with a generous $350 welcome bonus. Deposit $5 or more, and place a $5+ bet on any Chicago sporting event you choose – the Cubs or White Sox in the summer, Bears in the fall, or Bulls or Blackhawks in the winter. Experience the thrill and excitement in every season!

The company excels in customer service, offering round-the-clock phone, email, and live chat support. In addition, it boasts an extensive FAQs section and Help Center, providing comprehensive service information for customers.

DraftKings holds licenses from multiple states in the US and international markets like the UK, ensuring compliance with licensing and regulatory requirements. It has obtained certification from the eSports Integrity Commission and undergoes regular audits to maintain compliance.

Moreover, it presents a plethora of incentives and promotions to assist users in embarking on their betting adventure. The introductory bonus awards new users a generous allowance of up to $1,000 in complimentary bets. Additional perks encompass daily boosts, odds enhancements, parlay insurance, and many other benefits.

Pros

• Enjoy an intuitive user interface across desktop and mobile platforms
• Benefit from competitive odds
• Take advantage of user-friendly boosts and promotions
• Access 24/7 customer support
• Explore a comprehensive FAQs section and Help Center, offering detailed service information.

Cons

• The available sports betting options are relatively limited if compared to other sites.

Pricing: With the generosity of DraftKings’ bets, you can start with as little as $5 – a moderate amount compared to other online sportsbooks.

Illinois betting owes much of its success to Caesars Sportsbook. Caesars collaborates with FanDuel, DraftKings, and other platforms to ensure continuous enhancement and maintenance. New users at Caesars can enjoy exceptional 24/7 customer service, an enticing and innovative loyalty rewards program, and a wide array of future and off-season betting options for their favorite sports.

The Caesars Sportsbook in Illinois app offers a user-friendly interface, providing an exceptional all-around experience for bettors. With a wide selection of sports and markets for wagering, along with competitive odds, it caters to diverse preferences. Moreover, the app ensures secure and comprehensive banking solutions, offering convenient deposit and withdrawal options like PayPal, Credit/Debit Cards, and Bank Transfers.

Caesars Sportsbook has an exceptional customer service team that is available 24/7 via email, telephone, and live chat. The company also provides a comprehensive FAQs section and Help Center to address general inquiries promptly and efficiently.

In terms of licensing and regulation, Caesars holds licenses in various states within the US and international markets, including the UK. Regular audits and inspections ensure compliance with industry standards and regulations, providing users with a trustworthy and reliable platform.

Additionally, Caesars offers an array of exciting bonuses and promotions to enhance the betting experience. New users can enjoy a generous welcome bonus of up to $500 in free bets, while other bonuses such as odds boost, daily picks, and parlay insurance add to the excitement.

Pros:

• Extensive sports and betting options
• The appealing user interface on both mobile and desktop platforms
• Diverse banking solutions offering multiple deposit and withdrawal methods
• Round-the-clock customer service via email, telephone, and live chat
• An array of bonuses and promotions to enhance your experience.

Cons:

• The odds are comparable to those found across the market.
• There is a scarcity of sports leagues focusing on specific areas.

Pricing: Players can start with as little as $10 at Caesars Sportsbook, which offers a competitive and diverse range of odds.

FanDuel Sportsbook stands out as Illinois’s premier sports betting app. As pioneers of the Same Game Parlay in the US, FanDuel thrives on innovation and introducing popular bet types and markets. With an extensive range of offerings, FanDuel consistently exceeds the expectations of sports bettors. Their willingness to experiment and embrace new ideas sets them apart in the industry.

FanDuel Sportsbook in Illinois boasts an exceptionally user-friendly interface, complemented by a well-designed website and an outstanding mobile application. With a diverse selection of sports, it caters to bettors with varying preferences, offering many wagering options such as money line bets, parlays, teasers, futures, props, and more.

In terms of banking, FanDuel’s system is also user-friendly, providing several deposit and withdrawal options. Withdrawals are instant and free of charge for all users. Moreover, the sportsbook delivers exceptional customer service through round-the-clock email and live chat support.

FanDuel operates under a valid license in numerous US states, ensuring regular compliance audits. Additionally, it holds licenses from international markets, including the UK and Ireland.

Furthermore, the company offers a range of enticing bonuses and promotions. New users can enjoy a generous welcome bonus of up to $1,000 in free bets. Other bonuses encompass parlay insurance, odds boost, daily picks, and more.

Pros

• Enjoy a seamless interface across desktop and mobile platforms
• Explore a wide array of wagering options
• Benefit from a variety of convenient deposit and withdrawal methods
• Experience round-the-clock customer service via email and live chat
• Take advantage of a range of enticing bonuses and promotions

Cons

• The betting lines offered on this site are relatively limited compared to other platforms.

Pricing: FanDuel offers a competitive and diverse range of odds, with a minimum bet amount of $1. 

With its unique approach, PointsBet Sportsbook, an Australian-based company, differentiates itself from other sites. Renowned for offering the best NFL odds, including “no-juice” odds for all regular-season matchups, this sportsbook is genuinely exceptional. Speaking of uniqueness, their current welcome offer in Illinois is equally extraordinary. Upon signing up, place an initial wager of at least $50, and in return, you’ll receive a $150 promotional credit to redeem for an official jersey or other gear from Fanatics.com.

With Points Betting Sportsbook in Illinois, users can win or lose more based on the margin of victory or defeat. This unique system sets PointsBet apart from its competitors. However, we strongly urge users to exercise caution and understand that the accuracy of their wagers directly impacts their payouts and losses.

PointsBet provides a wide range of betting opportunities for all major sports. The website features an intuitive navigational system that allows you to quickly and efficiently find what you’re looking for. Additionally, PointsBet offers a mobile app for Android and iOS devices.

As a new customer, you can benefit from their generous welcome bonus offer, where they will match your first deposit by 150%. Furthermore, you are eligible for their refer-a-friend bonus, which rewards you with $50 for each friend who signs up and makes a qualifying deposit.

Pros:

• Access our sports betting app on Android and iOS devices.
• Enjoy an outstanding welcome bonus offer.
• Experience our unique PointsBetting system.
• Receive top-notch customer service from our professional team.

Cons:

• PointsBetting system not recommended for new players
• No live streaming of sports events is available

Pricing: PointsBet offers a competitive range of odds, with a minimum bet amount of $1. Additionally, users can enjoy their generous welcome bonus offer, where they match your first deposit by 150%. 

BetMGM Sportsbook in Illinois is widely regarded as “The King of Sportsbooks,” and rightly so. They have earned this title by providing exceptional legal sports betting services in Illinois. While BetMGM’s long-standing reputation alone is enough to secure its position at the top, it never rests on its laurels. Instead, they continuously strive to innovate, expand, and enhance their offerings to stay in sync with the ever-evolving industry landscape and ensure their customers are thoroughly entertained.

The BetMGM mobile app is available on iOS and Android devices and is widely regarded as one of the most user-friendly. It simplifies locating your desired sports and specific markets to bet on, making it incredibly convenient.

Moreover, BetMGM offers a highly customer-centric banking system with a wide array of convenient deposit and withdrawal methods. They take pride in their round-the-clock customer service, which can be accessed via phone, email, and live chat. Additionally, the company provides an extensive FAQ section and Help Center to cater to customers’ general inquiries.

In terms of licensing and regulation, BetMGM holds licenses in various states across the US, as well as international markets such as the UK. They undergo regular audits and inspections to comply with industry standards and regulations strictly.

Furthermore, BetMGM offers an exciting range of bonuses and promotions. New users can make the most of the generous welcome bonus, reaching up to $500 in free bets. Other bonuses include odds boosts, daily picks, parlay insurance, and more.

Pros:

• Appealing user interface
• Exceptional customer service
• Extensive selection of payment methods
• Transparent betting lines for major sports events
• Lucrative bonuses and promotions

Cons:

• The chances may not always be in your favor.
• Withdrawals might take some time to be processed.

Pricing: BetMGM offers a competitive range of odds, with a minimum bet amount of $10. Additionally, users can enjoy their generous welcome bonus offer, where they will match your first deposit by 100% up to $500 in free bets. 

Barstool Sportsbook IL is an excellent destination for sports betting enthusiasts in Illinois. This sportsbook offers a wide range of markets for popular sports such as football, soccer, and basketball, as well as more niche events like cycling and cricket. Regardless of the sport, Barstool IL provides many betting options, including futures, live betting, and many proposition bets for significant games in the NFL and NBA.

Barstool Sportbook in Illinois allows players to experience an array of thrilling betting options spanning domestic and international sports leagues, including the NFL, NBA, MLB, and NHL. Barstool Sportsbook offers diverse sports betting markets, encompassing parlays; point spreads, money lines, teasers, and props bets. The user-friendly interface ensures effortless navigation and comprehension, making it accessible even for novice bettors who seek a seamless betting experience.

They offer many bonuses and promotions for new and existing customers. These enticing offers include welcome bonuses, free odds boosts, daily picks, and other exciting perks that ensure users stay engaged. Regarding banking options, Barstool provides reliable methods such as PayPal, Credit/Debit Cards, Bank Transfers, and e-wallets for convenient deposits and withdrawals. Their dedicated customer service team is available 24/7 to assist bettors with inquiries.

Pros:

• Exceptional user interface and seamless navigation across mobile and desktop platforms
• There is an extensive range of sports betting markets to choose from
• Comprehensive banking solutions offering multiple deposit and withdrawal methods
• The round-the-clock customer service team is ready to assist you at any time.

Cons:

• The mobile app has a limited range of functionalities
• Users’ reviews suggest that they are experiencing confusion regarding the bonuses.

Pricing: Barstool Sportsbook offers a competitive range of odds, with a minimum bet amount of $1. Additionally, users can take advantage of their welcome bonus offer where they will match your first deposit by 100% up to $250 in free bets. 

BetRivers, the groundbreaking online sportsbook in Illinois, debuted in May 2020. Since then, it has rapidly amassed a substantial following among bettors in the state. Renowned for its excellence, BetRivers Sportsbook in Illinois has ascended to become one of the premier sportsbooks in the entire country. Placing wagers with BetRivers is a breeze, thanks to their user-friendly website and convenient mobile apps, available for download on Android and iOS devices.

The sportsbook provides a wide range of betting markets and lines, enabling customers to place wagers on all major sports. BetRivers also offers a variety of promotional deals for both existing and new customers. New bettors can use a generous sign-up bonus that matches their initial deposit by 100%.

Using the BetRivers Colorado bonus code “LINEUPS,” you can unlock a second chance bet of up to $250. This fantastic offer allows you to place an initial bet of up to $250, and if you happen to lose, all losses will be promptly credited back to your account. Immerse yourself in the excitement of betting with confidence and take full advantage of the benefits provided by this generous offer.

Pros:

• Outstanding sports betting features
• Generous welcome bonus and promotions
• Wide range of betting markets
• Fast payout processing

Cons:

• Limited banking options
• Some users have reported issues with the mobile app’s functionality.

Pricing: BetRivers offers competitive odds, with a minimum bet of $5. They also provide a generous welcome bonus that matches your first deposit by 100%, up to $250.

Sports betting apps in Illinois may appear similar to casual bettors, but these platforms differ significantly. However, Illinois’s best sports betting apps have met the following criteria, earning them a place on our top-rated list.

• Welcome bonuses and promotions -Illinois sports betting apps provide enticing welcome bonuses, such as second chances and bonus bets. It is crucial to conduct thorough research to grasp these offers’ terms and conditions thoroughly. Doing so can prevent any potential issues when cashing out your winnings.
• User experience – Regarding Illinois sports betting app operators, prioritizing user experience is crucial. The finest betting apps excel in every aspect, including registration, banking, navigation, and loading times. We suggest trying multiple apps to determine which platforms align perfectly with your requirements.
• Variety of bet types – Many bettors desire the flexibility to not just wager on NFL money lines, point spreads, and Over/Unders (totals) but also to construct same-game parlays, indulge in live in-game betting on every play, and make futures bets.
• Banking options – A wide range of banking options is always a plus. Illinois’s top-notch sports betting apps offer deposit methods such as credit cards, e-wallets, online banking, Play+, and more. Furthermore, these apps provide a seamless deposit and payout experience, allowing you to confirm your bets and access your winnings swiftly.
• Payout speed – Picture Justin Fields assisting you in securing a backdoor cover on a leisurely Sunday afternoon, only to wait an entire week for your sportsbook to process your withdrawal request. Fortunately, with Illinois’ finest sports betting apps, this scenario is far from your reality. These exceptional betting apps facilitate swift payouts through PayPal, Play+, and other popular withdrawal methods, liberating your funds in as little as a day.
• Security  – Discover the world of licensed and regulated sports betting apps in Illinois, where the legacy of the 1985 Chicago Bears defense lives on. Experience the peace of mind that comes with cutting-edge encryption technology, swiftly neutralizing any potential threats to your personal information. With legal sports betting apps in the state, rest assured that your data and finances are safeguarded with the utmost security.
• Customer support – If you have any questions regarding a betting market, the withdrawal process, or the terms and conditions of a new promotional offer, reach out to the customer support team of your sportsbook. The top betting apps in Illinois provide excellent support through live chat, phone, and email, ensuring that your queries are promptly addressed.

DraftKings is currently the most popular online sports betting site in Illinois. With its user-friendly interface, extensive betting options, and lucrative bonuses and promotions, DraftKings has quickly become a fan favorite in the state. DraftKings also offers a daily fantasy sports platform for those who prefer that gaming experience.

PointsBet is widely regarded as the best online sports betting site for NBA wagering in Illinois. Their standout feature is the ‘PointsBetting’ system that allows bettors to win or lose beyond their initial stake based on the margin of victory or loss.

This unique feature offers an exciting and potentially profitable betting option for NBA games, where point differences can be significant. Besides, PointsBet provides an extensive range of betting options for NBA games, including point spreads, money lines, over/under, future bets, and prop bets. This diversity allows bettors to leverage their basketball knowledge in multiple ways, enhancing the overall betting experience.

When it comes to NBA teams that Illinois residents typically bet on, undoubtedly, the Chicago Bulls top the list. Given their local connection and storied history, many Illinois bettors hold a soft spot for the Bulls. However, with online sports betting, Illinois residents are not limited to home teams. They can place bets on any NBA team depending on the odds and their preference.

BetRivers is often considered the best online sports betting site in Illinois for NHL wagers. It provides bettors with an array of options for hockey betting, including money lines, puck lines, totals, futures, and a wide variety of prop bets. The sportsbook also stands out for its live in-game betting for NHL matches, allowing bettors to place wagers as the action unfolds. BetRivers’ usage of the latest technology ensures a smooth and seamless betting experience, and their comprehensive coverage of NHL games and events further adds to its appeal.

The Chicago Blackhawks are at the top of the list for NHL teams that Illinois residents typically bet on. The Blackhawks draw significant betting action as an “Original Six” NHL team member, boasting a rich history with multiple Stanley Cup Championships. However, with online sports betting platforms like BetRivers, bettors are not limited to wagering on their home team. They can bet on any NHL team based on their analysis, the odds, and personal preferences.

FanDuel is often recognized as the best online sports betting site in Illinois for NFL wagers. It boasts many NFL betting options, such as money lines, point spreads, totals, futures, parlays, and prop bets. These options cater to both novice bettors and seasoned professionals, providing opportunities to bet on the overall game result, individual player performances, and long-term outcomes like Super Bowl champions.

FanDuel’s user-friendly platform and innovative features, like same-game parlays and cash-out options, give bettors a superior betting experience. Furthermore, FanDuel’s live in-game betting feature adds an extra layer of excitement, allowing bettors to place bets as the action unfolds on the field.

Regarding NFL teams that Illinois residents typically bet on, the Chicago Bears are undoubtedly the favorites. Their long and storied history and their local connection make them a popular choice among Illinois bettors. Nonetheless, the beauty of online sports betting with platforms like FanDuel is that it doesn’t limit bettors to their home teams. They can place bets on any NFL team depending on their analysis, odds, and personal preferences. FanDuel’s extensive NFL coverage ensures that bettors have the flexibility to wager on any game throughout the season, giving them a truly comprehensive and exciting betting experience.

Online sports betting sites operate in Illinois under a framework established by the Sports Wagering Act, passed in 2019. Prospective bettors can create an account on a sports betting platform, such as DraftKings, PointsBet, BetRivers, or FanDuel. Once the account is set up, bettors can deposit funds into their account through various payment methods like credit/debit cards, e-wallets, bank transfers, or even cash at the casino cage for certain operators.

To place a wager, bettors select a sport, find a specific game or event, and choose from various betting options such as point spreads, futures, money lines, over/under, and prop bets. Once a bet is placed, it can be tracked in real time, and winnings are automatically credited to the bettor’s account upon the event’s conclusion.

Live betting is a prominent feature of online sports betting in Illinois, allowing bettors to place wagers during a live game based on evolving odds. This feature adds a layer of excitement and strategy to sports betting.

Online sportsbooks also offer promotions and bonuses to attract new users and retain existing ones. These incentives could include risk-free bets, deposit bonuses, and loyalty programs.

The Illinois Gaming Board oversees online sports betting in the state, ensuring that all operators adhere to strict standards for fairness and security. This regulatory framework provides bettors with a safe and legal environment to wager on their favorite sports.

Online sports betting has become increasingly popular in Illinois. According to the Illinois Gaming Board, the state recorded over $581 million in sports wagering handled in April 2021 alone, with $537 million, or 92.5% of that handle, coming from online betting. This marked the ninth consecutive month that Illinois surpassed $400 million in total sports betting handles, demonstrating the high level of engagement among Illinois residents.

The state’s revenue figures from sports betting have been consistently growing, indicating the widespread acceptance and popularity of online betting among Illinois bettors. Indeed, these impressive figures suggest that online sports betting is not just common but thriving in Illinois.

Yes, sports betting is legal in Illinois. The Prairie State legalized online and in-person sports betting in June 2019, through the passage of the Illinois Gambling Act. This legislation allows the state’s casinos, racetracks, and sports venues to apply for a sports betting license, with the Illinois Gaming Board acting as the regulatory body.

Illinois’s first legal sports wager was placed in March 2020, and by June 2020, online sports betting was operational. The state has set a tax rate of 15% on gross sports betting revenue, and the thriving market has generated significant revenue for the state and licensed operators. The legalization and subsequent growth of sports betting in Illinois reflect the state’s commitment to providing its residents with a regulated, safe betting environment.

No, the Pay per Head concept does not directly affect Illinois’ Online Sports Betting laws. Pay per Head is a business model often used in the bookmaking industry, where bookies or agents pay a weekly fee per active customer to a Pay per Head company that provides betting services, software, and support. However, Illinois’ Online Sports Betting laws primarily regulate licensed operators such as casinos and online platforms, not individual bookies.

These laws ensure the integrity, transparency, and fairness of sports betting activities within the state. They specify the requirements for obtaining a license, the tax rate on betting revenue, and the types of sports and bets permitted. Therefore, while a PayPerHead bookie operating in Illinois must comply with these laws, the concept does not directly influence the state’s regulatory framework for online sports betting.

No, Online Sports Betting Sites and Bookie Apps are different. While both provide platforms for online sports betting, they differ fundamentally in operation, regulation, and user experience. Online Sports Betting Sites are large-scale, licensed operations run by reputable companies. These companies hold licenses from regulatory bodies such as the Illinois Gaming Board, and they operate within the legal framework for sports betting established by the state. An example would be FanDuel, one of the leading sportsbooks in Illinois, known for its wide range of sports, betting options, and user-friendly platform.

On the other hand, Bookie Apps are typically smaller-scale operations run by individual bookmakers. These apps may not have the same level of licensing, regulation, or oversight as the prominent online sportsbooks, which could pose risks to bettors regarding fair play, security, and potential legal issues. Bookie Apps might offer more personalized service, but they lack the advanced features, wide range of betting options, and the security guarantees established online sportsbooks provide. Betting through licensed sportsbooks is always recommended to ensure a safe, fair, and legal betting experience.