Iowa’s licensed casinos and sports wagering operators generated nearly $27.9 million in state tax revenue for September 2026, according to figures provided to the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission.
Casino gaming revenue was $128.2 million in September 2026, resulting in a 2.63% decrease from the same month in 2025. State tax revenue, however, increased by 6.78% over the same time period. Beginning with July 2026, monthly and fiscal year numbers no longer include promotional play from casino revenue. A gradual phase-out of the taxation of promotional play began in fiscal year 2022 with the passage of SF619.
Monthly sports wagering revenue for August was reported at $23.75 million, a 4.6% increase from last September. Wagering handle was reported at $290.24 million, virtually unchanged from September 2025.
“Historically, football is the driver of the highest-activity months across the sports wagering calendar,” Administrator Tina Eick said. “Iowa’s legal and licensed operators are experiencing steady early results as the 2026 season begins.”
Casino Revenue and Taxes
Iowa casinos reported a decrease of 2.63% in revenue compared with September 2025. Gaming taxes collected by the state increased 6.78% from September 2025:
- $128.20 million – Adjusted Gross Revenue
- $26.27 million – State Gaming Taxes
Sports Wagering Revenue and Taxes
Sports wagering operations in the state reported a 4.58% revenue increase from September 2025. State taxes on sports wagering increased by 4.81% compared with September 2025:
- $23.75 million – Sports Wagering Revenue
- $1.60 million – State Sports Wagering Taxes
Additional Information
As of September 2026, a total of 19 state-licensed casinos are operating in Iowa. Currently, 10 state-licensed entities offer online sports betting in the state. Details for each casino and sports betting operator’s revenue statistics are available on the IRGC website.
The mission of the Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission is to administer the laws and rules for gambling and wagering in Iowa in order to ensure the integrity of licensees and their operations, maintain public confidence in regulated gambling and wagering activities in Iowa, and promote economic development for the citizens of Iowa. Learn more at our Mission Statement. A detailed history of the Commission can be found at Commission History.
Gambling in any form is for entertainment purposes only. If you or someone you know may have a gambling problem, call 1-800-BETS-OFF or visit yourlifeiowa.org for additional resources. Iowa residents can also visit irgc.iowa.gov for information on the statewide self-exclusion program.
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