About Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.Complete guide to assisted livingBest of 2026 Assisted Living Winners
About Memory CareMemory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering. Complete guide to memory careBest of 2026 Memory Care Winners
About Independent LivingIndependent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to independent livingBest of 2026 Independent Living Winners
About Senior LivingSenior living is a term used to describe various housing and care options for older adults from maintenance-free, 55+ facilities for active seniors, to secure, fully staffed facilities for seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia. Complete guide to senior livingFind senior living facilities near you
About Nursing HomesNursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.Complete guide to Nursing Homes
About Senior ApartmentsSenior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to Senior Apartments
About Care HomesResidential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.Complete guide to care homes
Veteran ResourcesVA benefits for long-term care, such as Aid and Attendance benefits, can help eligible veterans and their surviving spouses pay for senior care.Guide to VA benefits for long-term care
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10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Des Moines, IA

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According to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data, the average starting cost for assisted living in Des Moines, Iowa, is $4,556 per month. Using our trusted ranking methodology, highly rated assisted living communities in the area include Addington Place of Des Moines, Edencrest at Riverwoods and Edencrest at Beaverdale, giving you a helpful starting point as you begin comparing options for your parent or loved one.

Assisted living in Des Moines offers a reassuring balance of dependable care and a familiar, manageable environment. Communities throughout the area are often located near major health systems, which can make coordinating medical appointments and specialty care less stressful as your loved one’s needs change. Des Moines’ residential neighborhoods and relatively moderate cost of living also help families explore assisted living options without feeling pressured by extreme costs or limited availability.

This guide is designed to help you understand what assisted living looks like in Des Moines and to support you as you navigate each step of the decision-making process. It includes information on local costs, common ways families pay for care, Iowa’s licensing and oversight requirements, senior-friendly activities for residents and visiting family members, and local resources that can help you move forward with greater clarity and confidence as you plan next steps for your loved one.

Des Moines Assisted Living Facilities | 611 Reviews

Showing 34 communities
Last Updated: 5/8/26
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Photo of The Rose of Des Moines
6.5
Review score
11 reviews
6.5
Review score
11 reviews
5 star
9%
4 star
55%
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9%
1 star
27%
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We found the staff were very supportive and kind. That would depend. It's more targeting lower income populations and isn't fancy. So not a fit for everyone's needs . But the care is good quality in that...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
About The Rose of Des Moines The Rose of Des Moines offers one-bedroom and two-bedroom affordable assisted living in spacious private apartments with 24-hour monitoring and assisted living services available on-site and social programming in beautifully appointed community areas, including...
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Photo of Wesley on Grand
5 star
0%
4 star
0%
3 star
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1 star
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Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, Residential Care Home
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Care Homes: Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of Calvin Community
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Pine Acres
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of Fountain West Health Center
5 star
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4 star
25%
3 star
50%
2 star
25%
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0%
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Provides: Assisted Living, Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of Carlisle Center for Assisted Living
11 Photo available
Provides: Assisted Living, Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
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5 star
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4 star
50%
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My parents are at Senior Suites and I’ve known other people that Have lived there for years and it’s very caring ..wonderful place ..the food is great it’s always clean ...friendly ..we love it
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Senior Suites of Urbandale is located in a quiet residential Urbandale neighborhood (northwest suburb of Des Moines).  The Suites is our assisted living community, while the Veranda is our licensed memory loss center in a residential care setting.  Available to you are many living...
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Our methodology

How we rank order the Des Moines community options above

We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Des Moines community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:

  • Proximity to your search location
  • Availability of recent, high-quality reviews
  • The amount of detailed community information available

Where we source our information

14,000+ communities

We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information

350,000+ reviews

We have 387,000+ reviews from senior living residents and family members that provide first-hand accounts about senior living communities

Read our full methodology

How much does assisted living cost in Des Moines, IA?

In Des Moines, the average starting cost of assisted living is $4,556 per month, based on A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.[01] This starting rate typically covers housing, meals, and basic personal care, with monthly costs increasing as your loved one’s care needs grow or depending on the community’s location, apartment style, and any added services or amenities they choose.

According to the Economic Research Institute, Des Moines’ overall cost of living is about 7% less than the national average and 7% higher than Iowa’s state average.[02] Similarly, assisted living costs in Des Moines are comparable to both Iowa’s statewide average of $4,537 and the national average of $4,784. When compared with other senior living options in the area, assisted living typically costs less than memory care, which averages about $4,563 per month, and more than independent living, which costs about $3,062 per month, reflecting the added personal care and supervision it provides.

Read more: Assisted Living vs. Memory Care: 5 Key Differences

The charts below are also based on average starting costs and do not include fees for care services or any other additional expenses.

Assisted living costs in Des Moines, IA, vs. nearby cities

Des Moines, IA
$4,556/mo

Assisted living costs in Des Moines, IA, vs. state and national averages

Des Moines, IA
$4,556/mo
$4,537/mo
U.S. national average
$4,784/mo

Assisted living costs in Des Moines, IA, vs. other senior living options

Assisted Living
$4,556/mo
$4,567/mo

Assisted living costs in Des Moines, IA, by floor plan type

Semi-Private
$2,725/mo
Studio
$4,305/mo
1 Bedroom
$4,955/mo
2 Bedroom
$5,231/mo

Senior living costs in Des Moines vs. state and national costs

Cost comparison table showing community type costs by location. This table contains 3 rows of data across 4 columns.
Column communityType: Community type
Column destination: Des Moines, IA
Column state: Iowa
Column national: U.S.
Community typeDes Moines, IAIowaU.S.
Assisted Living$4,556/mo$4,537/mo$4,784/mo
Memory Care$4,567/mo$4,542/mo$5,056/mo
Independent Living$3,066/mo$3,299/mo$4,247/mo
Assisted Living
Des Moines, IA:$4,556/mo
Iowa:$4,537/mo
U.S.:$4,784/mo
Memory Care
Des Moines, IA:$4,567/mo
Iowa:$4,542/mo
U.S.:$5,056/mo
Independent Living
Des Moines, IA:$3,066/mo
Iowa:$3,299/mo
U.S.:$4,247/mo
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.

Assisted living costs in Des Moines, IA, over time

The line graph below shows how monthly assisted living costs have shifted over the past five years in Des Moines and how those changes compare with state and national trends. The figures represent quarterly averages of what seniors actually paid after moving into A Place for Mom partner communities.

Des Moines, IAIA stateNational

Assisted living cost trends in Des Moines, IA

The table below shows how monthly assisted living costs in Des Moines have changed in the last two years and how those changes compare with state and national trends. The figures represent averages of actual costs paid by seniors who moved into A Place for Mom partner communities in 2023 and 2024.

Cost comparison table showing 2023 and 2024 median costs by location. This table contains 3 rows of data across 4 columns.
Column location: Location
Column cost2024: 2024 average cost
Column cost2023: 2023 average cost
Column percentChange: Percent change
Location2024 average cost2023 average costPercent change
Des Moines, IA$5,370/mo$5,215/mo+3.0%
Iowa$5,098/mo$5,039/mo+1.2%
National$5,378/mo$5,133/mo+4.8%
Des Moines, IA
2024 average cost:$5,370/mo
2023 average cost:$5,215/mo
Percent change:+3.0%
Iowa
2024 average cost:$5,098/mo
2023 average cost:$5,039/mo
Percent change:+1.2%
National
2024 average cost:$5,378/mo
2023 average cost:$5,133/mo
Percent change:+4.8%
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.

How to pay for assisted living in Des Moines

For many families in Des Moines, paying for assisted living means using a mix of financial resources rather than relying on a single option. This often includes personal savings, proceeds from selling a home, long-term care insurance, veterans benefits, or limited support through Iowa’s Medicaid programs. While sorting through these options can feel overwhelming when you are already caring for a parent or relative, combining funding sources can help reduce financial pressure and support more stable, ongoing care for your loved one.

Private pay options

Families often use a combination of personal income and assets to help pay assisted living expenses. Common sources include:

VA benefits

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) provides several financial programs that can help eligible veterans and surviving spouses offset some assisted living costs, which may lower monthly expenses for families. These benefits can offer valuable, ongoing support for seniors who need continued care, and commonly used programs include:

Because VA programs have detailed eligibility rules and application requirements, the process can be challenging to navigate on your own. A VA-accredited benefits counselor can help complete paperwork accurately, avoid unnecessary delays, and feel more confident that your loved one is receiving the benefits and support they’re entitled to.

Resources for veterans in Des Moines

The 7,700+ veterans[02] in Des Moines and their families can reach out to one of the following organizations for guidance, resources, and help with accessing available veterans benefits and programs.

  • Des Moines VA Clinic 1223 Center St. Community Resource & Referral Center (CRRC), Suite 17 Des Moines, IA 50309 Phone: 515-699-5637

Medicaid

Medicaid is a federal-state program that helps eligible older adults receive essential health and long-term care services. Iowa Medicaid won’t pay for room and board in an assisted living community. However, if your loved one needs care services, Medicaid may help cover the cost of those. These services can include:

Iowa provides these supports through two Medicaid programs for older adults: the Aged, Blind, and Disabled (ABD) Medicaid program and the Elderly Waiver for home and community-based services (HCBS).[04,05] Understanding how these programs differ can help you plan accordingly. ABD Medicaid is an entitlement program, which means that once your loved one qualifies, both medical and nonmedical services are available based on assessed needs. The Elderly Waiver isn’t an entitlement, so enrollment may be limited and waitlists can apply when the program is at capacity.

Eligibility for both programs is based on income, assets, and the level of medical care or daily support your loved one requires.

Medicaid resources in Des Moines, Iowa

To apply for Iowa Medicaid, elderly residents of Des Moines can:

If you have questions about eligibility, need help completing an application, or want to check on the status of a submission, contact Iowa Medicaid’s Member Services by phone at 800-338-8366, or email at imemember@hhs.iowa.gov.

Medicare

Medicare provides health insurance for adults age 65 and older, as well as for younger individuals with certain qualifying medical conditions.[06] Although it won’t cover monthly assisted living rent, it can help lower your loved one’s overall medical expenses by paying for prescriptions, durable medical equipment, and other approved health services.

Medicare resources in Des Moines

For free and unbiased information about Medicare benefits, elderly residents in Des Moines can contact the following organizations.

What families are saying about assisted living in Des Moines

Recent reviews for assisted living in Des Moines

Bishop Drumm Retirement Center in Johnston, IA

5.0
My dad is doing really good after picking this community from the list we got from A Place For Mom. He is enjoying the meals they make. He has tried some activities and he knows some people who live here. The staff has been great. I cant tell he is happy and when he calls he tells me good ...
Read more

The Rose of East Des Moines

4.8
We are very happy with The Rose of East Des Moines. They are clean and the staff is very friendly. We thought the medicaid thing would be easier to do, that has added a little extra expense. The nurses are fantastic, the care is great. The activities have a really great variety, Wii Bowling, ...
Read more

Courtyard Estates at Hawthorne Crossing in Bondurant, IA

5.0
The community at the Courtyard Estates at Hawthorne Crossing is wonderful. My loved one is enjoying the variety of meals served. The community has a wide range of great activities for the residents to enjoy and participate in. The community is very welcoming and feels like home. The staff have ...
Read more

Des Moines review score based on 135 family reviews

8.5
Review score33 facilities135 reviewsWrite a review
This proprietary review score is based on 135 reviews of 33 Des Moines assisted living communities. All reviews were submitted in the past two years by verified community residents and family members.
The Des Moines review score informs your search by letting you see at a glance how assisted living residents and family members rate assisted living in your area. Compare review scores in multiple locations to understand how overall satisfaction rates differ from city to city. Based on recent reviews, the maximum possible score is 10.Methodology: How we calculate our city review scores

Des Moines review score compared against nearby cities

8.5
Des Moines, IA33 facilities
8.7
Windsor Heights, IA49 facilities
8.4
Pleasant Hill, IA24 facilities

Review subcategories for Des Moines assisted living

When assisted living residents and family members submit a review on our site, they rate each community on categories such as cleanliness, activities, meals, and more. The chart below is based on 135 reviews of 33 Des Moines assisted living communities. This chart helps you compare Des Moines resident and family assisted living satisfaction rates against national averages. Use it to assess your needs and develop criteria for your own search. If you know that one of these categories is important to you or your loved one, our senior living advisors can help you find communities to match your needs.
Des Moines, IA averageNational average
Cleanliness
3.4
3.8
Friendliness
3.5
3.8
Care services
3.1
3.5
Staff
3.4
3.7
Meals & dining
3.0
3.4
Activities
3.1
3.4
Value for cost*
3.1
3.4
0.01.02.03.04.05.0
*Learn more about cost details

What to expect from assisted living in Des Moines

Des Moines offers more than affordability for older adults considering assisted living. The city combines manageable living costs with access to green spaces, local dining, shopping, and neighborhoods that are easy to navigate.

Aging in place through integrated senior living options

Many assisted living communities in Des Moines are designed to support aging in place, which can be especially important for families planning for changing care needs over time. Rather than operating as standalone buildings, many communities are part of campuses that offer multiple levels of care, such as assisted living alongside independent living or memory care. This structure can allow residents to remain in a familiar environment while receiving additional support if their needs evolve, reducing the likelihood of another disruptive move.

A range of living environments and price points

Assisted living communities in Des Moines vary widely in style and atmosphere, giving families flexibility when choosing a setting that feels right. Some communities offer more upscale, amenity-rich environments, while others focus on a simpler, more intimate feel. This range can make it easier to find a community that aligns with your loved one’s preferences, personality, and budget without sacrificing access to care.

Amenities that support independence and connection

Assisted living communities are designed to help residents maintain independence while receiving support with daily activities. For example, 85% of the A Place for Mom assisted living partner communities offer free or at-cost transportation services,[01] which can be especially helpful for seniors who no longer drive, allowing them to attend appointments or enjoy outings in the Des Moines area. On-site activities often include creative programs, light fitness classes, games, and social gatherings, creating opportunities for residents to stay engaged and build friendships.

Health care services and ongoing support

Health care services are an important consideration when evaluating assisted living options. Almost all of A Place for Mom’s partner communities in Des Moines coordinate with visiting health care providers, such as nurses, therapists, and specialists, to support residents’ medical and wellness needs.[01] Medication management is commonly available, and some communities offer access to on-site memory care or hospice services or work closely with outside providers.

Des Moines assisted living services and amenities

These charts highlight some of the many care, dining, and entertainment offerings available in Des Moines assisted living communities. They don’t represent all possible services and amenities available at assisted living communities in Des Moines, but support comparisons against nationwide offerings. Our Senior Living Advisors can help you find communities that fit your preferences.

Availability of select care services in Des Moines assisted living

Assisted living communities offer a variety of care services and visiting health care providers to meet seniors’ health needs. The chart below shows the percentage of assisted living partners in Des Moines that offer these care services compared to the percentage of partners that offer them nationally.
Des Moines, IANational
Full medication management
Full medication management
57.6%
52.9%
Doctor on call
Doctor on call
39.4%
34.2%
24-Hour awake staff
24-Hour awake staff
93.9%
96.1%
Diabetic care
Diabetic care
100%
97.7%
*Visiting health care professionals
*Visiting health care professionals
72.7%
57.1%
Home care agency on-site
Home care agency on-site
42.4%
30.3%
Non-ambulatory care
Non-ambulatory care
97%
96.8%
Respite or short term stays
Respite or short term stays
60.6%
47.7%
Hospice available on-site
Hospice available on-site
69.7%
52.8%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%
*Including nurse, dentist, OT, PT, speech or podiatrist

Availability of select dementia care services in Des Moines assisted living

Our community partners provide many services to keep residents with dementia or other memory concerns safe and engaged. Below, take a look at what percentage of Des Moines Assisted Living partners offer the selected dementia care services compared to the percentage of partners nationally.
Des Moines, IANational
Dementia behaviors care
Dementia behaviors care
63.6%
51.7%
Specialized memory care training for staff
Specialized memory care training for staff
51.5%
32.9%
Secured community and/or wander guard
Secured community and/or wander guard
63.6%
41.4%
Memory care only community
Memory care only community
18.2%
13.8%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dietary accommodations in Des Moines assisted living

Assisted living communities help seniors maintain a balanced diet by accommodating their health needs, allergies, and other restrictions. Below you’ll find the percentage of Des Moines partners making specific dietary accommodations for seniors compared to the percentage of assisted living partners making those accommodations nationally.
Des Moines, IANational
Nutritionist / dietician
Nutritionist / dietician
36.4%
27.6%
Low / no sodium
Low / no sodium
27.3%
41.5%
No sugar
No sugar
27.3%
38%
Vegetarian
Vegetarian
33.3%
36.8%
Pureed meals
Pureed meals
3%
18.4%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dining options in Des Moines assisted living

Our assisted living communities know that seniors want top-quality meals and options for how they dine. The chart below indicates the percentage of Des Moines communities that offer dining options to their discerning residents compared to our partners nationally.
Des Moines, IANational
Professional chef
Professional chef
33.3%
31.9%
Restaurant style dining
Restaurant style dining
54.5%
42.8%
Room service
Room service
45.5%
37.2%
Anytime dining
Anytime dining
36.4%
18.3%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select programs and activities in Des Moines assisted living

Senior living communities offer a variety of programming to keep seniors socially, mentally, and physically vibrant. The chart below shows what percentage of partnered assisted living communities in Des Moines offer the selected activities, amenities, and programs compared to the percentage of partners nationwide.
Des Moines, IANational
Activity director
Activity director
57.6%
46.9%
Pet-focused programs
Pet-focused programs
33.3%
31.3%
Community service programs
Community service programs
42.4%
30.9%
Devotional activities on-site
Devotional activities on-site
72.7%
49.9%
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
60.6%
49.9%
Outings / off-site activities
Outings / off-site activities
66.7%
52.7%
Piano or organ
Piano or organ
51.5%
41.9%
Arts and crafts center
Arts and crafts center
39.4%
36%
Educational speakers / life long learning
Educational speakers / life long learning
42.4%
38.6%
Clubs / games / karaoke
Clubs / games / karaoke
60.6%
47.3%
Live performances
Live performances
57.6%
47.5%
Dances
Dances
36.4%
31%
Fitness center
Fitness center
45.5%
24.9%
Fitness classes
Fitness classes
57.6%
46.5%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

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Unfamiliar with Des Moines? Highlights for seniors

Des Moines has become a popular choice for older adults and their families, offering many of the features that make Iowa appealing for retirement and senior living. In fact, the city has been part of the World Health Organization’s “Age Friendly Cities” initiative for more than a decade.[07]

Top hospitals for seniors in Des Moines

Seniors in Des Moines benefit from access to multiple hospitals and health systems that provide care for many of the medical needs commonly associated with aging.

A graphic of a capital letter H in a circle

MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center is a full-service hospital that supports older adults through comprehensive inpatient and outpatient care, including geriatric-focused services, rehabilitation, cardiology, orthopedics, and coordination with senior care providers across the region.

A graphic of a capital letter H in a circle

Broadlawns Medical Center is a community-based public hospital that serves many older adults through primary and specialty care, geriatric medicine, chronic disease management, rehabilitation services, and programs designed to support seniors with complex medical and social needs.

Transportation for seniors in Des Moines

Transportation is an important consideration for families exploring assisted living in Des Moines, especially when a loved one no longer drives. In addition to community-provided transportation, many seniors rely on city services to safely reach parks, shopping centers, restaurants, museums, and community events.

Seniors in Des Moines may use a combination of transportation options, depending on their needs and preferences, including:

Together, these options can help seniors maintain independence and stay connected to the Des Moines community while giving families added reassurance that transportation needs are covered.

Overall, Walk Score considers Des Moines car-dependent and gives it the following transportation ratings out of 100:[08]

Transportation card image
45

Walk Score

Transportation card image
39

Transit Score

Transportation card image
30

Bike Score

Things to do in Des Moines for seniors and their families

One of the benefits of assisted living in Des Moines is the variety of activities seniors and visiting family members can enjoy together, ranging from accessible outdoor spaces to cultural attractions and live entertainment throughout the year.

Outdoor activities and green spaces

Des Moines offers many well-maintained parks, trails, and gardens that make it easier for older adults to enjoy fresh air, gentle movement, and time in nature during warmer months.

  • Gray’s Lake Park is centrally located and offers paved walking paths, scenic water views, and accessible routes that make it a popular spot for leisurely strolls, picnics, and outdoor relaxation.
  • Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden features indoor and outdoor gardens showcasing native and exotic plants, with accessible pathways and seating areas that allow seniors to explore at a comfortable pace.
  • The John and Mary Pappajohn Sculpture Park is an open-air art park downtown that displays large-scale contemporary sculptures along flat, paved walkways suitable for visitors with mobility aids.

Museums and educational attractions

Des Moines offers several museums and learning-focused destinations that allow seniors to engage with history, science, and culture in accessible, self-paced environments.

  • State Historical Museum of Iowa explores Iowa’s past and present through interactive, wheelchair-accessible exhibits that appeal to visitors of all ages.
  • Blank Park Zoo provides a walkable, outdoor educational experience where visitors can observe animals from around the world, with accessible paths and shaded rest areas throughout the grounds.
  • Des Moines Art Center houses a nationally recognized collection of modern and contemporary art in a free, accessible setting with indoor galleries and outdoor sculpture areas.
  • Polk County Heritage Gallery highlights rotating exhibits by local and regional artists, offering a quieter cultural experience close to downtown.

Performing arts

Performing arts events give seniors opportunities to enjoy shared experiences outside their assisted living community while staying connected to Des Moines’ cultural life.

  • Des Moines Symphony presents classical and contemporary performances throughout the year, providing seated concerts in a traditional performance hall setting.
  • Des Moines Civic Center hosts touring Broadway productions, concerts, comedians, and other live shows in a centrally located, accessible theater.

Assisted living laws and regulations in Iowa

Assisted living communities are generally regulated by state governments. This means that rules and operation requirements vary by state and by the type of care a community provides. Learning about how assisted living is regulated can help you make informed care decisions.

Read more: Assisted living regulations in Iowa

Why do licensure and inspection reports matter to families?

State regulations — and a community’s track record with inspections and licensing — offer important insights into safety and quality of care in senior living communities.

Download the Guide to Senior Living Licensure and Inspection Reports to learn what to look for in an inspection report and what questions to ask when touring communities. This resource explains how to use state licensure and inspection information to evaluate a community’s compliance, care standards, and responsiveness to issues.

Frequently Asked Questions

The average cost of assisted living in Des Moines is $4,556 per month.
No, Medicare won’t pay for assisted living in Des Moines.
Yes, seniors in Des Moines can use their Social Security benefits however they see fit, including paying for assisted living.
Yes, Iowa’s Medicaid program will cover some costs of assisted living for eligible residents. Medicaid won’t cover the cost of room and board, though.
Yes, 90% of A Place for Mom’s partner communities host onsite services, and 70% coordinate transportation to offsite services.
Yes, 65% of communities offer kosher, gluten-free, low or no sodium, vegan, or vegetarian dining options.

References

  1. A Place for Mom. (2026). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  2. Economic Research Institute. (2026, April 16). Cost of living data in Des Moines, Iowa, United States.

  3. Census Reporter. (2024). Des Moines, IA.

  4. Iowa Health & Human Services. Medicaid services & care.

  5. Iowa Health & Human Services. Waiver programs.

  6. U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Get started with Medicare. Medicare.gov.

  7. World Health Organization. Age-friendly world.

  8. Walk Score. (2026). Living in Des Moines.

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More questions?

Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.

The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, legal or financial advice or create a professional relationship between A Place for Mom and the reader. Always seek the advice of your health care provider, attorney or financial advisor with respect to any particular matter, and do not act or refrain from acting on the basis of anything you have read on this site. Links to third-party websites are only for the convenience of the reader; A Place for Mom does not endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
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1.

A Place for Mom. (2026). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

2.

Economic Research Institute. (2026, April 16). Cost of living data in Des Moines, Iowa, United States.

3.

Census Reporter. (2024). Des Moines, IA.

4.

Iowa Health & Human Services. Medicaid services & care.

5.

Iowa Health & Human Services. Waiver programs.

6.

U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Get started with Medicare. Medicare.gov.

7.

World Health Organization. Age-friendly world.

8.

Walk Score. (2026). Living in Des Moines.