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 Independent Living Facilities in Des Moines, IA

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The average starting cost of independent living in Des Moines, Iowa, is $2,610 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data. Based on our ranking methodology, the top-rated independent living communities in Des Moines are Independence Village of Des Moines, Addington Place of Des Moines and StoryPoint Riverwoods.

Independent living in Des Moines offers a maintenance-free way to enjoy Iowa’s capital city, with apartment-style homes, dining options, social events, fitness programs, transportation, and pet-friendly amenities. This guide uses local proprietary data to compare costs, reviews, amenities, payment options, local resources, and the senior-friendly lifestyle in Des Moines.

Des Moines Independent Living Facilities | 808 Reviews

Showing 64 communities
Last Updated: 7/23/26
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Photo of Bishop Drumm Retirement Center
99 Photos available
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This is a great opportunity for a parent or a loved one to go to. They are very welcome and open with the residents as well as the family. My mother is very happy there and it was the best place for her to...
Provides: Assisted Living, 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.
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 Connect55 Plus Ankeny
33 Photos available
7.0
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2 reviews
7.0
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2 reviews
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Staff is nice. Wish there were day trips of some sort. There are few tenants who want to be in charge. I have the largest apartment size. The walls are thin.
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Senior Living Apartments in AnkenyConnect55+ Ankeny, in Ankeny, Iowa combines maintenance-free senior living with modern amenities and state-of-the-art facilities. The modern, pet-friendly Connect55+ senior housing community includes a cozy library, a welcoming community room, and spacious...
Photo of Walnut Ridge
7.8
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26 reviews
7.8
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26 reviews
5 star
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I've been living at Walnut Ridge since [date removed]. It's beautiful, comfortable and well-staffed. The people are fantastic. Food is ok.
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.
ENJOY THE BENEFITS OF RENTAL!Experience for yourself the active retirement lifestyle at Walnut Ridge. Designed for those looking to enjoy life, surrounded by great neighbors and friends in an impressive setting.Walnut Ridge provides the ultimate in retirement living for those ages 55 and better...
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Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Shelly Rose Estates is a high-quality senior housing community located in the Midwestern city of Des Moines, Polk County, Ohio. Des Moines offers many opportunities to experience cultural activities and events, such as attending the Des Moines Symphony and visiting the many local art galleries...
Photo of Southview SR
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So far I'm completely pleased with everything here, I'd give them top marks across the board. It's a nice looking place, they keep it very clean, and the staff all seem friendly. It's a good environment, and...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of South View Manor
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
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.
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 Elsie Mason Manor
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Elsie Mason Manor is a senior housing community that is located in the city of Des Moines Iowa. Our community is located in Polk County, which is an urban county. That is a beautiful city that is ideal for a getaway for the family and friends of the residents in our community. There are many...
Photo of Ligutti Tower
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Ligutti TowerLigutti Tower is located in Des Moines, the capital city of the state of Iowa. The most populous city of the state, it is also the county seat of Polk County. You will find Ligutti Tower in the heart of downtown, close to fantastic dining, theaters, shopping, transportation and more....
Photo of Prime Towers Apartments and Nursing Home
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Provides: Independent Living, Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
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.
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Located in the heart of the East Village, Prime Nursing and Rehabilitation is a 44-bed skilled facility with views of the Des Moines skyline, capital and our private courtyard. We offer private and semi-private rooms with each room averaging 200 square feet. We have nursing staff onsite 24/7...
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Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Virginia Park Apartments is a lovely, contemporary two-story building surrounded by a spacious, open lawn, which boasts mature trees and colorful flower gardens. This community is located just minutes from downtown Des Moines. Within walking distance is a grocery store and convenience store. The...
Photo of Walden Point
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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.
Walden Point promotes choice, dignity and independence by providing a quality affordable assisted living housing option for persons age 65 and older. Walden Point offers private full sized apartments paired with the support of 24 hour on-site staff. Some of the amenities available at Walden Point...
Photo of Corinthian Gardens
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I think things have turned out very well at Corinthian Gardens, my loved one really seems to have settled in well and is enjoying herself! It's a very friendly community, and she's really enjoying being able...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Corinthian GardensCorinthian Gardens is an affordable, safe senior housing community located in friendly Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa. You’ll never run out of things to do here. You can visit the farmers market, spend an afternoon in Des Moines’ lush botanical gardens, or take a walking tour of...
Photo of The Rose of Des Moines
6.5
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11 reviews
6.5
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11 reviews
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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 Baker Creek Senior Living Apartments
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Wesley on Grand
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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.
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My mom has been thrilled with the staff and all of the social activities! She's made many new friends and enjoys her time there.
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Designed for persons: 62+ Southridge Village II, located on a quiet cul-de-sac, is convenient to grocery shopping, and within blocks of a regional mall and a local pharmacy. Enjoy your independence in a great apartment home that includes utilities, plus air conditioning, generous closet space and...
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Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Designed for persons: 62+ An affordable apartment community located on a quiet cul-de-sac in Des Moines. Each apartment home features generous closet space, great views, plus all utilities and air conditioning are included. Southridge Village is within blocks of shopping, a regional mall and a...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Cummins Village is nestled away from the hectic mainstream on a quiet cul-de-sac, yet just minutes away from all your needs. We offer spacious one-bedroom apartments designed for comfortably accommodating those who are 55+. Income restrictions do apply.Apartments are approximately 562 sq.ft.,...
Photo of Fort Des Moines Senior Housing
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Plymouth Place
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Luther Park/Rose Glen Apartments
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
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.
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 Highland Park Manor
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
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 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.

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 independent living cost in Des Moines, IA?

The average starting cost of independent living in Des Moines is $2,610 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.[01] This figure is based on starting base rent and may not include care services, premium amenities, upgraded floor plans, third-party services, or other extras.

Your actual monthly cost can vary based on the community’s location, apartment size, floor plan, included services, amenities, dining package, transportation options, and add-on fees. Some communities may also charge separately for guest meals, salon services, laundry, storage, parking, or upgraded in-unit features.

The average cost of independent living in Des Moines is lower than both the Iowa average of $2,925 and the national average of $3,520. The city’s overall cost of living is about 7% lower than the national average, though it is about 7% higher than the average for Iowa cities, according to the Economic Research Institute. Additionally, overall housing and health care costs are both below the U.S. average, which may help some older adults manage their retirement budget.[02]

Independent living in Des Moines also costs less than both assisted living at about $4,554 per month and memory care at about $4,564 per month. Independent living usually costs less because it focuses on housing, convenience, amenities, dining, transportation, and social engagement rather than personal care or dementia-focused support.

Read more: Assisted Living vs. Independent Living: What’s the Difference?

The charts below are also based on average starting costs and do not include fees for care services, certain amenities, and any other extras.

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

Des Moines, IA
$2,610/mo
$2,925/mo
U.S. national average
$3,520/mo

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

$7,173/mo
Independent Living
$2,610/mo

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

Studio
$2,619/mo
1 Bedroom
$2,614/mo
2 Bedroom
$3,126/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.
Independent Living$2,610/mo$2,925/mo$3,520/mo
Assisted Living$5,266/mo$5,505/mo$5,830/mo
Memory Care$7,173/mo$6,921/mo$6,999/mo
Independent Living
Des Moines, IA:$2,610/mo
Iowa:$2,925/mo
U.S.:$3,520/mo
Assisted Living
Des Moines, IA:$5,266/mo
Iowa:$5,505/mo
U.S.:$5,830/mo
Memory Care
Des Moines, IA:$7,173/mo
Iowa:$6,921/mo
U.S.:$6,999/mo
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.

Independent living costs in Des Moines, IA, over time

The line graph below shows how monthly independent 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

Independent living cost trends in Des Moines, IA

The table below shows how monthly independent 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 average 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$2,955/mo$2,781/mo+6.3%
Iowa$3,084/mo$2,924/mo+5.5%
National$3,416/mo$3,319/mo+2.9%
Des Moines, IA
2024 average cost:$2,955/mo
2023 average cost:$2,781/mo
Percent change:+6.3%
Iowa
2024 average cost:$3,084/mo
2023 average cost:$2,924/mo
Percent change:+5.5%
National
2024 average cost:$3,416/mo
2023 average cost:$3,319/mo
Percent change:+2.9%
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.

How to pay for independent living in Des Moines

Since independent living doesn’t usually include personal or medical care, most families pay out of pocket. Public benefits may help with eligible health care or support services separately if you later need assistance, but they generally do not pay for independent living rent, meals, or lifestyle amenities.

Private pay options

Residents often use personal income and assets to cover independent living costs. Common private pay options include:

Read more: How to Pay for Independent Living: 5 Methods

VA benefits

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers pension, disability, health care, and survivor benefits for eligible veterans and their families. VA benefits do not typically pay independent living rent directly, but they may help with income, health care, or eligible services that support your retirement budget.

Common VA benefits that may help include:

VA applications may involve military, medical, and financial records. A VA-accredited benefits counselor or local veterans service officer can help you understand eligibility and reduce the risk of delays, denials, or a pension penalty period.

Read more: VA Aid and Attendance Benefit: Eligibility, Application Process, and Approval Tips

Resources for veterans in Des Moines

Des Moines is home to about 7,700 veterans, roughly 5% of the city’s population.[03] Local and state resources can help these veterans explore benefits, health care, counseling, and application support.

  • 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 joint federal and state program that helps eligible people pay for health care and long-term support. In Iowa, the state Medicaid program is administered through Iowa Medicaid.

Iowa Medicaid does not pay for independent living room and board, rent, meals, or lifestyle amenities. However, if your needs change, Medicaid may help cover some medically necessary home- and community-based services you receive in an independent living apartment if you qualify.

Iowa’s Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers help eligible Medicaid members receive care in a home or community setting instead of an institution. Waiver enrollment may be limited, and services depend on eligibility, provider availability, and the approved care plan.[04]

Depending on your eligibility and the specific program, covered services may include:

Eligibility is based on income, assets, care needs, and program requirements. Before making a financial plan, it’s worth checking directly with Iowa Medicaid or a local aging resource to confirm current coverage and availability.

Read more: Medicaid Long-Term Care: What Is It and What’s Covered?

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 is federal health insurance for adults 65 and older, as well as some younger people with qualifying disabilities or medical conditions.[05] Medicare does not pay for independent living rent, meals, housing, or lifestyle amenities.

You can still use Medicare for approved medically necessary services while living in an independent living community. This may include doctor visits, hospital care, prescription medications, durable medical equipment, therapy, or short-term home health care if you meet Medicare’s eligibility requirements.

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 independent living in Des Moines

Recent reviews for independent living in Des Moines

Elite Lodge of Ashworth in West Des Moines, IA

4.5
The Lodge is a friendly atmosphere all the units are different You design what you want nice wooded setting Does not have apartment feeling more homelike would definitely recommend the Lodge

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

Thomas Place at Waukee

5.0
A Place for Mom was very empathetic and determined to find a solution for my Mom. They were extremely helpful throughout the entire process. Thank you so much!

What is independent living like in Des Moines?

Des Moines offers a relaxed capital-city setting with parks, cultural attractions, restaurants, and everyday conveniences close at hand. Independent living communities can give you more time to enjoy the city by taking household maintenance, landscaping, meal preparation, and some daily errands off your schedule.

Apartment-style living with fewer household chores

Independent living communities in Des Moines include stand-alone options as well as larger senior living campuses. Residents generally have a private apartment along with access to shared dining, activities, and common spaces.

Many local partner communities offer full kitchens or kitchenettes, private patios or balconies, and accessible shower options for independent living residents. Housekeeping is available at all A Place for Mom’s partner communities, making it easier to spend less time on chores while maintaining your own routine and personal space.[01]

Flexibility for today and the future

Some Des Moines independent living communities are part of campuses that also offer assisted living or memory care. This arrangement may appeal to you if you want a maintenance-free lifestyle now while keeping additional support nearby in case your needs change later.

Independent living itself is not a care setting; however, residents may arrange services through third-party providers, and some campuses make it easier to explore additional levels of support without ever leaving the community.

An active, social, and pet-friendly lifestyle

Des Moines communities often make dining and social activities part of everyday life. All local partner communities provide meals and guest meals, while many offer restaurant-style dining, professional chefs, fitness centers, educational programs, live entertainment, and outings.[01]

Pet owners also have plenty of options. All of our Des Moines partner communities allow cats and dogs, though weight limits, deposits, and other rules vary. [01]

Des Moines independent living services and amenities

These charts highlight some of the many care, dining, and entertainment offerings available in Des Moines independent 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 dietary accommodations in Des Moines independent living

Independent 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
17.7%
21.1%
Low / no sodium
Low / no sodium
17.7%
35.6%
No sugar
No sugar
17.7%
31.9%
Vegetarian
Vegetarian
19.4%
34.7%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dining options in Des Moines independent living

Our independent 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
22.6%
37.5%
Restaurant style dining
Restaurant style dining
30.6%
44.7%
Room service
Room service
27.4%
38%
Anytime dining
Anytime dining
17.7%
17.6%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select programs and activities in Des Moines independent 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 independent 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
33.9%
46.3%
Pet-focused programs
Pet-focused programs
14.5%
29.2%
Community service programs
Community service programs
25.8%
34%
Devotional activities on-site
Devotional activities on-site
50%
48.3%
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
41.9%
50%
Outings / off-site activities
Outings / off-site activities
46.8%
54.9%
Piano or organ
Piano or organ
35.5%
44.2%
Arts and crafts center
Arts and crafts center
27.4%
39.5%
Educational speakers / life long learning
Educational speakers / life long learning
29%
42.9%
Clubs / games / karaoke
Clubs / games / karaoke
40.3%
48.2%
Live performances
Live performances
35.5%
47.9%
Dances
Dances
22.6%
34.1%
Fitness center
Fitness center
37.1%
40.6%
Fitness classes
Fitness classes
37.1%
47.5%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

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Unfamiliar with Des Moines? Highlights for seniors

Des Moines is Iowa’s capital and largest city, home to about 213,000 residents, and adults 65 and older make up about 12% of the city’s population.[03] For independent living residents, the city offers a practical mix of hospitals, parks, museums, restaurants, trails, senior programming, and public transportation.

Top hospitals for seniors in Des Moines

Des Moines has several major hospitals and health systems within the city. These hospitals can provide routine care, specialist visits, emergency care, rehabilitation, and other health needs that may arise during retirement.

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MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center is a large medical center in central Des Moines offering emergency care, specialty services, surgery, and rehabilitation programs.

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UnityPoint Health, Iowa Methodist Medical Center offers emergency care, heart care, cancer care, rehabilitation, surgery, and other hospital services.

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Broadlawns Medical Center is a public hospital and clinic system serving Des Moines and Polk County, including patients with Medicare and Medicaid.

Transportation for seniors in Des Moines

Many independent living communities in Des Moines provide scheduled transportation for medical appointments, shopping, errands, dining, and group outings. Among A Place for Mom’s local partners, 90% offer complimentary transportation and 50% provide transportation for a fee.[01]

For public transportation:

Des Moines is generally car-dependent, although some central neighborhoods are easier to explore on foot. Walk Score identifies Carpenter, Drake Park, and North of Grand as the city’s most walkable neighborhoods. Des Moines has the following transportation ratings out of 100:[06]

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45

Walk Score

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30

Transit Score

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39

Bike Score

Things to do in Des Moines for seniors and their families

Des Moines has plenty to enjoy without it feeling overwhelming. Independent living residents can visit gardens, museums, parks, theaters, restaurants, and community events, often within a short drive of downtown.

Gardens, parks, and outdoor spaces

If you enjoy fresh air, flowers, and easygoing walks, Des Moines has several outdoor spaces that work well for solo visits, group outings, and time with visiting family.

  • The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden is a 12-acre garden near downtown with indoor and outdoor spaces, classes, events, and seasonal displays.
  • Pappajohn Sculpture Park is an outdoor sculpture park at the Des Moines Art Center downtown and provides a relaxed option for public art, walking, and family visits.
  • Gray’s Lake Park offers walking paths, water views, and outdoor recreation close to downtown.
  • Water Works Park gives residents another option for trails, green space, concerts, and quiet time outdoors.

Museums and cultural attractions

Des Moines has several museums and cultural venues that make it easy to keep learning, enjoy local history, or spend a quiet afternoon indoors.

Entertainment, sports, and local events

For residents who like performances, local food, and sporting events, Des Moines offers several simple ways to stay connected to the city.

  • The Des Moines Civic Center, the home of Des Moines Performing Arts, hosts Broadway shows, concerts, dance performances, and other touring productions.
  • Hoyt Sherman Place is a historic venue hosting concerts, theater, and other live performances.
  • Principal Park is home to the minor-league Iowa Cubs and a game can be a fun outing for baseball fans, visiting grandchildren, or community groups.
  • Casey’s Center hosts concerts, Iowa Wild hockey games, Iowa Wolves basketball games, and other large events downtown.
  • The Downtown Farmers’ Market is a popular seasonal event featuring produce, prepared foods, local vendors, and live entertainment.

Classes, clubs, and local programming

If you want to explore programs beyond your independent living community, Des Moines has several places to find classes, book clubs, volunteer opportunities, and community activities.

  • The Des Moines Public Library offers adult events, book discussions, technology programs, educational sessions, and activities at branches throughout the city.
  • Polk County senior centers offer meals, recreation, social activities, and other programs for older adults at four locations across Des Moines.

Independent living laws and regulations in Iowa

Independent living communities aren’t typically licensed or regulated in the same way as assisted living and memory care communities. However, these communities must often meet state and city requirements, including building codes, fire safety regulations, and tenant rights laws that protect residents and renters. Learning about how independent living is regulated can help you make informed senior living decisions.

Read more: Independent living regulations in Iowa

References

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

  2. Economic Research Institute. (2026, May 5). Cost of living data in Des Moines, Iowa, United States.

  3. U.S. Census Bureau. (2024). Des Moines, Iowa.

  4. Iowa Health and Human Services. Waiver programs.

  5. Medicare.gov. Get started with Medicare.

  6. 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, May 5). Cost of living data in Des Moines, Iowa, United States.

3.

U.S. Census Bureau. (2024). Des Moines, Iowa.

4.

Iowa Health and Human Services. Waiver programs.

5.
6.

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