10 Best Independent Living Facilities in Des Moines, IA

Who are you searching for?

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

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

Table of contents

How much does independent living cost in Des Moines, IA?
How to pay for independent living in Des Moines
What families are saying about independent living in Des Moines
What is independent living like in Des Moines?
Des Moines independent living services and amenities
Explore senior care with confidence
Unfamiliar with Des Moines? Highlights for seniors
Independent living laws and regulations in Iowa

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.

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

Iowa state

$2,925/mo

U.S. national average

$3,520/mo

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

Assisted Living

$5,266/mo

Memory Care

$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 type	Des Moines, IA	Iowa	U.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.

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

Location	2024 average cost	2023 average cost	Percent 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.

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:

Social Security benefits
Pension payments
Retirement account distributions (e.g., 401k, 401a and 403b, Roth, and others)
Investment income
Annuity payments
Checking and savings accounts
Health savings accounts for eligible health care expenses
Proceeds from selling a home or other real estate
Proceeds from a reverse mortgage
Long-term care insurance, where applicable
Certain kinds of life insurance policies

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:

Veterans Pension or Survivors Pension
VA Disability Compensation
Dependency and Indemnity Compensation (DIC)
VA health benefits

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.

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 Regional Benefit Office
210 Walnut St.
Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone: 800-827-1000

Des Moines VA Medical Center
3600 30th St.
Des Moines, IA 50310
Phone: 515-699-5999

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

South Des Moines VA Clinic
1211 E. Army Post Road
Des Moines, IA 50315
Phone: 515-256-9540

Des Moines Vet Center
1821 22nd St., Suite 115
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Phone: 515-284-4929

Polk County Veterans Affairs
2309 Euclid Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50310
Phone: 515-286-3670
Email: veterans.affairs@polkcountyiowa.gov

Disabled American Veterans, Department of Iowa
210 Walnut St., Room 566
Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone: 515-323-7539
Email: dav.vbades@va.gov

Veterans of Foreign Wars, Department of Iowa
3601 Beaver Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50310
Phone: 515-255-2139

American Legion of Iowa
720 Lyon St.
Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone: 515-282-5068
Email: info@ialegion.org

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:

Personal care assistance
Home health care
Skilled nursing care
Therapy
Transportation
Meal support
Housekeeping
Help with activities of daily living (ADLs)

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.

Medicaid resources in Des Moines, Iowa

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

Apply online through the Health & Human Services (HHS) Benefits Portal
Mail a completed application to the HHS
Apply over the phone by calling 855-889-7985
Apply in person at a local HHS office or at a federal qualified health center in Des Moines

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.

Iowa Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) and Senior Medicare Patrol (SMP)
1963 Bell Ave., Suite 100
Des Moines, IA 50315
Phone: 800-351-4664
Email: shiip@iid.iowa.gov

Aging Resources of Central Iowa
5838 Grand Ave., Suite 106
Des Moines, IA 50312
Phone: 515-255-1310

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 ...

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

17.7%

21.1%

Low / no sodium

17.7%

35.6%

No sugar

17.7%

31.9%

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

22.6%

37.5%

Restaurant style dining

30.6%

44.7%

Room service

27.4%

38%

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

33.9%

46.3%

Pet-focused programs

14.5%

29.2%

Community service programs

25.8%

34%

Devotional activities on-site

50%

48.3%

Parties / BBQs / happy hour

41.9%

50%

Outings / off-site activities

46.8%

54.9%

Piano or organ

35.5%

44.2%

Arts and crafts center

27.4%

39.5%

Educational speakers / life long learning

29%

42.9%

Clubs / games / karaoke

40.3%

48.2%

Live performances

35.5%

47.9%

Dances

22.6%

34.1%

Fitness center

37.1%

40.6%

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.

A graphic of a capital letter H in a circle

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

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

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:

The Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority (DART) operates fixed-route bus service throughout the metro area and offers reduced fares for adults 65+, people with disabilities, and other eligible riders
DART Paratransit also provides advance-reservation, door-to-door transportation for eligible people whose disabilities prevent them from using fixed-route buses

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]

Walk Score

Transit Score

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.

The Des Moines Art Center offers art exhibits, an art school, and free admission.
The State Historical Museum of Iowa offers exhibits on Iowa history, culture, and communities.
Salisbury House & Gardens gives visitors a chance to explore a historic 1920s estate, art collections, gardens, and special events.
The Iowa State Capitol offers guided and self-guided tours, including views of the building’s well-known gold dome and historic law library.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

The average cost of independent living in Des Moines, Iowa, is $2,610 per month.

No, Medicare won’t pay for independent living rent, meals, or basic amenities in Des Moines, Iowa. It may cover approved medical services you receive from third-party providers.

Social Security benefits can be used however you choose, including to help cover independent living costs in Des Moines.

Iowa Medicaid may cover some medically necessary home- and community-based services for eligible residents, but it won’t pay for independent living room and board.

References

A Place for Mom. (2026). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
Economic Research Institute. (2026, May 5). Cost of living data in Des Moines, Iowa, United States.
U.S. Census Bureau. (2024). Des Moines, Iowa.
Iowa Health and Human Services. Waiver programs.
Medicare.gov. Get started with Medicare.
Walk Score. (2026). Living in Des Moines.

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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- Jo Ann Markowski

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10 Best Independent Living Facilities in Des Moines, IA

Des Moines Independent Living Facilities | 808 Reviews

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Our methodology

How we rank order the Des Moines community options above

Where we source our information

14,000+ communities

350,000+ reviews

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

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

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

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

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

Independent living costs in Des Moines, IA, over time

Independent living cost trends in Des Moines, IA

How to pay for independent living in Des Moines

Private pay options

VA benefits

Resources for veterans in Des Moines

Medicaid

Medicaid resources in Des Moines, Iowa

Medicare

Medicare resources in Des Moines

What families are saying about independent living in Des Moines

Recent reviews for independent living in Des Moines

What is independent living like in Des Moines?

Apartment-style living with fewer household chores

Flexibility for today and the future

An active, social, and pet-friendly lifestyle

Des Moines independent living services and amenities

Availability of select dietary accommodations in Des Moines independent living

Availability of select dining options in Des Moines independent living

Availability of select programs and activities in Des Moines independent living

Explore senior care with confidence

Unfamiliar with Des Moines? Highlights for seniors

Top hospitals for seniors in Des Moines

Transportation for seniors in Des Moines

Walk Score

Transit Score

Bike Score

Things to do in Des Moines for seniors and their families

Gardens, parks, and outdoor spaces

Museums and cultural attractions

Entertainment, sports, and local events

Classes, clubs, and local programming

Independent living laws and regulations in Iowa

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average cost of independent living in Des Moines, Iowa?

Will Medicare pay for independent living in Des Moines, Iowa?

Does Social Security pay for independent living in Des Moines, Iowa?

Will Medicaid pay for independent living in Iowa for seniors?

References

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