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Compare Assisted Living around Des Moines (Metro Area)
The information below is reported by the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing.
Click column headers to sort
| Grand Living At Tower Place |
AL Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.
IL Independent Living Lifestyle-focused communities for older adults offering dining, activities, and transportation with minimal personal care. Best for active, independent seniors who want community without medical support.
MC Memory Care Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia. Staff trained in cognitive impairment, with higher staff-to-resident ratios and an environment designed to reduce confusion and wandering risk. | West Des Moines (South 51St Street) | 76
Facility
76
IA AVG
74
Rank
#139 / 418 | Yes |
63
Facility
63
IA AVG
48
Rank
#134 / 528 | Studio / 1 bed / 2 bed | 5
Facility
5
IA AVG
—
Rank
#232 / 280 | 47.4% | - | 7 | 3 | 1 |
| Wesley Acres |
NH Nursing Home Licensed facility providing 24/7 skilled nursing care for residents with complex, ongoing medical needs. Staffed by RNs, LPNs, and CNAs. Inspected and star-rated annually by CMS. Accepts Medicare (short-term rehab) and Medicaid (long-term care).
AL Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence. | Des Moines (Greenwood) | 80
Facility
80
IA AVG
74
Rank
#119 / 418 | No |
72
Facility
72
IA AVG
48
Rank
#89 / 528 | - | -
Facility
-
IA AVG
— | 91.3% | - | 21 | 8 | 3 |
| Ramsey Village Continuing Care |
NH Nursing Home Licensed facility providing 24/7 skilled nursing care for residents with complex, ongoing medical needs. Staffed by RNs, LPNs, and CNAs. Inspected and star-rated annually by CMS. Accepts Medicare (short-term rehab) and Medicaid (long-term care).
AL Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.
IL Independent Living Lifestyle-focused communities for older adults offering dining, activities, and transportation with minimal personal care. Best for active, independent seniors who want community without medical support.
MC Memory Care Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia. Staff trained in cognitive impairment, with higher staff-to-resident ratios and an environment designed to reduce confusion and wandering risk. | Des Moines (Drake) | 78
Facility
78
IA AVG
74
Rank
#132 / 418 | Yes |
38
Facility
38
IA AVG
48
Rank
#305 / 528 | 1 bed / 2 bed | 1
Facility
1
IA AVG
—
Rank
#266 / 280 | 85.8% | - | 23 | 8 | 2 |
| Holland Farms |
NH Nursing Home Licensed facility providing 24/7 skilled nursing care for residents with complex, ongoing medical needs. Staffed by RNs, LPNs, and CNAs. Inspected and star-rated annually by CMS. Accepts Medicare (short-term rehab) and Medicaid (long-term care).
AL Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.
IL Independent Living Lifestyle-focused communities for older adults offering dining, activities, and transportation with minimal personal care. Best for active, independent seniors who want community without medical support.
MC Memory Care Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia. Staff trained in cognitive impairment, with higher staff-to-resident ratios and an environment designed to reduce confusion and wandering risk. | Norwalk | 116
Facility
116
IA AVG
74
Rank
#51 / 418 | Yes |
38
Facility
38
IA AVG
48
Rank
#305 / 528 | Private Rooms / Semi-Private Rooms | 5
Facility
5
IA AVG
—
Rank
#232 / 280 | 38.8% | - | 7 | 3 | - |
| Edencrest at Pleasant Hill |
AL Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.
IL Independent Living Lifestyle-focused communities for older adults offering dining, activities, and transportation with minimal personal care. Best for active, independent seniors who want community without medical support.
MC Memory Care Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia. Staff trained in cognitive impairment, with higher staff-to-resident ratios and an environment designed to reduce confusion and wandering risk.
RC Respite Care Short-term temporary care — days to weeks — to give family caregivers a break. Full care provided during the stay. Often used after hospitalization or to trial a facility before a permanent placement decision. | Pleasant Hill | 140
Facility
140
IA AVG
74
Rank
#25 / 418 | Yes |
2
Facility
2
IA AVG
48
Rank
#500 / 528 | Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed | 2
Facility
2
IA AVG
—
Rank
#257 / 280 | 21.4% | - | 2 | 1 | - |
| Addington Place of Des Moines |
AL Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.
MC Memory Care Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia. Staff trained in cognitive impairment, with higher staff-to-resident ratios and an environment designed to reduce confusion and wandering risk.
RC Respite Care Short-term temporary care — days to weeks — to give family caregivers a break. Full care provided during the stay. Often used after hospitalization or to trial a facility before a permanent placement decision. | Des Moines (Bloomfield/Allen) | 54
Facility
54
IA AVG
74
Rank
#259 / 418 | Yes |
1
Facility
1
IA AVG
48
Rank
#507 / 528 | Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed | 14
Facility
14
IA AVG
—
Rank
#169 / 280 | 31.5% | - | 32 | 19 | 1 |
| Edencrest at Beaverdale |
AL Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.
MC Memory Care Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia. Staff trained in cognitive impairment, with higher staff-to-resident ratios and an environment designed to reduce confusion and wandering risk.
RC Respite Care Short-term temporary care — days to weeks — to give family caregivers a break. Full care provided during the stay. Often used after hospitalization or to trial a facility before a permanent placement decision. | Des Moines (Beaverdale) | 160
Facility
160
IA AVG
74
Rank
#18 / 418 | Yes |
76
Facility
76
IA AVG
48
Rank
#70 / 528 | Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed | 8
Facility
8
IA AVG
—
Rank
#202 / 280 | 39.4% | - | 17 | 10 | 1 |
| The Rose of East Des Moines |
AL Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence. | Des Moines (Martin Luther King Jr. Park) | 128
Facility
128
IA AVG
74
Rank
#35 / 418 | No |
70
Facility
70
IA AVG
48
Rank
#98 / 528 | 1 bed / 2 bed | 17
Facility
17
IA AVG
—
Rank
#150 / 280 | 42.2% | A+ | 33 | 21 | 3 |
| Edencrest at The Tuscany |
AL Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.
IL Independent Living Lifestyle-focused communities for older adults offering dining, activities, and transportation with minimal personal care. Best for active, independent seniors who want community without medical support.
MC Memory Care Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia. Staff trained in cognitive impairment, with higher staff-to-resident ratios and an environment designed to reduce confusion and wandering risk.
RC Respite Care Short-term temporary care — days to weeks — to give family caregivers a break. Full care provided during the stay. Often used after hospitalization or to trial a facility before a permanent placement decision. | Altoona | 40
Facility
40
IA AVG
74
Rank
#336 / 418 | Yes |
14
Facility
14
IA AVG
48
Rank
#444 / 528 | Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed | 4
Facility
4
IA AVG
—
Rank
#244 / 280 | 92.5% | - | 7 | 4 | - |
| Independence Village of Waukee |
NH Nursing Home Licensed facility providing 24/7 skilled nursing care for residents with complex, ongoing medical needs. Staffed by RNs, LPNs, and CNAs. Inspected and star-rated annually by CMS. Accepts Medicare (short-term rehab) and Medicaid (long-term care).
AL Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.
IL Independent Living Lifestyle-focused communities for older adults offering dining, activities, and transportation with minimal personal care. Best for active, independent seniors who want community without medical support.
MC Memory Care Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia. Staff trained in cognitive impairment, with higher staff-to-resident ratios and an environment designed to reduce confusion and wandering risk. | Waukee | 34
Facility
34
IA AVG
74
Rank
#383 / 418 | Yes |
38
Facility
38
IA AVG
48
Rank
#305 / 528 | 1 Bed / 2 Bed | 15
Facility
15
IA AVG
—
Rank
#164 / 280 | 41.2% | - | 12 | 2 | 3 |
| Edencrest at Riverwoods |
AL Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence.
MC Memory Care Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia. Staff trained in cognitive impairment, with higher staff-to-resident ratios and an environment designed to reduce confusion and wandering risk.
RC Respite Care Short-term temporary care — days to weeks — to give family caregivers a break. Full care provided during the stay. Often used after hospitalization or to trial a facility before a permanent placement decision. | Des Moines (Woodside Park) | 80
Facility
80
IA AVG
74
Rank
#119 / 418 | Yes |
35
Facility
35
IA AVG
48
Rank
#332 / 528 | Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed | 12
Facility
12
IA AVG
—
Rank
#183 / 280 | 40.0% | - | 19 | 9 | 4 |
| Calvin Community AL |
NH Nursing Home Licensed facility providing 24/7 skilled nursing care for residents with complex, ongoing medical needs. Staffed by RNs, LPNs, and CNAs. Inspected and star-rated annually by CMS. Accepts Medicare (short-term rehab) and Medicaid (long-term care).
AL Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence. | Des Moines (Lower Beaver) | 162
Facility
162
IA AVG
74
Rank
#17 / 418 | No |
57
Facility
57
IA AVG
48
Rank
#176 / 528 | - | 6
Facility
6
IA AVG
—
Rank
#223 / 280 | 21.0% | - | 4 | - | - |
| 3801 Grand |
AL Assisted Living A licensed, long-term care setting for seniors or individuals with disabilities who need help with daily activities — like bathing, dressing, and medication management — but not 24-hour skilled nursing. Offers housing, meals, and around-the-clock support while aiming to maximize resident independence. | Des Moines (East Village) | 106
Facility
106
IA AVG
74
Rank
#65 / 418 | No |
91
Facility
91
IA AVG
48
Rank
#2 / 528 | - | 28
Facility
28
IA AVG
—
Rank
#54 / 280 | 40.6% | - | 18 | 9 | - |
Ideally set in the tranquil neighborhood of East Park Avenue, Des Moines, IA, is the reliable senior living community of Edencrest at Riverwoods that provides assisted living and memory care. Experience the highest quality of care and support with a compassionate and responsible team caring for residents’ needs and preferences around the clock. Featuring different levels of care for individuals with dementia and other memory-related needs, the community promotes a vibrant and welcoming environment where residents thrive.
Elevate your retirement with fun recreation and wellness programs, highlighting your interests and strengths. Delightful and healthy meals are also provided to foster comfort and meet dietary needs. With beautiful courtyards and pet-friendly spaces, residents enjoy a peaceful and happy retirement.
3801 Grand is a 106-bed senior living facility at 3801 Grand Avenue in Des Moines, Iowa. Administered by Angie Wadle, the community serves Polk County under license S0003, which is active through May 31, 2026. The facility reports a current occupancy rate of 41%, with 43 of 106 beds filled, falling below the Iowa state average of 75.4%. Located in the East Village neighborhood, the site holds a Walk Score of 91, making it a walker’s paradise where daily errands can be completed on foot.
Data from the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing highlights a record of consistent regulatory strength and notable improvement. Since 2004, the facility has accumulated 22 deficiencies over 18 inspections, yielding an annual average of one violation, a figure 17% lower than the state benchmark. The most recent evaluation in October 2025 resulted in a citations-per-inspection rate of zero. This performance is part of a sustained period of compliance, with four consecutive clean inspections recorded between 2022 and 2025.
Daily clinical operations at this 28-year-old campus cover a continuum of care, including independent living, assisted living, and memory care. While current reviews indicate high quality, a 2016 investigation led to a $3,000 civil penalty after a resident exited through an unalarmed courtyard gate. More recent minor findings from 2018 and 2021 involved inconsistent insulin administration protocols and incomplete employee background checks. Professional care is currently provided without add-on fees, featuring chef-prepared dining and specialized nutrition support.
The campus environment focuses on integrated wellness programming and social engagement across various levels of care. Shared amenities include Wi-Fi access and communal spaces specifically designed to accommodate memory care residents. Although early 2000s records noted gaps in service plan documentation and wound care delegation, the community has since earned a Best Assisted Living designation from U.S. News & World Report. According to state records, the administration has comprehensively addressed previous life safety and medication oversight concerns.
Interested individuals should consider the community’s long-term history of operational excellence and its low deficiency rate. It is recommended to verify the current functionality of all security systems and to discuss staffing stability during a personal tour. Families may contact the Des Moines office to inquire about care transitions and to ensure the facility’s clinical protocols align with their specific 2026 wellness goals.
Calvin Community Al is a faith-based, not-for-profit retirement community located in Des Moines, Iowa. It offers a complete continuum of care options including independent living, assisted living, and memory care. The community focuses on providing individualized care in a warm and supportive environment.
Ranking Methodology
How we rank these assisted living communities
Every community above is evaluated across six weighted categories using public data including state inspection records, review platforms, BBB profiles, and operator-published materials.
Weighting overview
- 35%Resident Experience
- 25%Regulatory
- 15%Visual Media
- 10%Website
- 10%Stability
- 5%Environment
01
Resident & Family Experience 35%
The single largest share of every ranking. Aggregated review sentiment and volume from major platforms — the closest signal to real resident experience.
- Includes
- Review Sentiment
- Review Volume
02
Regulatory & Safety Record 25%
State inspection records, citations, and complaint visits. We weight per-inspection rates more heavily than raw counts.
- Includes
- State Inspections
- Citations/Inspection
- % Inspections w/ Citations
- Complaint Visits
- Accreditations
- BBB Rating
03
Visual Media & Transparency 15%
Communities that publish high-quality visuals give families a real preview. No photos or tours = a negative transparency signal.
- Includes
- Video Tours
- Virtual Walkthroughs
- Photo Quantity
- Photo Quality
04
Website & Operator Transparency 10%
Site quality and whether the operator publishes basic accountability information — staff names, contact details, ownership.
- Includes
- Website Content
- Mobile Usability
- Staff Info Available
- Owner Info Available
05
Community Stability 10%
Operational signals indicating whether a community is well-run and meeting demand.
- Includes
- Occupancy Rate
- Bed Options
06
Environment & Pricing 5%
Walkability and pricing transparency. Walk Score is weighted higher for Independent Living than for Memory Care, where most residents do not leave unaccompanied.
- Includes
- Walk Score
- Pricing Transparency
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Frequently Asked Questions about Assisted Living in Des Moines, IA
What is the average cost of assisted living in Des Moines, IA?
The average monthly cost of assisted living in Des Moines, IA is approximately $5,300. Actual rates vary by community, level of care, and floorplan.
What is the price range for assisted living in Des Moines, IA?
Assisted living in Des Moines, IA typically ranges from $4,800–$7,400 per month, depending on the community, room type, and care needs.
What is the typical staff-to-resident ratio at assisted living facilities in Des Moines, IA?
Assisted living facilities in Des Moines, IA typically operate with a staff-to-resident ratio in the range of 1:6 to 1:12.
How many licensed assisted living facilities are there in Des Moines, IA?
According to state licensing records, there are approximately ~50–60 licensed assisted living facilities in Des Moines, IA.
What's the difference between assisted living and memory care in Iowa?
Assisted living in Iowa supports residents with daily activities (bathing, dressing, medication management) while preserving independence. Memory care is a specialized form of assisted living for residents living with Alzheimer's or dementia, and adds 24/7 secured environments, dementia-trained staff, and structured routines designed to reduce confusion and wandering.
What's the difference between assisted living and a nursing home in Iowa?
Assisted living in Iowa is a residential model focused on housing, hospitality, and help with daily activities. Nursing homes (skilled nursing facilities) provide 24/7 medical care from licensed nurses for residents with significant health needs, and are regulated more strictly under both state and federal CMS rules.
Does Iowa Medicaid cover assisted living?
Iowa Medicaid does not directly pay room-and-board for assisted living, but most states (including Iowa) offer Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers that can offset the cost of care services delivered inside a licensed community. Eligibility, waitlists, and covered services vary — check directly with the state Medicaid agency.
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