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Other Senior care options in Iowa:

Best Assisted Living in Iowa

Reviewed by Dr. Jordan Weiss
Updated May 2026
We analyzed 504 homes in Iowa

Sources: CMS Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, and Iowa Department of Health, Office of Aging and Long Term Care.

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Video Tour: Top-rated Assisted Living facilities in Iowa.

Watch this Video to see Iowa's Top-rated Senior Communities

Compare Assisted Living around Iowa

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)
76Yes 63 Studio / 1 bed / 2 bed5 47.4% -731
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)
80No 72 -- 91.3% -2183
Prairie Hills at Cedar Rapids
SC

Senior Communitie

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.

Cedar Rapids
86Yes 47 Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed17 50.0% -1863
Allen Place Senior Living
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.

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.

Atlantic (East 19Th Street)
78No 11 -12 46.2% A-1031
Bickford of Urbandale
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.

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.

Urbandale (Sutton Place)
73Yes 28 -26 53.4% -1071
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)
78Yes 38 1 bed / 2 bed1 85.8% -2382
MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan Creek
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.

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.

West Des Moines
93No 58 Studio / 1 bed / 2 bed7 58.1% -96-
Valley View Village
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 (Fairmont Park)
79Yes 38 Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed54 100.0% -2472
Vintage Hills of Indianola
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.

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.

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.

Indianola
90No 15 -16 45.6% A+73-
Arlington Place of Grundy Center
SC

Senior Communitie

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.

Grundy Center
80No 32 -25 36.3% -1231
Ridgecrest Village
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.

Davenport (Northwest Boulevard)
82Yes 41 Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed- 67.1% -2063
Windsor Manor Nevada
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.

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.

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.

Ames
70No 26 -14 38.6% -1764
Sunset Park 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.

Dubuque
101Yes 36 1 Bed / 2 Bed24 46.5% -25143
Holland Farms
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
116Yes 38 Private Rooms / Semi-Private Rooms4 38.8% -73-
Amelia Senior Living
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.

Council Bluffs (Ferndale)
62Yes 2 Studio / 1 Bed31 61.3% A+1021
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Overview of Corydon Specialty Care
Corydon Specialty Care is a skilled nursing and long-term care community located in Corydon, Iowa. It provides compassionate, individualized care for residents while also focusing on their family's wellbeing. The facility is licensed to care for up to 71 residents, offering services such as skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and hospice care.

Contact Corydon Specialty Care

Overview of Concord Care Center
Concord Care Center is a senior living community located in Garner, Iowa. It offers independent and assisted living, rehabilitation services, and outpatient therapy. The facility focuses on personalized care and a welcoming atmosphere for residents.

Contact Concord Care Center

Overview of Colonial Manor of Amana
Colonial Manor of Amana has been providing outstanding care to the senior population since 1941. It is part of the Amana Retirement Community, which includes Lakeview Village Assisted Living and Independent Living townhomes, and Aspen Therapy and Wellness Center. This continuum of care allows residents to receive the level of service to meet their current needs.

Contact Colonial Manor of Amana

Overview of Community Memorial Health Center
Community Memorial Health Center is a premier skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility located in Hartley, Iowa. It provides a full range of care services designed to support both health and independence, including skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and memory care. The facility emphasizes a holistic plan of care for each resident, ensuring their spiritual, physical, and emotional needs are met.

Contact Community Memorial Health Center

Clearview Home

406 West Washington, Mount Ayr, Ia 508540552
Overview of Clearview Home
Clearview Home is located in Mount Ayr, Iowa, and is committed to providing compassionate and quality care to its residents. The facility offers a range of services including skilled nursing, rehabilitation, and memory care. Clearview Home emphasizes personal choice and strives to create a home-like environment for its residents.

Contact Clearview Home

Overview of Clarence Nursing Home
Clarence Nursing Home is part of the Clarence Senior Living Campus, which started in 1968. It offers skilled nursing services and long-term care in a home-like environment. The facility has 46 beds and provides various amenities to support a healthy lifestyle.

Contact Clarence Nursing Home

Overview of Chautauqua Guest Home #2 (11th St.)
Chautauqua Guest Homes is a senior living community located in Charles City, Iowa. It provides comprehensive and high-quality long-term care services. The organization focuses on building relationships and has been recognized for its quality care.

Contact Chautauqua Guest Home #2 (11th St.)

Overview of Belle Plaine Specialty Care
Belle Plaine Specialty Care is a skilled nursing and long-term care community located in Belle Plaine, IA. It provides compassionate, individualized care for residents and promotes their family's wellbeing. The facility is licensed to care for up to 46 residents, offering services 24/7.

Contact Belle Plaine Specialty Care

Centerville Specialty Care

1208 East Cross Street, Centerville, Ia 525443599
Overview of Centerville Specialty Care
Centerville Specialty Care is a skilled nursing and long-term care community located in Centerville, Iowa. It provides compassionate, individualized care for residents and promotes their well-being through various programs and activities. The facility is licensed to care for up to 46 residents, offering services 24/7.

Contact Centerville Specialty Care

Overview of Bishop Drumm Retirement Center
Bishop Drumm Retirement Center is a senior living community located in Johnston, Iowa. It offers a variety of residential options including independent living, assisted living, and skilled nursing care. The center is dedicated to providing high-quality care with a Christian approach, ensuring residents can age in place with the support they need.

Contact Bishop Drumm Retirement Center

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 Iowa

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.

What is assisted living?

Assisted living combines private or semi-private apartments with help on activities of daily living (meals, bathing, dressing, medication management) and a social calendar — for residents who need some support but do not need 24/7 medical care.

How many assisted living facilities are listed on this page?

This page features 69 assisted living facilities in Iowa. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.

How do I choose the right assisted living facility in Iowa?

Start by matching the level of care offered to the resident's current and anticipated needs, then compare licensing status, staff-to-resident ratios, recent inspection results, and pricing. Tour at least two or three communities in Iowa, talk to current residents and families, and confirm what is included in the base rate versus billed as add-on services.

What should I look for when visiting assisted living facilities in Iowa?

Pay attention to staff interactions with residents, cleanliness and odor, food quality at meal times, the activity calendar, and how questions about pricing and care plans are answered. Ask to see the most recent state inspection report, the move-out / level-of-care-change policy, and a sample monthly bill that lists every fee.