Page 2 of Best Independent Living in Des Moines, IA

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 26 independent living communities in Des Moines, IA using IA Dept. of Inspections, Appeals & Licensing (DIAL) data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank independent living in IA
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Last updated
We analyzed These are the facilities in Des Moines, IA our team has analyzed — not a count of every independent living provider in Des Moines, IA.
26 homes
Other senior care options in Des Moines:

Compare Independent Living around Des Moines (Metro Area)

Info below is compiled from the IA Dept. of Inspections, Appeals & Licensing (DIAL), senior community websites & trusted data sources such as Walk Score & BBB.

Communities are listed from highest-ranked to lowest-ranked based on our methodology.

Care Types in This Table AL (Assisted Living): Housing with help for daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication, without 24-hour skilled nursing. NH (Nursing Home): 24/7 skilled nursing care for residents with complex, ongoing medical needs. SNF (Skilled Nursing Facility): Round-the-clock nursing care, often for recovery after surgery, injury, or illness. MC (Memory Care): Secured, specialized care for people living with Alzheimer's or dementia. RC (Respite Care): Short-term temporary care that gives family caregivers a break. RESC (Residential Care): Personal care and daily-living support in a smaller, more intimate residential setting. IL (Independent Living): Community living with dining, activities, and transportation for active seniors who need little personal care. HC (Home Care): Professional care delivered in the person's own home, from companionship to skilled nursing. ADC (Adult Day Care): Daytime supervision, health monitoring, and social activities for seniors who live at home. CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community): A campus with multiple care levels so residents can age in place without moving.
City and state of the facility. Used for mapping and state-average comparisons.
Licensed bed capacity (maximum allowed). Not the same as how many beds are currently filled.
Indicates whether residents are allowed to have pets in the facility.
Third-party neighborhood walkability score (0–100). Convenience/context metric, not a healthcare quality measure.
Description of bed or unit types offered (e.g. assisted living, memory care), as reported in state or facility disclosures.
Number of years the company has been in operation.
Reported or derived occupancy for the facility—typically how fully licensed capacity is utilized. Compare across peers in the same market.
Better Business Bureau grade for the operating company. Reflects complaint handling and business practices, not clinical care quality.
Count of regulatory inspections in the reporting window. Higher volume can reflect more oversight visits, complaint-driven surveys, or routine licensure cycles.
Inspection events categorized as complaint-related by the state regulator.
Count of incident-based investigations (e.g. reported events) in the regulatory record for the reporting period.
Wesley Acres
IL
ADC
AL
CCRC
MC
NH
SNF
Des Moines (Greenwood)
80
Facility 80
IA AVG 76
Rank #48 / 165
Yes
72
Facility 72
IA AVG 43
Rank #32 / 222
--
73.8%
Facility 73.8%
IA AVG 63.2%
Rank #22 / 154
-23
8
Facility 8
IA AVG 7
Rank #111 / 155
3
Facility 3
IA AVG 1
Rank #130 / 155
Scottish Rite Park Health Care Center
IL
AL
HC
MC
NH
RESC
SNF
Des Moines (East Village)
51
Facility 51
IA AVG 76
Rank #115 / 165
No
91
Facility 91
IA AVG 43
Rank #1 / 222
--
56.9%
Facility 56.9%
IA AVG 63.2%
Rank #76 / 154
-18
5
Facility 5
IA AVG 7
Rank #100 / 155
0
Facility 0
IA AVG 1
Rank #1 / 155
Life Center
IL
AL
MC
NH
SNF
Des Moines (Waveland Park)
72
Facility 72
IA AVG 76
Rank #64 / 165
No
51
Facility 51
IA AVG 43
Rank #88 / 222
-------
Plymouth Place
IL
Des Moines (North Of Grand)
-No
68
Facility 68
IA AVG 43
Rank #41 / 222
Studio / 1 Bed------
Independence Village of Pella
IL
AL
CCRC
MC
Pella
14
Facility 14
IA AVG 76
Rank #164 / 165
Yes
21
Facility 21
IA AVG 43
Rank #174 / 222
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
23
Facility 23
IA AVG 15
Rank #31 / 131
35.7%
Facility 35.7%
IA AVG 63.2%
Rank #137 / 154
A+5
8
Facility 8
IA AVG 7
Rank #111 / 155
7
Facility 7
IA AVG 1
Rank #153 / 155
Edencrest at Riverwoods
IL
AL
MC
RC
Des Moines (Woodside Park)
80
Facility 80
IA AVG 76
Rank #48 / 165
Yes
35
Facility 35
IA AVG 43
Rank #137 / 222
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
12
Facility 12
IA AVG 15
Rank #65 / 131
40.0%
Facility 40.0%
IA AVG 63.2%
Rank #126 / 154
-9
9
Facility 9
IA AVG 7
Rank #124 / 155
4
Facility 4
IA AVG 1
Rank #143 / 155
Independence Village of Waukee
IL
AL
MC
Waukee
34
Facility 34
IA AVG 76
Rank #153 / 165
Yes
38
Facility 38
IA AVG 43
Rank #124 / 222
1 Bed / 2 Bed
15
Facility 15
IA AVG 15
Rank #58 / 131
41.2%
Facility 41.2%
IA AVG 63.2%
Rank #121 / 154
-5
2
Facility 2
IA AVG 7
Rank #38 / 155
3
Facility 3
IA AVG 1
Rank #130 / 155
Independence Village Of Des Moines (Beaverdale Estates)
IL
AL
Des Moines (Beaverdale)
-Yes
62
Facility 62
IA AVG 43
Rank #52 / 222
Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed
2
Facility 2
IA AVG 15
Rank #115 / 131
-A---
Slate at Grays Landing
IL
Des Moines
-Yes
51
Facility 51
IA AVG 43
Rank #88 / 222
1 Bed / 2 Bed------
Fort Des Moines Senior Housing
IL
Des Moines (Fort Des Moines)
-No
60
Facility 60
IA AVG 43
Rank #61 / 222
1 Bed------

Rank badges are statewide and care-type specific: each independent living community is ranked against every other IA independent living community we track that reports that metric, not just the 26 analyzed for Des Moines. See how we rank facilities

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Overview of Independence Village of Pella

Situated in Pella, IA, Independence Village of Pella is a reliable senior living community that offers Independent Living, Assisted Living, and Memory Care. The community features an array of beautifully designed accommodations, ranging from studios to one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments, providing a comfortable living space to residents. Care needs are fully met with personalized care plans and professionally trained employees available 24/7 to provide care and assistance.

There’s no shortage of enriching things to do with a vibrant calendar of activities, events, and programs offered by the community. Dining experience is improved with chef-prepared meals that are carefully curated to satisfy unique dietary needs and food preferences. Residents never have to worry about chores with housekeeping, laundry services, and other supportive services provided by a dedicated team. Here, residents have what they need to live a carefree and fulfilling lifestyle.

Contact Independence Village of Pella

Overview of Independence Village of Waukee

Independence Village of Waukee offers assisted living, independent living, and memory care in Waukee, IA. Assisted living includes help with daily tasks while the resident keeps a private living space; independent living offers private living with community services and no daily care; memory care provides a secured setting with supervision for someone who may be at risk of wandering. Having all three care types on one campus may suit a resident whose needs grow over time, since they may be able to move between care levels without leaving the community.

The community has 34 beds. That creates a smaller setting where staff and residents can get to know each other, with one bedroom and two bedroom housing for someone living alone or a couple moving together. Pets are allowed, so a resident may be able to bring a pet when moving in. A Walk Score of 38 places the area in a car dependent setting, meaning most errands require a car or a ride rather than a short walk; Austin Williams serves as the administrator.

Contact Independence Village of Waukee

Edencrest at Riverwoods

2210 E Park Ave, Des Moines, IA 50320
Overview of Edencrest at Riverwoods

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.

Contact Edencrest at Riverwoods

Overview of Wesley Acres

A community that strives in exceedingly making its residents comfortable, the Wesley Acres offers the best balance of urban living and assistance with everyday living.  A proud member of the Wesley Senior Living Group, Acres places integrity at the heart of its mission; ensuring that residents can feel inspired in creating a better life with the continuum of care being provided. Wesley Acres is an elegant senior living home that aims to enhance and enrich the lives of its residents. 

Wesley offers independent living, assisted living, memory care, short-term rehabilitation, and long-term care. Their engaging activities and programs to name a few are the recreational activities, fitness activities, and entertainment programs available for residents to take part in at the library, media room, or outdoor social areas.

Contact Wesley Acres

Overview of Scottish Rite Park Health Care Center

An indoor walking track circles Scottish Rite Park Health Care Center, and there is a pool, a hot tub, and a fitness center. A workshop, a library, and a movie theater fill out the day.

Seven care types operate across 51 beds in Des Moines: independent living, residential care, assisted living, memory care, home care, nursing home care, and skilled nursing. A resident whose needs change does not leave to get the next level.

Independent living means private living with no daily care attached. Assisted living adds bathing, dressing, and medication to that.

Memory care answers a narrower problem. Getting up and going out at an hour when nobody is awake is not something a family supervises from another house.

The area scores 91 for walking, high enough that a coffee or a haircut stays an ordinary outing rather than a scheduled trip. Rehabilitation services cover recovery from an illness or injury.

Respite sometimes needs no clinical justification at all. A person needs somebody in the building overnight, not therapy or procedures.

Nursing coverage on the skilled side reaches 5 hours and 56 minutes per resident each day and does not thin after dark. Medicare and private pay are accepted, and private funds cover what Medicare’s limited window does not. Daniel Boor serves as administrator.

Contact Scottish Rite Park Health Care Center

Overview of Independence Village of Des Moines (beaverdale Estates)

Make the most of your retirement years at the vibrant senior living community of Independence Village Of Des Moines (Beaverdale Estates) in Des Moines, IA, offering independent living. The community features pet-friendly apartments featuring large windows with plenty of natural light, along with convenient access to housekeeping for a maintenance-free living. The community is conveniently located near numerous parks, recreational facilities and walking trails, as well as excellent health care facilities, including the MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center.

The community fosters a vibrant living experience and social connection through their diverse array of social, cultural and recreational activities, as well as exercise, fitness and wellness programs. A talented culinary team carefully prepares diverse menu options catered to residents’ dietary needs and preferences. Amenities include a business center and library, beauty salon and barbershop, and community activity room, including a game room and lounge, for relaxing gathering spaces.

Contact Independence Village Of Des Moines (Beaverdale Estates)

Overview of Life Center

Offering excellent memory care, long-term care, skilled nursing, and rehabilitation services, The Life Center is a dependable senior living community in Des Moines, IA that helps residents maintain a sense of individuality and freedom while receiving additional support. The community features a reliable nursing team available 24-hours a day and an extensive rehabilitative program, featuring physical, speech, and occupational therapies that help residents maintain their highest level of functionality.

Residents also delight in an array of convenient services that help them live a maintenance-free lifestyle such as housekeeping, laundry, package delivery services, and more. A registered dietician carefully reviews the residents’ therapeutic diets to ensure they are receiving the proper nutrition and nourishment. With Life Center, residents are guaranteed to lead the lifestyle they deserve surrounded by compassionate support and care.

Contact Life Center

Overview of Plymouth Place

Ideally situated in the thriving neighborhood of Des Moines, IA, Plymouth Place is a distinguished community that offers independent living. The community has beautifully furnished and cozy studio and one-bedroom floor plans, dedicated to the comfort of those 62+. With easy access to nearby local amenities, residents can keep their peace of mind.

Residents are also encouraged to interact with their surroundings, especially with various wellness opportunities and inviting gathering spaces. Delightful restaurants and shops also surround the area, providing residents with dining options that cater to their dietary needs and preferences. The community is a great option for those looking to spend their golden years without hassles.

Contact Plymouth Place

Overview of Fort Des Moines Senior Housing

Make the most of your best years at Fort Des Moines Senior Housing, a distinct community located in the quiet setting of Des Moines, IA, offering independent living. Featuring purposely built and spacious one- and two-bedroom floor plans, the community ensures residents’ comfort and safety. Maintenance services and plenty of convenient apartment features, residents enjoy a hassle-free living.

A thoughtfully curated calendar of fun recreational activities and engaging programs is conducted to keep residents active and socially connected. Delightful restaurants and shops are also available nearby, providing residents with various dining options to meet their dietary needs and preferences. Amenities include an activities room, a beauty salon, a chapel, a fitness center, a theater room, a garden, and an outdoor gazebo, creating the ideal setting for a blissful retirement.

Contact Fort Des Moines Senior Housing

Overview of Slate at Grays Landing

Live a vibrant lifestyle at Slate at Grays Landing, a welcoming 55+ community in Des Moines, IA, offering independent living. The community has cozy and well-thought-out one- and two-bedroom floor plans, ensuring residents’ comfort and safety. Residents enjoy a hassle-free lifestyle with plenty of convenient apartment features and maintenance services.

Promoting social interactions, cozy communal spaces, and wellness opportunities are available to keep residents active and well-engaged. With a fully equipped kitchen in each unit, residents can prepare meals based on their dietary needs and preferences. The community’s extensive amenities and exceptional services help residents downsize in retirement without hassles.

Contact Slate at Grays Landing

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
No paid rankings Communities cannot pay to influence placement.
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Frequently Asked Questions about Independent Living in Des Moines, IA

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

The average monthly cost of independent living in Des Moines, IA is approximately $1,879. Actual rates vary by community, level of care, and floorplan.

What is the price range for independent living in Des Moines, IA?

Independent living in Des Moines, IA typically ranges from $511 - $4,741 per month, depending on the community, room type, and care needs.

What is independent living?

Independent living communities are residential settings for active older adults — typically with private apartments or cottages, shared amenities (dining, fitness, activities), and no built-in medical care.

How many independent living communities are listed on this page?

This page features 26 independent living communities in Des Moines, IA. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.

How do I choose the right independent living community in Des Moines, IA?

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 Des Moines, IA, 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 independent living communities in Des Moines, IA?

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.

Independent Living in Des Moines at a glance

Avg Walk Score: 52/ 100The average Walk Score across facilities in Des Moines, IA. A third-party neighborhood walkability score (0–100) measuring convenience and context, not healthcare quality. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 50/ 100
Avg No. of Beds: 88The average licensed bed capacity across facilities in Des Moines, IA. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 90