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Other Senior care options in Iowa:

Best Independent 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 Independent Living facilities in Iowa.

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

Compare Independent Living around Iowa

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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
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
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
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-
Northcrest Community
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.

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.

Ames
64No 36 1 Bed / 2 Bed5 50.0% -2--
Terrace Glen 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.

Marion (Flynn)
40No 14 -8 95.0% A13-3
Mill Pond
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.

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.

Ankeny
60Yes 16 Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed23 98.3% -1651
Bethany Home Retirement Center
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).

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 (Eagle Point District)
66No 69 1 Bed / 2 Bed- 100.0% -1242
The Views of Marion
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).

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.

Marion
60No 37 Private Rooms6 48.3% -41-
Green Hills Retirement Community
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.

Ames (Hamilton Drive)
56Yes 18 1 Bed / 2 Bed40 78.6% -1123
The Heritage at Fox Run
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.

HC

Home Care Professional care delivered in the person's own home — from companionship and errands to skilled nursing and therapy. Allows seniors to age in place. Medicare covers skilled home health when medically necessary.

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.

Council Bluffs
132Yes 14 Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed25 50.8% A+1552
Meadowview of Davenport
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.

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.

Davenport
56No 61 Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed3 3.6% -1--
South Hills Senior Living
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.

Waterloo
116Yes 11 Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed------
Sunrise Retirement Community
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.

Sioux City
74Yes 22 Studio- 90.5% A+2536
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Overview of Vintage Cooperative of Ankeny

Spend your golden years at Vintage Cooperative of Ankeny, a welcoming 55+ community in Ankeny, IA, offering cooperative living. With 10 specially designed and spacious floor plans, residents can keep their peace of mind. The community also promotes a vibrant and friendly environment, ensuring residents feel a sense of belonging during their stay.

Unique shops and recreational spaces are also available nearby, providing residents with unending leisure and wellness opportunities. Residents also enjoy delectable and healthy meals with a variety of restaurants in the area. With its state-of-the-art amenities and exceptional services, the community ensures residents have the finest retirement experience.

What does this home offer?

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Housing Options: 2 Bed

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Building Type: 3-story

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Dining Services

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Social and Recreational Activities

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Exercise Programs

Contact Vintage Cooperative of Ankeny

Overview of Villas at Meadow Springs

Enjoy a blissful retirement at Villas at Meadow Springs, a distinguished 55+ community in Ankeny, IA, offering independent living. The community has beautifully distinguished and spacious one- and two-bedroom floor plans, dedicated to residents’ comfort and safety. Residents can keep their peace of mind with round-the-clock emergency maintenance and an on-site team that helps with chores.

Thriving local amenities and recreational spaces are easily accessible, ensuring residents can spend their days as they please. A picnic and barbecue area is also available, promoting social interactions over delightful meals. The community is equipped with a library, a clubhouse, a game room, a patio, a fitness center, and parking, ensuring residents make the most of their best years.

What does this home offer?

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Minimum Age: 55 Years Old

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Housing Options: 1 Bed / 2 Bed

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Building Type: 3-story

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Social and Recreational Activities

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Exercise Programs

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Parking Available

Contact Villas at Meadow Springs

Overview of Pheasant Acres Apartments

Make every moment of your best years at Pheasant Acres Apartments, an outstanding community in Sioux City, IA, offering independent living. With beautifully furnished and cozy one-bedroom floor plans, those 62+ can find the right accommodation based on their preferences. On-site maintenance and laundry spaces are also available, so residents have a worry-free lifestyle.

Residents gain easy access to their necessities and leisure with thriving local shops and recreational spaces nearby. A fully equipped kitchen is also available, allowing residents to prepare meals based on their dietary needs and preferences. Pets are also allowed to accompany residents to ease their loneliness. The community is a great option for those aiming to downsize in retirement, especially with its vibrant and inviting environment.

What does this home offer?

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Minimum Age: 62 Years Old

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Pets Allowed

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Housing Options: 1 Bed

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Building Type: 3-story

Contact Pheasant Acres Apartments

Overview of Meadowcrest Senior Apartments

Experience the best of your golden years at Meadowcrest Senior Apartments, an astounding community in Davenport, IA, offering independent living. Dedicated to the comfort of those 55+, the community has income-based rents to ease financial burdens. On-site maintenance and management are also provided, ensuring residents can keep their peace of mind during their stay.

The community is surrounded by thriving shops and recreational spaces, providing residents with plenty of leisure and wellness opportunities. Residents can also prepare meals according to their dietary needs with a fully equipped kitchen in each unit. With its beautifully furnished amenities and welcoming environment, residents can make the most of their retirement.

What does this home offer?

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Minimum Age: 55 Years Old

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Housing Options: 1 Bed / 2 Bed

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Building Type: Single-story

Contact Meadowcrest Senior Apartments

Overview of Riverside Gardens Senior Apartments

Create meaningful moments in retirement at Riverside Gardens Senior Apartments, a blissful community in Sioux City, IA, offering independent living. With income-based rents and paid utilities, the community strives to ease financial burdens. Residents experience a worry-free retirement with round-the-clock emergency maintenance and management.

Thriving local shops and recreational spaces are available nearby, ensuring residents will not run out of things to do for leisure and wellness. A congregate lunch is also provided from Monday to Friday, so residents enjoy a hassle-free dining that caters to their dietary needs and preferences. The community is ideal for those looking to downsize in retirement, especially with its state-of-the-art amenities and a welcoming environment.

What does this home offer?

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Pets Allowed

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Room Sizes: 540 sq. ft

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Housing Options: Apartment

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Building Type: Single-story

Contact Riverside Gardens Senior Apartments

Overview of Woodlands Creek Senior Living

Woodlands Creek’s vision is to create a warm and welcoming independent living environment where seniors feel at home, fostering meaningful relationships and endless possibilities. Their mission revolves around promoting engaging social interactions and providing personalized care to nurture a sense of belonging. Woodlands prioritizes residents’ well-being, ensuring their needs are met with compassion and respect.

Residents at Woodlands Creek enjoy a vibrant lifestyle with a range of scheduled activities for independent living seniors. The community also offers comprehensive services for assisted living and memory care residents, including transportation, access to senior physicians, and round-the-clock nursing staff, ensuring comfort and security for all residents.

 

What does this home offer?

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Pets Allowed

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Housing Options: Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed

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Building Type: 3-story

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Transportation Services

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Fitness and Recreation

Contact Woodlands Creek Senior Living

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 Independent Living in Iowa

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 3 independent living communities in Iowa. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.

How do I choose the right independent living community 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 independent living communities 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.