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Compare Independent Living around Iowa
| Bethany Home Retirement Center | IL MC NH SNF | Dubuque (Eagle Point District) | 66
Facility
66
IA AVG
71
Rank
#181 / 406 | No |
69
Facility
69
IA AVG
45
Rank
#103 / 528 | 1 Bed / 2 Bed | - | - | - | 12 | 4
Facility
4
IA AVG
7
Rank
#122 / 306 | 2
Facility
2
IA AVG
0.9
Rank
#241 / 306 |
| Oaknoll Retirement Residence | IL AL NH | Iowa City (Roosevelt) | 70
Facility
70
IA AVG
71
Rank
#156 / 406 | No |
33
Facility
33
IA AVG
45
Rank
#344 / 528 | Private Rooms | 49
Facility
49
IA AVG
19
Rank
#13 / 284 | 81.4% | - | 12 | 2
Facility
2
IA AVG
7
Rank
#55 / 306 | 1
Facility
1
IA AVG
0.9
Rank
#210 / 306 |
| Sunrise Retirement Community | IL AL MC NH RC SNF | Sioux City | 74
Facility
74
IA AVG
71
Rank
#136 / 406 | Yes |
22
Facility
22
IA AVG
45
Rank
#411 / 528 | Studio | - | 90.5% | A+ | 25 | 3
Facility
3
IA AVG
7
Rank
#89 / 306 | 6
Facility
6
IA AVG
0.9
Rank
#294 / 306 |
| Green Hills Retirement Community | IL AL MC NH SNF | Ames (Hamilton Drive) | 56
Facility
56
IA AVG
71
Rank
#233 / 406 | Yes |
18
Facility
18
IA AVG
45
Rank
#430 / 528 | 1 Bed / 2 Bed | 40
Facility
40
IA AVG
19
Rank
#24 / 284 | 78.6% | - | 11 | 2
Facility
2
IA AVG
7
Rank
#55 / 306 | 3
Facility
3
IA AVG
0.9
Rank
#258 / 306 |
| Meth Wick Community | IL AL MC NH RC SNF | Cedar Rapids (The Meth-Wick Community) | 69
Facility
69
IA AVG
71
Rank
#167 / 406 | No |
23
Facility
23
IA AVG
45
Rank
#405 / 528 | - | - | 81.4% | - | - | - | - |
| Mill Pond | IL AL MC NH SNF | Ankeny | 60
Facility
60
IA AVG
71
Rank
#213 / 406 | Yes |
16
Facility
16
IA AVG
45
Rank
#439 / 528 | Studio / 1 Bed / 2 Bed | 23
Facility
23
IA AVG
19
Rank
#109 / 284 | 98.3% | - | 16 | 5
Facility
5
IA AVG
7
Rank
#147 / 306 | 1
Facility
1
IA AVG
0.9
Rank
#210 / 306 |
| Deerfield Health Care Center | IL NH AL RESC | Urbandale | 30
Facility
30
IA AVG
71
Rank
#389 / 406 | No |
5
Facility
5
IA AVG
45
Rank
#488 / 528 | - | 31
Facility
31
IA AVG
19
Rank
#42 / 284 | 73.3% | A+ | 19 | 3
Facility
3
IA AVG
7
Rank
#89 / 306 | 3
Facility
3
IA AVG
0.9
Rank
#258 / 306 |
| Wesley Acres | IL ADC AL MC NH SNF | Des Moines (Greenwood) | 80
Facility
80
IA AVG
71
Rank
#105 / 406 | Yes |
72
Facility
72
IA AVG
45
Rank
#89 / 528 | - | - | 91.3% | - | 21 | 8
Facility
8
IA AVG
7
Rank
#204 / 306 | 3
Facility
3
IA AVG
0.9
Rank
#258 / 306 |
| Terrace Glen Village | IL AL NH SNF | Marion (Flynn) | 40
Facility
40
IA AVG
71
Rank
#324 / 406 | No |
14
Facility
14
IA AVG
45
Rank
#444 / 528 | - | 8
Facility
8
IA AVG
19
Rank
#203 / 284 | 95.0% | A | 13 | 0
Facility
0
IA AVG
7
Rank
#1 / 306 | 3
Facility
3
IA AVG
0.9
Rank
#258 / 306 |
| Simpson Memorial Home | IL AL NH SNF | West Liberty (North Miller Street) | 55
Facility
55
IA AVG
71
Rank
#239 / 406 | No |
41
Facility
41
IA AVG
45
Rank
#287 / 528 | - | - | 58.2% | - | 18 | 3
Facility
3
IA AVG
7
Rank
#89 / 306 | 4
Facility
4
IA AVG
0.9
Rank
#279 / 306 |
| Friendship Village | IL AL MC NH SNF | Waterloo | 72
Facility
72
IA AVG
71
Rank
#143 / 406 | Yes |
52
Facility
52
IA AVG
45
Rank
#202 / 528 | 2 Bed / 3 Bed | 50
Facility
50
IA AVG
19
Rank
#8 / 284 | 91.7% | - | 17 | 0
Facility
0
IA AVG
7
Rank
#1 / 306 | 3
Facility
3
IA AVG
0.9
Rank
#258 / 306 |
| Prairie Vista Village | IL AL NH SNF | South Altoona | 68
Facility
68
IA AVG
71
Rank
#170 / 406 | No |
29
Facility
29
IA AVG
45
Rank
#372 / 528 | - | 12
Facility
12
IA AVG
19
Rank
#180 / 284 | 50.0% | A | 7 | 1
Facility
1
IA AVG
7
Rank
#31 / 306 | 0
Facility
0
IA AVG
0.9
Rank
#1 / 306 |
| Mayflower Home | IL AL MC NH SNF | Grinnell | 40
Facility
40
IA AVG
71
Rank
#324 / 406 | No |
82
Facility
82
IA AVG
45
Rank
#39 / 528 | - | - | 77.5% | - | 11 | 3
Facility
3
IA AVG
7
Rank
#89 / 306 | 0
Facility
0
IA AVG
0.9
Rank
#1 / 306 |
| Mount Carmel Bluffs | IL NH MC | Dubuque (South Switch Junction) | 60
Facility
60
IA AVG
71
Rank
#213 / 406 | No |
2
Facility
2
IA AVG
45
Rank
#500 / 528 | 1 Bed / 2 Bed | 5
Facility
5
IA AVG
19
Rank
#233 / 284 | 93.3% | - | 10 | 2
Facility
2
IA AVG
7
Rank
#55 / 306 | 2
Facility
2
IA AVG
0.9
Rank
#241 / 306 |
| Clarence Nursing Home | IL AL NH SNF | Clarence | 46
Facility
46
IA AVG
71
Rank
#273 / 406 | No |
34
Facility
34
IA AVG
45
Rank
#341 / 528 | - | - | 91.3% | A+ | 18 | 3
Facility
3
IA AVG
7
Rank
#89 / 306 | 0
Facility
0
IA AVG
0.9
Rank
#1 / 306 |
Experience the best of your golden years at Landmark Commons, a distinguished community in Waterloo, IA, offering independent living. The community’s thoughtfully furnished and spacious accommodations, alongside housekeeping and maintenance, allow residents to feel at ease during their stay. Residents can also easily access their necessities with local amenities nearby.
A variety of wellness opportunities and leisure activities are conducted, encouraging residents to live actively and make new friends. With restaurant-style dining, residents enjoy a hassle-free dining experience that caters to their dietary needs and preferences. With its warm and welcoming environment, residents are guaranteed the finest retirement experience.
Prairie Gate is a senior living community in Council Bluffs, Iowa. It offers independent living, long-term care, memory care, and transitional care. Residents can enjoy various activities and events while living in a supportive environment.
Find all the care you need with the astounding senior living community of Rotary Senior Living in Eagle Grove, IA, which offers an array of care options including assisted living, independent living, memory care, long-term care, and rehabilitation. With its dedication to delivering the highest quality of care and support, the community provides a team of licensed and well-trained professionals helping seniors with their needs 24/7. Families can also rest easy with the knowledge that their loved ones are well-cared for.
The community fosters a vibrant and welcoming environment, ensuring residents have the freedom to live as they please. Healthy and delicious meals await residents every mealtime for a delightful dining experience. Rotary Senior Living is great for seniors looking to enjoy their golden years in one place.
Nestled in the charming city of Bettendorf, Iowa, Holiday Palmer Hills is a vibrant and active independent senior living community. With a focus on creating a welcoming environment, residents at Holiday Palmer Hills have the opportunity to forge new friendships, pursue their interests, and rediscover themselves during their retirement years.
This community offers a range of senior living amenities that are designed to enhance the quality of life for its residents. From comfortable and inviting spaces to beautifully landscaped grounds, residents can immerse themselves in a serene and enjoyable environment. Planned events and activities cater to various interests, ensuring that there is always something exciting to engage in. Additionally, residents can indulge in delicious dining options and benefit from supportive senior living services that prioritize their well-being and comfort. At Holiday Palmer Hills, retirement becomes a pleasurable and fulfilling experience.
Windsor Oaks independent living community offers an inviting atmosphere so that residents can be comfortable and feel a sense of belonging in their new home. Life in the retirement home means a life of convenience and flexibility because management ensures that everyone is treated with respect and compassion. Windsor Oaks is an excellent community that has proven to be an exemplary resident-centered community where seniors can thrive while living a lovely life.
The tight-knit community excels at cultivating individual-focused senior living that fosters growth and independence in a nurturing environment. Residents can immerse themselves in amenities such as home-cooked meals, recreational activities, enriching programs, and ADLs.
Glen Meadows
West Des Moines’ Independent Retirement Community
Welcome to Worry-Free Senior Living in West Des Moines!
Glen Meadows is ideally located near West Des Moines’ highlights, allowing residents to enjoy scenic spots like
Raccoon River Park, along with shopping and dining at Valley West Mall and local restaurants. The vibrant arts
scene features galleries and theaters hosting cultural events year-round, providing easy access to nature and
exceptional amenities.
Schedule a tour and join us for lunch to see why Glen Meadows is ideal for seniors living in West Des Moines.
850 S 60th St. Bldg. 1000
West Des Moines, IA 50266
Glen Meadows Retirement Community
Discover the joy and ease of all-inclusive retirement living. Picture yourself in a luxurious, safe, and
vibrant community with a fantastic location for fun local outings. With three chef-prepared meals
offered daily, and weekly housekeeping and maintenance included, you’ll have more time for family,
friends, and the other important things in life. This vision comes to life at Glen Meadows Retirement Community
Designed for comfort, our apartment homes come in a variety of floor plans. Each living space features
window coverings, a climate-controlled thermostat, and ample closet space. The apartment kitchens are
also equipped with full-sized appliances. You are free to decorate your unit around your unique tastes.
Pets are also warmly welcome for no additional fee.
Our Signature Freedom Dining program is the focal point of the resort lifestyle and often the most
praised feature of our community. Our executive chef prepares three quality meals daily with an
evolving menu, fresh ingredients, and diet-conscious recipes. Can’t make it to dinner? No worries. With
our meal delivery service, we’ll prepare you a plate and bring it to your door. You can also visit the
“chef’s pantry” for snacks any time – day or night.
The most important part of our community is the shared spaces that allow you to meet other residents,
celebrate fun and memorable moments, and relax. Our common areas include a 150-seat theater,
library, billiards room, arcade, conversation areas, a lounge with bar, superb fitness and exercise room,
spa area, and business center. Our Lifestyle Director plans monthly community events around these
spaces, allowing you to practice new skills, see new things, meet new people, and much more.
While our community focuses on making your retirement fun and fulfilling, our greatest priority is your
safety. Our managers are your neighbors and live on-site to ensure you are happily enjoying your best
retirement life. With our 24/7 Emergency Alert System, round-the clock concierge, and live-in managers
there’s never a moment when you are unable to reach somebody for help!
Our gorgeous community is full of amenities and services, allowing you to enjoy all the conveniences of
all-inclusive living without the hassle of upkeep. Our ample list of amenities and robust social calendar
offers you choice and flexibility in how you choose to spend your time.
Additionally, if you’re ever craving a change of scenery and don’t want to leave behind the comforts we
offer, no worries! With our travel program, you can explore the country while staying at any of our other
Resort Lifestyle Communities locations for no additional cost.
Relax in the theater while watching a movie or get active in a group fitness class; spend teatime with the
gals or watch a game with the guys; cuddle up with a good book or go join a happy hour for fun times
with the neighbors! However you wish to spend your time, we are here to support the retirement of
your dreams.
Retire well. Retire here. Call today to schedule a private tour!
Ideally set in the harmonious neighborhood of Des Moines, IA, The 44 Dsm is an idyllic retreat that offers independent living. The community has a variety of beautifully furnished and spacious one- and two-bedroom accommodations, ensuring residents’ comfort and safety. Residents also gain easy access to their necessities with local shops in the area.
A thoughtfully planned calendar of engaging activities and enriching programs is conducted, encouraging residents to live actively and maintain social connections. Delightful restaurants and shops surrounding the area also provide residents with various dining options to satisfy their dietary needs and preferences. The community is a great option for those looking to downsize in retirement, especially with its warm and friendly setting.
Peacefully nestled in the quiet setting of Davenport, IA, Marycrest Senior Apartments is a distinct 55+ community that offers independent living. The community has beautifully designed and spacious one- and two-bedroom floor plans, ensuring residents are comfortable and safe. With convenient apartment features, residents enjoy a convenient lifestyle.
Thriving local shops and leisure sites are easily accessible, providing residents with various options to spend their days. Residents can prepare meals on their terms with a fully equipped kitchen in each unit. With a warm and welcoming environment, residents are guaranteed to enjoy the best of their golden years without hassles.
Live the retirement of your dreams at Vintage Hills Cooperative at Prairie Trail, an astounding community in Ankeny, IA, offering independent living. Purposely built and sophisticated accommodations are provided in a warm and welcoming environment, ensuring residents feel at ease during their stay. Maintenance services are also taken care of, so residents have more time to do the things they love.
A jam-packed calendar of engaging activities and enriching programs is conducted, encouraging residents to live actively and maintain social connections. Delightful restaurants and shops are also available nearby, providing residents with a variety of dining options to meet their dietary needs and preferences. The community is great for those looking to downsize in their golden years, especially with state-of-the-art amenities and exceptional services.
Luther Park Community is a senior living community in Des Moines. It serves occupants across a full spectrum of care needs, from independent living to skilled nursing and Alzheimer’s care. Set in a quiet residential neighborhood about 2.4 miles from downtown, the three-story community offers floor plans ranging from studios to two-bedroom apartments. Unit sizes span 517 to 1,050 square feet, so residents can find a layout that fits their space needs.
The home highlights care and independence. Daily life includes a hair salon, outdoor living spaces, an exercise room, and a library, with nutritious meals and transportation to outings integrated into the schedule. Pets are allowed, which matters to many occupants wanting their animal companions around. Central to the daily experience are fitness and recreational activities, alongside the attentive support each resident receives following their care level. The facility’s location scores 45 on the walkability scale, meaning some walkable nearby services, and most errands and appointments require a drive. For visiting families and friends, the residential setting offers a quieter pace than busier commercial areas, with easy access to local parks, shopping, dining, and hospitals nearby.
When considering the facility, families may want to tour the floor plans, observe daily activities and meal service, and discuss the care tier and housing option that best match their family member’s needs and preferences.
Ranking Methodology
How we rank these independent 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 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 225 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.



















