Other senior care options in Iowa:

Page 8 of Best Independent Living in Iowa

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 225 independent living communities in Iowa using Iowa Dept. of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank independent living in IA
Reviewed by
Last updated
Jul 2026
We analyzed
225 homes
Other senior care options in Iowa:
Avg Walk Score: 45/ 100The average Walk Score across facilities in Iowa. 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: 71The average licensed bed capacity across facilities in Iowa. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 90

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% A13
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% A7
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
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Overview of Suites of Ankeny

The Suites of Ankeny is an assisted living community known to offer luxury experiences to its residents, as well as their visiting families. Situated in the heart of Ankeny, this community offers services such as affordable assisted living, senior apartments, nursing care, and even short term stays. The community takes pride in the care they provide to their residents; from 24/7 nursing care access, to quality food prepared by excellent chefs, to regular community activities –  to ensure that each resident is fully supported from body, spirit, and mind.

The Suites of Ankeny’s assisted living apartments feature spacious one-to-two bedroom units that are pet friendly, with private kitchen and microwave, as well as in-apartment laundry. They also make sure that rooms are kept neat and tidy with their housekeeping service that comes in bi-weekly. Aside from the amenities their senior residents can enjoy, the community also offers its services to guests, and an option for a family member to live with their elderly loved one for an extra monthly fee. So if a senior wants to live a life of freedom, fun, and luxury – there’s no better place than The Suites of Ankeny!

Contact Suites of Ankeny

Edencrest at Green Meadows

6750 Corporate Dr, Johnston, IA 50131
Overview of Edencrest at Green Meadows

Located on Corporate Drive in Johnston, Iowa, Edencrest at Green Meadows is an assisted living community with 128 beds. The community operates in a two-story building. It offers studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom floor plans. With about 10 years in operation, it provides a mid-sized senior living option in the Johnston area.

The neighborhood has a Walk Score of 20, making it car-dependent. Most daily errands require a vehicle. The setting may appeal to residents and families who prefer a quieter, suburban environment. Nearby services are mainly reached by car.

The community currently has 51 residents, with a moderate occupancy. Families considering Edencrest at Green Meadows should visit the community in person to view the available floor plans, learn about daily programs, and understand which services and amenities are included.

Contact Edencrest at Green Meadows

Overview of The Summit at Bettendorf

The Summit at Bettendorf is a well-regarded retirement community in Bettendorf, IA, that offers a wide range of care options, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, long-term care, and rehabilitation. The community also features a variety of thoughtfully furnished floor plans in a nurturing and home-like environment, ensuring older adults can feel at home during their stay. With chef-prepared meals, 24-hour care, and wellness programs, residents can maintain their independence with ease. Dedicated to improving residents’ quality of life, the community provides exceptional care tailored to their needs and preferences.

Lectures, light physical activities, and resident clubs help residents have fun and continue learning. Residents can also interact with friends and lounge, as state-of-the-art amenities, like the rooftop bar, salon, and walking paths, are available. Set in the quiet neighborhood of Bettendorf, the community guarantees accessibility and convenience. With its exceptional quality of care, this retirement community is a great choice for senior living in Iowa.

Contact The Summit at Bettendorf

Overview of Good Samaritan Society – Davenport

Committed to providing compassionate in-home care for senior residents of Davenport, Iowa, Good Samaritan Society Home Health Care empowers individuals to live fulfilling lives within the comfort of their own homes. Serving Scott, Muscatine, Cedar, and Clinton Counties, their reach extends to a broad range of communities.

Good Samaritan offers a helping hand to those in need of additional support with daily living, medical management, recovering from surgery, illness, accidents, or falls. Their duly licensed team provides a variety of services to meet individual needs, including post-surgical rehabilitation, physical, occupational, and speech therapy, medication management, disease management, wound care, and even telehealth consultations. Integrating clinical expertise with compassionate care, Good Samaritan helps clients regain strength, maintain independence, and age gracefully in their preferred environment.

Contact Good Samaritan Society – Davenport

Overview of Keystone Place at Forevergreen

Located within North Liberty, Iowa, Keystone Place at Forevergreen stands as a haven of passionate care and vibrant living. Offering a comprehensive range of services, including independent living, assisted living, and memory care, this community is renowned for its landscape-rich campus and its unwavering commitment to fostering an engaged and socially active lifestyle for its residents. Here, the pursuit of fun and personal growth thrives, allowing seniors to flourish physically and mentally.

The community boasts an elegant clubhouse adorned with a library and theater, serving as a hub for enriching activities. An expansive activity center and a state-of-the-art fitness hub contribute to the dynamic environment. The spacious apartment homes, available in large one and two bedroom floor plans, offer ample storage and comfort. With a 24-hour concierge and a specially trained staff available round the clock, residents experience a secure and supportive atmosphere. The courtyard also beckons with secure access, providing a breathable space for relaxation.

Contact Keystone Place at Forevergreen

Overview of Southern Hills Specialty Care

Dedicated to providing high-quality senior living, Southern Hills Specialty Care in West Lakes Parkway, West Des Moines, IA, is a reliable senior living community that offers a wide range of care services. These include assisted living, memory care, skilled care, therapy services, wound care management, and hospice. With a team of compassionate and highly skilled professionals delivering top-tier care and assistance around the clock, seniors can thrive and live their lives to the fullest.

A variety of planned activities and engaging programs are also provided to ensure residents have fun and meet friends. Special diets are also accommodated to ensure health needs and cravings are met through delicious and nutritious meals. Southern Hills Specialty Care is great for seniors looking to make the most out of their best years.

Contact Southern Hills Specialty Care

Overview of Keystone Senior Suites

Make the most of your best years at Keystone Senior Suites, a distinguished community in Keystone, IA, offering assisted living. Residents can keep their peace of mind with a compassionate and well-trained team that provides top-notch care tailored to their daily living activities and personal needs around the clock. With housekeeping and laundry services, residents enjoy a hassle-free lifestyle.

Dedicated to enhancing residents’ living experience, a thoughtfully curated calendar of enriching activities and stimulating programs is conducted. Mealtimes are something to look forward to, with delicious and healthy dining options served to meet residents’ dietary needs and preferences. The community is a good option for those needing assistance to live comfortably in retirement, especially with its quality services and well-maintained amenities.

Contact Keystone Senior Suites

Overview of Independence Village of Waukee

Tucked away in Waukee, IA Independence Village of Waukee is a one-of-a-kind senior living community that offers an array of care options, including independent living, assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing. The community offers a wide range of apartment floor plans, including one-bedroom, two-bedroom apartments, and shared suites for memory care residents. A dedicated care team is available 24-hours a day to provide licensed support and various assistance, from daily living activities to medication reminders, and mobility assistance.

Committed to offering a nurturing and engaging environment that fosters social interaction and vibrant living, the community offers a wide array of activities and events inspired by residents’ interests and skills. Residents also enjoy a personalized dining experience, consisting of tastefully prepared meals tailored to their dietary needs and tastes. Here, residents are given access to the necessities they need to live a fulfilling golden years.

Contact Independence Village of Waukee

Overview of River Living Center

Experience a blissful retirement at River Living Center, an astounding community in Guttenberg, IA, offering assisted living. Committed to residents’ welfare, a kind and highly skilled team provides top-notch care tailored to their unique needs around the clock. Residents can also feel a sense of belonging, especially with the community’s nurturing and welcoming environment.

Residents are encouraged to live actively and make new friends with a jam-packed calendar of enriching activities and engaging programs. Mealtimes foster comfort and satisfy dietary needs with delicious and nutritious dining options. With its nurturing and vibrant environment, the community ensures residents make the most of their golden years without worries.

Contact River Living Center

Overview of The Gardens of Cedar Rapids

The Gardens of Cedar Rapids is a one-story building in Cedar Rapids, Iowa with 40 beds, and it covers nursing home care, assisted living, independent living, memory care, and skilled nursing care together in the same place. Apartments come in studio, one-bedroom, and two-bedroom sizes, and each one has its own climate control. Getting around the neighborhood mostly means driving, since the Walk Score here is just 7 out of 100.

Residents can spend time in the chapel, the library, the beauty salon, or the courtyard, which has paths for walking outside. Meals are served restaurant-style instead of like a cafeteria. A podiatrist and pharmacy services are available right on-site, and staff handle medication management too.

Nurses and nurse aides split up the daily care work. Registered nurses and licensed nurses each play a role, but nurse aides spend the most time directly with residents, about two and a half hours per person every day.

Out of 40 total beds, 35 are currently filled, which works out to 88% occupancy and points to steady interest in the community. The facility takes both Medicare and private pay. Jbrb Investments LLC owns the building, and Chalee Michael serves as the administrator. Iowa’s Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing conducts the state inspections, and past inspections here have mostly looked at medication management, hazardous materials safety, care documentation, and resident rights.

With multiple care types offered in a single location, added clinical services like podiatry and pharmacy support, and shared spaces like the chapel and courtyard, The Gardens of Cedar Rapids offers residents both medical support and a sense of community in one setting.

Contact The Gardens of Cedar Rapids

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.