Best Nursing Homes in Iowa City, IA

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 5 nursing homes in Iowa City, IA using CMS data, inspection records, complaints, amenities, and facility-level details. How we rank nursing homes in IA
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We analyzed These are the facilities in Iowa City, IA our team has analyzed — not a count of every nursing home provider in Iowa City, IA.
5 homes
Other senior care options in Iowa City:
Avg Overall CMS Rating: 2.7/ 5The average Overall CMS Rating for all CMS-certified nursing homes in Iowa City, IA. Ratings combine health inspections, staffing, and quality measures, with inspections weighted most. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 3.2/ 5
Avg Staffing Rating: 3.3/ 5The average Staffing Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in Iowa City, IA. Reflects nursing staff hours per resident per day (including RNs), adjusted for residents' care needs. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 3.4/ 5
Avg Health Insp. Rating: 3.0/ 5The average Health Inspection Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in Iowa City, IA. Based on each facility's recent inspections and complaint investigations, weighing the number, scope, and severity of deficiencies. Individual facilities can vary widely from this average.
National Average: 3.0/ 5

Compare Nursing Homes around Iowa City (Metro Area)

Info below is compiled from CMS reports & 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.

The facility name. Click to view the full profile page on Assisted Living Magazine, including photos, services, and contact info.
CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the federal agency that regulates nursing homes) Overall 5-star rating — a composite of Health Inspection, Staffing, and Quality Measures scores. 5 stars = top 10% nationally. 1 star = bottom 10%. The single most important number to start with when comparing facilities.
Care Types in This Table 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.
Neighborhood or city area where the facility is located. Proximity to family, hospitals, and green space matters for both quality of life and ease of visitation. Consider drive time and transit access when evaluating location.
Licensed bed capacity. Larger facilities (300+ beds) often have more specialized programs but can feel institutional. Smaller homes (under 150 beds) tend to deliver more personalized care. Compare with Avg Res/Day to understand how full the facility typically runs.
Percentage of licensed beds filled on an average day. Color indicates financial health: green (90%+) = operationally strong, typically profitable. Amber (80–89%) = stable but leaving revenue on the table. Orange (70–79%) = financial strain likely, may struggle with fixed costs. Red (<70%) = significant distress, closure or ownership change risk increases sharply.
This facility's occupancy rate compared to the statewide average for similar facilities. A positive number means above-average demand. Facilities running 5%+ above the state average are typically the most sought-after in their market — a strong proxy for reputation.
CMS-adjusted total nurse hours per resident per day (RN + LPN + CNA combined). The national average is approximately 3.5 hrs. Higher is better — more direct care time per resident. Below 3.0 is a red flag. CMS weights RN hours more heavily because RNs handle complex clinical decisions that CNAs cannot.
CMS Health Inspection star rating (1–5 stars), based on the 3 most recent annual state surveys plus any complaint investigations. This is the hardest rating to manipulate — it reflects real surveyor findings on-site. 5 stars = fewest deficiencies found. 1 star = most. It carries the heaviest weight in the Overall CMS rating.
CMS Staffing star rating (1–5 stars), based on daily nurse staffing hours submitted to CMS via verified payroll data. Compares RN, LPN, and CNA coverage relative to resident acuity level. 5 stars = well above expected staffing. Weekend staffing is evaluated separately, as that's where many facilities quietly reduce coverage.
CMS Quality Measures star rating (1–5 stars), based on 15 clinical outcome metrics including fall rates, pressure ulcers, antipsychotic drug use, and hospital readmissions. Captures actual resident health outcomes, not just compliance. High QM combined with low Health Inspection scores can indicate a facility with strong care but weak documentation practices.
Registered Nurse hours per resident/day compared to the statewide average. RNs are the highest-skilled nursing staff — they assess residents, manage medications, and respond to emergencies. A value of +50% means RN coverage is 50% above the state norm. Negative values are a concern for residents with complex or acute medical needs.
Total nursing staff hours (RN + LPN + CNA combined) per resident/day vs. the statewide average. A broader measure than RN vs State — it captures the entire care team. A facility can have high total staffing but low RN hours, meaning more aides and fewer nurses. Read both columns together for the full picture.
Total dollar amount of federal monetary fines (civil money penalties) issued by CMS in the past 3 years. Fines are only levied for serious violations — typically actual harm to residents, repeated uncorrected deficiencies, or systemic non-compliance. Even a single fine is noteworthy. Multiple fines strongly suggest a pattern, not isolated incidents.
Total health deficiency citations from the most recent standard inspection cycle. Minor citations (scope A–C) are common and often administrative in nature. Higher counts aren't always disqualifying, but should be read alongside Severe Citations to understand actual harm levels. Under 10 is strong for a large facility; 30+ warrants a closer look.
Average deficiency citations per CMS inspection (survey) in the reporting window — total citations divided by the number of inspections. Lower is better; compare alongside total Citations and Severe Citations for context.
Citations at CMS scope/severity level G or higher — G–I means actual harm occurred; J–L means residents were placed in immediate jeopardy. (D–F is potential for harm only). Examples include unaddressed falls, medication errors causing injury, neglect, or abuse.
Average number of residents in the building on any given day, derived from annual census data. Reflects true operating scale — a 400-bed facility running 200 residents/day operates very differently from one at 390. Higher resident counts generally mean more funded staffing hours.
Better Business Bureau rating (A+ to F). Reflects complaint history, business transparency, and how family disputes were resolved. A+ means no significant unresolved complaints. A blank (—) means the facility isn't BBB-accredited, which is common for healthcare providers and not necessarily a negative signal.
Walk Score® (0–100). Measures walkability of the surrounding area. 90–100 = Walker's Paradise. 70–89 = Very Walkable. 50–69 = Somewhat Walkable. Below 50 = Car-Dependent. Higher scores benefit family visitors, resident outings, and staff commuting.
The licensed owner or operator of record filed with CMS — the individual or organization legally accountable for the facility. Searching the operator name across other facilities can reveal chain or multi-site ownership, which matters: chain-operated homes tend to have more variable quality outcomes than independently run facilities.
What the home actually collects for resident care, after contractual allowances, bad debt and discounts — not gross billings. Taken from the latest complete annual cost report, so it is comparable across homes reporting the same period. Revenue alone doesn't indicate care quality, but it funds staffing and capital reinvestment. Pair with Payroll %. Figures are from each facility's most recent complete fiscal year — hover a value for the exact year; a * marks homes that report an older period than most facilities.
Staff salaries plus wage-related benefits from the latest complete annual cost report. Contract and agency labour is counted separately, under other operating costs, so a home leaning on agency staff can show a low figure here. Payroll is the cost most directly tied to care quality — compare with Payroll % for full context. Figures are from each facility's most recent complete fiscal year — hover a value for the exact year; a * marks homes that report an older period than most facilities.
Payroll as a share of NET PATIENT REVENUE (not gross revenue). Both figures come from the same cost-report year. A higher figure means more of each revenue dollar goes to staff pay. Read with the Staffing star rating to judge whether spend translates into coverage — and note that homes whose patient revenue covers only part of their operation can read implausibly high. The Iowa average is: 60.3% Figures are from each facility's most recent complete fiscal year — hover a value for the exact year; a * marks homes that report an older period than most facilities.
CMS Certification Number: the unique federal identifier for this skilled nursing provider.
Briarwood Health Care Center
NH
RC
SNF
Iowa City (Roosevelt)
62
Facility 62
IA AVG 67
Rank #107 / 241
80.6%
Facility 80.6%
IA AVG 77.9%
Rank #116 / 229
+4%
4.85
Facility 4.85
IA AVG 4.30
Rank #49 / 231
-20%+13%
$0
Facility $0
IA AVG $53.4k
Rank #1 / 239
8
Facility 8
IA AVG 21.7
Rank #56 / 232
4.0
Facility 4.0
IA AVG 4.1
Rank #73 / 232
-50-
33
Facility 33
IA AVG 49
Rank #184 / 260
Kristin Schmidt-Solberg
$6.3MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $6.3MFiscal year ending 12/2023
IA AVG $6.9M
Rank #105 / 224
$3.3MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $3.3MFiscal year ending 12/2023
IA AVG $4.2M
Rank #122 / 224
52.3%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility 52.3%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
IA AVG 60.3%
Rank #172 / 224
165172
Lantern Park Specialty Care
NH
SNF
Coralville (Wickham)
90
Facility 90
IA AVG 67
Rank #33 / 241
95.6%
Facility 95.6%
IA AVG 77.9%
Rank #13 / 229
+23%
4.20
Facility 4.20
IA AVG 4.30
Rank #120 / 231
+25%-2%
$62.6k
Facility $62.6k
IA AVG $53.4k
Rank #219 / 239
47
Facility 47
IA AVG 21.7
Rank #211 / 232
5.9
Facility 5.9
IA AVG 4.1
Rank #184 / 232
586-
21
Facility 21
IA AVG 49
Rank #218 / 260
Scott Eberly
$9.3MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $9.3MFiscal year ending 12/2023
IA AVG $6.9M
Rank #41 / 224
$3.7MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $3.7MFiscal year ending 12/2023
IA AVG $4.2M
Rank #104 / 224
39.9%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility 39.9%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
IA AVG 60.3%
Rank #223 / 224
165214
Windmill Manor
NH
MC
SNF
Coralville
120
Facility 120
IA AVG 67
Rank #10 / 241
87.5%
Facility 87.5%
IA AVG 77.9%
Rank #69 / 229
+12%
3.44
Facility 3.44
IA AVG 4.30
Rank #218 / 231
-48%-20%
$11.2k
Facility $11.2k
IA AVG $53.4k
Rank #157 / 239
23
Facility 23
IA AVG 21.7
Rank #142 / 232
2.6
Facility 2.6
IA AVG 4.1
Rank #57 / 232
2105-
14
Facility 14
IA AVG 49
Rank #232 / 260
Stacey Cremeens
$10.2MFiscal year ending 03/2024
Facility $10.2MFiscal year ending 03/2024
IA AVG $6.9M
Rank #31 / 224
$5.0MFiscal year ending 03/2024
Facility $5.0MFiscal year ending 03/2024
IA AVG $4.2M
Rank #51 / 224
48.6%Fiscal year ending 03/2024
Facility 48.6%Fiscal year ending 03/2024
IA AVG 60.3%
Rank #191 / 224
165545

Rank badges are statewide: each nursing home is ranked against every IA nursing home we track that reports that metric, not just the 5 analyzed for Iowa City. See how we rank facilities

Overview of Briarwood Health Care Center

Briarwood Health Care Center of Iowa City offers a haven of reliable and comprehensive services, encompassing rehabilitation, long-term care, and respite care. The center’s serene setting creates an atmosphere akin to heaven, providing a well-maintained and inviting community for its residents. One of the center’s standout features is its specialization in skilled therapy services, tailored to aid individuals transitioning from hospital-based settings to their previous levels of independence. With a patient-centered approach at its core, the center boasts a vibrant and dynamic events calendar, accompanied by a monthly newsletter that keeps residents engaged and informed.

Around-the-clock nursing services ensure that residents receive the support they need, including specialized treatments such as IV medications, wound care, and therapeutic services like occupational, physical, or speech therapy. The center’s commitment to individualized care extends to customized nutrition services, reflecting its dedication to meeting residents’ unique needs. The center’s excellence is further underscored by its high nursing home ratings, a testament to its unwavering commitment to quality care. As a reputable establishment, the Briarwood Health Care Center is fully compliant with nursing home rules and regulations, ensuring a safe and well-regulated environment for residents.

Contact Briarwood Health Care Center

Overview of Lantern Park Specialty Care

Ensconced within Coralville, Iowa, Lantern Park Specialty Care extends a warm embrace to seniors seeking personalized and compassionate transitional healthcare. Catering to a diverse range of needs, this facility offers a comprehensive array of services, including rehabilitation, skilled nursing, long-term care, and end-of-life support through coordinated hospice care. Residents have access to a spectrum of therapies, such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy, coupled with specialized wound care and meticulous medication management.

At Lantern Park Specialty Care, the commitment to excellence extends further with the availability of amenities like a fully-equipped beauty and barber shop, tailored bariatric accommodations, and an inviting menu selection. The facility’s impeccable standards are underscored by its nursing home qualifications, offering a reliable and trustworthy environment where seniors can confidently navigate their healthcare journey with the utmost dignity and comfort.

Contact Lantern Park Specialty Care

Overview of Windmill Manor

Nestled in Coralville, Iowa, Windmill Manor shines as a beacon of exceptional skilled nursing services. Their extensive medical offerings range from long-term care to outpatient services, respite care, and hospice care, with a team of dedicated professionals providing 24-hour nursing support. Residents benefit from the expertise of a registered dietitian and regular physician visits, ensuring comprehensive well-being. This secure community is further enhanced by its picturesque gardens, offering a haven for seniors seeking a serene yet engaging lifestyle.

Here, residents enjoy both security and freedom in a thoughtfully designed environment, where airy surroundings blend seamlessly with safety measures. With the option of private or companion suites, and a range of social and recreational activities, including a remarkable geriatric nutritional program, Windmill Manor creates a holistic living experience. This exceptional community doesn’t just promise excellence – it’s backed by the positive reviews and strong reputation that reflect its commitment to top-tier care and support.

Contact Windmill Manor

Overview of Mercy Hospital

Nestled in Iowa City, Mercy Hospital exudes a sense of grace as it navigates the intricate landscape of the aging process. With a keen understanding of seniors’ needs, the hospital provides an array of services that go beyond the ordinary. From offering specialized nursing home care to addressing a diverse range of conditions, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and more, Mercy Hospital is a trusted haven for seniors seeking comprehensive and attentive medical support.

As an institution attuned to the highest nursing home requirements, Mercy Hospital offers a holistic approach to seniors’ well-being. From osteoporosis to osteoarthritis, their comprehensive services encompass a spectrum of conditions that come with aging. The hospital’s commitment to monitoring and addressing potential complications showcases its dedication to delivering care that goes above and beyond. Backed by a team of compassionate and skilled professionals, Mercy Hospital ensures seniors receive the tailored support they deserve during their golden years.

Contact Mercy Hospital

Overview of Iowa City Rehab and Health Care Center

Situated on Rochester Avenue, Iowa City Rehab and Health Care Center is a nursing home in Iowa City, Iowa, that provides long-term care and short-term services. Operating for over 42 years, the community is licensed with 76 beds. Furthermore, its current occupancy is 57%, with 43 older adults in residence.

An average of 1 hour and 56 minutes of daily support from Nurse Aides is provided, along with approximately 40 minutes of Registered Nurse care and 25 minutes of LPN/LVN services. Additionally, this staffing structure supports individuals who require skilled nursing care, including those recovering from illness, injury, or surgery.

With a Walk Score of 36, the community’s area is relatively walkable with few amenities accessible on foot. Moreover, most errands and visits require a car for accessibility.

Medication administration practices, staffing levels, infection prevention, and resident safety protocols were also identified as areas of concern on the most recent state inspection. A discussion with the leadership or a tour of Iowa City Rehab and Health Care Center would also benefit interested families who are exploring care options.

Contact Iowa City Rehab and Health Care Center

Ranking Methodology

How we rank these nursing homes

Every nursing home above is evaluated across five weighted categories using CMS data including Care Compare, Payroll-Based Journal, and Medicare Cost Reports.

  • CMS data
  • 5 weighted categories
  • Updated quarterly
Full methodology

Weighting overview

  • 35%
    Care Quality
  • 20%
    Staffing
  • 20%
    Regulatory
  • 20%
    Operational
  • 5%
    Environment
01

Care Quality 35%

The largest single share of every ranking. CMS star ratings and quality measures that reflect actual care delivered to residents.

  • Includes
  • Overall Rating
  • Health Inspection
  • QM Rating
  • Long-Stay QM
  • Short-Stay QM
02

Staffing Adequacy 20%

The strongest predictor of resident outcomes. Volume and stability of nursing care, drawn from CMS Payroll-Based Journal.

  • Includes
  • Nurse Hrs/Res/Day
  • RN vs State
  • Total Nurse Staff Hrs vs State
  • RN Turnover
03

Regulatory & Safety Record 20%

Inspection patterns that star ratings can mask. We weight per-inspection rates more heavily than raw counts.

  • Includes
  • Citations
  • Citations/Inspection
  • Severe Citations
  • Fines
  • Accreditations
04

Operational & Financial Stability 20%

Stable operations and sound finances are leading indicators of consistent care over time.

  • Includes
  • Occupancy vs State
  • Avg Length of Stay
  • Revenue
  • Payroll %
  • Years in Operation
  • Admin Tenure
05

Environment & Accessibility 5%

Context that matters to families but doesn't directly measure clinical care. Weighted lower for nursing homes than for assisted or independent living.

  • Includes
  • Walk Score
  • BBB Rating
No paid rankings Facilities cannot pay to influence placement.
How we're paid: If we help you find a home and you move in, that home may pay us a referral fee. This never affects where they rank or what you pay. Learn more
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Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Homes in Iowa City, IA

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 nursing home care?

Yes — Iowa Medicaid covers nursing home care for residents who meet income, asset, and medical-need eligibility requirements. Most CMS-certified nursing homes accept Medicaid as a primary payer once long-term-care eligibility is established.

What is nursing home care?

Nursing homes (also called skilled nursing facilities) provide 24/7 medical care from licensed nurses, rehabilitation services, and long-term custodial care for residents with significant health or functional needs.

How many nursing homes are listed on this page?

This page features 5 nursing homes in Iowa City, IA. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.

How do I choose the right nursing home in Iowa City, 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 Iowa City, 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 nursing homes in Iowa City, 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.