Page 13 of Best Nursing Homes in Iowa

Why trust this guide? Our editorial team analyzed 253 nursing homes in 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 our team has analyzed — not a count of every nursing home provider in Iowa.
253 homes
Other senior care options in Iowa:

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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 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. 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. HOS (Hospice Care): Comfort-focused care for those with a terminal illness, prioritizing quality of life over treatment. CCRC (Continuing Care Retirement Community): A campus with multiple care levels so residents can age in place without moving.
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.
A 0–100 score of a facility's regulatory inspection record, shown as a letter and compared with other facilities of the same kind in the same state. This is a proprietary Assisted Living Magazine grade. It is not a government rating. A dash means we have no inspection data for that facility.
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.
Heritage Care & Rehabilitation Center
NH
HOS
MC
RC
SNF
Mason City
71
Facility 71
IA AVG 67
Rank #78 / 241
88.6%
Facility 88.6%
IA AVG 78.3%
Rank #66 / 234
+13%
3.63
Facility 3.63
IA AVG 4.30
Rank #197 / 231
B+ -61%-15%
$0
Facility $0
IA AVG $53.4k
Rank #1 / 239
7
Facility 7
IA AVG 21.7
Rank #33 / 233
3.5
Facility 3.5
IA AVG 4.1
Rank #110 / 233
163-
85
Facility 85
IA AVG 49
Rank #21 / 260
-
$6.1MFiscal year ending 06/2024
Facility $6.1MFiscal year ending 06/2024
IA AVG $6.9M
Rank #111 / 224
$4.0MFiscal year ending 06/2024
Facility $4.0MFiscal year ending 06/2024
IA AVG $4.2M
Rank #88 / 224
65.7%Fiscal year ending 06/2024
Facility 65.7%Fiscal year ending 06/2024
IA AVG 60.3%
Rank #54 / 224
165367
Alverno Senior Care Community
NH
MC
Clinton
112
Facility 112
IA AVG 67
Rank #16 / 241
75.0%
Facility 75.0%
IA AVG 78.3%
Rank #157 / 234
-4%
4.43
Facility 4.43
IA AVG 4.30
Rank #100 / 231
C+ +14%+3%
$0
Facility $0
IA AVG $53.4k
Rank #1 / 239
21
Facility 21
IA AVG 21.7
Rank #147 / 233
4.2
Facility 4.2
IA AVG 4.1
Rank #139 / 233
-84-
35
Facility 35
IA AVG 49
Rank #182 / 260
Letha Dolph
$11.7MFiscal year ending 06/2024
Facility $11.7MFiscal year ending 06/2024
IA AVG $6.9M
Rank #19 / 224
$6.4MFiscal year ending 06/2024
Facility $6.4MFiscal year ending 06/2024
IA AVG $4.2M
Rank #30 / 224
54.9%Fiscal year ending 06/2024
Facility 54.9%Fiscal year ending 06/2024
IA AVG 60.3%
Rank #147 / 224
165509
The Summit at Bettendorf
NH
AL
IL
MC
SNF
Bettendorf
40
Facility 40
IA AVG 67
Rank #197 / 241
87.5%
Facility 87.5%
IA AVG 78.3%
Rank #74 / 234
+12%
4.64
Facility 4.64
IA AVG 4.30
Rank #83 / 231
? +23%+8%
$26.4k
Facility $26.4k
IA AVG $53.4k
Rank #185 / 239
9
Facility 9
IA AVG 21.7
Rank #55 / 233
3.0
Facility 3.0
IA AVG 4.1
Rank #84 / 233
135-
11
Facility 11
IA AVG 49
Rank #239 / 260
-
$5.0MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $5.0MFiscal year ending 12/2023
IA AVG $6.9M
Rank #144 / 224
$4.9MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $4.9MFiscal year ending 12/2023
IA AVG $4.2M
Rank #59 / 224
97.7%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility 97.7%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
IA AVG 60.3%
Rank #5 / 224
165793
Elm Crest Senior Living Community
NH
AL
CCRC
IL
MC
SNF
Harlan
50
Facility 50
IA AVG 67
Rank #147 / 241
94.0%
Facility 94.0%
IA AVG 78.3%
Rank #30 / 234
+20%
4.22
Facility 4.22
IA AVG 4.30
Rank #120 / 231
? -37%-2%
$0
Facility $0
IA AVG $53.4k
Rank #1 / 239
18
Facility 18
IA AVG 21.7
Rank #128 / 233
3.6
Facility 3.6
IA AVG 4.1
Rank #115 / 233
147-
50
Facility 50
IA AVG 49
Rank #127 / 260
American Baptist Homes Of The Midwest
$7.1MFiscal year ending 08/2024
Facility $7.1MFiscal year ending 08/2024
IA AVG $6.9M
Rank #84 / 224
$3.8MFiscal year ending 08/2024
Facility $3.8MFiscal year ending 08/2024
IA AVG $4.2M
Rank #98 / 224
53.2%Fiscal year ending 08/2024
Facility 53.2%Fiscal year ending 08/2024
IA AVG 60.3%
Rank #159 / 224
165372
Simpson Memorial Home
NH
AL
IL
SNF
West Liberty
55
Facility 55
IA AVG 67
Rank #135 / 241
58.2%
Facility 58.2%
IA AVG 78.3%
Rank #204 / 234
-26%
4.98
Facility 4.98
IA AVG 4.30
Rank #42 / 231
? +9%+16%
$0
Facility $0
IA AVG $53.4k
Rank #1 / 239
9
Facility 9
IA AVG 21.7
Rank #55 / 233
3.0
Facility 3.0
IA AVG 4.1
Rank #84 / 233
-32-
41
Facility 41
IA AVG 49
Rank #164 / 260
Fredrick Grunder
$4.6MFiscal year ending 06/2024
Facility $4.6MFiscal year ending 06/2024
IA AVG $6.9M
Rank #151 / 224
$2.8MFiscal year ending 06/2024
Facility $2.8MFiscal year ending 06/2024
IA AVG $4.2M
Rank #145 / 224
61.1%Fiscal year ending 06/2024
Facility 61.1%Fiscal year ending 06/2024
IA AVG 60.3%
Rank #91 / 224
165418
Oakwood Care Center
NH
AL
HC
HOS
IL
MC
RC
SNF
Clear Lake
76
Facility 76
IA AVG 67
Rank #60 / 241
83.6%
Facility 83.6%
IA AVG 78.3%
Rank #101 / 234
+7%
3.82
Facility 3.82
IA AVG 4.30
Rank #164 / 231
? -43%-11%
$0
Facility $0
IA AVG $53.4k
Rank #1 / 239
12
Facility 12
IA AVG 21.7
Rank #80 / 233
3.0
Facility 3.0
IA AVG 4.1
Rank #84 / 233
-64-
64
Facility 64
IA AVG 49
Rank #80 / 260
-
$6.2MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $6.2MFiscal year ending 12/2023
IA AVG $6.9M
Rank #108 / 224
$3.8MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $3.8MFiscal year ending 12/2023
IA AVG $4.2M
Rank #97 / 224
62%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility 62%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
IA AVG 60.3%
Rank #85 / 224
165365
The Vinton Lutheran Home
NH
AL
HC
MC
SNF
Vinton
61
Facility 61
IA AVG 67
Rank #113 / 241
77.0%
Facility 77.0%
IA AVG 78.3%
Rank #144 / 234
-2%
5.37
Facility 5.37
IA AVG 4.30
Rank #23 / 231
C- -26%+25%
$0
Facility $0
IA AVG $53.4k
Rank #1 / 239
13
Facility 13
IA AVG 21.7
Rank #88 / 233
2.2
Facility 2.2
IA AVG 4.1
Rank #49 / 233
247-
53
Facility 53
IA AVG 49
Rank #108 / 260
Ronda Buchtela
$5.8MFiscal year ending 08/2024
Facility $5.8MFiscal year ending 08/2024
IA AVG $6.9M
Rank #117 / 224
$3.7MFiscal year ending 08/2024
Facility $3.7MFiscal year ending 08/2024
IA AVG $4.2M
Rank #109 / 224
63%Fiscal year ending 08/2024
Facility 63%Fiscal year ending 08/2024
IA AVG 60.3%
Rank #74 / 224
165552
Brio of Johnston Assisted Living
NH
AL
IL
MC
SNF
Johnston
68
Facility 68
IA AVG 67
Rank #89 / 241
54.4%
Facility 54.4%
IA AVG 78.3%
Rank #211 / 234
-31%
5.17
Facility 5.17
IA AVG 4.30
Rank #30 / 231
? +21%+20%
$6.9k
Facility $6.9k
IA AVG $53.4k
Rank #154 / 239
12
Facility 12
IA AVG 21.7
Rank #80 / 233
2.4
Facility 2.4
IA AVG 4.1
Rank #63 / 233
137---
$5.2MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $5.2MFiscal year ending 12/2023
IA AVG $6.9M
Rank #135 / 224
$4.4MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $4.4MFiscal year ending 12/2023
IA AVG $4.2M
Rank #73 / 224
84.6%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility 84.6%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
IA AVG 60.3%
Rank #9 / 224
165624
Linn Manor Care Center
NH
IL
SNF
Marion
38
Facility 38
IA AVG 67
Rank #216 / 241
92.1%
Facility 92.1%
IA AVG 78.3%
Rank #38 / 234
+18%
4.00
Facility 4.00
IA AVG 4.30
Rank #142 / 231
B- -13%-7%
$0
Facility $0
IA AVG $53.4k
Rank #1 / 239
17
Facility 17
IA AVG 21.7
Rank #121 / 233
4.3
Facility 4.3
IA AVG 4.1
Rank #143 / 233
235-
89
Facility 89
IA AVG 49
Rank #13 / 260
Grand Haven Homes, Inc
$3.9MFiscal year ending 06/2024
Facility $3.9MFiscal year ending 06/2024
IA AVG $6.9M
Rank #177 / 224
$2.5MFiscal year ending 06/2024
Facility $2.5MFiscal year ending 06/2024
IA AVG $4.2M
Rank #169 / 224
63.1%Fiscal year ending 06/2024
Facility 63.1%Fiscal year ending 06/2024
IA AVG 60.3%
Rank #73 / 224
165511
Sheffield Care Center
NH
AL
SNF
Sheffield
45
Facility 45
IA AVG 67
Rank #182 / 241
82.2%
Facility 82.2%
IA AVG 78.3%
Rank #111 / 234
+5%
4.77
Facility 4.77
IA AVG 4.30
Rank #56 / 231
C+ -61%+11%
$17.6k
Facility $17.6k
IA AVG $53.4k
Rank #167 / 239
14
Facility 14
IA AVG 21.7
Rank #97 / 233
3.5
Facility 3.5
IA AVG 4.1
Rank #110 / 233
-37-
25
Facility 25
IA AVG 49
Rank #207 / 260
Bonnie Hubka
$3.9MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $3.9MFiscal year ending 12/2023
IA AVG $6.9M
Rank #178 / 224
$2.1MFiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility $2.1MFiscal year ending 12/2023
IA AVG $4.2M
Rank #192 / 224
54.4%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
Facility 54.4%Fiscal year ending 12/2023
IA AVG 60.3%
Rank #151 / 224
165384

Rank badges are statewide and care-type specific: each nursing home is ranked against every other IA nursing home we track that reports that metric, not just the 253 on this page. See how we rank facilities

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Overview of Heritage Care & Rehabilitation Center

Heritage Care & Rehabilitation Center is a 71 bed nursing home in Mason City, Iowa, offering hospice care, memory care, respite care, and skilled nursing. Licensed nursing care is available on site around the clock, while memory care provides a secured setting with supervision for someone at risk of wandering. Hospice focuses on comfort for someone with serious illness, and respite care offers a short stay when a usual caregiver needs to travel or recover.

Rehabilitation services and short term rehabilitation give residents a temporary setting for recovery while they receive therapy. Total nurse staffing is 3 hours and 38 minutes per resident each day, representing that amount of daily nurse time allocated to each resident. An outdoor walking trail provides a place to walk outside on the property.

The area has an 85 out of 100 Walk Score, placing it in the very walkable range, where most errands can be completed on foot and a resident who no longer drives can still get out independently. Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay are accepted, giving families public payment options or the ability to fund care directly. Claire N. serves as the director, and the center may be a good fit for a resident who needs supervised memory support or short term rehabilitation, or for a family caregiver needing temporary care.

Contact Heritage Care & Rehabilitation Center

Overview of Alverno Senior Care Community

Alverno Senior Care Community is a 112-bed nursing facility in Clinton, Iowa, serving the surrounding region with skilled nursing and rehabilitation services. Owned by Letha Dolph, it takes Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay. Families then have several routes to fund short-term rehabilitation and longer-term care needs.

The facility strongly emphasizes rehabilitation and short-term care, with on-staff physicians and dedicated therapy services. Daily nursing support averages roughly 4 hours 23 minutes per resident, providing substantial, diligent care alongside clinical oversight. This staffing level supports occupants healing from surgery, hospitalization, or acute health events, plus those needing active skilled nursing. Alverno’s physical setting has practical amenities for daily living: a fitness gym, salon, and dining room. The home maintains 24-hour staffing and personal care services, bolstering residents needing consistent assistance with daily activities. An array of clubs, classes, committees, and social activities encourages residents to engage and connect in the community. The Clinton location scores 35 on the walkability scale, meaning some errands can be done on foot, with most outings requiring a car or ride. The immediate neighborhood is moderately developed, giving the facility access to local services and healthcare providers.

Contact Alverno Senior Care Community

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 Elm Crest Senior Living Community

Committed to enhancing seniors’ quality of life, Elm Crest Senior Living Community is a distinct senior living community set in the harmonious city of Harlan, IA, providing a wide array of living options such as assisted living, independent living, memory care, health center, and rehabilitation therapy services. The community doubles its efforts to foster a warm and welcoming environment for seniors to make the most out of their days in beautifully designed and cozy one-bedroom and two-bedroom apartments. Receive top-notch care and support from a reliable and highly qualified team and live a glorious retirement without worries with Elm Crest.

With over 65 years of experience in helping seniors, Elm Crest continuously provides the finest experience to create wonderful moments. Moreover, the community meticulously crafts care plans that best fit residents’ unique needs and preferences to ensure they are well-cared for. Surrounded by refreshing spaces and placed near hospitals, Elm Crest provides easy access to medical needs and the utmost comfort that seniors deserve.

Contact Elm Crest Senior Living Community

Overview of Simpson Memorial Home

With a proud history dating back to 1975, Simpson Memorial Home has established itself as a trusted provider of high-quality senior care. It has been a remarkable non-profit residence situated in Wilton, Iowa, offering a diverse range of exceptional care services, including independent living, assisted living places, nursing home facilities, and a specialized dementia unit. Their unwavering commitment to providing a nurturing environment where seniors feel valued and supported sets them apart.
The home goes above and beyond to ensure that disabled adults can enjoy comfortable living, providing accessible spaces and round-the-clock emergency call capabilities. The shared spaces at Simpson Memorial Home are also tastefully decorated, fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere for socialization and relaxation. For those seeking independent living, the townhomes offer an unparalleled sense of homeliness, featuring spacious porches and convenient car garages. Additionally, the home provides essential services such as housekeeping, transportation, and delectable dining options.

Contact Simpson Memorial Home

Oakwood Care Center

400 Highway 18 West, Clear Lake, IA 50428-1108
Overview of Oakwood Care Center

Oakwood Care Center offers nursing home, assisted living, home care, hospice care, independent living, memory care, respite care, nursing care, and skilled nursing in Clear Lake, IA. Nursing home care, nursing care, and skilled nursing provide licensed nursing care on site around the clock, while assisted living helps with daily tasks such as dressing, bathing, and medication. Independent living provides private living with community services and no daily care.

Memory care provides a secured setting with supervision for someone at risk of wandering. Home care brings assistance in a person’s residence, hospice care supports end of life needs, and respite care provides a short stay. The range of care levels and respite care can suit a resident whose needs may change over time or a family caregiver who needs short term support.

Oakwood Care Center has 76 beds, with total nurse staffing of 3h 49m per resident per day, representing the daily hands on nursing time allocated to each resident. Rehabilitation services include short term rehabilitation and outpatient therapy, giving residents access to therapy during recovery while allowing outpatient clients to receive treatment without an inpatient stay. A relaxation room and open dining options are also available, and Krystal T. serves as director. Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay are accepted. A Walk Score of 64 places the area in the somewhat walkable band, meaning some errands can be done on foot and a resident who no longer drives can reach some nearby errands independently.

Contact Oakwood Care Center

Overview of The Vinton Lutheran Home

The Vinton Lutheran Home provides nursing home, assisted living, home care, memory care, and skilled nursing in Vinton, IA. Nursing home care provides residential support, while assisted living helps with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and medication while a resident maintains an apartment. Home care brings support to a person’s residence.

Memory care offers a secured setting with supervision for someone at risk of wandering. Skilled nursing provides licensed nursing care on site around the clock. This range of care may suit a household planning for changing needs, with options that include assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing.

Opened in 1952, the home has 61 beds, and Doug Wood serves as the administrator. Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay are accepted. Medicaid can help cover care for an eligible resident whose savings may not cover a long stay, while Medicare applies to short term skilled care after a hospital stay rather than long term residence.

Total nurse staffing is 5 hours and 22 minutes per resident each day, representing the total daily nurse time allocated per resident. Rehabilitation services and short term rehabilitation support a temporary stay focused on recovery, while respite care suits a family caregiver who needs a short break or time to recover.

A beauty shop provides salon services within the community, and outdoor gardens give residents access to outdoor space. The area has a Walk Score of 53 out of 100 and is somewhat walkable, so some errands can be done on foot and a resident who no longer drives may be able to reach nearby destinations independently.

Contact The Vinton Lutheran Home

Overview of Brio of Johnston Assisted Living

Brio of Johnston Assisted Living offers nursing home, assisted living, independent living, memory care, and skilled nursing in Johnston, IA. Independent living provides a private living arrangement with community services and no daily care, while assisted living adds help with bathing, dressing, medication, and other daily tasks. Memory care provides a secured setting with supervision for someone at risk of wandering; Nursing home and skilled nursing care provide licensed nursing care on site around the clock.

Several care levels are available in one community. That may suit a resident whose needs grow over time without requiring a move elsewhere. The community has 68 beds, with starting prices of $2,000 for independent living and $4,000 for assisted living, giving families an entry point for budgeting at each listed level.

Total nurse staffing is 5 hours and 10 minutes per resident per day, representing the daily hands on nurse time allocated per resident. Residents can use the wellness center and salon for on site exercise and personal grooming. Walking trails connect to Johnston’s trail system, and a pet recreation area supports residents who have pets, which the community allows.

Short term rehabilitation provides a temporary recovery option, while respite care suits a family caregiver who needs to travel or recover. Accepted payment options are Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay. Medicare covers short term skilled care after a hospital stay rather than long term residence, Medicaid can help when savings may not cover a long stay, and private pay means paying directly. Teresa Krueger serves as the administrator.

Contact Brio of Johnston Assisted Living

Overview of Linn Manor Care Center

A Walk Score of 89 puts Linn Manor Care Center in Mario, IA, in the very walkable category of communities. Most errands here can be done entirely on foot, which is pretty useful. A resident who has given up driving is not stuck helpless indoors because of it.

The building carries nursing home care, skilled nursing care, and independent living accommodations. Licensed nursing works on-site at all hours, and independent living sits at the other end with no managed daily care attached. A resident moving from one regimen of care to another can do so without having to move to a different address.

Thirty-eight beds is a small count for these types of facilities. Nursing time runs 4 hours per resident per day, spread across that short list of people rather than the crowds larger communities accommodate.

Private pay is what the home bills, so families only have the option to pay directly. Teresia Kanini is the administrator.

Contact Linn Manor Care Center

Overview of Sheffield Care Center

Sheffield Care Center provides nursing home, assisted living, and skilled nursing care in Sheffield, IA. Assisted living includes help with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, and medication, while skilled nursing provides licensed nursing care on site around the clock.

Nursing home care and 24 hour staffing support residents who need ongoing care, with staff present at all times. The center has 45 beds, a smaller size that may suit someone who prefers a community where staff and residents can get to know one another.

Total nurse staffing is 4 hours and 46 minutes per resident per day, representing the daily nurse staffing time allocated to each resident. Katie Watters serves as the administrator. Intermediate care, restorative services, rehabilitation services, and outpatient therapy services are also available.

Restorative services focus on helping residents maintain or regain daily abilities, while outpatient therapy allows rehabilitation without an inpatient stay. Sheffield Care Center may be a good fit for someone whose care needs could change over time because assisted living, nursing home, and skilled nursing services are available at the same community.

Payment options include Medicare, Medicaid, and private pay. Medicare can help cover short term skilled care after a hospital stay, Medicaid can support eligible residents whose savings may not cover a long stay, and private pay means paying directly for care.

Contact Sheffield 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. Rank badges compare each home against other nursing homes in the same state — never against assisted living, memory care, or independent living communities.

  • 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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Nursing Homes in Iowa at a glance

Avg Overall CMS Rating: 3.1/ 5The average Overall CMS Rating for all CMS-certified nursing homes in Iowa. 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: 3.5/ 5The average Staffing Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in Iowa. 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: 2.9/ 5The average Health Inspection Rating across all CMS-certified nursing homes in Iowa. 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
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Frequently Asked Questions about Nursing Homes in Iowa

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 253 nursing homes in Iowa. Use the filters and comparison tools above to compare ratings, amenities, and pricing.

How do I choose the right nursing home 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 nursing homes 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.