Talk to a local advisor for free
Des Moines is the capital and most populated city in Iowa and is known as a political and business hub in the United States. The city offers an array of prestigious attractions, including the gilded dome on the Iowa State Capitol and the Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, one of the largest plant collections in the Midwest. Des Moines enjoys mild summers and chilly winters, making it ideal for those who like a range of seasons and want to avoid the oppressive Southern heat.
Des Moines has an average monthly assisted living cost of $4,450, although prices depend on location and range of amenities offered. Iowa consistently ranks as one of the best states for retirees due to its affordability, safety and moderate tax-friendliness. The state does not collect income tax on Social Security payments and it offers deductions on other forms of income for seniors over 65.
Hundreds of thousands of American seniors utilize assisted living, a figure that is only growing. For these seniors, assisted living combines residential housing,assistance in daily activities, and some healthcare. These communities also strive to provide an atmosphere that is comfortable and engaging for their residents… Read More >
Assisted living in Des Moines costs an average of $4,450 per month, which is costlier than both the state average of $4,078 and the national average of $4,051. Nearby Illinois and Indiana have similar assisted living prices, coming in at $4,170 and $4,100, respectively. Southern neighbor Missouri has one of the lowest monthly medians in the country, coming in at $2,881, and Nebraska to the west has an average assisted living cost of $3,819 per month.
Assisted living costs in the state can vary widely, and prices in Des Moines fall close to the median. Waterloo and Iowa City are more expensive, coming in at $4,601 and $4,500 respectively. The nearby Ames area is the most affordable retirement destination in the state, with an average monthly cost of $3,610. The Cedar Rapids area comes in at $4,020, and on the state’s eastern border, Davenport averages $4,165. Across the state on its western border, Sioux City has an average assisted living cost of $3,700 per month.
Iowa’s Medicaid program offers an Elderly Waiver program to help defray the costs of home and community-based services such as personal care, mental health outreach and assisted living. This program is open to seniors over the age of 65 who meet thresholds for care needs and income. To learn more about the Elderly Waiver and its application process, visit our Assisted Living in Iowa page.
| Contact | Description | |
| Aging Resources of Central Iowa | (515) 255-1310 | As the area agency on aging, this state-run nonprofit offers several resources for seniors, including fall prevention and chronic disease management education and caregiver support groups. A variety of nutrition services include congregate and home-delivered meals, nutrition counseling with a registered dietitian and financial assistance for purchasing fresh produce at the farmer’s market. An Elder Abuse Prevention and Awareness program is designed to protect seniors and improve quality care in assisted living facilities. |
| Des Moines Vet Center | (515)284-4929 | Veterans and their families can access financial assistance, employment placement and educational support initiatives. Health care services include support groups for PTSD, traumatic injury and caregivers, as well as laboratory and pharmaceutical services. Assistance with housing, pension benefits and life insurance is also available here. |
| Polk County Central Senior Center | (515) 286-3677 | This senior center offers a day program with social activities such as craft clubs and game tournaments. Physical fitness workshops include yoga, tai chi and strength training, and hot lunches are available each day. An annual Wellness Fair offers free health screenings and educational opportunities for seniors over 60. |
| WesleyLife Meals on Wheels | (515)699-3243 | Volunteers prepare nutritious and heart-healthy meals and deliver them to isolated and mobility-impaired seniors throughout the Des Moines metro. These visits offer not only nutrition but also socialization and can improve feelings of loneliness and depression. This organization also provides transportation, housekeeping and personal assistance services to low-income seniors who qualify. |
| Catholic Charities Diocese of Des Moines | (515) 244-3761 | This faith-based charity provides several services designed for older adults, including a hot meal program and a food pantry. An outreach center offers empowerment services such as financial education and professional counseling. |
Care homes in Des Moines are regulated by the Department of Inspections and Appeals of Iowa, Health Facilities Division. They must adhere to state standards concerning the upkeep and quality of care. To learn more about these regulations, visit our Assisted Living in Iowa page.