Iowa tends to feel steady and low-key, which is exactly what a lot of safety-focused retirees want. The towns in this guide combine below-average crime with reliable local hospitals or medical centers and a strong “people still look out for each other” community vibe.
This guide highlights the safest places to retire in Iowa so you can weigh crime rates, weather, and healthcare access against the kind of day-to-day life you actually want.
Our Top Picks for Retirees
• Cedar Falls for a secure and friendly small-town retirement featuring the state’s most impressive safety statistics and scenic recreational trails.
• West Des Moines for a highly protected suburban experience that pairs low crime rates with premium shopping and excellent community hospitals.
• Ames for a safe and energetic university-town lifestyle where retirees benefit from high-quality cardiac care and rich cultural resources.
• Dubuque for a scenic and secure riverfront retirement known for its historic charm, active community festivals, and reliable senior care.
• Iowa City for a vibrant and safe cultural hub that offers world-renowned specialized medical services and endless educational opportunities.
What Are the Safest Places to Retire in Iowa?
Ames
- Violent Crime Rate: 1.4 per 1,000 people
- Property Crime Rate: 15.1 per 1,000 people
- Extreme Weather Risk: Moderate, with cold winters and risk of summer storms
Ames is known for its vibrant community, educational resources from
Iowa State University, and safe environment.
The city experiences cold winters with average temperatures in the 20s°F and warm, humid summers that can reach the 80s°F. Retirees should be prepared for moderate extreme weather risks, such as thunderstorms and occasional tornadoes during spring and summer.
Mary Greeley Medical Center provides comprehensive services, including cardiac care and rehabilitation, ensuring that retirees have quality healthcare.
Ames’ parks, cultural venues, and university events make it a lively choice for retirement.
Cedar Falls
- Violent Crime Rate: 1.1 per 1,000 people
- Property Crime Rate: 14.0 per 1,000 people
- Extreme Weather Risk: Moderate, with seasonal storms and cold winters
Cedar Falls offers a friendly, small-town feel with a low crime rate. The city has cold winters with temperatures in the 20s°F and warm summers in the 80s°F. Retirees should be aware of moderate extreme weather risks, including thunderstorms, high winds, and the possibility of tornadoes during the warmer months.
UnityPoint Health – Allen Hospital provides essential and specialized medical care to meet healthcare needs.
The city’s recreational trails, parks, and community-focused activities create an engaging environment for seniors.
If a few Iowa towns are starting to feel like good bets, it can help to picture the small stuff that actually makes you feel safe — who’s around, how close help is, and whether you’d be comfortable stepping outside at night.
Senior living communities in Iowa tend to pop up in pockets where those boxes are already checked, so noticing where they’re located can give you a shortcut to the parts of the state that are set up with older adults in mind.
Iowa City
- Violent Crime Rate: 1.8 per 1,000 people
- Property Crime Rate: 17.5 per 1,000 people
- Extreme Weather Risk: Moderate, with risk of flooding and cold winters
Iowa City, home to the
University of Iowa, offers retirees a mix of cultural attractions and reliable healthcare through
University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, renowned for specialized medical services.
The city experiences cold winters, often in the 20s°F, and warm summers in the 80s°F. Extreme weather risks include thunderstorms, heavy rain, and potential flooding, especially during spring and summer.
Iowa City’s active arts scene, educational opportunities, and community events make it a vibrant and secure choice for seniors.
West Des Moines
- Violent Crime Rate: 1.0 per 1,000 people
- Property Crime Rate: 13.5 per 1,000 people
- Extreme Weather Risk: Moderate, with cold winters and occasional severe storms
West Des Moines is recognized for its low crime rate and quality of life.
West Des Moines’ climate features cold winters, with average temperatures in the 20s°F, and warm, humid summers that can reach the mid-80s°F. Retirees should be mindful of moderate extreme weather risks, including thunderstorms, occasional tornadoes, and heavy rain.
MercyOne West Des Moines Medical Center, a comprehensive community hospital, offers a range of medical services, supporting retirees’ health needs.
The city’s shopping centers, parks, and senior programs create a welcoming atmosphere for older adults.
Dubuque
- Violent Crime Rate: 1.6 per 1,000 people
- Property Crime Rate: 16.2 per 1,000 people
- Extreme Weather Risk: Moderate, with seasonal storms and cold winters
Dubuque, located along the Mississippi River, features a safe and scenic environment for retirees.
Dubuque experiences a full range of seasons, with cold winters averaging in the 20s°F and warm summers in the 80s°F. Retirees should be aware of seasonal storms, including thunderstorms and occasional flooding due to the city’s proximity to the river.
MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center provides essential healthcare services, ensuring reliable access to medical care. With its historic sites, riverfront activities, and community events, Dubuque offers a blend of culture, security, and support for older adults.
What Are the Best Healthcare Facilities in Iowa for Seniors?
- Ames: Mary Greeley Medical Center offers cardiac care and rehabilitation services.
- Cedar Falls: UnityPoint Health – Allen Hospital provides comprehensive medical care.
- Iowa City: University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics is renowned for specialized healthcare.
- West Des Moines: MercyOne West Des Moines Medical Center offers a range of services.
- Dubuque: MercyOne Dubuque Medical Center supports retirees with essential care.
Is Iowa Senior-Friendly and Accessible?
Iowa’s affordability makes it a great choice for seniors, with a cost of living below the national average. The state is also very tax-friendly for retirees. Social Security benefits aren’t taxed, and there are generous
exemptions for other types of retirement income. Property taxes stay pretty reasonable too.
Seniors can find a variety of helpful services, like community centers, transportation assistance, and programs that support independent living. Iowa has a strong network of hospitals and clinics, even in rural areas, making sure healthcare is available no matter where you live. Cities and larger towns offer plenty of support and activities, with many communities providing excellent senior care facilities and services that keep older adults active and engaged.
With its mix of safety, affordability, and community-focused living, Iowa is a solid choice for seniors looking to downsize and enjoy retirement.
What City Has the Lowest Crime Rate?
Cedar Falls stands out with one of the lowest crime rates, reporting a violent crime rate of just 1.1 per 1,000 people. Its safe neighborhoods, access to healthcare, and active community life make it an excellent choice for retirees seeking peace and security.
Ready to Explore Iowa Senior Living Options?
In Iowa, the safest place for you might be less about a low crime rate and more about knowing there are neighbors nearby, a hospital that’s not an all‑day drive, and staff who are used to helping older adults stay steady.
Our
Iowa senior living directory helps you find senior living options in Iowa that offer that kind of safety net, so you can focus on communities in towns that feel watchful in a good way — present, responsive, and ready when you need them.
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