Senior Living in Des Moines, IA
Discover quality senior care options in Iowa's capital city, where assisted living costs average $5,015 monthly—well below the national average.
2 Senior Living Communities in Des Moines
2 communities
Des Moines, Iowa's vibrant capital city, is home to 26,644 seniors aged 65 and older, representing 12.5% of the city's population of 212,464. While the median age of 34.6 reflects a younger demographic overall, Des Moines offers a welcoming environment for older adults with its affordable cost of living, strong healthcare infrastructure, and rich cultural amenities. The city combines Midwestern hospitality with modern conveniences, making it an increasingly attractive option for retirees and their families.
Senior living options in Des Moines include assisted living communities, independent living facilities, memory care programs, and skilled nursing homes. With assisted living costs averaging $5,015 per month and nursing home care at approximately $7,885 for a semi-private room, Des Moines provides more affordable senior care compared to national averages. The median household income of $63,966 reflects a stable economic environment, and the city's manageable size ensures seniors can access services without the overwhelming complexity of larger metropolitan areas. Whether you're seeking an active retirement community or specialized memory care, Des Moines offers quality options tailored to various needs and budgets.
Cost of Senior Living in Des Moines
Senior living costs in Des Moines are notably more affordable than national averages, making it an attractive option for families planning long-term care. Assisted living in Des Moines averages approximately $5,015 per month, significantly lower than the national average of $5,900. Semi-private nursing home rooms cost around $7,885 monthly, well below the national average of $9,277. These costs can vary considerably based on the level of care required, specific amenities offered, location within the metro area, and the community's services. Private rooms, specialized memory care, and communities with extensive amenities typically cost more, so it's important to compare options and understand exactly what's included in monthly fees.
Neighborhoods in Des Moines for Seniors
Beaverdale
Beaverdale is a charming, tree-lined neighborhood on Des Moines' northwest side known for its strong community spirit and walkable business district. The area features the Beaverdale Farmers Market, numerous restaurants, and local shops along Beaver Avenue. Seniors appreciate the neighborhood's quiet residential streets, well-maintained parks including Ashworth Pool and Park, and easy access to medical facilities. The annual Beaverdale Fall Festival brings the community together, creating opportunities for social engagement. With its mix of single-family homes and nearby senior living options, Beaverdale offers a safe, welcoming environment where neighbors know each other and look out for one another.
Sherman Hill
Sherman Hill is Des Moines' oldest residential neighborhood, located just west of downtown and featuring beautifully preserved Victorian-era homes and historic architecture. This walkable neighborhood puts seniors within easy reach of downtown cultural attractions, restaurants, and medical facilities, including MercyOne and UnityPoint hospitals. The area's grid street pattern and mature tree canopy create pleasant walking conditions, though the terrain includes some hills. Sherman Hill's strong neighborhood association organizes regular events and maintains community gardens. The proximity to the State Capitol complex, Western Gateway Park, and downtown amenities makes it ideal for seniors who value historic charm, cultural engagement, and urban convenience.
Urbandale
Urbandale, a suburban community on Des Moines' northwest side, offers a peaceful residential environment with excellent amenities for seniors. The area features numerous parks, including the popular Walker Johnston Park, and miles of paved trails perfect for walking and recreation. Urbandale's commercial districts along Douglas Avenue and Merle Hay Road provide convenient access to grocery stores, pharmacies, medical offices, and retail shopping. The neighborhood is home to several senior living communities and is known for its well-maintained properties and family-friendly atmosphere. With lower traffic volumes than downtown, good public safety ratings, and a strong sense of community, Urbandale appeals to seniors seeking suburban tranquility with easy access to Des Moines' urban amenities.
Windsor Heights
Windsor Heights is a small, well-established community on the west side of Des Moines, offering a suburban feel with urban proximity. This neighborhood is particularly convenient for seniors, with easy access to UnityPoint Health - Lutheran Hospital, numerous medical specialists, and the extensive Colby Park trail system. The area around University Avenue provides shopping, dining, and services within short distances. Windsor Heights maintains excellent public services, well-lit streets, and responsive community policing that contributes to seniors' sense of security. The neighborhood's central location means shorter drives to cultural attractions, family visits, and medical appointments, while still offering quiet residential streets and a tight-knit community atmosphere.
Senior Care Options in Des Moines
Des Moines offers a comprehensive range of senior care options to meet varying needs and preferences. Families can choose from independent living communities for active seniors, assisted living facilities providing help with daily activities, memory care programs specializing in Alzheimer's and dementia support, and skilled nursing facilities offering 24-hour medical care. Many communities provide multiple levels of care on one campus, allowing residents to age in place as their needs change over time.
Healthcare & Transportation
Des Moines boasts excellent healthcare infrastructure with two major hospital systems: MercyOne Medical Center and UnityPoint Health - Iowa Methodist and Lutheran hospitals, all offering specialized senior care and geriatric services. The city is also home to numerous medical specialists, outpatient clinics, and the VA Central Iowa Health Care System. For transportation, DART (Des Moines Area Regional Transit) provides public bus service throughout the metro, including paratransit options for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Many senior living communities offer scheduled transportation to medical appointments, shopping, and social activities. While Des Moines is car-dependent in many areas, downtown and certain neighborhoods offer reasonable walkability for active seniors.
Activities & Recreation Near Des Moines
Des Moines offers abundant cultural and recreational opportunities for seniors, including the world-class Des Moines Art Center, Salisbury House & Gardens, and the Iowa State Capitol. The city's extensive trail system, including the Meredith Trail and Gray's Lake Park, provides accessible outdoor recreation. Seniors enjoy performances at the Des Moines Civic Center, the Des Moines Symphony, and Iowa Cubs baseball games at Principal Park. The Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden, downtown farmers' markets, and numerous senior centers offer regular programming and social engagement opportunities.
Weather & Climate in Des Moines
Des Moines experiences a true four-season continental climate with cold, snowy winters and warm, humid summers. Winter temperatures frequently dip below freezing with average January lows around 13°F, while summer highs reach the upper 80s. Seniors should consider communities with covered walkways, indoor activities, and emergency preparedness plans for winter weather and occasional severe thunderstorms.
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