In order to find the top assisted living communities in the Des Moines area, our team of researchers:
- Sorted through 46 communities using our unique methodology
- Spent over 12 hours researching assisted living communities in Des Moines
- Read more than 80 reviews left by residents and their family members
After filtering out facilities that didn’t meet our high standards, we were left with 10 assisted living communities that earned our seal of approval. Through this process we discovered that the average cost of assisted living in the city of Des Moines is $4,350, which is higher than the state average of $4,078 and the national average of $4,051.
Read on for in-depth information about the top assisted living facilities in Des Moines, a brief dive into our methodology for determining the best assisted living communities, and a searchable directory of 46 communities in the Des Moines area.
Determining how to finance assisted living often starts with the question, “What’s the cost?” In today’s economy, where inflation plays a significant role, having current data is crucial for senior living financial planning. AssistedLiving.org has gathered cost information from its expansive network of over 75,000 senior living providers. This data offers a glimpse into the average expenses for assisted living in Des Moines and 24 additional cities within Iowa.
In Des Moines, the cost of assisted living has increased approximately 10% since 2022, an equivalent surge in price compared to the nation’s average increase from $4,070 in 2022 to $4,459 in 2023. State-wide, Iowa prices increased only 2.5% but are expected to increase by 3% in 2024. Des Moines residents will undergo an 8% surge in pricing to $4,579 per month in 2024, reflecting a slight slow-down in inflation. Cedar Rapids, Dubuque and Davenport residents also experienced costs rising by 10% in 2023. These increases demonstrate why it’s imperative seniors financially plan for senior living keeping inflation in mind.
| Location |
2022 Cost (Historical) |
2023 Cost (Current) |
2024 Cost (Estimated) |
| Des Moines |
$3,881 |
$4,252 |
$4,579 |
| U.S. Average |
$4,070 |
$4,459 |
$4,802 |
| Iowa |
$4,770 |
$4,879 |
$5,006 |
| Cedar Rapids |
$3,881 |
$4,252 |
$4,579 |
| Dubuque |
$3,573 |
$3,915 |
$4,216 |
| Davenport |
$4,179 |
$4,578 |
$4,930 |
Different senior care types vary widely in cost in Des Moines based on how much skill and time are required. Because independent living costs include housing and some other amenities but allow seniors to live completely independently, it costs the least at $2,725 per month. Memory care, which often requires full-time supervision and specialized programs and safety precautions, costs the most at $8,550 per month. Monthly assisted living costs lie in between at $4,252.
| Care Type |
Cost |
| Assisted Living |
$4,252 |
| Memory Care |
$8,550 |
| Independent Living |
$2,725 |
Numerous resources are available in Des Moines, IA to support seniors during their retirement. AssistedLiving.org has gathered data on local groups, initiatives, and agencies, and organized them according to care categories for convenient access.
For details about resources across the state and in neighboring cities, please visit the Iowa state page on assistedliving.org.
Area Agency on Aging
Your local Des Moines Area Agency on Aging is a valuable resource for retirees, offering guidance on financial aid, in-home care, and long-term care planning. They also link seniors and caregivers to community resources.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Aging Resources of Central Iowa |
800-747-5352 |
In Iowa, there are six Area Agencies on Aging that offer valuable support services to enhance the well-being of older adults. These agencies serve as a bridge, connecting seniors with local transportation options, nutritional programs, community support groups, and other forms of local assistance. Moreover, low-income seniors can take advantage of various cost-saving programs, such as home weatherization, financial aid for heating and cooling bills, and assistance with medical expenses. Additionally, the AAAs play a crucial role in advocating for senior wellness by intervening in suspected cases of Medicare fraud or abuse. |
Food Assistance Programs
In Des Moines, various local initiatives are dedicated to promoting senior health through balanced nutrition. They offer services like meal delivery, communal dining, and food banks, ensuring elderly residents have access to affordable, nutritious food.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Caring Hands Eastview Food Pantry |
515-809-2356 |
Food pantries in Iowa provide essential food items to seniors and individuals with low incomes. These pantries offer a variety of staples, including canned goods, rice, pasta, and more. Each pantry has specific eligibility criteria for individuals seeking assistance. |
| River Place Food Pantry |
515-286-3434 |
The Des Moines Area Religious Council operates two food pantries in Polk County, providing reliable access to nutritious food for seniors in the community. These pantries offer pre-packaged parcels and mobile delivery services, ensuring that seniors receive the nourishment they need right at their doorstep. Eligibility is determined based on income and household size, and participants can receive a monthly supply of food and non-food items that will last them for three days. With the support of dedicated volunteers and faith communities, DMARC effectively addresses food insecurity among older adults in Polk County. |
| Wesley Life Meals on Wheels |
515-699-3243 |
Wesley Life Meals on Wheels provides a valuable service to seniors aged 60 and above in Des Moines, IA, who face challenges in shopping for and cooking their own meals. Our dedicated volunteers deliver freshly prepared, hot meals from Monday to Friday, between 10:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. These meals are carefully crafted with nutritious, low-sodium ingredients, ensuring the health and well-being of our recipients. Each day, we offer three different meal options, allowing our clients to choose according to their preferences. For added convenience, we also offer frozen meals. While there is a per-meal fee, we are committed to reducing the cost through local grants and funding. |
Free Used Medical Equipment
In Des Moines, numerous groups are addressing the steep expense of new medical equipment. They gather gently used items like wheelchairs, ramps, and walkers, providing them to local seniors and individuals in need.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Assistive Technology Program – Des Moines |
866-866-8782 |
The Durable Medical Equipment (DME) is available for a minimal fee and can be utilized for any duration as needed. Additionally, the Iowa Assistive Technology Exchange Program is overseen by the organization. Through the website, seniors in Iowa can connect with providers who offer equipment for loan or purchase. |
Home Repair and Modifications
In Des Moines, numerous programs are available to aid seniors and individuals with disabilities in financing home modifications and repairs. These programs, offering grants or loans, have diverse eligibility requirements specifically designed for retirees.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Single Family Housing Direct Home Loans in Iowa – Des Moines |
515-284-4663 |
The program offers grants of up to $10,000 to assist older adults in addressing health and safety hazards on their property. To determine eligibility for the program, seniors can visit the official website of the U.S. Department of Agriculture. |
Legal Resources
In Des Moines, numerous agencies provide affordable or complimentary legal assistance to the elderly. They offer counsel on matters like estate management, living wills, and power of attorney. Some even serve as advocates for seniors’ rights in long-term care facilities.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Iowa Legal Aid – Des Moines |
800-992-8161 |
Seniors who are considering a move to an assisted living community or are already residing in one often require legal guidance and support for managing complex matters like medical trusts, wills, and competence hearings. Iowa Legal Aid is dedicated to providing free and affordable legal advice and services specifically tailored to the needs of seniors. In cases where Iowa Legal Aid is unable to assist, seniors can still access low-cost legal advice starting at just $25 for a 30-minute consultation through partnering lawyers who offer discounted services in collaboration with Legal Aid. Additionally, this nonprofit organization oversees the Legal Hotline for Older Iowans, ensuring that seniors have access to the legal assistance they need. |
| Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman (OSLTCO) – Des Moines |
641-420-9850 |
The Long-Term Care Ombudsman serves as a dedicated advocate for the rights of seniors residing in care communities. Funded by the state, this organization provides free services to address concerns raised by residents, their families, and other parties. The ombudsman diligently investigates complaints about facilities and actively works towards finding resolutions in collaboration with care providers. Moreover, they offer complimentary services such as providing families with inspection reports to aid in their decision-making process when comparing memory care communities for their loved ones. |
Senior Centers
In Des Moines, senior centers serve as a hub for older adults, providing recreational activities, events, and valuable resources. These centers also offer wellness programs, nutritional guidance, and assistance with senior-related concerns.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Polk County Senior Services Community Centers/Meal Sites |
515-286-3434 |
Polk County oversees a network of 17 multipurpose senior centers, which serve as vital gathering places for older individuals. These centers provide a range of services, including health screenings and valuable information about community initiatives designed specifically for the elderly population. |
Senior Engagement
In Des Moines, a variety of programs and resources are available for seniors to stay engaged and active. These include wellness initiatives, volunteering options, and support networks, all aimed at fostering community involvement and enhancing life quality.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Iowa 211 |
211 |
211 Iowa is a valuable resource provided by the United Way. It serves as an information and referral service, connecting seniors and caregivers with the resources they need in their communities. Trained experts are available round the clock to offer assistance and guidance, ensuring individuals find the services that best meet their unique needs and circumstances. This service is completely free, confidential, and accessible at any time. |
| UNITED 55+ Program |
515-246-6500 |
United 55+ is an AmeriCorps Senior Program in Central Iowa that aims to promote community engagement among seniors. Through this initiative, seniors are encouraged to volunteer at local nonprofits, selecting programs that align with their abilities and availability. These opportunities range from assisting at nonprofit gift shops to creating literacy kits, writing uplifting notes, and aiding low-income families with tax preparation. Additionally, participants are eligible for mileage reimbursement. |
Social Security Offices
In Des Moines, Social Security offices provide essential services to seniors and individuals with disabilities. They offer guidance on retirement benefits, disability allowances, and Supplemental Security Income.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Des Moines Social Security Office 50309 |
800-772-1213 |
Social Security serves as a financial resource for individuals who have reached retirement age or are unable to work due to a disability. The funding for Social Security is derived from a payroll tax imposed on employers, employees, and self-employed individuals. Upon retirement, beneficiaries are entitled to receive monthly payments based on their previous earnings. |
Tax Assistance
Numerous tax aid resources are available in Des Moines for senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. These include potential exemptions on medical costs, property tax reductions, and other tax relief initiatives.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Iowa Homestead Tax Credit and Exemption – Des Moines |
800-367-3388 |
Iowa seniors aged 65 and above who meet specific financial criteria have the opportunity to claim tax relief through the state’s Homestead tax laws. Additionally, eligible seniors residing in rental properties may be entitled to receive rent reimbursement. |
Utility & Energy Bill Assistance
Organizations are available to aid low-income seniors in {catalog.city} struggling with home maintenance costs, including utility and energy bills. Emergency funding may also be accessible for those at risk of utility service termination due to unpaid bills.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – Des Moines |
515-518-4770 |
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) assists low-income seniors in covering their home energy expenses. This program, funded by the federal government, offers a single payment to help with residential heating utility bills. |
Veteran’s Services
Veteran services in Des Moines offer invaluable assistance to retired military personnel. These local entities guide veterans in utilizing their rightful benefits and provide counsel on diverse matters.
| Program Name |
Phone Number |
Description |
| Des Moines VA Medical Center |
800-698-2411 |
The Des Moines VA Medical Center is a comprehensive healthcare facility dedicated to serving veterans. Our center provides a wide range of services, including nonurgent care, surgical interventions, and mental health support. We have a team of specialists who are experts in various fields, such as cancer care, diabetes management, dentistry, audiology, and spinal cord injury and disorder treatment. In addition to medical services, we also offer transitional housing assistance for veterans and their families. Our center is committed to providing behavioral health assessments and counseling to ensure the well-being of our patients. Please note that registration with VA health care is required to access our services. |
Assisted Living Communities in Des Moines are required to follow a set of rules and regulations that are determined by the state. For an overview of those rules and regulations, see the information below. For more specific information, talk with your local community or Area Agency on Aging.
