About Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.Complete guide to assisted livingBest of 2024 Assisted Living Winners
About Memory CareMemory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering. Complete guide to memory careBest of 2024 Memory Care Winners
About Independent LivingIndependent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to independent livingBest of 2024 Independent Living Winners
About Senior LivingSenior living is a term used to describe various housing and care options for older adults from maintenance-free, 55+ facilities for active seniors, to secure, fully staffed facilities for seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia. Complete guide to senior livingFind senior living facilities near you
About Nursing HomesNursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.Complete guide to Nursing Homes
About Senior ApartmentsSenior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to Senior Apartments
About Care HomesResidential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.Complete guide to care homes
Veteran ResourcesVA benefits for long-term care, such as Aid and Attendance benefits, can help eligible veterans and their surviving spouses pay for senior care.Guide to VA benefits for long-term care
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10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Des Moines, IA

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Situated in the heart of the Midwest, Des Moines is a wonderful place to live. With its friendly people, beautiful parks, amazing food, and vibrant arts scene, it’s no wonder the city has such a thriving senior population. So when it’s time to move to an assisted living facility, consider the benefits of making Des Moines home. With a friendly atmosphere, plenty of local activities and events, and attractive natural surroundings, Des Moines is a welcoming place for seniors.

A Place for Mom partners with 18 assisted living communities within a 10-mile radius of downtown Des Moines. By using our guide, you can find the right fit. Assisted living will take daily chores off your plate, provide meals, and help with daily activities. You’ll be sure to meet new friends at all the fun activities and can hang out with them in the shared spaces like libraries, game rooms, and TV lounges.

In addition to listing assisted living communities, our comprehensive guide provides deeper insights into what it’s like to be a Des Moines senior resident. From transportation to health care, you’ll be introduced to some of the hallmarks of this capital city, as well as learn more about the cost of independent living and ways to pay for it.

Des Moines Assisted Living Facilities | 452 Reviews
Showing 41 communities
Last Updated: 3/15/24
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Types of care available in Des Moines, IA
Assisted Living
Assisted Living
Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Nursing Homes
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Memory Care
Memory Care
Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Independent Living
Independent Living
Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Residential Care Home
Residential Care Home
Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Senior Apartments
Senior Apartments
Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Home Care
Home Care
Home care relies on trained aides to provide companionship and non-medical care for seniors living at home.
Recent reviews of Assisted Living in Des Moines, IA
4.8 / 5.0

My mom stayed at The Bridges for her rehab after her shoulder surgery. The therapy team was amazing and always took the time with her. She is grateful to have recovered and is back home. But, if we need to go somewhere in the future THE BRIDGES IS WHERE WE WOULD GO!!

5 / 5.0

My dad is doing really good after picking this community from the list we got from A Place For Mom. He is enjoying the meals they make. He has tried some activities and he knows some people who live here. The staff has been great. I cant tell he is happy and when he calls he tells me good things.

3.6 / 5.0

I would recommend this community, it was a good choice for my loved one. The people really care for the residents that live here. The communication was good with the staff and families. I don't think I would change anything about the community.

Photo of Woodlands Creek Senior Living
1111 Photos available
2828 Floor plans available
9.7
Review score
60 reviews
9.7
Review score
60 reviews
5 star
53%
4 star
32%
3 star
10%
2 star
3%
1 star
2%
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I picked this place over others due to the overall quality of the facility. The dining room is a large open space with high a high ceiling and large windows over looking a grassy area with flowers and a...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
At Woodlands Creek Active Retirement Community, we offer 3 different levels of care to meet our residents wants and needs ranging from independent living to memory care. Independent Living Woodlands Creek Independent Living opened in 2005 and expanded in 2008. Our independent living setting...
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Photo of MorningStar Assisted Living & Memory Care at Jordan Creek
1313 Photos available
44 Floor plans available
9.3
Review score
20 reviews
9.3
Review score
20 reviews
5 star
85%
4 star
15%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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It was an amazing facility. I don't think I can really say anything bad about it, except for they need to have better communication with the aides. I don't feel like some of them were properly trained on...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Here at MorningStar Senior Living Community,our reputation of excellence and authenticity sets us above the rest. We pride ourselves on our ability to incorporate faith in our everyday responsibilities. We offer 56 Assisted Living Suites and 29 Memory Care suites. We are located in a prime spot...
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Photo of Copper Shores Village
99 Photos available
8.9
Review score
23 reviews
8.9
Review score
23 reviews
5 star
53%
4 star
26%
3 star
17%
2 star
4%
1 star
0%
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We picked this community because of the location, and avalability. People are nice, they seem to be in a transition period, new activities person, executive director, pastor, etc, so lots changing. I would...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Welcome to Copper Shores Village of Pleasant Hill! We provide independent living, assisted living, and memory care — a flexible rangeof support, without a buy-in. The building is remarkable; up on a hill, overlooking Copper Creek Lake. Likewise, the interior has manycomforts, and a stimulating...
Photo of Edencrest at The Legacy
1010 Photos available
8.5
Review score
4 reviews
8.5
Review score
4 reviews
5 star
75%
4 star
25%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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Edencrest at The Legacy gets 5 stars in all categories. What sticks out the most about the facility is the caring staff who communicate with the residents and their families. I have many friends and...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Edencrest at The Legacy is the fifth retirement living community in the Edencrest series, offering 40 apartments of Independent Living, Assisted Living, Closer Care and Memory Care to the Norwalk community. As a resident at The Legacy, you'll enjoy freedom of choice when it comes to our wide...
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Photo of Glen Oaks Alzheimer's Special Care Center
2222 Photos available
8.5
Review score
43 reviews
8.5
Review score
43 reviews
5 star
58%
4 star
26%
3 star
2%
2 star
2%
1 star
12%
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They promised the moon, but they don't deliver. They sure as heck try harder than the last place we were at. I know there have been several people from other places who have gone to Glen Oaks. I don't think...
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Welcome to Glen Oaks Alzheimer’s Special Care!Founded in 2007, Glen Oaks Alzheimer’s Special Care Center has been providing the best quality Memory Care services to the residents of Waukee, Urbandale, West Des Moines, Clive, Windsor Heights and Ankeny.When the time comes to transition a loved one...
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Photo of Courtyard Estates at Cedar Pointe
66 Photos available
8.0
Review score
16 reviews
8.0
Review score
16 reviews
5 star
38%
4 star
43%
3 star
0%
2 star
6%
1 star
13%
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I'm very happy with this facility and would recommend it to friends and family. The food is ok, kind of plain but no issues other than that. The facility is very clean, it's well maintained, and they are...
Provides: Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Courtyard Estates will support you in living in an environment that promotes choice, independence and dignity with the added benefit of safety and security. Our Courtyard Estates Community in Pleasant Hill, Iowa is a designated memory care community and puts the focus on serving your loved with...
Photo of Bickford of Urbandale
2121 Photos available
Pricing promotion expiring soon
8.0
Review score
24 reviews
8.0
Review score
24 reviews
5 star
41%
4 star
38%
3 star
21%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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Due to our loved ones health she was unable to use the facilities that were offered at Bickford of Urbandale, however based on the experience we had with the community we would recommend them to other...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
At Bickford, we believe the golden years should be golden. Your loved one will be immersed in a world of homemade culinary delights, continuous caregiver companionship, and a myriad of enjoyable social engagements. Our commitment to their best life is unwavering, powered by our renowned...
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Photo of Bickford of West Des Moines
2020 Photos available
Pricing promotion expiring soon
8.0
Review score
20 reviews
8.0
Review score
20 reviews
5 star
45%
4 star
25%
3 star
15%
2 star
10%
1 star
5%
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In the last 18 months I’ve toured many senior living options to find a place for my mom. Bickford in West Des Moines didn’t hit my radar right away and I wish it had. The staff is kind, the nurse has been...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
If you're seeking a dynamic senior living community, look no further than Bickford. It's where delicious food made from scratch, ever-present friendly caregivers, and a bustling social calendar come together. But that's not all; our HigherPath senior health model, known nationally for its...
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Photo of Edencrest at Riverwoods
1818 Photos available
7.9
Review score
38 reviews
7.9
Review score
38 reviews
5 star
42%
4 star
34%
3 star
8%
2 star
0%
1 star
16%
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Very clean, all staff that we interacted with was friendly and helpful. The front office staff bent over backwards to help us at a very difficult time for our family. Seriously great staff.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Edencrest at Riverwoods is an assisted living community located in Des Moines, Polk County, Iowa. Our beautiful community is located near Lake Easter and several parks. Des Moines is a wonderful area for both residents and their loved ones to enjoy. We are committed to our residents by providing...
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Photo of Edencrest at Beaverdale
2121 Photos available
Pricing promotion expiring soon
7.9
Review score
23 reviews
7.9
Review score
23 reviews
5 star
61%
4 star
22%
3 star
4%
2 star
9%
1 star
4%
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We have not been there for the meals ourselves but from looking off the menu they look appetizing. Our loved one does not always participate in the activities but what she does, she really enjoys. We like...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Edencrest at Beaverdale is professionally managed by Jaybird Senior Living. Built by Hubbell Realty Company in 2017 in the heart of Beaverdale, we are committed to providing Red Carpet service for everyone who lives, works, and visits Beaverdale. Enjoy peace of mind and a wide variety of...
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Photo of Edencrest at Siena Hills
1111 Photos available
7.9
Review score
18 reviews
7.9
Review score
18 reviews
5 star
50%
4 star
50%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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It was the nicest place I could find for my brother that met the criteria of having assisted living and memory care. Our main criteria was that we needed a facility that would do a spin down. We agreed to...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Edencrest at Siena Hills Assisted Living and Memory Care is your community of choice in Ankeny! We are committed to providing Red Carpet Treatment for everyone who lives, works, and visits Siena Hills. Red Carpet Treatment is more than simple hospitality; it is our way of life! Our 'Resident...
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Photo of Edencrest at The Tuscany
55 Photos available
7.8
Review score
5 reviews
7.8
Review score
5 reviews
5 star
60%
4 star
0%
3 star
20%
2 star
0%
1 star
20%
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Our loved one likes the complex a lot. The meals have not been great because the chef has quit. Our loved one has really has enjoyed participating in the activities.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
We are a brand new community, summer of 2021, within an award winning brand. We will be the flagship community of the brand offering independent living, assisted living, closer care, and memory care. We will also offer garages, connected and detached. Our services will go much higher than most...
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Photo of Ramsey Village
66 Photos available
7.5
Review score
22 reviews
7.5
Review score
22 reviews
5 star
36%
4 star
27%
3 star
23%
2 star
9%
1 star
5%
See all reviews
My parents love it there. The staff is very friendly and very accommodating. The apartment is beautiful. The only reason I rated activities down a little is because we thought there would be...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Ramsey Village Continuing Care Retirement Community located on 10-acres of beautiful landscapped land provides a full range of choices for today's seniors. Choosing a senior living community represents a lifestyle choice and we understand that our residents are choosing much more than a...
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Photo of The Rose of East Des Moines
88 Photos available
5 star
43%
4 star
43%
3 star
14%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
I am happy for the care that is received from this community. The staff are caring and attentive to the residents. The menu offers alot of healthy meals that she is enjoying. The activities are helpful for...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
The Rose of East Des Moines is an independent living community located in Des Moines, IA. Des Moines is a part of the counties of Polk and Warren. Centrally located in downtown Des Moines, residents have easy access to hospitals, parks, shopping, and fine dining. Just about anything residents...
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Photo of 3801 Grand Retirement Campus
11 Photo available
2.0
Review score
17 reviews
2.0
Review score
17 reviews
5 star
41%
4 star
29%
3 star
12%
2 star
12%
1 star
6%
See all reviews
I thinks so far it's been good. It's clean and the staff are pretty friendly. The food seems to be pretty good. The weekends can get a little difficult because there are less staff on duty. I don't think...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Our Assisted Living facility at 3801 Grand features 60 private apartments. We offer all-inclusive service, allowing residents to continue their daily routine, while receiving additional care from our 24-hour staff. Medication management and personal care are included in the monthly rent. There...
Photo of Addington Place of Des Moines
99 Photos available
Pricing promotion
2.5
Review score
28 reviews
2.5
Review score
28 reviews
5 star
53%
4 star
32%
3 star
11%
2 star
4%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
We really appreciate the friendliness of the staff members and how they always introduce themselves and they are always willing to answer every questions we have.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Addington Place of Des Moines is tucked in to a beautiful wooded setting just south of Easter Lake and Ewing Park in Des Moines. Our quiet country location is near the shopping, dining, and entertainment options of the Southridge Mall area. Hospitals and medical services are also just minutes...
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Photo of Edencrest at Green Meadows
2222 Photos available
6.0
Review score
30 reviews
6.0
Review score
30 reviews
5 star
46%
4 star
37%
3 star
10%
2 star
7%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
The staffing levels are sometimes an issue and can effect the care that they can provide. The staff they do have is great, but level of staff skills varies. I would suggest more events that include families.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Edencrest at Green Meadows is professionally managed by Senior Housing Companies.We are committed to providing Red Carpet Treatment for everyone who lives, works, and visits Green Meadows. Enjoy peace of mind and a wide variety of all-inclusive amenities when you reserve your apartment today. Ask...
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Photo of Bishop Drumm Retirement Center
99 Photos available
5 star
50%
4 star
10%
3 star
40%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
This is a great opportunity for a parent or a loved one to go to. They are very welcome and open with the residents as well as the family. My mother is very happy there and it was the best place for her to...
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Holland Farms
1919 Photos available
77 Floor plans available
6.1
Review score
4 reviews
6.1
Review score
4 reviews
5 star
25%
4 star
25%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
50%
See all reviews
The activities lately have been going pretty well. We have activities like bingo, and they take us places and do a lot of different things with us to keep us busy and social in the community. This is a nice...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
See details
Photo of Walnut Ridge
9.2
Review score
20 reviews
9.2
Review score
20 reviews
5 star
50%
4 star
25%
3 star
25%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
I have heard they are hiring a 2nd nurse so there is one on nights and weekends. That has inhibited a few things when care was required. Not a lot of activities getting them out of the facility. The bus...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
ENJOY THE BENEFITS OF RENTAL!Experience for yourself the active retirement lifestyle at Walnut Ridge. Designed for those looking to enjoy life, surrounded by great neighbors and friends in an impressive setting.Walnut Ridge provides the ultimate in retirement living for those ages 55 and better...
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Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of University Park and Arbor Heights
Provides: Assisted Living, Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of Walden Point
5 star
0%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
100%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Walden Point promotes choice, dignity and independence by providing a quality affordable assisted living housing option for persons age 65 and older. Walden Point offers private full sized apartments paired with the support of 24 hour on-site staff. Some of the amenities available at Walden Point...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of City View Residential
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.

Costs of assisted living in the Des Moines area

On average, residents of assisted living communities in Des Moines pay a total cost of $4,334 monthly, according to the most recent proprietary data from A Place for Mom.[01] This fee typically covers room and board, activities available to all, communal space maintenance, apartment maintenance, some daily assistance with routine activities, and any associated fees and service fee add-ons. However, some communities may be higher or lower than the average depending upon a number of factors, including optional arrangements like deluxe accommodations, pet fees, or storage unit space rentals.

The following chart represents starting costs of assisted living in Des Moines and surrounding areas. These numbers do not take into consideration additional fees and add-ons.

Average cost comparisons near Des Moines, IA

Average monthly costs

Des Moines, IA

$4,326

How people pay for assisted living in Des Moines

Seniors who move into assisted living communities, whether or not those communities are attached to independent living facilities, senior apartments, or memory care wings, typically use a combination of methods to pay for their monthly fees. The most common payment methods are with personal funds, through insurance vehicles like Medicaid or Medicare, or with help from VA benefits. Please note that Medicaid, Medicare, and VA assistance cannot be used for monthly rent costs but can be used to help pay for other fees, such as medical care or emergency services.

Private pay methods

Seniors can use any type of personal savings to help cover the costs of moving to an assisted living facility in Des Moines. For instance, they might have savings or receive Social Security benefits or a pension. Additionally, they may have other sources of reliable or periodic income, including returns on stocks or other investments. Below are some of the other ways to pay out of pocket.

VA benefits
8580

Number of veterans who live in Des Moines

About 12% of Des Moines veterans are 75+

Many veterans may already receive a Veterans Affairs (VA) Pension. However, some seniors may be able to access other veteran-specific funding as well. The Aid and Attendance benefit can be used by people in an assisted living facility because it is an additional amount added to the monthly Pension to be used for anything that improves quality of life.

For seniors who find the process of applying for veteran benefits overwhelming, consider speaking with a veterans service officer. These vetted representatives are able to help navigate the benefits system and help you apply.

Resources for Des Moines veterans

Government offices for veterans

Des Moines VA Regional Benefit Office
210 Walnut Street
Des Moines, IA 5030
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Polk County Commission of Veteran Affairs
2309 Euclid Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50310
Phone: 515-286-3670
Email: Veterans.Affairs@polkcountyiowa.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Iowa Department of Veterans Affairs
7105 NW 70th Ave.
Camp Dodge – Building 3465
Johnston, IA 50131
Phone: 515-252-4698

VSOs

Iowa Department of VFW
3601 Beaver Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50310
Phone: 515-255-2139
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

American Legion Department of Iowa
720 Lyon St.
Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone: 515-282-5068
Email: info@ialegion.org

Disabled American Veterans
210 Walnut St., Room 566
Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone: 515-323-7539

Vietnam Veterans of America Iowa State Council
210 Walnut St., Room 559
Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone: 563-650-3055
Email: ghpaulline@gmail.com

Iowa Paralyzed Veterans of America
7025 Hickman Road, Suite 1
Urbandale, IA 50322
Phone: 515-277-4782
Email: iowapvakim@yahoo.com

Medicaid

Medicaid is the federal insurance program designed for people whose private funds have run out, putting them into a low-income category. With Medicaid, seniors may be able to pay for some of their assisted living costs that are directly related to medical needs, such as visits from a physical therapist or home health aide.

A Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver can help provide medical and social services to eligible seniors who might otherwise need nursing home care. Those most applicable to seniors moving to assisted living communities are the following:

To apply for any of these waivers, fill out the online application. You can also use this printable Medicaid application if you’d prefer.

If it seems hard to navigate Medicaid, start by reading this booklet on waiver programs from the Department of Human Services and our guide to Medicaid assistance and waivers. Both resources are designed to help seniors understand their rights and potential options.

Stay abreast of what’s happening with the program by attending Iowa Medicaid Town Hall Meetings, to remain informed. Alternatively, the Central Iowa Agency on Aging can provide further resources for seniors unsure how to navigate obtaining Medicaid benefits.

Iowa Medicaid Member Services can help Medicaid recipients with submitting state-sponsored health insurance applications and renewals. The long-term care ombudsman is also an advocate for seniors and a good resource for information and assistance.

Des Moines resident Medicaid resources

Apply for Medicaid

Iowa Medicaid Member Services
2309 Euclid Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50314
Phone: 515-256-4606
TTY: 800-735-2942
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Social Security Administration
455 SW Fifth St. F
Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Additional Medicaid resources

Central Iowa Agency on Aging
5835 Grand Ave., Suite 106
Des Moines, IA 50312
Phone: 515-255-1310
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Long-term care Ombudsman
Beth Burke
510 E. 12th St., Suite 2
Des Moines, IA 50319
Phone: 515-725-3308

Medicare

Medicare operates as the federal health care program for people who are 65 and older. As such, many seniors may already be on Medicare. Because Medicare only pays for short-term medical costs, it won’t pay for assisted living room and board or related costs. However, it can be valuable to lower out-of-pocket costs to see doctors, get surgeries, or even have in-home medical care.

The Iowa Senior Health Insurance Information Program (SHIIP) is a good first place to go for seniors not yet receiving Medicare. This program connects you with counselors who can help demystify Medicare benefits and help with the application process.

Be sure to also look into related programs, such as the state’s Medicare Savings Programs, which can help lower the cost of Medicare premiums and deductibles. Additionally, seniors who need the level of care generally found in a nursing home might be eligible for the Program for All-Inclusive Care of the Elderly (PACE). PACE coordinates care and services for seniors at home or in assisted living facilities to help them delay a move into a nursing home.

To talk with someone about Medicare in a one-on-one format, contact a Medicare ombudsman at the PEER Advocate Program or the Central Iowa Agency on Aging. The other listed resources below are also available for support and advocacy. Visit the Des Moines, Iowa Social Security Administration office to get help and apply for Medicare.

Des Moines resident Medicare resources

Apply for Medicare

Social Security Administration
455 SW Fifth St. F
Des Moines, IA 50309
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Senior guidance and counseling

SHIIP
1963 Bell Ave., Suite 100
Des Moines, Iowa  50315
Phone: 800-351-4664 or 563-421-1096
Email: shiip@iid.iowa.gov 

Central Iowa Agency on Aging
5835 Grand Ave., Ste. 106
Des Moines, IA 50312
Phone: 515-255-1310
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Des Moines, Iowa Ombudsman
Bernardo Granwehr, Ombudsman
Bert Dalmer, Senior Deputy Ombudsman
1112 E. Grand
Des Moines, Iowa 50319
Phone: 515-281-3592
Email: ombudsman@legis.iowa.gov

Understand Iowa laws and regulations for assisted living facilities

In Iowa, all assisted living facilities are licensed as Assisted Living Programs (ALPs) and regulated by the Health Facilities Division of the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals (DIA). The process of receiving and keeping licensure involves meeting strict compliance requirements regarding staff, residential care, and other standards for ALPs.

Standards that apply to assisted living facilities

Iowa law defines ALPs — or assisted living facilities — home-like spaces that provide personal care to three or more people. The regulations put a major emphasis on preserving the dignity and privacy of residents, as well as encouraging their participation (and their loved ones) in decision making.

An assisted living stay in Iowa must begin with an agreement that outlines everything from cost to emergency procedures to staffing policies. Personal care, health-related care, and medication oversight must be provided. The facility must provide at least one hot meal per day.

A sufficient number of staff members must be on hand 24-hours a day to cover all the residents’ needs, and all staff must be trained on emergency procedures. Staff members must also pass criminal background checks.

Regular inspections at assisted living facilities

It is the role of the Iowa DIA to conduct regular inspections of each assisted living facility. Typically, inspections happen at least once every 24 months, although they may be performed more frequently. Inspections ensure that every facility maintains the highest quality of care and puts residents’ safety, comfort, and dignity first.

Check the Health Facilities Division online database for inspection reports. You can search by facility name or type or search by location.

Iowa Department of Health contact information

Iowa Department of Health and Human Services
321 E. 12th St.
Des Moines, IA 50319
Phone: 515-281-7689
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

COVID-19 regulations for Des Moines assisted living facilities

Iowa officially lifted all masking and social distancing mandates, but Des Moines shares these best practices. However, many assisted living communities follow their own best practices and may ask workers to wear masks when coming in close contact with residents.

To reduce your risk of contracting or sharing Covid or a comparable illness like the seasonal flu, follow some basic hygiene rules.

An illustration of a syringe

Vaccinations.

If you’re able to get vaccinations for Covid and influenza, stay up to date. Health care insurance usually covers the cost for these preventative vaccines.

An illustration of a protective breathing mask

Masking.

Wear a mask in crowded indoor areas or when you’re not feeling well.

An illustration of a shield

Staff safety.

Some assisted living facilities are still enacting masking mandates for their employees and any visiting health care professionals such as nurses, therapists, or specialists.

An illustration of a person in bed within a house

Quarantining.

Think or know you were exposed to Covid? Isolate until you learn more from a Covid test.

Get to know assisted living in Des Moines

18Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
3.7/5.0 average in-network rating
89% of our partner communities are pet-friendly
88% of partner communities offer memory care
82% of partner communities offer full medication management available
100% of partner communities offer hospice available on-site
1685
Number of people we have referred to our partner communities in Des Moines 
82
Average age of resident we have referred to partner communities in Des Moines
Gender split:  65% female

What to expect from assisted living in Des Moines

According to U.S. News and World Reports, Des Moines is more than just a cost-effective place to live with lots of natural parks, plenty of restaurants and shopping, and some walkable areas. It’s also named one of the top 100 places to retire in the country. This makes it a welcoming, affordable option for seniors who want to make the move to an assisted living facility.[04]

Progressive combination living for seamless aging in place

In terms of the facilities themselves, each of the 18 assisted living communities associated with A Place for Mom has its own atmosphere and layout. Seniors will find that most of these communities aren’t standalone facilities, either. They’re more modern and meant for an aging-in-place lifestyle. To allow seniors the most independence and freedom while being able to access care, seven of our partners are assisted living, independent living, and memory care facilities combined. Another eight are assisted living and memory care. While there is one each of senior apartments/assisted living, senior apartments/assisted living/independent living/memory care, and a standalone assisted living facility.

Basic to luxury and everything in-between

Some seniors hope to live in accommodations that skew toward the luxurious and high-end. Others are more interested in making a more quaint assisted living facility home. No matter the requirements, seniors can find suitable options across the board in Des Moines, making it easier to pinpoint exactly where to call home.

Amenities to suit your lifestyle

Seniors moving to an assisted living community can still uphold an independent lifestyle. Especially since assisted living facilities are laid out to serve personal care needs and help with activities of daily living without limiting seniors from the safe activities and opportunities they enjoy. Many of our partner communities offer at-cost and complimentary transportation, for instance. This gives seniors the opportunity to explore the Des Moines area with friends and family, and three-quarters of our partners take residents on outings. Some even set up activities for both residents and their family members, making it simpler and more convenient to make memories with both new friends and loved ones. Onsite, seniors can enjoy art classes, bingo, yoga, movies in the theater room, or a game of cards with friends.

Care has you covered

On the health care side, seniors may want to evaluate assisted living options based on whether they offer full medication management, onsite memory care, onsite hospice, or visiting providers. At our partner facilities, nearly all of them offer visiting physical and occupational therapists, podiatrists, and nurses. Full medication management is available at 82% of our partner assisted living facilities.

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Unfamiliar with Des Moines? Highlights for seniors

25,805

Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Des Moines[05]

12%
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Des Moines population[05]
$45,238

Median annual income for Des Moines seniors 65 and older[06]

Health care for seniors in Des Moines

A graphic of a capital letter H in a circle

MercyOne Des Moines Medical Center 

Founded by the Sisters of Mercy, this acute care hospital consistently receives high marks from the U.S. News & World Report as a premiere Des Moines health care facility. Some of its most recognized treatments and services include those covering orthopedics, surgery, and cardiovascular disease.

A graphic of a capital letter H in a circle

Broadlawns Medical Center 

Striving to provide patients with affordable care options, Broadlawns Medical Center is also a well-regarded facility, according to U.S. News & World Reports. If you need ongoing orthopedic care, consider making an appointment with a doctor at any of Broadlawns’ locations.

A graphic of a capital letter H in a circle

Veterans Affairs Central Iowa Health Care System-Des Moines

The Veterans Affairs Central Iowa Health Care System in Des Moines features a general medical and surgical site. If you’re a former member of the military, you may want to contact this System to find out your care options. U.S. News & World Reports rates this System highly for emergency treatment and triage.

Transportation for seniors in Des Moines

At our partner assisted living facilities, transportation for seniors is made easy with 82% offering it at-cost and 77% providing it free of charge.

Seniors living at an assisted living community that offers transportation may still want to get around Des Moines in other ways with a care team or with visiting family members. Fortunately, like many large cities, Des Moines has its walkable areas. However, the city’s walk score sits at 45 out of 100, meaning that not every neighborhood has well-maintained paths, trails, or sidewalks. With this in mind, seniors may want to take public or private transportation to get to parks, museums, shopping centers, events, and restaurants.

The main public transportation is a bus line run by the Des Moines Area Regional Transit Authority. The bus line offers discounts for seniors and even has a special door-to-door Paratransit Bus Plus service that may be free for those considered low-income or disabled. To learn more about discounts and related options as a senior living in Des Moines, contact the Transit Authority at (515) 286-3484.

Most people don’t keep a car if they’re relocating to associated living communities in Des Moines. Still, seniors can always take rideshare services like Uber or Lyft to get where they want to go. If you’d rather use a private transportation method that’s specifically made with seniors in mind, get in touch with Compassionate Care Transportation. This organization sets up affordable, non-medical transport for senior individuals and larger groups.

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45

Walk Score

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39

Transit Score

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30

Bike Score

Senior activities in Des Moines

One of the most enjoyable parts of moving to any new city is being able to fully explore its amenities and unique aspects. In Des Moines, seniors can find lots of ways to spend their free time. From shopping at boutiques and stores and trying different types of cuisine to attending live events or enjoying nature settings, they can fill your calendar month after month.

Below are just some of the initial places to explore and things to do after once the assisted living move-in day is complete.

Getting outside for fresh air

Being able to indulge in outdoor recreation and relaxation is something residents of Des Moines prize. The city has more than 76 small and large parks. Seniors can find out about specific activities in these parks by checking the Des Moines Parks and Recreation site regularly.

One of the most notable parks in the region is Gray’s Lake Park. It’s quite spacious and attracts hikers, picnickers, and watersports enthusiasts. Even for those that use a wheelchair or require an assisted device,  navigation is easy on many of its more well-maintained paths. TrailLink also offers a map of wheelchair-accessible places to go at Gray’s Lake Park.

Gray’s Lake Park isn’t far from another popular outdoor hotspot in Des Moines: The expansive Greater Des Moines Botanical Garden. This Botanical Garden is filled with native and exotic plants. It’s known for its pristine landscaping and won a 2022 “Best Attraction” award. Seniors can even expect to get a discounted ticket price to roam around the Garden grounds. From the Garden, consider taking a 15-20 minute bus ride to the Pappajohn Sculpture Park with its massive outdoor art installations.

Museums and educational experiences

Being able to learn something new is one of the benefits of going to museums and other educational institutions. To find out about the first settlers — and their generations since — check out the State Historical Museum. This museum is built for accessibility with all displays being wheelchair accessible and some wheelchairs available for visitors’ use.

Want to go a little “wild” with self-paced learning? A trip to the Blank Park Zoo is in order. The Blank Park Zoo won the 2022 National Gold Medal Award for Excellence in Park and Recreation Management, a true feather in this facility’s cap. It’s not hard to be amazed by the wonders of the animal, avian, aquatic, and reptile kingdoms here.

Art lovers will appreciate the Des Moines Arts Center, which is both free and packed with works from well-recognized artists like Georgia O’Keefe and Henri Matisse. For those who would like to see art pieces from emerging artists, including those local to the Des Moines region, consider going to the Polk County Heritage Gallery.

Cheering for athletes and performers

Although many assisted living communities may offer onsite entertainment like traveling singers, bingo games, and movie get-togethers, seniors may want to go to an event outside of the complex. At Principal Park, seniors can indulge their love for baseball by watching games played by the minor league Iowa Cubs. Another rewarding location to try for those into music is the Des Moines Symphony, which focuses on bringing live performing arts concerts and more to audiences. Additionally, the Des Moines Civic Center presents year-round opportunities to sit back and be entertained by Broadway-style entertainment, comedians, singers, and other performers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Woodlands Creek Senior Living, Independence Village of Waukee and Independence Village of Ankeny are the top-rated Assisted Living facilities near Des Moines, IA. These Assisted Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.

The average cost of Assisted Living in Des Moines is 4326 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

References

  1. A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  2. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. Census Bureau Tables

  3. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. Census Bureau Tables

  4. U.S. News and World Reports. (2023). Living in Des Moines, IA | U.S. News Best Places

  5. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. S1701: POVERTY STATUS IN THE PAST

  6. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Median Income in the Past 12 Months (in 2021 Inflation-Adjusted Dollars) (S1903) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. S1701: POVERTY STATUS IN THE PAST

  7. U.S. News & World Report L.P. (2023). Best Hospitals in Des Moines, IA Rankings

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The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, legal or financial advice or create a professional relationship between A Place for Mom and the reader. Always seek the advice of your health care provider, attorney or financial advisor with respect to any particular matter, and do not act or refrain from acting on the basis of anything you have read on this site. Links to third-party websites are only for the convenience of the reader; A Place for Mom does not endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
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1.

A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

2.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. Census Bureau Tables

3.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. Census Bureau Tables

4.

U.S. News and World Reports. (2023). Living in Des Moines, IA | U.S. News Best Places

5.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. S1701: POVERTY STATUS IN THE PAST

6.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Median Income in the Past 12 Months (in 2021 Inflation-Adjusted Dollars) (S1903) [Data Set]. American Community Survey. S1701: POVERTY STATUS IN THE PAST

7.

U.S. News & World Report L.P. (2023). Best Hospitals in Des Moines, IA Rankings