If you are eyeing a state to retire to, then the Hawkeye State is one to consider. Iowa is home to many attractions, including being the first place where sliced bread was invented. And for a senior, it could be the best thing since sliced bread. In addition, Iowa can be a great place to retire if you love farmland. It's known for its crops, including corn. Also, Iowa does have a low cost of living, making it a great state to move to for a retiree. Read below to learn why many are moving to Iowa and why you should.
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Iowa has a cost of living that is about 10% lower than the national average. The price is lower than the average in every category, with groceries and transportation nearing the norm but remaining below. Iowa excels in its housing costs, which are almost 24 points below the national average, with a median home cost that is about half as much. If you're looking to buy a home in Iowa, it can be easy to find one without spending too much. So look to Iowa for your next adventure, as it will not disappoint you at all.
Cost-of-living indices
100 = US average. Higher means more expensive.
Housing & rent
Statewide medians and averages.
Whether you're comparing options for a parent or planning ahead for yourself, here's where to start by care level.
Assisted living provides personal care, meals, and daily support for seniors who need help with everyday tasks but not full medical supervision.
Memory care is a specialized type of senior living for people with Alzheimer's disease, dementia, or other cognitive decline.
Independent living is community housing for active seniors who want amenities, social life, and freedom from home upkeep without daily personal-care services.
Home care brings personal-care services and companionship into the senior's own home rather than moving them into a community.
A skilled nursing facility (SNF, often called a nursing home) provides 24-hour licensed medical care and rehabilitation for seniors with serious health conditions.
Senior apartments are age-restricted rental homes - typically for residents 55+ or 62+ - designed for older adults who live independently.
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Hand-picked from our directory
Clive, IA
4.8 · 33 reviews
Cedar Rapids, IA
4.7 · 24 reviews
Cedar Rapids, IA
3.5 · 16 reviews
Urbandale, IA
4.3 · 15 reviews
Cedar Rapids, IA
4.1 · 15 reviews
Council Bluffs, IA
4.8 · 14 reviews
Caregivers who come to you
Alburnett, IA
4.5 · 171 reviews
Carter Lake, IA
4.5 · 160 reviews
West Des Moines, IA
4.6 · 107 reviews
Urbandale, IA
4.8 · 20 reviews
Carson, IA
4.7 · 17 reviews
Ackley, IA
4.8 · 11 reviews
55+ housing without daily care
Local pricing
Median monthly cost of assisted living, sourced from public data. Actual community pricing varies by apartment size, level of care, and amenities.
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