Last Updated: December 2025
23
Nursing Homes
2.9
Average Rating
8
4+ Star Facilities

📊DES MOINES Senior Population

213,164
Total Population
34.4
Median Age
12.4%
Age 65+ (26,531)
3,292
Age 85+

Census Context: DES MOINES's senior population of 26,531represents 12.4% of residents, providing important context for understanding local demand for quality nursing home care.

Top 10 Nursing Homes in DES MOINES

See our expert rankings of the highest-quality facilities in DES MOINES based on comprehensive CMS data analysis.

View Top 10 Rankings →

About Nursing Homes in DES MOINES

DES MOINES stands out with 6 five-star nursing homes (26.1% of facilities)—significantly above the national average of 18.9%. With an average rating of 2.9 stars across 23 facilities, DES MOINES offers strong options for quality senior care.

DES MOINES Quick Facts:

  • 26.1% five-star rate (38% above the national average)
  • 47.8% chain-owned facilities (national average: 76%)
  • 14 nonprofit facilities (60.9% of market)
  • 100% of facilities have abuse violations
  • Average facility size: 78 beds (smaller facilities)

Nursing Home Costs in DES MOINES

Nursing home costs in the Des Moines area average $305-$336/day ($9,150-$10,080/month) for skilled nursing care (5% above the Iowa state average), according to the 2024 Genworth Cost of Care Survey. Iowa overall is 7% below the national median. Most facilities accept Medicare for short-term rehabilitation (up to 100 days), private insurance, and Medicaid for eligible residents. Some facilities also participate in Veterans Aid & Attendance programs for qualifying veterans and spouses.

Market Overview

DES MOINES's nursing homes include 39.1% for-profit, 60.9% nonprofit facilities.

Choosing a Nursing Home in DES MOINES

Start by touring the 6 five-star facilities in DES MOINES, which represent the top 26.1% by CMS quality metrics. Consider the 14 nonprofit facilities—research shows nonprofits earn five-star ratings at twice the rate of for-profits nationwide. Note that 23 facilities (100%) have documented abuse violations—review inspection reports carefully before deciding.

All nursing homes in DES MOINES are licensed and inspected by the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals. Iowa Medicaid covers nursing home care for eligible Iowa residents. For advocacy and complaints, contact the Iowa Long-Term Care Ombudsman at 1-800-532-3213. Iowa law requires nursing homes to maintain minimum staffing ratios, conduct quarterly inspections, and report all incidents to state authorities. Families can file complaints with the Iowa Long-Term Care Ombudsman program, which investigates concerns about quality of care, resident rights, and facility conditions.

All Nursing Homes in DES MOINES

Filter and sort facilities below. Default ranking uses our composite quality score, which combines CMS ratings, staffing quality, safety records, and compliance history.

Showing 23 of 23 facilities in DES MOINES

4210 HICKMAN ROAD, DES MOINES, IA 50310

Phone: (515)277-6141

Distance: 0 miles | Beds: 59 | Est. Occupancy: 83% (~10 available)

NonprofitCMS Rating: 5/5 Stars

4210 HICKMAN ROAD, DES MOINES, IA 50310

Phone: (515)277-6141

Distance: 0 miles | Beds: 59 | Est. Occupancy: 85% (~9 available)

NonprofitCMS Rating: 5/5 Stars

2909 WOODLAND AVENUE, DES MOINES, IA 50312

Phone: (515)274-4614

Distance: 0 miles | Beds: 51 | Est. Occupancy: 61% (~20 available)

NonprofitCMS Rating: 5/5 Stars

3520 GRAND AVENUE, DES MOINES, IA 50312

Phone: (515)271-6500

Distance: 0 miles | Beds: 80 | Est. Occupancy: 94% (~5 available)

NonprofitCMS Rating: 5/5 Stars

3520 GRAND AVENUE, DES MOINES, IA 50312

Phone: (515)271-6500

Distance: 0 miles | Beds: 80 | Est. Occupancy: 90% (~8 available)

NonprofitCMS Rating: 5/5 Stars

1611 27TH STREET, DES MOINES, IA 50310

Phone: (515)274-3612

Distance: 0 miles | Beds: 78 | Est. Occupancy: 75% (~19 available)

NonprofitCMS Rating: 3/5 Stars

2571 GUTHRIE AVENUE, DES MOINES, IA 50317

Phone: (515)265-2571

Distance: 0 miles | Beds: 79 | Est. Occupancy: 90% (~8 available)

NonprofitCMS Rating: 3/5 Stars
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