Are you looking for a reasonably priced retirement community and wondering if Iowa is a good fit for you?
While Florida still stands pretty high at the top of the best retirement destinations for Americans, many are starting to consider Iowa too. Why? For retirees on a limited income, including those who want to rely only on Social Security, the Hawkeye State provides a variety of possibilities.
Reasons for this include affordable housing. While average monthly rents under $1,000 have disappeared in many U.S. states, they are still available in a few areas in Iowa and now we bet you’re curious about them!
Based on the demands of retirees, we’ve made a top list of Iowa locations that offer the finest balance of cost and livability.
Ames
The average monthly rent in Ames is less than $1,000, and the city has a high livability score of 90. With a population of over 66,000, it is well-known for Iowa State University and the vibrant Campustown neighborhood.
The Octagon Center for the Arts and the Ames History Museum are two of the three USDA buildings located in Ames. According to the majority, Ames is a safe place to retire since here the crime rate is super low.
Ames could be a good retirement destination for anyone looking for a low cost of living, transportation options, and a lively, safe college town.
Though it could be a little too loud and packed with young people for some, if you can get over this, living in Ames will undoubtedly benefit you in many ways.
Clinton
Another great area in Iowa for a couple living off of social security is this nice community on the Mississippi River. Seniors may have a pleasant retirement here since it is renowned for its stunning architecture and extensive history.
Of course, as a senior, you will have a plethora of activities, such as fishing and kayaking, dining at one of the many excellent restaurants, shopping on Main Street, and touring several historical places.
Dubuque
Dubuque is located along Iowa’s eastern border, the Mississippi River. It brands itself as Iowa’s “first city” and “Where Iowa Started.” Its overall cost of living, highlighted by an average monthly rent of less than $900, makes it a strong option for retirees on a tight budget or for those who want to live solely on Social Security.
Dubuque also offers casinos and numerous historic buildings and sites, which make it a great retirement destination for seniors who also want to enjoy the outdoors.
Waterloo
Are you looking to retire to a place in which the weather is friendly all year round? Waterloo is the best choice in the entire state. The typical property price in this city is much less than $200,000, while the cost of living is 24.3% less than the national average.
Seniors may take part in local events and festivals, explore the city’s various parks and recreational areas, and take in the arts and culture at the Waterloo Center for Arts.
Coralville
Situated near Iowa City, Coralville’s population has increased to over 23,000 after almost doubling between 1990 and 2024. The large Coral Ridge Mall and the Xstream Arena are among the attractions.
The good news is that an elderly couple’s monthly grocery expenses would come to about $390 in this area, which is a big deal given the current prices for everything.
Urbandale
Urbandale is located a short distance northwest of Des Moines and is home to over 45,000 people, roughly twice as many as it had in 1990. It is home to historic Living History Farms, which includes 850 acres of parkland, and Pope John Paul II and President Barack Obama have both given addresses there.
As a retiree here, you will find many welcoming communities, so if you’re also looking to have fun in your golden years, Urbandale might be your place.
Newton
Newton is among the greatest retirement destinations in Iowa. This city’s cost of living is 22.3% less than the national average. Seniors are drawn to the city because, in addition to having a low cost of living, it still has a strong feeling of community and small-town charm. It’s also a great place to retire because of the abundance of conveniences, cultural attractions, and recreational opportunities.
Plus, according to a lot of people, Newton is rather quiet, so if you’re seeking a chill place away from all the tourist crowds in which you will have a nice retirement, you may want to give one a chance.
Indianola
The population of Indianola, which is at 16,000, hasn’t exactly increased recently. However, this is good news because this is another place on the list where the monthly cost of living is less than $2,700 and the rent is less than $1,000.
If you’re searching for a place to have a good time, Lake Ahquabi, located nearby, is popular during the summer and an excellent spot to unwind and relax.
Des Moines
Des Moines is among the greatest towns in Iowa for seniors to reside. Given that the cost of living is 13.4% less than the national average, retirees may have comfortable lives here. The city offers a wide range of leisure opportunities, cultural attractions, and well-maintained parks that all contribute to a happy retirement.
Seniors will have access to high-quality healthcare because of Des Moines’ outstanding healthcare facilities. The general ease and convenience of living here are further enhanced by its controllable traffic and comparatively low crime rate.
Ankeny
Ankeny, a Des Moines suburb, gets the best livability rating among our city’s top. Ankeny has the highest average monthly rent ($1,667.24) and average monthly cost of living ($1,667.24) of any city on our list, but these figures are still reasonable when compared to many other American cities.
Less than 20,000 people called Ankeny home in 1990; that number has subsequently skyrocketed to almost 70,000.
Cedar Rapids
Renowned for its excellent healthcare system, lively cultural attractions, and an abundance of outdoor activities, Cedar Rapids is an additional pleasant retirement destination in Iowa.
The city is an excellent choice for retirement due to its affordable living costs, welcoming environment, and abundance of amenities. Seniors may also find enough to do in the city’s bustling downtown, museums, theaters, and festivals.
Marion
Over 41,000 people are living in this rapidly expanding community outside of Cedar Rapids. It provides seniors on a tight budget with typical rentals of around $982 which is among the most affordable ones in the state.
Sioux City
Sioux City is another excellent location in Iowa for a senior couple to live off of social security alone. Seniors may live in a serene environment in Sioux City because of its picturesque riverside location by the Missouri River.
Additionally, there are plenty of neighborhood events and activities to keep people occupied, and the community climate is kind and inclusive. Along with leisure activities and cultural attractions, there are first-rate medical facilities accessible.
All things considered, the city appeals to travelers because of its unique combination of natural beauty, affordability, and community involvement.
What do you think about these cities? Would you move to Iowa for retirement? If not, why? Tell us in the comments section.
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