When you picture how you’ll spend your retirement years, one key consideration likely comes to mind: location, location, location. Choosing where you retire is a big decision, as your environment can influence many aspects of your life. According to a 2025 survey, more than one-third of retirees move, motivated by a variety of reasons, from living closer to family and friends to decreasing expenses.
Each region and state in the U.S. offers its own unique perks, but if you’re considering settling down in the Hawkeye State, you may be wondering: Is Iowa a good place to retire? Whether you’re a long-term resident of Iowa or simply are looking to move to a beautiful Midwestern state, you’ll be glad to know Iowa is an ideal location to thrive during your retirement years.
When deciding where to live in your retirement years, consider which criteria matter most to you so you can find a location that checks those boxes. According to the “25th Annual Transamerica Retirement Survey,” the top factors that influence this decision for other retirees include:
Chances are some of these factors are on your personal list of considerations. If you’re moving from a state where the cost of living is higher, maybe you want to prioritize a location with lower living costs and favorable tax policies. If you want to enjoy social and civic connections, you might want to look for a place with a strong community focus. Or maybe you want better access to excellent health care and support services as you age. Fortunately, Iowa offers all these perks and more.
Yes! Iowa is an excellent place to retire, offering residents a lower cost of living than many other states, an enjoyable climate and scenery, access to excellent care, and a community-focused culture.
Your savings and retirement income likely will stretch further in Iowa than in many other states. Iowa has even been named the most affordable state to live in due to exceptionally reasonable costs for housing, transportation, groceries, and utilities. So, if you’re moving from a state where costs are higher, you can maintain your lifestyle for less or enjoy a higher standard of living without spending more. Plus, Iowa helps retirees keep more of what they earn through state income tax exemptions.
Warmer climates are popular with retirees, but many people prefer variety throughout the year. Iowa experiences four distinct seasons, so you can take part in a wide range of outdoor activities and enjoy the ever-changing beauty of nature — from spring blossoms and summer sunshine to brilliant autumn colors and winter snowfall. Iowa offers beautiful Midwestern scenery, including its distinctive Loess Hills, Mississippi River bluffs, state parks, waterfalls, and more.
Even if you plan to live independently in your home, it’s always wise to prepare for an uncertain future. Should you face health challenges or find yourself needing some extra support, living near quality hospitals, senior living communities, and other resources can be invaluable. With 10 WesleyLife community locations across the state, offering a full continuum of care, you can feel fully supported, no matter how your needs may evolve.
"Iowa Nice" is more than just a slogan; it’s a way of life. Iowa boasts low crime rates and is known for a culture focused on friendliness and community. Plus, the state features a diverse range of lifestyles and amenities of which to take advantage. If you appreciate both the charm of small towns and the hustle and bustle of the city, Iowa is an excellent place to live, offering rural living alongside urban centers with access to museums, art galleries, performance venues, fine dining, and more.
Iowa includes many wonderful towns and cities. If you’re not sure where to start, consider these standout options.
As the state capital, Des Moines provides a "big city" feel with a cost of living considerably lower than the national average. Residents enjoy access to premier cultural institutions like the Des Moines Art Center and the Pappajohn Sculpture Park, alongside top-tier health care through the UnityPoint and MercyOne systems. In the heart of the city, Wesley on Grand, WesleyLife’s flagship community, offers an ideal urban retreat for retirees interested in community living. Recent extensive renovations expanded the list of amenities and integrated the campus even more deeply into the community.
For those seeking high-end amenities in a quieter setting, West Des Moines is the premier choice. This suburb of Des Moines houses the Jordan Creek Town Center and world-class medical facilities. Edgewater, a WesleyLife community in West Des Moines, epitomizes "resort-style" living. Set on a sprawling 50-acre campus, it offers concierge services, a state-of-the-art wellness center (featuring a heated saltwater pool), and many on-site amenities.
Pella was featured in World Atlas as one of the "6 Towns Perfect for Retirement in Iowa,” and it's well deserving of this praise. Pella is famous for its Dutch heritage, manicured gardens, and close proximity to Lake Red Rock, Iowa's largest lake. It is highly walkable and maintains a distinct cultural identity with its annual Tulip Time festival. Plus, Pella is where you’ll find Hearthstone, a WesleyLife community offering a full continuum of lifestyle options across three beautiful campuses, complete with recreation spaces, a library, a therapy gym, and more.
Located along the Mississippi River, Bettendorf is one of Iowa’s fastest-growing hubs. It attracts active retirees with its scenic riverfront views and a robust arts scene. The Summit of Bettendorf, a WellSpire Community for Healthy Living, offers a modern, urban-adjacent lifestyle. Its standout features include a rooftop lounge with firepits and a virtual golf simulator — perfect for those who want to stay socially and physically active.
If you’re wondering if Iowa is a good place to retire, you may want to explore these frequently asked questions.
Yes! Iowa is consistently ranked among the most affordable states. With a lower cost of living and tax benefits for retirees, your retirement savings can stretch further in this state than they would in many others.
No, Iowa does not tax Social Security benefits. And, as of 2023, the state does not tax most other retirement income, including pensions, 401(k)s, and IRAs, for adults aged 55 and older.
You’ll find a diverse range of communities in Iowa, including independent living communities designed for active adults and those with additional levels of living for more hands-on support. Whatever your needs and preferences, you can find an ideal fit.
Is Iowa a good place to retire? Yes! Choosing Iowa for retirement is a smart move for many reasons. From its exceptional affordability and access to care to its scenic beauty and rich culture, Iowa provides a desirable quality of life for retirees.
Are you ready to pursue your joy in the Hawkeye State? Find your perfect senior living community in Iowa!