Located in the Midwest, Iowa is rich in history and home to many outdoor adventures, agriculture, shopping and tourist attractions. Seniors looking for things to do can explore the Amana Colonies, one of the oldest communal societies in the country. Iowa is also home to Pikes Peak State Park, which offers views of the Mississippi River and is one of the most photographed places in the state. Here seniors can hike and enjoy the scenery. The cost of living in Iowa is much lower than the national average, making it an affordable place for seniors to retire, and Social Security benefits are exempt from state income tax. Summers are mild, with average July highs around 84, but winters are cold and snowy with up to 30 inches of snow annually.
Active seniors who want to remain independent but prefer to live in a community designed for older adults may choose an independent living facility. These communities provide little to no medical care and usually do not offer home and community-based services, like bathing and grooming. In Iowa, the average cost of independent living is $2,647.
This guide covers the cost of independent living in surrounding states and offers a list of common senior resources.