Helping a parent pick where to live next, or picking for yourself? The neighborhood matters less than one-level living, upkeep, and what it costs per month.
I'm Sarah Ingles, a Des Moines REALTOR®, and this is the work I focus on. Here is how the decision actually goes:
Decide the destination first, not the house. Townhome, rental independent living, or a buy-in community, with the monthly cost of each.
Then the sequence: sell first or move first. With dates on it, so nobody carries two homes longer than they have to.
Then the house. What it would net, and what to fix or leave alone.
The one thing to do this week is number 1, and it is a conversation, not a listing.
Within 2 business days, in writing: the one-level options that fit, with the monthly cost of each, and the order to do things in. No call needed.
Sarah Ingles, REALTOR®, SRES®, CPCU® · Smart Move Des Moines (563) 513-8771 · 5.0★ across 40+ Google reviews
Get the written shortlist.
Tell me where things stand, and within 2 business days you'll have it in writing: a shortlist of one-level options that fit (townhome, rental independent living, or a buy-in community) with the monthly cost of each, the sell-first or move-first order with dates, and what the current house would likely net. Every option is assessed on the facts.
The one-level options and neighborhoods
Top 5 Neighborhoods for Retirees
1. West Des Moines — Best for Luxury & Amenities
Median home: ~$350K
Why retirees love it: Jordan Creek shopping, excellent restaurants, multiple 55+ communities (Grand Living at Tower Place, Village Cooperative), close to healthcare. Best for retirees wanting an active, amenity-rich lifestyle.
Why retirees love it: Geographic sweet spot — 10-15 minutes from everywhere. Established neighborhoods, mature trees, Living History Farms. Lower prices than west-side neighbors. Best for retirees who want convenience without luxury prices.
Why retirees love it: Greenbelt Trail (runs through the city), quiet tree-lined streets, well-maintained properties. Close to Clive Aquatic Center and parks. Best for active retirees who love walking, biking, and nature.
Why retirees love it: Walkable village center, 1920s-40s character homes, strong neighborhood identity, Beaverdale Fall Festival. Most affordable on this list. Best for retirees who value community, character, and walkability.
Why retirees love it: Schools (great if grandkids visit), Terra Park, community events, newer construction with main-floor living options. Best for retirees near family with school-age grandchildren.
● Market data updated · Des Moines Metro, Iowa · Updated monthly
Everything below is here for when you want it. None of it is homework this week.
From a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) — the top neighborhoods, 55+ communities, and tax benefits for Iowa retirees.
Thinking about retiring in Des Moines — or downsizing to a neighborhood that better fits your lifestyle? As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®), I help retirees and their families choose a neighborhood with the house numbers in writing. Here are my top picks for 2026.
Why is Des Moines an appealing retirement destination?
Des Moines is an appealing retirement destination because the money goes further and the medicine is close: cost of living runs 12 to 15% below the national average, Iowa does not tax Social Security benefits, and since 2023 it does not tax retirement income for residents 55 and older (confirm your situation with your tax preparer). The five neighborhoods below have median homes from about $250,000 to $350,000, two hospital systems inside the metro, and one-level housing stock that most cities of this size do not have.
Cost of living 12-15% below national average
No tax on Social Security benefits in Iowa
Property tax credits available for seniors 65+ (up to $1,000/year)
World-class healthcare (MercyOne, UnityPoint)
Four seasons without extreme weather
Friendly communities with Midwest values
What does a retirement-friendly home cost in Des Moines?
Plan on $250,000 in Beaverdale to about $350,000 in West Des Moines for a typical home in the five neighborhoods on this list. A true one-level or patio home usually sits above the neighborhood median because there are fewer of them, which is why the written shortlist prices the specific houses rather than the zip code.
Property Tax Benefits for Iowa Retirees 65+
Homestead exemption: 10% off taxable value ($5,500 min, $20,000 max), replacing the $4,850 credit starting with assessment year 2026
Senior Property Tax Credit: Up to $1,000/year (income-based)
Property Tax Freeze: Lock your assessment if income under $40K
