Iowa Finance Authority

2026 Central Iowa 55+ Living Guide: Des Moines, Ankeny, Waukee, Urbandale

Nervous about downsizing or choosing a 55+ community? You’re not alone—and you don’t have to do it alone.

As your SRES® Realtor and Smart Move Specialist, I help seniors and families across Central Iowa move with clarity and confidence. This 2026 Central Iowa 55+ Living Guide highlights the best independent living and senior-friendly options, what to look for, and how to tour smarter using the Smart Move Des Moines app.

📱Download the Smart Move Des Moines app for AI-powered property search, instant market alerts, and 24/7 agent access — the only app of its kind in Central Iowa.
👉https://bk.homestack.com/smartmovedesmoines

Central Iowa 55+ Housing Market Pulse for 2026

The Des Moines metro senior housing market is steady and practical. Inventory has expanded since last fall, amenities have improved, and walkable, care-adjacent communities are moving fastest.

If you want exact numbers for50263 (Waukee),50322 (Urbandale),50265 (West Des Moines), or50313 (North Des Moines), I’ll pull them before we tour.

Where the Best 55+ Options Are in 2026

Ankeny: Active and Convenient

• Connect55+ Ankeny: Social, maintenance-free living with clubs, fitness, and movie nights — near Prairie Trail.

• The Vineyard at Prairie Trail: Low-maintenance ranch homes with single-level layouts and customization options.

• Attivo Trail Ankeny: Independent-living apartments with events, trips, and on-site services.
  Why it works: Close to clinics, groceries, and trails. Perfect for active, “lock-and-leave” lifestyles.

Waukee (50263): Modern and Walkable

• Attivo Trail Waukee: Contemporary independent living near Triumph Park.

• Affordable apartments and townhomes for varying budgets—check openings in the app.
  Why it works: New neighborhoods with trails, sidewalks, and strong nearby retail.

Urbandale (50322): Established and Central

• Comfortable mix of 55+ apartments and townhomes near Timberline Village.

• Convenient to clinics, grocery stores, and community centers.
  Why it works: Familiar neighborhoods, great value, and easy metro access.

West Des Moines, Johnston, and Grimes: Smart Alternates

• West Des Moines (50265):Walkable access to Jordan Creek, dining, and medical offices.

• Johnston: Quiet, suburban energy with strong local care options.

• Grimes: Newer builds, tree-lined streets, and easy routes to Urbandale and Waukee.

💡Tip: Availability changes weekly. I’ll verify openings, waitlists, and floor plans before your tours.

What to Look For (So You Truly Love Where You Live)

Every detail matters when transitioning to a 55+ home. Prioritize features that protect your comfort and independence:

• Health access: Short drives to providers, pharmacies, and urgent care.

• True accessibility: Zero-entry flooring, lever handles, curbless showers, and smart lighting.

• Social and wellness: Fitness, clubs, gardens, or volunteer programs.

• Floor plan fit: Single-level layouts with space for family or hobbies.

• Safety: On-site staff hours, secure entry, and emergency support.

• Pets & outdoors: Trails, enclosed yards, or nearby parks.

Not sure what matters most? I’ll help you rank priorities and plan calmly—no overwhelm.

Budget, Timing, and Helpful Programs

Let’s build a clear budget before you commit.

• Know your full monthly cost: rent or HOA, utilities, meals, parking, and maintenance.

• Watch for one-time move-in and deposit fees.

• Selling your current home? I’ll align your sale date and move-in to avoid double payments.

🪙Resource: Explore statewide senior housing assistance through theIowa Finance Authority.

I’ll also coordinate details with your tax, insurance, and financial advisors so no surprises wait after move-in.

🧮 Use Our Free Tools to Plan Your Move:

• Senior Move Calculator - Calculate your downsizing costs

• Affordability Calculator - See what you can afford in your new community

• Neighborhood Comparison - Compare Ankeny, Waukee, Urbandale side-by-side

Tour Smarter with the Smart Move Des Moines App

No more endless calls or tabs. Use the Smart Move Des Moines app to:

• Browse curated55+ living options across Ankeny, Waukee, Urbandale, West Des Moines, Johnston, and Grimes.

• Compare floor plans and amenities in one place.

• Schedule private tours with one tap.

📱Download the app now: https://bk.homestack.com/smartmovedesmoines

Move-In Support That Removes Stress

You’re not just getting a Realtor—you’re getting a move partner. Together we will:

• Right-size your belongings with compassionate, room-by-room checklists.

• Coordinate movers, cleaners, and small repairs.

• Set up utilities so your new home works on Day 1.

That’s why I’ve partnered with Golden Concierge, a team specializing in senior transition services that handle every post-closing detail—from utilities to trusted vendors.

Get the Smart Move Des Moines app

📱 Download the free Smart Move Des Moines app for AI-powered property search, instant market alerts, and 24/7 access to your personal Des Moines agent—the only app of its kind in Central Iowa: https://bk.homestack.com/smartmovedesmoines

Your Next Step

Whether you’re considering Ankeny, Waukee (50263), Urbandale (50322), West Des Moines (50265), Johnston, Grimes, or North Des Moines (50313), there’s a calm, comfortable option waiting. Let’s find it together.

From First Keys to Final Chapters — Let’s Make a Smart Move.

Sarah Ingles, Realtor® | SRES®
Smart Move Des Moines | Powered by CHASE. Collective Real Estate
Partnered with Golden Concierge
📞 (563) 513-8771
✉️[email protected]
🌐smartmovedsm.com

📱Download the Smart Move Des Moines app:
👉https://bk.homestack.com/smartmovedesmoines