8 Most Comfortable Iowa Towns For Seniors For 2025

When you are thinking about retirement and a place to spend your golden years, you do not want to have to worry about the area you live in. An ideal place to call home should have affordable healthcare, safe neighborhoods, friendly people, and a thriving community. In Iowa, big cities such as Davenport and Iowa City might become less appealing in our older years. Instead of the hustle and bustle of a noisy city environment, one might crave the quiet comforts of a small, close-knit community. Imagine being able to walk downtown to a cozy bakery to meet up with friends or enjoy a walk on the trail one afternoon. If this sounds like an ideal day, read on as we explore eight towns that are the most comfortable for seniors in 2025.

Burlington

Burlington is one of Iowa's top towns for seniors because of its welcoming community, beautiful nature parks, and low cost of living. Burlington is home to West Burlington Hospital, meaning excellent healthcare is easily accessible. The town is on the Mississippi River, offering stunning views without the hefty price tag. There are many nature parks throughout the town, including Crapo Park and Dankwardt Park, which are great spots for an afternoon walk or picnic. Those looking for a little more support will also find it comfortable in Burlington. The town offers assisted living facilities, such as Addington Place, which provide personalized support for daily activities.

Burlington also boasts an accessible downtown, featuring many historic buildings, making it a pleasant place to visit. The streets have beautiful brick buildings from the 1800s. Learn about the town's history at the Heritage Center Museum. If you are looking to pick up a hobby or get more creative later in life, Burlington has opportunities for artists. The town's Art Center features exhibits by local artists and offers workshops with classes that require no prior experience.

Charles City

Charles City is a beautiful town situated near the Cedar River. Charles City is one of Iowa's top destinations for seniors and has been designated an "age-friendly community" by AARP. This means that the town is committed to creating a supportive environment for seniors. The town offers high-quality medical care, with Floyd County Medical Center located within its boundaries. The medical care includes both inpatient and outpatient services, offering specialized services such as diabetes management, nutrition services, and education. The median house value is $135,000, which is below the state's median house value of around $225,000. The town offers numerous community and cultural activities, including the Charles City Arts Center and the Charles Theater. The Charles Theater hosts live events and shows a variety of movies. The welcoming town also has many parks and trails to enjoy. More adventurous spirit retirees can try their hand at the whitewater course on the Cedar River.

Clinton

Sitting along the mighty Mississippi, Clinton is the perfect mix of urban amenities and rural, small-town living charm. The scenic riverwalk allows a great view of the vessels navigating the Mississippi. Clinton is an affordable town with numerous community amenities, including parks and recreational areas. Eagle Point Park is one of the town's cute parks and is a great place to spend a day meandering on trails and having a leisurely afternoon picnic. Clinton also has a Clinton Symphony Orchestra, which provides unique entertainment throughout the year. In Clinton, you are sure to never be bored on a budget. The town hosts numerous free events throughout the year. These include the 4th of July Festival, Mardi Gras Halloween Parade, Bald Eagle Watch, and Lyons Art & Craft Show. There is also the charming Lyons Farmers Market from May to November every year. This is a great spot to meet locals and get local produce and handmade items. Clinton also has everything you need to feel comfortable in your later years, including MercyOne Clinton Medical Center for your healthcare needs. The town's YWCA also offers senior classes on health and wellness.

Ottumwa

Sitting in southeastern Iowa, Ottumwa is a vibrant community with affordable living options. The average value of a home in Ottumwa is $120,000, which is significantly lower than the national average of around $360,000. Ottumwa also has easy access to medical care, with the town's Ottumwa Regional Health Center. Besides the appeal of affordability and accessible healthcare, there is also a lot to do in Ottumwa. In the afternoons, enjoy a walk along the Des Moines River. Or head over to the Pioneer Ridge Nature Area for some quiet time amongst the trees. Many retirees appreciate the town's welcoming atmosphere and the local restaurants. Hotel Ottumwa's Second Street Cafe is a local favorite, offering something for everyone on the menu, and its prices are very affordable.

Newton

Newton is a supportive community with parks, community theaters, and senior living facilities, making it a great place to settle down in your later years. The town has events that bring the community together, including guided Senior Walks, organized by the city. These walks help people connect and get some physical activity. Each week, they have a different nature theme. Newton has many opportunities to enjoy nature and the community. There is the Newton Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, perfect for plant lovers looking for garden ideas or a great place to walk with friends. Newton also has a community theater that has a range of productions throughout the year. Anyone who loves golf will be delighted to hear that a golf course is conveniently located in town. The 18-hole Westwood Golf Course is an ideal spot for a fun-filled weekend outdoors with friends. Newton is also home to the Jasper County Senior Citizens Center, which has a support system for older adults.

Marshalltown

A beautiful historic town with tree-lined streets, Marshalltown is a welcoming small town, perfect for seniors seeking a friendly community to settle down in. The town has options for independent living, in spacious apartments or assisted living. There is a senior living community called Glenwood Place that promotes social interaction through town trips, meals, and classes. Around town, there is a lot of nature to enjoy. Take a walk through Riverview Park and admire the birds or access the park's amenities, including the dog park, tennis courts, and picnic areas. Looking for a hiking or biking adventure? Head over to Linn Creek Recreational Trail and meander through the woods alongside the Iowa River. Artists will enjoy the vibrant community at the Marshalltown Arts & Civic Center. The center showcases impressionistic art and has workshops for residents to participate in. Beyond all the entertaining things to do in Marshalltown, the town is also a more affordable place to buy a home for retirement. The median housing value is $170,000, which is $50,000 lower than the state's median value.

Fort Madison

Fort Madison is a charming town along the Mississippi River with historic buildings and an affordable cost of living. The town is well-known for its welcoming environment, making it a great choice for seniors seeking opportunities to socialize. The town also has options for assisted living, including The Kensington Fort Madison and River Valley Place of Fort Madison. Looking to spend your time of retirement in nature? Fort Madison has numerous nature trails to spend your afternoons exploring. A few popular paths include Rodeo Park Trail Way, Bluff Road Trail, and Central Park. These trails provide a peaceful environment, perfect for relaxation and exercise. Fort Madison has some unique sightseeing attractions, including the North Lee County Historical Society Museum. The museum tells the story of the town's past and is a great place to take visiting family and friends.

Waukee

Waukee is a town with everything someone at retirement age might want. The town has affordable, top-quality healthcare, with UnityPoint Health, a welcoming community, and a variety of engaging activities aimed at older adults. There are even comfortable senior living communities, such as Independence Village of Waukee and Woodlands Creek Senior Living, that offer a community with top-quality care to older adults looking to settle into a steady routine. The town's welcoming atmosphere makes it easy to make connections with neighbors and make new friends. Waukee is also home to numerous delicious restaurants and cafes and offers sightseeing opportunities. Enjoy trying restaurants such as Blue Agave, a Mexican restaurant with a vibrant atmosphere.

Choosing A Small Town For The Golden Years

Overall, any of the eight towns mentioned here makes a great option as a place for seniors to enjoy the later years of their life. From walking trails to assisted living, affordable housing, and accessible healthcare, these towns have all the essentials to live comfortably. The town you choose to move to will depend on what you value most. If you are looking for affordability, a town like Ottumwa would be a great choice. If being in a supportive community is most important to you, a town like Newton might be a better fit. Whether you are looking for assisted living later in life or to live independently near walking trails and good restaurants, these eight towns have something to offer everyone.