---
title: Best 55+ Communities in The Des Moines Area
description: Discover the best 55+ communities in Des Moines, offering low-maintenance living, ranch-style homes, and a vibrant lifestyle designed for active adults.
---

[An Active Adult Community Blog](https://info.clarityconstruction.com/blog)

# [Best 55+ Communities in The Des Moines Area](https://info.clarityconstruction.com/blog/best-55-communities-in-the-des-moines-area)

 Written by [Epcon Communities](https://info.clarityconstruction.com/blog/author/epcon-communities) | Mar 27, 2026 2:59:59 PM

If you’re searching for the **best 55+ communities in the Des Moines area**, you’re not alone. More adults are choosing low-maintenance, lifestyle-focused living in Central Iowa than ever before.

From ranch-style homes to private courtyards and simplified homeownership, today’s active adult communities are designed for freedom, connection, and convenience.

Here’s what you need to know.

## What Is a 55+ Community?

A 55+ community (also called an active adult community) is designed for adults 55 and older who want:

- Low-maintenance living
- Ranch-style, main-level homes
- Lock-and-leave flexibility
- A sense of community

Unlike retirement communities, 55+ neighborhoods focus on independent, active lifestyles — not assisted living.

## Why Active Adults Are Choosing the Des Moines Area

The Des Moines metro — continues to attract active adults because of:

- Affordable cost of living
- Excellent healthcare access
- Growing dining and entertainment
- Parks, trails, and walkable neighborhoods
- Strong community atmosphere

Central Iowa offers convenience without the congestion of larger metro areas.

## What to Look for in a 55+ Community

When researching **active adult communities near Des Moines**, focus on these key features:

### Low-Maintenance Living

HOA-managed services like lawn care and snow removal allow you to enjoy life without weekend chores.

### Ranch-Style Floor Plans

Main-level living with open layouts and minimal stairs provides comfort today and accessibility for the future.

### Private Outdoor Living

Courtyard-style homes offer private outdoor space without the upkeep of a traditional backyard.

### Community Design

Look for thoughtful neighborhood layouts that encourage connection while still offering privacy.

## Why Buyers Choose Epcon Communities & Clarity Construction

Epcon Communities is nationally recognized for designing homes specifically for active adults, with features like private courtyards, open ranch layouts, and low-maintenance living.

Locally, homes are built by Clarity Construction, known for quality craftsmanship, personalization options, and a transparent building process.

Together, they offer a lifestyle-focused approach to 55+ living in Central Iowa.

## FAQs About 55+ Communities

**Can someone under 55 live there?**  
Yes - at Epcon Communities and Clarity Construction we are not age restricted, we are just built for the lifestyle you desire in a 55+ Community. 

**Are there HOA fees?**  
Yes — fees cover maintenance services like lawn care and snow removal.

**Is this the same as a retirement community?**  
No. Active adult communities are designed for independent living, not assisted care.

## Is 55+ Living Right for You?

If you’re looking for simplified homeownership, main-level living, and a community built around your lifestyle, exploring **55+ communities in the Des Moines area** could be the right next step.

[View full post](https://info.clarityconstruction.com/blog/best-55-communities-in-the-des-moines-area)

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