Iowa · CMS Data August 2026
Highest-Rated Nursing Homes in Iowa
Where Are the Highest-Rated Nursing Homes in Iowa?
CMS Care Compare lists 163 nursing homes rated 4 or 5 stars overall by CMS in Iowa, out of 387 certified nursing homes (data from August 2026). The most are in Dubuque (5), Cedar Rapids (4) and Des Moines (4). 93 hold the top rating of 5 stars.
- Matching homes
- 163
- All homes in Iowa
- 387
- Rated 4 or 5 stars
- 163
- Average overall stars
- 4.6
How this list is made: CMS's overall star rating is 4 or 5 (out of 5). The overall rating combines health inspections, staffing and quality measures. Homes are ordered by CMS's overall rating, then its inspection rating.
- 935 stars overall
- 1274+ stars for inspections
- 1324+ stars for staffing
- 142No fines or payment denials
- 68Antipsychotic use below the national median
- 76Nonprofit
The Top 40 by CMS Rating
Stars are out of 5; blank cells are ratings CMS doesn't report for that home. Every matching home is on its city page, linked below.
Matching Homes by City
More About This List
Read how CMS star ratings work. For assisted living and memory care rules, Medicaid limits and the ombudsman, see senior care in Iowa. For local services, call the Eldercare Locator at 1-800-677-1116.
Other lists for Iowa: nursing homes that accept medicaid in Iowa, nonprofit nursing homes in Iowa, nursing homes with low antipsychotic use in Iowa.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Many Highest-Rated Nursing Homes Are in Iowa?
163 of the 387 CMS-certified nursing homes in Iowa meet this rule: CMS's overall star rating is 4 or 5 (out of 5). The overall rating combines health inspections, staffing and quality measures.
Which Highest-Rated Nursing Home in Iowa Rates Highest?
By CMS's overall rating, then its inspection rating, Brooklyn Community Estates in Brooklyn (5 stars), Chautauqua Guest Home #3 in Charles City (5 stars) and Colonial Manor of Amana in Amana (5 stars) rank highest. Visit and check the latest inspection report before you decide.
How Do You Check a Nursing Home in Iowa?
Read its Care Compare page for the full inspection reports, visit at different times, and ask about staffing and openings. Iowa's Office of the State Long-Term Care Ombudsman can answer questions about residents' rights.