Senior living
Senior Living Costs: What to Expect
Senior living costs depend on the type of community, the area and the level of care. A fair comparison starts with knowing what each price includes.
Common cost parts
- Monthly rent or base fee
- Care level fees, often added on top of rent
- One-time community or entrance fee in some places
- Extras such as meals, transport or laundry
Price differences by type
Independent living, assisted living and memory care provide different levels of help, and prices usually rise with the level of care. Ask each community for its own fee sheet.
How to compare fairly
- Ask for all fees in writing
- Ask what triggers a price increase and how often it happens
- Ask what happens if care needs grow
- Compare the same level of care across communities
Ways families pay
Savings, income, long term care insurance, and for some veterans, benefits. Medicare generally does not pay for long term assisted living. An advisor or your local Area Agency on Aging can explain what may apply.
General information only, not financial, legal or insurance advice. Rules, prices and benefits vary by state and by policy. A licensed professional can explain what applies to you.