Independent Living Costs
Independent senior living communities provide a lifestyle free of the responsibilities that can become increasingly difficult for older adults. At the same time, independent living costs are often comparable or even less expensive than those required to own and maintain a home.
According to U.S. News & World Report, rates for one-bedroom apartments at independent living communities in major metropolitan areas average $2,633 per month. The article states that the lowest average rate of $1,484 is in the Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington, MN-WI area while the highest average rate of $4,194 is in the New York-New Jersey-Long Island-PA area. (Source: NIC MAP Data Analysis Service).
In addition to geographic differences in the costs associated with independent senior living, communities will also offer rates that vary depending on the size and location of the apartment. With regard to location, apartment rates will often be more expensive if they have a premium view, access to a patio or balcony or are easily accessible to common areas within the building.
Services Included in Independent Living Costs
Monthly rates typically include the following services:
- Monthly rent of an apartment within the community, including all utilities except local telephone service and expanded cable (in most cases)
- One to three chef-prepared meals per day served in a restaurant-style dining room
- Weekly housekeeping, including laundering of bed linens/towels
- Incidental maintenance needs (filter changes, appliance repairs, etc.)
- Full calendar of activities with scheduled transportation for shopping, medical appointments, off-site activities
- Emergency systems and security features
Additional Independent Living Costs
Additional costs typically include a non-refundable entrance or community fee, which ranges from $750 to $1,500 on average, that covers administrative and apartment renovation expenses. A second-person fee, typically between $500 and $1,000 per month, will also be assessed for couples moving into independent senior living communities. Fees are also charged for:
- Guest meals
- Use of a guest apartment
- Activities requiring tickets or other expenses
- Concierge services
- Unscheduled transportation
When evaluating the financial implications of moving from a single family home to an independent senior living community, it’s helpful to compare the costs associated with each. You can use the list below to compare the costs:
- Mortgage/rent
- Utilities (water, sewer, garbage, etc.)
- Food/dining out
- Entertainment
- Basic cable/Internet
- Auto expenses (scheduled transportation included in independent living)
- Home maintenance
- Yard maintenance
- Security/safety features
- Property taxes (not applicable to independent living)
Find Independent Living
While it’s important to evaluate the tangible costs, also keep in mind that independent senior living offers many intangible benefits that should be weighed just as heavily! These benefits include social interaction and companionship, a sense of community, and a network of people to rely upon while maintaining independence and enjoying a healthy lifestyle. Browse our comprehensive directory to Find Independent Living today!
Written by gerontologist Sara Shelton.
