About Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.Complete guide to assisted livingBest of 2024 Assisted Living Winners
About Memory CareMemory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering. Complete guide to memory careBest of 2024 Memory Care Winners
About Independent LivingIndependent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to independent livingBest of 2024 Independent Living Winners
About Senior LivingSenior living is a term used to describe various housing and care options for older adults from maintenance-free, 55+ facilities for active seniors, to secure, fully staffed facilities for seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia. Complete guide to senior livingFind senior living facilities near you
About Nursing HomesNursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.Complete guide to Nursing Homes
About Senior ApartmentsSenior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to Senior Apartments
About Care HomesResidential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.Complete guide to care homes
Veteran ResourcesVA benefits for long-term care, such as Aid and Attendance benefits, can help eligible veterans and their surviving spouses pay for senior care.Guide to VA benefits for long-term care
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10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Chicago, IL

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As the most populous city in the Midwestern United States, Chicago has many assisted living options to suit a variety of senior needs. Chicago assisted living offers an array of personalized care services, as well as access to some of the city’s best social, cultural, and dining options. Unique to Illinois senior living, you’ll find options for supportive living, a type of low-income assisted living designed to accept Illinois Medical Assistance, the state’s Medicaid program.

With over 60 assisted living communities within a 10-mile radius from downtown Chicago, we’ve created this guide to Chicago assisted living communities based on our extensive senior living experience, proprietary data, and access to local senior living experts. Browse Chicago assisted living facilities according to your specific needs — support services, amenities, budget-conscious, social and enrichment offerings, and more. We’ve also compiled information about payment options, health and safety regulations, and other resources for Chicago seniors.

Chicago Assisted Living Facilities | 899 Reviews
Showing 57 communities
Last Updated: 3/26/24
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Best of Senior Living

The top senior living communities stand out for their exceptional care and support of seniors in independent living, assisted living, memory care, and in-home care. Our Best of Senior Living Award winners represent the top 1-2% of senior care providers nationwide based on reviews from those who matter most: residents and families.

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Amenities
Providers
Types of care available in Chicago, IL
Assisted Living
Assisted Living
Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Nursing Homes
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Memory Care
Memory Care
Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Independent Living
Independent Living
Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Residential Care Home
Residential Care Home
Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Senior Apartments
Senior Apartments
Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Home Care
Home Care
Home care relies on trained aides to provide companionship and non-medical care for seniors living at home.
Recent reviews of Assisted Living in Chicago, IL
4.9 / 5.0

My father lived here for 2 years and I he was very happy at Brookdale Des Plaines. The staff was always helpful and would notify me if there were any concerns regarding my father. We chose Brookdale Des Plaines because it is a large facility and is located in the downtown area of Des Plaines - Which...

5 / 5.0

Cordia is a great place! My father lived there and loved it. Our only regret is that he did not move there sooner. We transferred him to Cordia from another facility. For people seeking the VA’s Aid and Attendance pension benefit, Cordia is the perfect choice. Other facilities (even very expensive o...

4 / 5.0

My loved one is a resident at Encore at Bolingbrook. Our experience so far at this facility has been fine. They seem to be doing a good job with my loved one, he is not the easiest to care for. We moved my loved one from his previous facility to this one.

Photo of Montclare Supportive Living
1717 Photos available
22 Floor plans available
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I am very happy and pleased with this facility so far. All of the staff members have been so helpful and very accommodating. I really like the director and she was amazing in getting my cousin set up and...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
The Montclare Supportive Living Community is the choice for an affordable assisted lifestyle community in the Lawndale neighborhood of Chicago. Welcome to a gracious, affordable assisted lifestyle in your community. At the Montclare, you’ll enjoy friendly neighbors to share common life...
Photo of Churchview Supportive Living
11 Video available
1010 Photos available
22 Floor plans available
1.0
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6 reviews
1.0
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6 reviews
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Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Churchview Supportive Living is an assisted living community located in Chicago, IL. The city of Chicago is located in Cook County and home to over 2.7 million people. It's an exciting city with lots of great restaurants and shops. Residents can enjoy going on outings when the weather is warm and...
Photo of The Clare
11 Video available
1616 Photos available
44 Floor plans available
6.0
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7 reviews
6.0
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7 reviews
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My parents have been at The Clare since 2008, first in Independent Living, then my Father in Memory care and now my mother in Assisted Living. They chose the Clare as their plan for retirement. They both...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
The Clare rises as an integral part of downtown Chicago—with the blue of Lake Michigan at one hand, the proud skyline at the other and at its feet all you could ever desire for enrichment, excitement and fulfillment. This premiere retirement residence and the unique lifestyle it offers await you...
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Photo of Jackson Park Supportive Living
1313 Photos available
5 star
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Jackson Park Supportive Living is its own community within itself. The residents acts as family helping each other when possible. The staff works greatly together, providing the best services possible for...
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
The Jackson Park Supportive Living Facility was created to provide a safe, comfortable, and supportive living environment for individuals age 22-64 years old offering the highest level of service and expertise while maintaining the individual's independence.Our apartments are designed to provide...
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Photo of Paul House and Healthcare Center
88 Photos available
7.0
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21 reviews
7.0
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21 reviews
5 star
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I picked this community, because it was near my home, the sales director at the time, [name removed]made me feel really comfortable with me leaving my aunt under her care, and the pricing was the most...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Paul House offers our assisted living program members a central Irving Park address with a vibrant, inviting community, deep historical roots and a worry-free residential community. We have three service levels and three types of private apartments: efficiency studio, studio and one bedroom, all...
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Photo of Victory Centre of Galewood
33 Photos available
22 Floor plans available
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My grandmother is very comfortable in this community. It is very clean i have no complaints about it. My grandmother is known by her name, which is great that she is getting that one on one attention. They...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Our longstanding mission is to transform the way society thinks about aging and senior living. Our Victory Centre of Galewood community is an extension of that promise. We are steadfast in our commitment to cultivate a genuine home for you or your loved one. Above all else, this is your life and...
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Photo of Coles Supportive Living
11 Video available
1010 Photos available
5 star
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I recommend Coles Supportive Living to relatives concerned about their loved ones well being. I went there as my last resort when really it should have been my first. One of the staff members by the name of...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Coles Supportive Living has been selected by the Illinois Department of Aging as one of the few Senior Care Facilities to be included in the State of Illinois Supportive Living Program. Coles Supportive Living Facility strives to promote dignity and independence for Seniors where a state-of-the...
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Photo of Maywood Supportive Living
11 Photo available
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Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Maywood Supportive Living is an affordable, caring, all-inclusive assisted living community. It features the adaptive re-use of the former Baptist Retirement Homes. The Maywood community serves low-income older adults, including those on Medicaid or those who receive monthly Social Security...
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Photo of Moraine Court
66 Photos available
33 Floor plans available
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Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Moraine Court Supportive Living supports and encourages our residents to enjoy and active-lifestyle in a safe community. Let us show you how Moraine Court can combine the best of private living and assistance with daily living needs. Our supportive Living program is designed to promote...
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Photo of Bethesda Rehab and Senior Care
66 Photos available
1.0
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We chose this facility because of the location, availability, ad we also liked their security. My mom was in memory care and they were all on one floor and there was a very good staff to patient ratio. I...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
For over 100 years, Bethesda Rehab & Senior Care has had a presence in the community that has empowered residents to live independent and full lives. As the premier post-acute and long-term care provider in Chicago with a 5 STAR CMS RATING, our mission is to provide a place of comfort and...
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Photo of Thorek Retirement Community
99 Photos available
3.0
Review score
35 reviews
3.0
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35 reviews
5 star
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Everyone At Bethany Retirement seems friendly and helpful. The room size and layout of the community is good. My likes the food. They have an outdoor courtyard for residents to use. My mom is happy there.
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Bethany Retirement is a faith-based, non-profit serving the vibrant Andersonville and Ravenswood neighborhoods in Chicago for over 126 years! We were founded in the Methodist tradition; however, we are home to a variety of faiths. We are 'Called to Care' and our desire is to provide active living...
Photo of Plymouth Place, a CCRC
1111 Photos available
1.0
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Plymouth Place offers so many options for programs, musical events, educational activities, physical fitness classes, socialization, dining choices, volunteer opportunities, and happy hours in the newly...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
A La Grange Park landmark, Plymouth Place is a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) that provides independent living, assisted living, memory support and skilled care.Plymouth Place's 20-acre campus offers the beauty of private, tree-lined lanes, plus the convenience of being located...
Photo of The Selfhelp Home
1414 Photos available
5 star
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Everything is very nice, very clean, very beautiful. The food is perfect, always tasty, well prepared and served. The dietary staff is very helpful and accommodating.
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
The Selfhelp Home is an active and engaging not-for-profit senior living community designed to accommodate the needs of elderly Jewish residents throughout the Chicago area.The Selfhelp Home can be your home no matter what your individual needs. Selfhelp offers a full continium of care. We are a...
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Photo of Covenant Home of Chicago
66 Photos available
5 star
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From the first visit a great experience. Friendly, knowledgeable, caring staff. The place was always spotless The food was very good My cousin received excellent care. Would recommend it to everyone...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
A gracious 55-unit assisted living residence rebuilt in a great Chicago neighborhood in 1997, Covenant Home brings a new style of assisted living to its urban Chicago neighborhood. Our building wraps a floor-to-ceiling central atrium, making the interior bright and cheerful. Studio, one- and...
Photo of Victory Centre of Roseland
77 Photos available
11 Floor plan available
5 star
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Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Our longstanding mission is to transform the way society thinks about aging and senior living. Our Victory Centre of Roseland community is an extension of that promise. We are steadfast in our commitment to cultivate a genuine home for you or your loved one. Above all else, this is your life and...
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Photo of Smith Village a CCRC
11 Photo available
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Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Smith Village Continuing Care Retirement Community - Chicago, IL Smith Village, one of two Smith Senior Living communities, located in Chicago, IL, in the Beverly neighborhood, is a Continuing Care Retirement Community that’s backed by the strength and experience of Smith Senior Living.Since...
Photo of Norwood Crossing
11 Video available
1414 Photos available
5 star
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My parents are living here and I believe my family is very happy so far. I think the staff at the facility is very attentive; they’ve had the nurses coming to the room, and have done a pretty good job with...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Norwood Crossing, a not-for-profit community located on the Northwest side of Chicago, has been serving older adults since 1896. Each day, Norwood Crossing holds true to their mission of enhancing the independence and well-being of older adults. Norwood Crossing offers several levels of service...
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Photo of Ascension Living Resurrection Village
99 Photos available
2929 Floor plans available
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Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Presence Resurrection Retirement Community is primarily independent living with a 36 room assisted living nestled into 16 acres of walking paths and a garden-like setting in the northwest side of Chicago, Illinois. Our property is the perfect place for those looking to have the beauty of nature...
Photo of Sunrise of Lincoln ParkCommunity card badge
11 Video available
44 Floor plans available
Pricing promotion expiring soon
9.6
Review score
55 reviews
9.6
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55 reviews
5 star
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Nice to have doctors/nurses and physical therapy onsite so didn't need to travel. I'd say that the LP sunrise was a very warm and welcoming environment. Staff was super friendly! I would recommend a full...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
In elegant, residential environments, we deliver the finest in senior care, and are recognized internationally for both quality and innovation. Guided by our Principles of Service, Sunrise affords families peace-of-mind by providing today's seniors with a range of personalized assisted living...
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Photo of Heritage Woods of Chicago
1010 Photos available
11 Floor plan available
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Heritage Woods of Chicago is an affordable assisted living community exclusively designed for low income seniors 65 or older. Fully certified by the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Living, Heritage Woods is located on the west side of Chicago. Heritage Woods is a lovely place to call...
Photo of Pioneer Gardens
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Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Pioneer Gardens senior residents in the windy city access to a great assisted living community within the grand city of Chicago, IL. Located just a few blocks from Lake Shore Drive, residents can enjoy the lush green park areas next to the lake during spring and summer days and enjoy the many...
Photo of 850 Lake Shore Drive
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Beth Anne Residence
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Beth Anne Supportive Living
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
See details
Photo of Bishop Edwin Conway Residence
11 Photo available
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Bishop Edwin Conway Residence is an assisted living community located in Chicago, Illinois. Minutes from Oak Park, Melrose Park, and Niles, Illinois, Bishop Edwin Conway Residence is close to shopping, restaurants, churches and residences. The conveniences offered by Chicago can be easily...

Costs of assisted living in the Chicago area

The average cost of assisted living in Chicago is $5,308 per month. This rate includes rent, as well as any add-on costs, such as care services, transportation, or pet fees. However, the cost can vary widely depending on the area of the city. Assisted living costs tend to be higher north of downtown, where they can be up to $10,000 per month or more. Further south, assisted living costs tend to be lower.

Many Chicago residents seeking affordable assisted living options for their loved ones find that Wisconsin and northern Indiana are worth exploring. The costs of living and senior care are much lower in these states, and communities in these areas are still relatively close to Chicago.

The following rates represent a baseline of Chicago assisted living costs, before add-on fees.

Average cost comparisons near Chicago, IL

Average monthly costs

Chicago, IL

$5,581

How to pay for assisted living in Chicago

There are many private and public assistance options available to help pay for Chicago assisted living. Look at your senior loved one’s financial situation to determine the best ways for them to pay for assisted living.

If private pay methods are used, make sure to also apply for any aid or benefits seniors may be eligible for in your area. There may be assistance available that will help private pay options go further.

Private pay methods

Private pay options for Chicago senior living include sources like the following:

  • Income: This includes any earnings that your loved one receives, such as Social Security benefits, pensions, investments, or any savings they’ve accumulated.
  • Sale of a house: It’s quite common for aging adults to use equity from selling their home to cover the cost of a senior living community.
  • Reverse mortgage: If selling a home isn’t a good option for you, a reverse mortgage can enable you to take a loan from your home’s current equity.
  • Health savings accounts: Health savings account funds can be used to pay for medical care services in Chicago. While health savings account funds can be used for memory care or some skilled nursing care, it will not cover all senior living community expenses.
  • Life insurance: Some life insurance policies can be used in advance for covering the cost of senior care. Ask your own or your loved one’s insurance provider what options there are.
  • Long-term care insurance: For those who have planned in advance, long-term care insurance policies are designed to help pay for costs associated with senior care. If your loved one has a long-term care insurance policy, it may cover a significant portion of their senior living costs.
VA benefits for assisted living in Chicago

Chicago senior veterans may be eligible for long-term care through veterans benefits offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Some VA benefits, such as the Aid and Attendance benefit, can help pay for long-term senior care.

VA Aid and Attendance benefit may be added to a veteran’s pension specifically to help cover the cost of long-term care services in the veteran’s home or residential senior living facility. A veteran’s surviving spouse may also qualify for eligibility for this benefit. In order to qualify for this benefit, the veteran or their spouse must already be established in a senior living facility or have an in-home caregiver. They must also already be receiving a VA pension or apply for one at the same time they apply for the Aid and Attendance benefit. The Aid and Attendance allowance can cover some costs associated with assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory care.

The Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs has offices all over the state of Illinois where Veteran Service Officers are available to help you make sense of the services and benefits available. VA Services and Benefits include but are not limited to the following:

  • Compensation and pension
  • Health care
  • Housing
  • Education and training
  • Burial and survivor

Related: Visit our complete guide to VA benefits.

60159

Number of veteran residents living in Chicago

Percentage of Chicago veterans age 65 and over 

Additional resources for Chicago veterans

2102 W. Ogden Ave.
Chicago, IL 60612
Phone: 312-743-0720

Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs Services/Benefits
Illinois Department of Veterans’ Affairs Veteran Service Officers for benefits assistance
VSO Directory for field offices

2122 W. Taylor St.
Chicago, IL 60612
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Community Resource & Referral Center (CRRC)

1141 S. California Ave.
Chicago, IL 60612-9998
Phone: 312-569-5750
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Phone: 312-569-7959

Vet Centers of Illinois
Chicago Vet Center

3348 W. 87th St., Suite 2
Chicago, IL 60652-3767
Phone: 773-962-3740
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Evanston Vet Center

1901 Howard St.
Evanston, IL 60202
Phone: 847-332-1019
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Medicaid

Medicaid is federal- and state-funded medical insurance for those with low incomes or disabilities. While each state’s program is a little different, all Medicaid programs must follow federal guidelines. Illinois Medicaid is also called Illinois Medical Assistance.

Under Illinois Medical Assistance, Illinois low-income residents who are 65 or older, blind, or disabled can qualify for medical coverage through the Aid to the Aged, Blind, and Disabled (AABD) program. To find out if you or your loved one qualifies to receive Illinois Medical Assistance for health care costs, you can check eligibility online or call 1-800-843-6154.

Medicaid in Chicago covers some long-term care through its Supportive Living Program (SLP) Medicaid waiver. This waiver enables eligible seniors to receive health care services not usually covered by Medicaid, such as:

While Medicaid in Chicago covers some long-term care and health services, it does not cover room and board at an assisted living facility. However, Medicaid will cover care in an approved supportive living community or in a skilled nursing facility.

Reach out to your nearest Chicago Medicaid office to find out whether you or your loved one is eligible for Medicaid.

Related: Visit our complete guide to public pay options.

Medicare assisted living coverage in Chicago

Unlike Medicaid, Medicare is entirely federally funded and extends health coverage to Americans 65 or older and to some individuals with disabilities. Medicare has multiple parts that cover different aspects of health care and may include:

  • Inpatient hospital stays or skilled nursing care
  • Doctors’ services, medical services, and medical supplies
  • Prescription medications

While Medicare in Chicago will not cover room and board at an assisted living or other senior living community, it will cover many of the costs associated with medical treatment, such as dementia care. You can find more information on Medicare costs and coverage in Cook County by dialing 2-1-1, visiting the federal Medicare website, or reaching out to one of your local Chicago Social Security Administration offices.

Qualified seniors may get help paying for Medicare deductibles and premiums through Medicare Savings Programs. In Illinois, call 1-800-252-8966 or get help through the Illinois Senior Health Insurance Program, a counseling service known as SHIP.

Illinois Medicaid also may help pay your Medicare premiums, deductibles, and coinsurance by applying with Form 2378M: Application for Payment of Medicare Premiums, Deductibles and Coinsurance.

Related: To understand more, visit our guide to Medicare, Medicaid, and other public pay options.

Understand Illinois laws and regulations for assisted living facilities

Illinois assisted living communities must be licensed by the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) — Division of Assisted Living. According to Illinois state law, assisted living communities must offer mandatory services such as the following:

  • Three daily meals
  • Assistance with activities of daily living
  • Housekeeping services
  • Security
  • Emergency response systems
  • At least one awake staff member 24 hours per day

The IDPH Division of Assisted Living also regulates shared housing establishments. The same regulations apply to both assisted living and shared housing, except for their distinct capacity requirements.

  • Assisted living communities provide residential care for at least three unrelated individuals, a minimum 80% of whom are 55+ in age.
  • Shared housing communities provide residential care for no more than 16 unrelated individuals, a minimum 80% of whom are 55+ in age.

The IDPH Division of Assisted Living performs an unannounced annual review on each Illinois assisted living community and shared housing community.

Illinois law requires seniors to be mobile with no more than one person assisting them in order to qualify for assisted living. Those in need of two-person assists or a Hoyer lift will need to seek more advanced care, such as skilled nursing.[02]

View the full list of licensed Illinois assisted living and shared housing establishments.

View the Illinois handbook of long-term care residents’ rights.

Illinois Department of Health contact information

  • IDPH Chicago Headquarters Offices:
    • 122 S. Michigan Ave., 7th and 20th Floor
      Chicago, IL 60603
      Phone: 312-814-2793
    • 69 W. Washington St., 35th Floor
      Chicago, IL 60602
      Phone: 312-814-5278

COVID-19 regulations for Chicago assisted living facilities

Most COVID-19 restrictions have been lifted. However, assisted living communities have guidelines in place for residents’ health and safety:

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Vaccinations. COVID-19 vaccines are available to all assisted living residents. Staff are required to be tested for COVID-19 twice weekly, unless they are up to date with vaccinations.

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Masking. All visitors and staff in assisted living facilities must wear masks. More protective equipment will be required for staff if COVID-19 rates go up in the area.

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Testing and contact tracing. The IDPH highly recommends COVID-19 testing and exposure tracing.

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Staff safety. Staff are required to practice hand hygiene, carry out appropriate use of personal protective equipment, and disinfect high-touch surfaces in the facility.

Get to know assisted living in Chicago

379Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
3.6/5.0 average in-network rating
71% of these assisted living communities welcome pets
34% of these assisted living communities also offer memory care
15% of Chicago assisted living communities have Hoyer lifts
4469
Number of people referred to partner assisted living facilities in Chicago, Illinois, in 2022
80
Average age of Chicago residents referred to assisted living by A Place for Mom

What to expect from assisted living in Chicago

Chicago’s diversity extends to its senior living communities as well. There are communities to suit an abundance of support needs, lifestyles, and interests. Many of Chicago’s assisted living communities offer restaurant-style dining, so residents can enjoy excellent culinary experiences. You’ll also find that many assisted living communities in Chicago are pet-friendly. Chicago assisted living communities are known for the following features:

Multiple levels of care

Chicago has many senior living communities with multiple types of care all on one site. Many of these communities offer some combination of independent living, assisted living, skilled nursing, and memory care, so that if a resident’s care needs ever change they can easily transition to a support level that fits them — ideal for aging in place.

Supportive living

Supportive living communities are a unique feature of Illinois senior living. These communities provide the same support as other assisted living communities, but they are designed to accept Medicaid. Supportive living is an excellent care option for Chicago seniors with limited funds for long-term care. Note that while Medicaid will cover costs of care services in supportive living, residents are still responsible for the cost of room and board.

Skilled nursing care

Many Chicago assisted living communities offer skilled nursing care. Skilled nursing typically includes 24-hour, on-site medical care. This can be a good senior living option for individuals who require more advanced care than regular assisted living can provide and for persons who are immobile without more than one person to help them.

Assisted living in the surrounding Chicago suburbs

Chicago has many assisted living options both in and outside the downtown area. The Chicago suburbs have several communities with more spacious campuses than those nearer to the city center. Assisted living communities north of the city tend to cost more than communities to the south, based on the cost of living of each area.

Chicago seniors have even more assisted living options just beyond the nearby borders of Wisconsin and Indiana. Both of these neighboring states have lower costs of living, so senior communities in these areas can be more affordable while still remaining close to the Chicago area.

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Unfamiliar with Chicago? Highlights for seniors

12%

Percentage of seniors in Chicago’s population

342400

Number of seniors 65+ living in Chicago

60159

Approximate number of Chicago residents who are U.S. military veterans

72%

Percentage of older adults who self-report being in overall good health

Health care for seniors in Chicago

Chicago seniors have access to a number of high-ranking medical centers, many of which are leaders in geriatric care and medical innovation.

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Northwestern Memorial Hospital

Northwestern Memorial Hospital is the highest ranking hospital in the state of Illinois, according to U.S. News and World Report. With physicians and surgeons representing nearly every medical specialty, Northwestern Memorial is nationally ranked in 10 adult specialties.

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Rush University Medical Center

Rush University Medical Center is ranked No. 2 out of all Chicago hospitals, according to U.S. News and World Report. Rush is highly acclaimed for its outstanding patient care, education, and medical research.

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University of Chicago Medical Center

University of Chicago Medical Center is the third-highest ranked hospital in Chicago and in the state of Illinois, according to U.S. News and World Report. Established in 1927, University of Chicago Medical Center is a nonprofit academic hospital. It is highly rated, especially for its quality geriatric care services.

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NorthShore University Health System

NorthShore University System is the fourth-highest ranking Chicago hospital, according to U.S. News and World Report. NorthShore includes over 140 medical centers and six hospitals covering the Illinois area.

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Transportation for seniors in Chicago

Chicago is known for its excellent public transportation options. In fact, many Chicago residents choose to use public transportation instead due to the city’s heavy traffic and limited parking. The Chicago Transit Authority “L” train is the most convenient and cost effective way of getting around in the city.

While Chicago is relatively walkable, it’s quite big, so it’s worthwhile to know what other options are available. Chicago’s Divvy bike-share system can be a fun way for active individuals to get around. Chicago also has over 100 bus routes, as well as the Metra Rail train for commuting to the Chicago suburbs.

Chicago also features AC Med Tran, which is designed for seniors and individuals who require a wheelchair.

A group of seniors toasting with wine glasses

Senior activities in Chicago

Chicago has much to offer in dining, entertainment, and the arts. Enjoy an evening with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra or an afternoon of marine wildlife and animal preservation at Shedd Aquarium. Many Chicago senior community outings include regular scenic strolls along Chicago’s Lakefront Trail or through one of its many sprawling parks. Browse the galleries of the Museum of Contemporary Art, or take the grandkids to explore the wonders of the Chicago Children’s Museum. Many of Chicago’s attractions also offer senior discounts and free-admission days — so take advantage!

Wine tasting is another popular activity for senior living community social outings, combining fresh air, beautiful views, and, of course, wine. Wild Blossom Meadery and Winery, The Fromagerie and Tasting Room, and City Winery Riverwalk Wine Garden are just a few wonderful, local options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Brookdale Northbrook, Arden Courts A ProMedica Memory Care Community in Elk Grove and Mercy Circle Senior Living are the top-rated Assisted Living facilities near Chicago, IL. These Assisted Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.

The average cost of Assisted Living in Chicago is 5620.82 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

References

  1. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Chicago [Data set]. American Community Survey.

  2. Assisted Living and Shared Housing Act, Illinois General Assembly Health Facilities and Regulation § 210 ILCS 9 (2001).

  3. United States Census Bureau. (2021, July 1). Population estimates (V2021): Chicago [Data set]. QuickFacts.

  4. Laflamme, E., Harper-Jemison, D., Jorgensen, E., Reina, M., Rushovich, T., Weaver, K., Prachand, N., Shah, R., Lange-Maia, B., & De Maio, F. (2019, August). Healthy Chicago databook: Older Adult Health. Center for Community Health Equity.

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The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, legal or financial advice or create a professional relationship between A Place for Mom and the reader. Always seek the advice of your health care provider, attorney or financial advisor with respect to any particular matter, and do not act or refrain from acting on the basis of anything you have read on this site. Links to third-party websites are only for the convenience of the reader; A Place for Mom does not endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
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1.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Chicago [Data set]. American Community Survey.

2.

Assisted Living and Shared Housing Act, Illinois General Assembly Health Facilities and Regulation § 210 ILCS 9 (2001).

3.

United States Census Bureau. (2021, July 1). Population estimates (V2021): Chicago [Data set]. QuickFacts.

4.

Laflamme, E., Harper-Jemison, D., Jorgensen, E., Reina, M., Rushovich, T., Weaver, K., Prachand, N., Shah, R., Lange-Maia, B., & De Maio, F. (2019, August). Healthy Chicago databook: Older Adult Health. Center for Community Health Equity.