When your loved one is looking for a place to retire, they may consider independent living because of the active lifestyle, vibrant social scene, and neighborhood-like feel at these types of communities. Independent living, sometimes called active adult communities or retirement homes, typically refers to communities for active adults age 55 and older. These retirement options offer a spectrum of activities and vary in style, services, and — you guessed it — cost. Although senior living prices differ quite drastically around the U.S., independent living typically costs less than assisted living, memory care, and nursing home care.
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The average monthly cost of independent living is $3,000, according to A Place for Mom’s 2023 report on the cost of long-term care.[01]
“Senior living costs will fluctuate based on the basic principles of economics: supply and demand,” says Kendra Stevens, vice president of sales at Holiday Retirement, a senior living provider with more than 260 independent living communities nationwide.
The U.S. population over the age of 65 has grown rapidly since 2010, with baby boomers beginning to turn 65 in 2011. By 2030, all of the baby boomers will be 65 or older.[02] As that generation continues to age into retirement, the need for senior living is expected to rise — along with the cost.
The cost of independent living varies by state. See the chart below to learn more about the actual cost of independent living in each U.S. state with available data, as calculated from A Place for Mom’s proprietary brand partners.[01]
| State | Median price |
|---|---|
| Alabama | $2,376 |
| Alaska | $3,500 |
| Arizona | $2,738 |
| Arkansas | $2,529 |
| California | $3,466 |
| Colorado | $3,116 |
| Connecticut | $3,409 |
| Delaware | $3,995 |
| District of Columbia | – |
| Florida | $3,067 |
| Georgia | $2,995 |
| Hawaii | $5,031 |
| Idaho | $2,907 |
| Illinois | $2,701 |
| Indiana | $2,550 |
| Iowa | $2,573 |
| Kansas | $2,590 |
| Kentucky | $3,000 |
| Louisiana | $2,469 |
| Maine | $3,300 |
| Maryland | $3,895 |
| Massachusetts | $3,770 |
| Michigan | $2,635 |
| Minnesota | $2,518 |
| Mississippi | $3,375 |
| Missouri | $2,905 |
| Montana | $3,020 |
| Nebraska | $3,098 |
| Nevada | $3,285 |
| New Hampshire | $4,193 |
| New Jersey | $3,340 |
| New Mexico | $2,813 |
| New York | $3,300 |
| North Carolina | $3,281 |
| North Dakota | $2,880 |
| Ohio | $2,872 |
| Oklahoma | $2,495 |
| Oregon | $2,995 |
| Pennsylvania | $3,060 |
| Rhode Island | $4,492 |
| South Carolina | $2,919 |
| South Dakota | $3,073 |
| Tennessee | $2,679 |
| Texas | $2,640 |
| Utah | $2,710 |
| Vermont | $4,790 |
| Virginia | $3,248 |
| Washington State | $3,480 |
| West Virginia | $3,020 |
| Wisconsin | $2,938 |
| Wyoming | $2,610 |
Our free tool provides options, advice, and next steps based on your unique situation.
The states with the highest cost of independent living for a one-bedroom unit, based upon A Place for Mom’s median monthly starting price data, are:[01]
The states with the most budget-friendly costs of independent living for a one-bedroom unit, based upon A Place for Mom’s median monthly starting price data, are:[01]
Independent living communities offer a range of services and pricing options, Stevens says. “The majority of communities are bundled or have an all-in inclusive rate. Amenities are generally included in the base rent, but some communities have variations, which include paying for meals or housekeeping separately.”
In continuing care retirement communities, or CCRCs, independent living, assisted living, and nursing home care are all offered on one campus. CCRCs typically have a large entrance fee, which is sometimes partially refundable.
The cost of independent living also depends on factors like:
Medical care isn’t usually an option in senior independent living. However, if residents need medical services, physical therapy, or more daily assistance, some independent living communities may coordinate with third-party providers and offer these services on-site at an additional cost. Because such health care services are provided through a third-party home health care provider, they may be covered by public pay options or at least be tax deductible.
Many all-inclusive communities include the following in their price:
Read more: Independent Living Activities: Promoting a Healthy, Fulfilling Retirement
Depending on the community and your preferences, there may be additional costs for:
Our advisors help 300,000 families each year find the right senior care for their loved ones.
Asking the right questions can provide families with an accurate idea of independent living costs and potential ways to save on senior living expenses. Many communities offer move-in incentives, depending on supply and demand.
When discussing cost in independent living, ask the following:
“Cost is a large factor for most families, but always keep in mind the environment, staff engagement, and how earnest the staff is to find a solution that works for your family,” says Stevens.
The many senior living options available today can make it overwhelming when searching for one to fit your unique situation. It’s important to choose the right independent living facility according to your needs and preferences.
That’s why the Senior Living Advisors at A Place for Mom are there to help you learn more about senior living options in your area. They can help you locate options based on your specific preferences and can even help schedule tours of prospective communities — all at no cost to you and your family.
Key Takeaways
A Place for Mom. (2023). Cost of Long-Term Care and Senior Living.
United States Census Bureau. (2020, June 25). 65 and older population grows rapidly as baby boomers age.
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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