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96 Independent Living Facilities near Tucson, AZ

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96 Independent Living Facilities near Tucson, AZ

If you’re looking for independent living in the Tucson area, our local senior living advisors can help you each step of the way. From affordable independent living for seniors to luxury options, we’ll work with you to understand the cost of independent living in Tucson. From there, we’ll show you the best independent living communities for your lifestyle, interests, and budget.

Discover unique independent living amenities, social activities, dining, and more independent living benefits. With 96 independent living facilities in Tucson, A Place for Mom makes it easier to find your new, maintenance-free home.

We are also serving Independent Living facilities in surrounding neighborhoods like Eastside, Casas Adobes and Bear Canyon.
You may also consider nearby communities such as Valencia West or South Tucson.

Tucson Independent Living Facilities | 797 Reviews

Showing 96 communities
Last Updated: 3/28/23
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Nutritious meals are one of the most important and valued benefits of senior living. Chefs and meal planners provide residents the right balance of vitamins and minerals – and so much more. The best make sure every dish is made with quality ingredients, tastes great and leaves diners excited for their next meal.
Starting price (per month)
Average starting price of Independent Living in Tucson, AZ is $3,186/month. Learn more
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Types of care available in Tucson, AZ

Independent Living

Average starting price $3,186/month
Average starting price $4,048/month
Average starting price $4,956/month
Average starting price $4,378/month
Average starting price $2,919/month
Average starting price $689/month
Recent reviews of Independent Living in Tucson, AZ
Mountain View Retirement Village in Tucson, AZ
4.8

This is a good community and it is a good value. The staff are very friendly and kind. My loved one was in the memory care and is moving over to the unassisted living and is excited to participate in more activities.

Atria Valley Manor in Tucson, AZ
4.9

Overall very well thought out and deployed. I just quickly realized that my level of care exceeded what was offered. Cleanliness, no complaints whatsoever. Very well kept, homes and grounds. The staff was always on on hand and ready to help. The best way to say it the staff was self engaging and would offer to assist if needed. Quality of care are defined above, it's all there. Meals in any institution could use improvement. Sorry the one draw back. As to activities there are plenty both on site and in structured road trips, very refreshing. Who won't complain about cost? Although with the combined activities and such it's hard to complain. You can always come visit and find relatively happy and engaged residents, thanks.

Villa Hermosa in Tucson, AZ
5.0

I have lived in other communities in Arizona. I will highly recommend this one to anyone who would be looking for a retirement home.

Atria Campana Del Rio

1550 East River Road, Tucson, AZ 85718

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
6
6 Photos available
13
13 Floor plans available
Provides: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Atria communities

At Atria Campana del Rio, you'll discover a welcoming senior community nestled in the bucolic foothills of the Santa Catalina Mountains in Tucson. The area's Spanish-style architecture is reflected in the red-tile roofs and soft desert colors throughout each spacious apartment and townhome....

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Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.5(122 reviews)

I was reluctant to move here, just wasn’t willing to give up my beautiful home in Sierra Vista....but what a blessing this place turned out to be. It has been a excellent decision for me. Before my late...

Atria Bell Court Gardens

6653 East Carondelet Drive, Tucson, AZ 85710

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
9
9 Photos available
5
5 Floor plans available
Provides: Independent Living
See all Atria communities

At Atria Bell Court Gardens, you'll enjoy resort-style living surrounded by three glorious mountain ranges. Located in the magnificently restored historic Belin Mansion in Tucson, Atria Bell Court Gardens offers the convenience of senior living services provided by a professional and caring staff...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Guest meals
4.5(61 reviews)

Atria Bell Court is an outstanding community, super top-notch. From the management to the front desk workers to the day-to-day staff and maintenance team they were wonderful. Whenever you have something that...

Atria Valley Manor

5549 East Lee Street, Tucson, AZ 85712

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
5
5 Photos available
4
4 Floor plans available
Provides: Independent Living
See all Atria communities

At Atria Valley Manor, you'll enjoy a family-like atmosphere on five beautifully landscaped acres. Our residents enjoy a unique and flavorful variety of activities, including culinary exhibitions, walking and exercise clubs, educational seminars, various arts and cinema inspired events, and...

... Read more
Guest meals
Art Classes
4.4(36 reviews)

Atria Valley Manor has been wonderful for our friend there, the entire staff team from top to bottom has gone above and beyond - from the kitchen staff to the house keeping and the staff who helps with...

Broadway Proper Senior Living

400 S. Broadway Place, Tucson, AZ 85710

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
26
26 Photos available
Best Meals and Dining
Provides: Independent Living, Assisted Living
See all Stellar Senior Living communities

Broadway Proper Retirement Community offers the beauty and serenity of a desert oasis in the heart of East Tucson. We are located near Udall Park, the Ott Family YMCA, Hilton East, St. Joseph's Hospital, Carondelet Health Network, and both Park Place Mall and Elcon Mall.Along with the warmth of...

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Beauty Salon
Guest meals
4.2(75 reviews)

I was pleasantly surprised when I walked in and smelled cookies baking and lots of residents socializing in the lobby. There were lots of amenities and the apartment was perfect. I can't wait to move in!

The Gardens at Blenman Elm

1615 N Norton Ave, Tucson, AZ 85719

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
8
8 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all The Gardens at San Carlos communities

The Gardens at Blenman Elm is a newly renovated, sun-filled home in central Tucson. Our core values support active, compassionate, excellent, and responsive care and the living space is perfect for those values. Inside the home we have an inner courtyard, a high-end kitchen, and stunning open...

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Enclosed Courtyard
Special Dining Programs
5.0(4 reviews)

Overall I had no problems with the Gardens. it met our needs very well. We only moved my mom so that she could be in the same facility as my dad (who is in independent living).

Sunrise at River Road

4975 North 1st Avenue, Tucson, AZ 85718

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
16
16 Photos available
3
3 Floor plans available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Sunrise Senior Living communities

Since 2008 Sunrise at River Road as been providing outstanding assisted living and memory care services to Tucson. Located at River Road and North 1st Avenue we are centrally located, are a warm and inviting, homelike environment complete with pets, fresh flowers, southwest landscaping and...

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Beauty Salon
Special Dining Programs
4.3(65 reviews)

My mom seems to be happy. She does complain about the wait time in the dining room though. However based on our experience so far we would recommend this community to other families.

The Forum at Tucson

2500 N Rosemont Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85712

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
20
20 Photos available
Provides: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Five Star Senior Living communities

The Forum at Tucson is for seniors who want to maintain their rich and rewarding life without the responsibilities of running a household. It is ideal if you are an active senior who wants to focus on the things you enjoy most in life, but yet have assistance available should you need it. With...

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Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
3.1(20 reviews)

I'm very happy here. The food is amazingly good. Pretty much everything they fix is just extraordinarily tasty. The price seems to be righteous as far as we're concerned. The staff are very attentive,...

Brookdale East Tucson

8468 East Speedway Boulevard, Tucson, AZ 85710

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
12
12 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living
See all Brookdale communities

Live With EnthusiasmNestled in the beautiful city of Tucson, Arizona, you will find an assisted living community that gives you more than personal care. This is a place where you can savor restaurant-style dining, spacious and private accommodations, a variety of common rooms for socializing and...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.4(17 reviews)

It's a very good fit for our family. My loved one is really happy there, and really appreciated being introduced to the other residents. It's a smaller community, wihich offers a freindly service. Everyones...

Brookdale Santa Catalina

7500 North Calle Sin Envidia, Tucson, AZ 85718

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
12
12 Photos available
Provides: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Brookdale communities

Are you ready for fewer chores and more adventures?Come see if our continuing care retirement community, or CCRC, with independent living, assisted living, memory care and skilled nursing all on one campus is the right fit for you. We’re a rental CCRC. That means you’ll pay a monthly rental fee...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
3.9(43 reviews)

I have recommended the community to others. The only issue we have right now is the community is short staff and which leads to not being able to get things done in time. However other than that my loved one...

Park Senior Villas - La Cañada

6899 N. LaCanada Road, Tucson, AZ 85704

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
8
8 Photos available
Provides: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Park Senior Villas communities

The Villas at La Canada is an affordable assisted living community and memory care provider located in northwest Tucson, Pima County, Arizona. Uniquely placed in a beautiful residential setting, The Villas at La Canada is a warm, supportive place to call home, and a wonderful place for friends...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
3.3(17 reviews)

My husband needed memory care placement from hospitalization. I was referred to multiple facilities, when I visited Park Senior Villas, it was different experience, it felt like will give us and my husband ...

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Foothills Place

3701 N Swan Rd, Tucson, AZ 85718

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
10
10 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Enlivant communities

Foothills Place is a pet friendly senior living community in Tucson, AZ, where we provide residents with quality care and assistance with their daily routine when needed, while promoting independence as long as possible. We develop individual care plans to meet the needs of each resident, and a...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.0(77 reviews)

I think it is a really good mid-sized facility. It is not too big and it is not too small. They have lots of activities going on every afternoon. Mom says they keep them super busy and she is tired by the...

Park Senior Villas - Houghton

844 N. Houghton Rd, Tucson, AZ 85748

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
3
3 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Park Senior Villas communities

The Villas at Houghton The Villas at Houghton is an assisted living community located in Tucson, Pima County, Arizona that provides quality care for those dealing with dementia or Alzheimer's. This community provides a safe place to live in a location that is great. Guests of the residents of...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.2(22 reviews)

There is no complaints about the food. They have a lot of activites, which looks pretty goo. They have movies, wheel of fortune, arts, crafts, and exercising. It was the best value for the money. We picked...

The Hacienda at the River

2720 E River Rd, Tucson, AZ 85718

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
13
13 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Watermark Retirement Communities communities

Tucson’s Premier Senior Living CommunityThe Hacienda at the River heralds a new era in senior care. A 7.5-acre senior living community in the Catalina Foothills of Tucson, The Hacienda is a unique community for individuals seeking exceptional Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care....

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
5.0(2 reviews)

We are so pleased with this community and the care that my mother-in-law is receiving. Her room in the memory care is very nice, spacious and there are currently 10 residents but they are set up for 20. ...

The Lakes Apartments

5666 E. Hampton, Tucson, AZ 85712

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
13
13 Photos available
Provides: Senior Apartments

The Lakes is an exclusive 55+ adult, senior housing community in sunny Tucson, Pima County, AZ. Tucson is located on the Sonoran desert, and is surrounded by multiple mountain ranges like the Santa Catalina Mountains to the north. It also sits on the Santa Cruz River, a dry river bed most of the...

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3.6(12 reviews)

They keep the community very clean. I am having so much fun, I have yet to fully unpack from moving in. The maintenance is quick to respond to requests. They have a lot of activities for the residents to...

Tucson Place at Ventana Canyon

5660 N Kolb Rd, Tucson, AZ 85750

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
13
13 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Pegasus Senior Living, LLC communities

We are happy to announce that Tucson Place at Ventana Canyon is now recognized as a U.S. News & World Report 2022-23 Best Assisted Living community! Tucson Place is located in the beautiful Catalina Foothills of Tucson, Arizona, and offers personalized assisted living facilities and Alzheimer's...

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Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
3.3(14 reviews)

The sales lady [name removed] was incredibly friendly from the moment our family met her. We visited other communities and they turned our loved one away immediately and Tucson Place accepted her immediately...

Fellowship Square at Tucson

8111 E. Broadway, Tucson, AZ 85710

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
11
11 Photos available
10
10 Floor plans available
Provides: Independent Living, Assisted Living
See all Fellowship Square (Christian Care) communities
Beauty Salon
Guest meals
4.2(11 reviews)

We chose Fellowship Square because I really liked the place from the moment we walked in, I got a great feeling. Super friendly and helpful staff. The location is also very close for me which is nice. It is...

Sierra del Sol

8151 East Speedway Boulevard, Tucson, AZ 85710

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
11
11 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Cascade Living Group communities

We offer a home like setting and cheerful smiles from our professional staff who greet you everyday. Our caring staff offers the assistance you need while respecting your independence. Our peaceful setting, restaurant style dining experience, activities and beautiful setting combine to create a...

... Read more
Enclosed Courtyard
Special Dining Programs
4.1(49 reviews)

We love it here. We chose Sierra Del Sol because of the cleanliness of the facility and the friendliness of the staff members. The staff have all been very attentive, my mother in law feels very supported by...

Country Club at La Cholla

8700 N La Cholla Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85742

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
15
15 Photos available
Provides: Independent Living, Assisted Living
See all Grace Management, Inc communities

Snowbird Stays from $150 per day!The Country Club of La Cholla offers luxury retirement living for the young at heart.You can relax in the classic country club setting of the Catalina Foothills and make yourself comfortable in one of our bright and spacious apartment homes. Your calendar will be...

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Beauty Salon
Guest meals
4.3(67 reviews)

I do have a few complaints, they have garbage cans out front that they do not pick up and you have to walk past them all the time. The other thing is the food is ok, but I am not able to eat some of it...

Brookdale North Tucson

2650 West Ina Road, Tucson, AZ 85741

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
6
6 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living
See all Brookdale communities

COMMUNITY VISITS HAPPENING DAILYTucked away in the northwest side of Tucson in the foothills close to Marana, you will discover a warm and welcoming assisted living community that operates more like a family than a traditional senior living home. You will feel right at home as soon as you walk...

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Beauty Salon
Guest meals
3.6(39 reviews)

The staff at Brookdale North Tucson are very helpful. They tried really hard to accommodate our family's needs. And there are lots of activities and things to do if you want to do them. I would highly...

Inspirations of River Centre

5665 E River Rd, Tucson, AZ 85750

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
27
27 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living
See all Grace Management, Inc communities

Inspirations of River Centre, providing Assisted Living to the Tucson area.

Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.0(17 reviews)

I really can't say anything bad about Elmcroft. But my mom complains that the activities could be revised. She has given some suggestions, but hasn't made any changes. They could have a driver available...

The Ranch Estates of Tucson

2365 W Orange Grove Rd, Tucson, AZ 85741

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
17
17 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Grace Management, Inc communities

The Ranch Estates of Tucson is senior living at its finest. We are located in the beautiful Casas Adobes area of Tucson, near Oro Valley. Our community includes assisted living and memory care services and amenities catered to the individual. The Ranch Estates of Tucson is much more than senior...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
3.9(15 reviews)

We thought it was a really nice community and we would recommend this community to other families. The only reason we did not give them a 5 star overall is that we had trouble scheduling transportation to...

Crossroads Adult Care Home Escondido

5821 N Escondido Ln, Tucson, AZ 85704

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
11
11 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care

Crossroads Adult Care III is located in Pima county, Tucson AZ. It is a caring residential care home with loving caregivers assisting residents in a group home setting. Historical, cultural, recreational, natural and educational attractions bring many people to perpetually sunny Tucson. Enveloped...

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Enclosed Courtyard
Art Classes
1.0(1 review)

Handmaker Jewish Services for the Aging

2221 N Rosemont Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85712

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
10
10 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care

The Handmaker community offers Assisted Living and Health Care services for every stage of the aging. Residents and families can feel confident that, as needs change, quality, caring staff and programs will be there to meet those needs. In addition to the apartment settings, Handmaker offers...

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3.1(7 reviews)

My loved one has only been here a short time. She is just here for rehab. She loves the people, and they are very responsive. If she squeezes for assistance they are there immediately. They have been working...

The Gardens at San Carlos

4553 E San Carlos Pl S, Tucson, AZ 85712

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
8
8 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all The Gardens at San Carlos communities

The Gardens is a renovated, sun-filled home in central Tucson. Our core values support Compassionate, Active, Responsive, and Excellent care and the living space is responsive to those values. Inside the home we have soaring ceilings, a high-end kitchen, and stunning open spaces for socializing....

... Read more
Art Classes
(0 review)

Bridgewater Assisted Living

6505 N La Cholla Blvd, Tucson, AZ 85741

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Photos available
2
2 Floor plans available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care

Solterra Senior Living at La Cholla is an Assisted Living & Memory Care community. Each Villa has 16 luxury suites each adjoined by a great room style main living area with the kitchen being the focal point. The villas are uniquely designed and beautifully decorated to emphasize resident comfort....

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
1.5(4 reviews)
Viewing 1-25 out of 96 communities

Costs of independent living in the Tucson area

Tucson’s independent living senior communities cost residents an average of $3,125 a month, according to our 2022 proprietary data.[01] Most independent living senior communities in Tucson have one monthly fee that includes rent, utilities, housekeeping, and access to common area amenities. All of our partner Tucson communities also offer meal plan options for an additional fee.

The cost of independent living in Tucson is below the national average for other top markets, including Phoenix, making it a good option for seniors who want to stretch their cash. However, independent living senior communities are typically more expensive than senior apartments, due to their added amenities and services. So, independent senior living communities’ higher price reflects their all-inclusive, resort-like nature.

While all independent living communities in Tucson vary, there are two different types of payment structures: traditional independent living communities and continuing care retirement communities.

Traditional independent senior living communities

Traditional independent living communities roll their costs into one monthly fee, which often includes the following:

  • Rent for the apartment, room, or villa
  • Utilities
  • Use of all common area amenities, like the pool, gym, game room, theater, computer rooms, etc.
  • Access to fitness and educational classes and social events
  • Weekly or daily housekeeping
  • Laundry services
  • Complimentary transportation
  • Security
  • Maintenance

Meal plans and covered parking are also typically available, but often for an additional fee. Like senior apartments, these communities may also request a security deposit, which is usually equal to one month’s fee.

Continuing care retirement communities

With a different payment structure than traditional independent living communities, continuing care retirement communities, or CCRCs, have an all-inclusive monthly fee as well as a large one-time admission fee.

These admission fees are an investment into the senior’s future care needs. In the event the resident ever requires use of on-site care services, their monthly rate will never change. The admission fee may lower the senior’s overall costs of care services, if such is ever needed. But with these fees running anywhere from $50,000 to $500,000, they don’t come cheap. Many seniors use funds from investments or the sale of a house to pay this one-time fee. Some CCRCs offer return of capital (ROC) plans, which return up to 80% of the admissions fee to the senior or the senior’s heirs if the senior moves or passes away before using the on-site care services.

Regardless of what type of independent living community you choose, you should have a clear picture of what the community’s payment structure is, how much you will be expected to pay monthly, and how much your move-in or admission fee will be.

Baseline independent senior living fees

The figures below are the average baseline costs of rent for Tucson’s independent living senior communities before additional costs like admission fees or add-on services are accounted for. These baseline fees are meant to offer a general price comparison between Tucson and nearby cities and don’t necessarily provide the amount that seniors actually paid.

Average cost comparisons near Tucson, AZ

43.14 miles from you

Patagonia, AZ

$3,385

per month on average

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Your zip code

Tucson, AZ

$3,712

per month on average

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Sahuarita, AZ

$3,488

per month on average

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How people pay for independent living in Tucson

Because independent living doesn’t include care services, most people pay with private funds rather than Medicaid or Medicare. Read on to find some of the most common ways seniors pay for independent senior living in Tucson. You can also learn how public assistance or veterans benefits may help you cover the costs of an independent living community.

Private pay methods in Tucson

Most seniors use their retirement accounts or the sale of their house to pay for independent living. The following resources can help explain some more potential private pay options:

Senior Living
Selling a House to Pay for Care: A Guide for Seniors and Families
By Haines Eason14 min read
Caregiver Resources
Reverse Mortgages and Long-Term Care: The Pros and Cons
By Merritt Whitley12 min read
Caregiver Resources
Using Life Insurance to Pay for Long-Term Care: Tips for Seniors to Free Up Cash
By Danny Szlauderbach8 min read

Understand Arizona laws and regulations for independent living communities

Independent senior living communities aren’t required to be licensed or regulated by the federal government or the state of Arizona. This is because they don’t provide any care services that can be covered with state or federal benefits.

That said, some independent living communities also have assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing wings on-site. These care wings are required to be licensed and regulated in the same way as stand-alone assisted living, memory care, or skilled nursing facilities, separate from the independent living wings.

Tucson’s independent living communities often require residents to be able to care for themselves without assistance. Many also require residents to be over 55 years old.

What are the regulations for independent living communities in Tucson?

Independent living communities in Tucson follow the same regulations as other apartment buildings. In general, Tucson’s independent living communities are expected to do the following:

  • Keep the residence in a livable condition and up to safety codes
  • Provide running and hot water
  • Offer extermination services
  • Supply heat in the winter
  • Provide a security system, such as a key, for the resident prior to move in

Residents of independent living communities are expected to do the following:

  • Must not alter the residence in any permanent way without permission
  • Comply with community rules about quiet hours and picking up after pets
  • Pay monthly fees on time

While Arizona does outline renters’ rights in the Arizona Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, there’s no government agency that handles disputes between a resident and a community. Any disputes are considered private, so read your prospective community guidelines or bylaws carefully before moving in. Consult a landlord/tenant attorney for more information.

Arizona Department of Health contact information

Arizona Department of Health Services
150 N. 18th Ave.
Phoenix, Arizona 85007
Phone: 602-542-1025

COVID-19 regulations for Tucson independent living communities

Tucson’s independent living communities follow the COVID-19 guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Arizona Together program. While there are no current mandates, residents of independent living communities are encouraged to mask when sick and test after an exposure to COVID-19. Pima County posts local vaccine rates and a 15-day case map on the Pima County COVID-19 Data Reports page, as well as weekly COVID-19 progress reports.

Get to know independent living in Tucson

166

Number of partnering independent living communities in Tucson, Arizona

3.8/5.0 Our partnering Tucson independent living communities receive an average of 4.1 stars out of 5 from residents and families.
100% of our partnering independent living communities in Tucson offer housekeeping services to residents
100% of partnering Tucson independent living communities allow dogs
91% of independent living communities in Tucson offer complimentary transportation
92% of partnering independent living communities in Tucson have a fitness center
81% of independent living communities in Tucson have a pool

1301

We’ve referred 1,301 people to independent living communities in Tucson in the last 12 months.

80

The average age of seniors we’ve referred to independent living in Tucson is 80 years old.
Gender split: 64% female, 32% male

What are independent living communities in Tucson like?

More and more seniors are discovering where they fit in Tucson. As the sunny home of the University of Arizona, the first City of Gastronomy in the United States, and a conserver of the Old West’s wide open spaces, Tucson is quickly becoming a top-notch retirement town, especially for active seniors looking for independent living.

Tucson’s million-dollar views belie a lower cost of living than most other popular cities. This cute college town also has a wide range of senior living options, meaning most seniors can find a community that suits their needs and wants, as well as their budget.

Tucson has independent living options

As a city of about 500,000 people, Tucson has a range of independent senior living options.[03] In Tucson, there are three main types of independent senior living communities: standalone independent senior living, independent senior living with on-site care options, and continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs). Almost all of our partnering independent living communities are close to the Catalina Foothills, away from the bustling city center.

Stand-alone independent living communities in Tucson

The most recognizable independent living community in Tucson is the stand-alone independent living community. These communities offer only independent living services and don’t offer any other senior care types like assisted living or memory care.

Like most senior communities in Tucson, these tend to be away from the hustle and bustle of the city, usually on a large plot of land with mountain views. That said, Tucson isn’t a huge city, so most of these communities are only a 10- to 15-minute drive from downtown.

These standalone independent living communities resemble luxury apartment complexes, with a central clubhouse, a dining room, a library, a pool, and multiple floor plan options. These residences usually employ an activities coordinator to arrange daily exercise classes, social gatherings, and outings.

Because these communities don’t offer care services, they may require residents to be free from serious health concerns. These communities don’t have large admission fees but instead roll all of their expenses, including meal plans, into one monthly sum.

Independent living communities with assisted living care in Tucson

In Tucson, independent living communities often include assisted living services, sometimes in an adjacent building or wing. These communities are usually closer to the center of town than standalone independent living communities, though they may still have spacious grounds and beautiful views.

Like standalone independent living communities, these independent and assisted living communities often resemble high-end apartments, with beautiful design features and a plethora of amenities. Many also have an on-staff activity coordinator or wellness coach to organize social events and help residents with their fitness goals. Because there’s a full calendar of activities and access to enjoyable amenities, like pools, tennis courts, and social hours, it’s nearly impossible to be bored at one of these communities.

These combined communities are not continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) because they have a different payment structure. Unlike CCRCs, they won’t require a large admissions fee to pay for future potential care. However, these communities don’t tend to offer skilled nursing services, like CCRCs do. But combined communities do offer seniors the benefit of staying in the same community if they develop a need for assisted living care.

Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs) in Tucson

CCRCs aren’t common in Tucson, but A Place for Mom does partner with a few of them. These are the most all-inclusive senior living communities and a good option for seniors who want to live comfortably and spend the rest of their lives in the same place.

Because these communities are often newer, Tucson’s CCRCs tend to be the farthest away from the city. Like other independent senior living communities, the independent living wings of CCRCs are akin to vacation-style resorts. Pools, game rooms, fitness classes, happy hours, and performances are a regular part of life in Tucson’s CCRCs.

CCRCs include every care type, including skilled nursing. As a resident’s care needs progress, they can receive seamless care from staff members who know the resident well. Tucson’s CCRCs do require a large upfront admissions fee for potential future care services. However, in Tucson these fees are well below those in other top senior living markets, like New York or Chicago.

Independent living in the surrounding Tucson suburbs

Just 30 minutes south of Tucson lies Green Valley, one of the most peaceful places to retire in the United States. Because over 80% of its population is over 65, Green Valley is considered a retirement community.[04] However, with 22,000 residents, Green Valley is more than just a sleepy residential neighborhood. Local community organizers put on events, and it’s easy to find people with similar interests in this senior-oriented town.

Green Valley’s desert mountain views and comfortable, low-key affluence are similar to Palm Springs, California. But its lower cost of living, virtually nonexistent crime, and high concentration of senior living options make it a uniquely excellent place to retire. If Green Valley gets too quiet for some residents, however, Tucson is only a 30-minute drive away.

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Unfamiliar with Tucson? Highlights for seniors

82,580

There are 82,580 seniors over 65 currently living in Tucson, Arizona, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

15%

Around 15% of the population in Tucson is over 65, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

80%

About 80% of the population in Green Valley is over 65, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

53,285

The median annual income for people over 65 in Tucson is $53,285, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

Health care for seniors in Tucson

Tucson has an excellent health care system and one of the best hospitals in Arizona.

TMC Healthcare — Tucson 

TMC Healthcare — Tucson is one of the best hospitals in Arizona. According to the U.S. News and World Report, it competitively performs in cardiology procedures and geriatrics care.

5301 E. Grant Rd.
Tucson, AZ 85712
Phone: 520-327-5461
Find a provider

Northwest Medical Center — Tucson

The Northwest Medical Center — Tucson is another highly rated Tucson hospital. According to the U.S. News and World Report, it performs well for cardiology, kidney procedures, and prostate cancer surgery. With 300 beds, it’s a moderately sized hospital.

6200 N. La Cholla Blvd.
Tucson, AZ 85741
Phone: 520-742-9000
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Banner — University Medical Center Tucson

Banner — University Medical Center Tucson is on the University of Arizona’s campus and is a nonprofit, research-university hospital.

2800 E. Ajo Way
Tucson, AZ 85713
Phone: 520-874-2000
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Carondelet St. Joseph’s Hospital

Carondelet St. Joseph’s Hospital is a for-profit, large private hospital with almost 500 beds. It offers high-quality specialty care, such as ophthalmology, neurosurgery, and acute care.

350 N. Wilmont Rd.
Tucson, AZ 85711
Phone: 520-873-3000
Find a provider

Transportation for seniors in Tucson

Almost all of our partner independent living communities in Tucson offer complimentary transportation services. However, most independent senior living community residents own and drive a personal vehicle, and many communities provide covered parking spaces to their residents.

For seniors without a car or access to complimentary transportation, reliable and affordable public transportation in Tucson is also available. The Sun Tran system is Tucson’s public transportation system, featuring a bus service, a shuttle, and even vans for disabled passengers. Most of Sun Tran’s vehicles have senior-designated seats directly behind the driver. Sun Vans also have lifts for riders with limited mobility.

The Sun Tran system provides discounted fees for seniors and offers a free class for seniors to learn how to use the system. Information about this class and about the Sun Tran system is available on the senior page of the Sun Tran website or by calling 520-206-8881.

Senior activities in Tucson

Tucson is best experienced outside. Whether you’re hiking through cacti-encrusted bluffs, watching the desert sunset from your porch, or gazing up at the Milky Way, Tucson lives up to its reputation as an outdoor lover’s paradise. However, Tucson has its fair share of cultural activities to please any urbane retiree. Read on to learn about the best senior activities in Tucson, Arizona.

Saguaro National Park

Tucson is perhaps the only U.S. city that almost completely surrounds a national park. Three sides of Saguaro National Park border the city, making it one of the most easily accessible outdoor activities for Tucson locals.

The park gets its name from the native Saguaro cacti that grow throughout the area, many of which are over 100 years old and tower up to 40 feet. It boasts excellent hiking trails and a scenic driving loop, called the Cactus Forest Drive, which takes visitors through the park’s most breathtaking vistas. Hikers can also find petroglyphs from the ancient Hohokam people on the Signal Hill hiking trail.

Saguaro National Park is also a good place to experience Tucson’s Dark Sky Zone status. This area is one of the best places in the United States to stargaze, as the skies are often clear and there’s a low level of light pollution. In Tucson, there are plenty of other places to enjoy the starry sky. The Loews Ventana Canyon Resort throws stargazing parties, and the Steward Observatory at the University of Arizona offers public educational events about the night sky.

The Sonoran Desert Museum

The Sonoran Desert Museum is a fantastic place to learn about the history and biodiversity of the Tucson landscape. Set almost entirely outside on 98 acres of preserved desert landscape, the museum includes a zoo, a botanical garden, an art gallery, and a natural history exhibition.

Seniors get a discounted admissions fee, and the museum is almost entirely wheelchair accessible. Wheelchairs can be rented for a small fee, and accommodations and special tours are available for the visually impaired or the hard of hearing. These requests can be made ahead of time on the Sonoran Desert Museum website.

Cultural activities

The Pima Air and Space Museum showcases over 400 different aircraft, including WWII planes, presidential planes, and a flight simulator. Veterans, in particular, may enjoy the museum as it has plenty of antique and historically significant army planes. Seniors get discounted admission. It’s set on a multi-acre field, and tram tours are available every day to drive visitors through the aircraft.

The Gaslight Theater is a local classic. It’s been putting on family-friendly productions since the 1990s and is now in an old-timey saloon. Visitors can get a full dinner as they enjoy the show, and free popcorn comes with each ticket. Many independent living communities buy group tickets at least once a year, and it’s also a perfect spot to take visiting family members.

Tucson is one of the only cities in the United States that has been under the authority of four different governments: Spain, Mexico, the Confederacy, and the United States of America. Visitors can explore part of this history at the Mission San Xavier del Bac, built by Spanish settlers in the 1700s. The Mission now sits on land owned by the Tohono O’odham Nation. The ornate architecture in the desert setting is striking and is worth the suggested donation fee.

Senior centers

Tucson’s Senior Programs take place at three senior centers across the city. Each senior center has an activities calendar, and there are often activities available every day. With a Senior Activity Card, seniors gain entrance to any activity at no cost, as well as access to all of the centers’ fitness rooms, game rooms, and kitchens.

The activities change regularly, but some common ones are chair yoga, social hours, ceramics, and beginner’s Spanish. The City of Tucson Parks and Recreation Department also hosts a Senior Olympics each year, with events like cribbage, leisure walking, archery, and the horseshoe toss. Seniors can sign up on the Senior Olympic homepage during the enrollment period.

Food

Tucson was the first City of Gastronomy in the United States designed by the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The city’s ancient and unique agricultural traditions and distinct flavors got Tucson this title. A list of these restaurants is available on Tucson’s City of Gastronomy website. These institutions serve up local delicacies like nopales, which are cooked (and de-spined) cacti.

Frequently asked questions

Atria Campana Del Rio, Cascades of Tucson and Prestige Assisted Living at Green Valley are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Tucson, AZ. These Independent Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.

The average cost of Independent Living in Tucson is 3,186 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

  1. A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

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

  3. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and sex (S0101): Tucson city [Data set]. American Community Survey.

  4. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and sex (S0101): Green Valley CDP [Data set]. American Community Survey.

  5. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age of householder by household income in the past 12 months (B19037): Tucson city [Data set]. American Community Survey.

More questions?

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Independent Living in Cities Near Tucson

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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