Situated on the banks of the Arkansas River, Little Rock is a beautiful place to call home. Independent living communities in Little Rock allow you to stay active while taking some of life’s stresses off your plate.
A Place for Mom will introduce you to nine of our partner independent living options within a 10-mile radius of Little Rock’s city center. You’ll discover that each independent living community offers something different, from on-site beauty shops and communal game rooms to fitness centers and free transportation, enabling you to pick the one that will best suit your preferences and lifestyle.
Although independent communities are meant for people who don’t require continuous nursing care or help with daily activities, some provide access to third-party care solutions providers. If this is something you’re interested in, be sure to explore the information for each of the nine Little Rock independent living communities listed below. Throughout the guide, you’ll be introduced to independent living options, payment considerations, transportation highlights, important laws and regulations, and notable activities ideal for active, independent seniors living in Little Rock.
How do we rank Little Rock independent living communities?
Our goal is to help you find high-quality independent living facilities that fit your needs. Using our 20+ years of experience in senior living, we developed a proprietary rating system based on the following:
- Recent, high-quality reviews. We take into account reviews from the past two years. Then, we look for independent living options that people prefer. Communities that have mostly positive ratings in the past two years are prioritized over facilities that have low or no reviews in the past two years. Reviews also help us understand what matters most to families like yours and how you rate communities based on subcategories like meals and dining, staff, and cleanliness.
- Facility transparency. Communities that have robust information are prioritized over facilities that don’t offer the same level of transparency.
- Location. Independent living options vary based on proximity to your desired location.
10 Best Independent Living Communities in Little Rock, AR
Situated on the banks of the Arkansas River, Little Rock is a beautiful place to call home. Independent living communities in Little Rock allow you to stay active while taking some of life’s stresses off your plate.Read more
A Place for Mom will introduce you to nine of our partner independent living options within a 10-mile radius of Little Rock’s city center. You’ll discover that each independent living community offers something different, from on-site beauty shops and communal game rooms to fitness centers and free transportation, enabling you to pick the one that will best suit your preferences and lifestyle.
Although independent communities are meant for people who don’t require continuous nursing care or help with daily activities, some provide access to third-party care solutions providers. If this is something you’re interested in, be sure to explore the information for each of the nine Little Rock independent living communities listed below. Throughout the guide, you’ll be introduced to independent living options, payment considerations, transportation highlights, important laws and regulations, and notable activities ideal for active, independent seniors living in Little Rock.
How do we rank Little Rock independent living communities?
Our goal is to help you find high-quality independent living facilities that fit your needs. Using our 20+ years of experience in senior living, we developed a proprietary rating system based on the following:
- Recent, high-quality reviews. We take into account reviews from the past two years. Then, we look for independent living options that people prefer. Communities that have mostly positive ratings in the past two years are prioritized over facilities that have low or no reviews in the past two years. Reviews also help us understand what matters most to families like yours and how you rate communities based on subcategories like meals and dining, staff, and cleanliness.
- Facility transparency. Communities that have robust information are prioritized over facilities that don’t offer the same level of transparency.
- Location. Independent living options vary based on proximity to your desired location.
Little Rock Independent Living Facilities | 253 Reviews
My name is [name removed] and I have lived at the Villas since November. There is no other place like this in town, I’ve looked. The developers, [names removed], have created an outstanding community here in...
My sister is doing wonderful here, it is a good community. We are very pleased, we know she is in a safe place. The staff is great, they are very kind and friendly. They do a very good job of keeping the...
I would tell them they have lots of activities and parties that families are invited to. I'd tell them the food is good and that my parents are receiving adequate care. I would tell them I think they have...
Our free advisors can help
- Compare local facilities
- Determine care type
- Schedule tours
- Evaluate pricing
- What families are saying about independent living in Little Rock
- Costs of independent living in the Little Rock area
- How people pay for independent living in Little Rock
- Understand Arkansas laws and regulations for independent living communities
- Get to know independent living in Little Rock
- Types of independent living in Little Rock
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Little Rock? Highlights for seniors
What families are saying about independent living in Little Rock
Recent reviews for independent living in Little Rock
Buffington Towers in Little Rock, AR
Woodland Heights in Little Rock, AR
The Manor in Little Rock, AR
Costs of independent living in the Little Rock area
The average cost of independent living facilities in Little Rock is $3,374 per month in 2022-2023.[01] This cost is based on A Place for Mom’s proprietary data and includes fees for services and add-ons.
Most of the time, services such as landscaping, sewer and trash removal, and on-site maintenance are covered within the monthly rental fee. Amenities available to all independent living residents like game rooms, fitness centers, and pools are also included with the monthly rate.
Costs that may make the price of an independent living residence more expensive tend to be for any services that are variable. For example, an extra parking space may incur an additional monthly or annual fee. It is always recommended that you inquire about add-on costs when making final arrangements.
The numbers below are average costs without additional fees considered.
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Little Rock, AR vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Little Rock, AR vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Little Rock vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Independent Living in Little Rock, AR by room type
Average cost of Independent Living in Little Rock over time
How people pay for independent living in Little Rock
Because independent living communities are not considered health care-related communities, health insurance and federal programs like Medicare and Medicaid will not contribute to the rental cost. However, some insurance programs may be helpful for seniors who require occasional medically necessary care in their homes, such as physical therapy or home health.
Find out more about the many methods that seniors use to pay for Little Rock independent living below.
Most people pay out-of-pocket to live in independent living communities in Little Rock. Typically, the funds used come from savings, pensions, Social Security work-related benefits, retirement accounts, or investment returns. Some may also choose to pay for independent living communities using the following methods:
Number of veterans who live in Little Rock in 2021
Percentage of Little Rock veterans that are 65+ in 2021
If you or your spouse is a military veteran, you may be able to access funding to help you partially cover the cost of paying for an apartment or home in a Little Rock independent living community. Below are some of the most popular types of programs available to veterans in Arkansas that may be relevant for your situation.
Disabled veterans who are unable to perform activities of daily living without assistance may be able to tap into the Aid and Attendance program. Eligible military-connected individuals may receive a monthly stipend to help cover the cost of senior living.
Veterans may be eligible to receive VA Pensions and VA Disability Compensations depending on their military career background as well as their health status. These discretionary funds can be used to cover the cost of independent living.
Veterans services officers are great resources when it comes to navigating the complex VA benefits system. To find veterans services officers in Little Rock, contact the Arkansas Department of Veteran Affairs or Veterans Services Organizations, such as the American Legion, the VFW, and the National Association for Black Veterans.
Resources for Little Rock veterans
Little Rock Regional VA Office
2200 Fort Roots Drive, Building 65
North Little Rock, AR 72114
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Arkansas Department of Veterans Affairs
501 Woodlane Dr., Suite 401N
Little Rock, AR 72201
Phone: 501-683-2382
National Association for Black Veterans, Inc. Chapter #0108
Phone: 501-777-5421
Email: lisa.a.breen@gmail.com
Post 1316 George L. Douglas Post
2304 S Arch St.
Little Rock, AR 72206
Phone: 501-615-8006
Post 9095 W. Carl Reed Post
1121 Gamble Road
Little Rock, AR 72211
Phone: 501-225-9849
Pulaski County Veteran Service Officer
Al Harkins
3915 W 8th St., 3rd Floor
Little Rock, AR 72204
Phone: 501-650-0311
Hours: Monday through Wednesday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.; Thursday, 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Email: aharkins@pulaskicounty.net
Millions of seniors take advantage of Medicare and Medicaid federal programs. Nevertheless, Medicare and Medicaid will not directly pay for the rent associated with living in an independent living community. They may, however, help cover some medically necessary at-home health services such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, and skilled nursing visits.
Below are a few highlights about Medicare and Medicaid in Arkansas, as well as how other seniors use these programs to lower their overall monthly bills.
Medicaid
Medicaid is a federally funded healthcare program specifically for low-income adults and people with disabilities. In Arkansas, the state-run Medicaid program is called Access Arkansas and you can apply for Medicaid online. If you need assistance, watch this video for step-by-step instructions. Medicaid recipients can get up to six prescriptions paid for through the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS) as well.
ARChoices in Home Care is a Home and Community-Based Waiver program specifically designed for people with physical disabilities (ages 21 to 64) and seniors 65 and up. This program provides qualifying seniors, who may otherwise need to be in a nursing home, with services ranging from environmental modifications, attendant care, adult health services, respite care, and more so they can get the assistance they need to live more independently. You can read more about this program in the DHS comprehensive Arkansas Medicaid handbook.
Medicare
Medicare is health insurance coverage that can be used for medical needs by seniors who are 65+ in independent living. It doesn’t, however, pay for any room and board costs. For low-income seniors, the Arkansas Medicare Savings Program can help with some of Medicare’s costs, such as premiums and copayments.
If you happen to be eligible for the type of care a nursing home provides but you’d rather live in an independent living facility, Little Rock’s Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) can help. For qualified seniors, PACE will coordinate all types of care as well as help with meals, household help, and give you access to the Baptist Health PACE Day Center.
To apply for Medicare, start with your local Social Security office. The Arkansas Senior Health Insurance Information Program (AR SHIIP) initiative provides a streamlined way for residents to connect with certified Medicare plan and supplement counselors. AR SHIIP offers both the Arkansas Counselor Information Center as well as its AR SHIIP Quick Guide to Medicare. CareLink is also an organization that can help seniors navigate Medicare and figure out the plan that is right for them.
The Arkansas Ombudsman Program, the Office of Public Guardian and the Arkansas Division of Aging, Adult, and Behavioral Health Services and can help guide seniors through both Medicaid and Medicare questions as well. These programs offer advice and can have trained representatives to help advocate on behalf of seniors for plans that best meet their needs.
Little Rock resident Medicare and Medicaid resources
Little Rock Social Security Administration
700 W. Capitol St.
Room 1201, Federal Building
Little Rock, AR 72201
Phone: 866-593-0933
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Little Rock Ombudsman: Monica Tyler
706 W 4th St.
North Little Rock, AR 72119
Phone: 800-482-6359
Email: mtyler@carelink.org
Arkansas Division of Aging, Adult, and Behavioral Health Services
Phone: 501-686-9164
Area Agency on Aging of Northwest Arkansas
1510 Rock Springs Road
Harrison, AR 72602
Phone: 501-225-7523
Understand Arkansas laws and regulations for independent living communities
Three of our partner independent living communities are standalone facilities. If an independent living community does not offer care, it will be regulated like a regular apartment building in Arkansas.
Arkansas rental properties follow the rules and regulations listed in the Arkansas Fair Housing Act which protects tenants from discriminatory behavior from their landlords based on any of the following: sex, age, race, or disability status. The Americans with Disabilities Act must also be complied with. Landlords in Little Rock are also expected to abide by landlord-tenant rights.
All facilities are to adhere to safety codes as part of the Arkansas’ landlord-tenant rights. Inspections can be carried out by Little Rock’s Code Enforcement Division. Inspection reports are not available online, but you can reach out to the office at (501) 371-4748.
If care is provided, the Arkansas Department of Human Services’ Office of Long-Term Care is responsible for annual inspections. Inspection reports are not available online, so you have to reach out to the facility itself or DHS.
Two of our partner independent living facilities also offer assisted living. Four others are a combination of independent living, assisted living, and memory care. These facilities have to be licensed as either “Level I” or “Level II” facilities. Level I provide a more basic level of assistance, while the Level II facilities offer a broader range of services including health care.
Arkansas Department of Health contact information
4815 W. Markham
Little Rock, AR 72205
Phone Number: 800-462-0599
COVID-19 regulations for Arkansas independent living communities
Independent living communities in Arkansas aren’t required to follow any types of strict COVID-19 rules and regulations. However, governing entities recommend that all residents, including seniors in independent living situations, follow some best practices
Vaccinations. Anyone living or working in an independent living community who is healthy enough to be vaccinated is advised to stay up to date with the COVID-19 vaccine and applicable boosters. In September of 2023, the Arkansas Department of Health will be implementing SMART Health Cards as a way to keep track of vaccinations. These cards will help residents keep their vaccination information organized and easily accessible through virtual or printed QR codes.
Masking. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that the use of masks is still strongly encouraged, especially for residents who are immunocompromised.
Social distancing. Arkansas supports social distancing measures as a way to reduce the spread of COVID-19, influenza, and other contagious diseases and conditions.
Quarantining. While no one who has been exposed to COVID-19 is required to quarantine, CDC guidelines note that quarantining is one of the most successful ways to reduce the likelihood of passing COVID-19 from an infected person to a non-infected person.
Get to know independent living in Little Rock
Number of people we have referred in Little Rock in 2022-2023
Average age of resident we have referred in Little Rock in 2022-2023
Gender split: 63.4% female in 2022-2023
Types of independent living in Little Rock
As you look through our partner independent living community options in Little Rock, you’ll notice a great deal of variety. Every independent living community has its own distinctive attributes. This improves the likelihood that you can find the ideal independent living community for your needs.
Layouts Designed for Comfort
Independent living apartments, studios, and private rooms in Little Rock offer a wide range of architectural and room setups. Some feature accessibility-focused amenities, such as wheelchair-accessible bathrooms, lower countertops, and easy-to-use elevators. Whether you need a single bedroom or multiple rooms, you should be able to find an individual living solution that’s aligned with your preferred lifestyle.
Spaces to Socialize
One of the most appealing aspects of independent living communities in Little Rock is that they’re arranged to promote socialization and collaborative activities. In Little Rock, at least two-thirds of A Place for Mom-affiliated independent living facilities feature the following:
- Arts and crafts centers
- Barber shops
- Beauty salons
- Game rooms
- Movie rooms
- Private dining rooms
- Meeting rooms
- Common areas to congregate, meet new people, and be entertained
Built for Activity and Enjoyment
Many seniors want to stay active and healthy. For this reason, nearly all independent living communities across Little Rock offer fitness centers. Nearly 80% also provide complimentary transportation to local neighborhoods, parks, restaurants, and other destinations. If you own a dog or cat, you’ll appreciate that more than half of all independent living communities have pet-friendly policies in place.
Explore senior care with confidence
Know where to start.
Identify the right care for your loved one with our free assessment.
See what you can afford.
Understand cost and payment for long-term care based on your loved one's needs.
Find top facilities for you.
Free, personalized guidance from our Senior Living Advisors can help you narrow your search.
Tour your favorite facilities.
Our free touring checklist can help you choose the right community.
Unfamiliar with Little Rock? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Little Rock
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Little Rock population
Average high temperature in January in Little Rock
Healthcare for seniors in Little Rock
Seniors who move to Little Rock will want to establish a relationship with trusted health care providers. In Pulaski County, many top-rated facilities, doctors, specialists, and other medical professionals are welcoming new patients.
Rated as the second-best statewide provider for general medical and surgical healthcare options by U.S. News and World Reports, Baptist Health Medical Center is an essential part of the Little Rock and surrounding community.
Located in Little Rock and ranked No. 3 in the state by U.S. News and World Report for its general medical and surgical offerings, CHI St. Vincent Infirmary is a well-respected and established healthcare facility.
John L. McClellan Memorial Veterans’ Hospital
John L. McClellan Memorial Veterans’ Hospital is the main VU hospital in Little Rock that provides both primary and specialty care services.
Transportation for seniors in Little Rock, Arkansas
Getting around Little Rock is easiest by car. Its lower walkability score (33 out of 100) and limited number of bike lanes make it better suited for people who own vehicles or use taxi or rideshare services. However, since most of our partner independent living communities do provide some free transportation to places like the downtown district, seniors who live in those communities may find it fairly inexpensive to get around Little Rock even if they don’t have personal transportation.
Public transit options
The METRO bus line offers 15 bus routes that run on all days except for New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. Each METRO bus is wheelchair accessible and includes bike storage racks. METRO provides fare discounts for riders with disabilities, who are on Medicare, or who are age 65+.
The METRO StreetCar runs on a more limited line. Nevertheless, it’s a scenic way to get around downtown and to nearby events.
Senior-friendly transportation services
Do you need non-emergency medical transportation to get you to and from the store or to medical appointments? CareLink could be right for you. It’s a service designed for people ages 60 and older who live in Little Rock. CareLink is especially appealing if you don’t have a car or can no longer drive.
If you prefer rideshare options, try ZTrip or KLW Transportation. ZTrip operates like Uber and promises that all vehicles are accessible to people with disabilities. KLW Transportation runs a 24-hour taxi service within a more traditional taxi payment format.
As a smaller metropolitan area, Little Rock features highways and roadways to transit the community. While individual neighborhoods may be walkable, the metropolitan area generally requires the use of a car. The walk score, transit score, and bike score from WalkScore.com all indicate that the Little Rock area does not strongly support walking or biking. Public transportation may be limited.
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Little Rock
When it comes to activities for seniors, Little Rock has a bit of everything. From museums and parks to entertainment and shopping, the amenities offered in this charming state capital have widespread appeal.
On the go
It’s easy to spend a day exploring the city and all its nuances. The Little Rock River Market is a good place to start. At the River Market, you can shop, grab a bite to eat, and maybe even watch some live music performances by area musicians. No two days are ever the same at the Market, which is why it’s a favorite among local residents and travelers to Little Rock.
If you’re seeking a relaxing experience that combines a park environment with entertainment and education, visit the Little Rock Zoo. The zoo allows you to observe some of nature’s most amazing creatures in a relaxing, self-paced atmosphere.
For activity lovers
If you’re someone who enjoys biking, you’ll want to set aside some time to visit Big Dam Bridge. It’s known as America’s longest bikeable bridge, so bring healthy snacks and water to sustain you along your journey. This bridge also includes walkways and was designed for accessibility. If you prefer pickleball, golf, tennis, or swimming, the city offers many indoor and outdoor options for all of the aforementioned activities.
Is hiking more your speed? Go to Pinnacle Mountain. It’s located just west of Little Rock and features many trails, including the historical Trail of Tears. Be sure to check out the visitors center to get a better sense of what makes this mountain especially important to proud Arkansans.
The Little Rock Parks and Recreation Department also offers a plethora of activities for seniors throughout the year including day trips, game nights, and special entertainment.
Culture to spare
There is no shortage of museums in Little Rock, starting with the fully accessible William J Clinton Presidential Library. Another favorite is the Arkansas State Capitol. Though not a museum, per se, the Capitol allows you to immerse yourself in the historical architecture and happenings of Little Rock and Arkansas. The State Capital also offers virtual tours for anyone unable to make it in person.
For more educational offerings for independent seniors in Little Rock, visit the following:
Dining and fare for every taste
Little Rock has numerous must-visit restaurants with high ratings from residents and tourists. For instance, the Rock Town Distillery is ideal if you’ve ever wondered how adult beverages are made. It offers an on-site eatery, too.
Other classic Little Rock restaurants include the highly rated Kemuri, which features Japanese cuisine; the laid-back Whole Hog Cafe; and the aptly named Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken.
Like to place bets while you enjoy meals solo or with loved ones and friends? The Oaklawn casino is located just about an hour away from Little Rock by car in Hot Springs. At Oaklawn, you can play the slots, enjoy cocktails, indulge in the on-site dining, and watch horse races.
Frequently Asked Questions
Willow Grove of Sherwood, Chenal Pines Retirement Resort and Woodland Heights are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Little Rock, AR. 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 Little Rock is $3,414 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). American Community Survey: Veteran Status. [Data set].
U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. (2021, December 21). News alert CMS releases latest enrollment figures for Medicare, Medicaid, and Children’s Health Insurance Program (CHIP).
United States Census Bureau. (2021). American Community Survey: Age and Sex. [Data set].
Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau. (2023). Weather & Average Temperatures.
US News Health. (2023). Baptist Health Medical Center-Little Rock.
US News Health. (2023). Chi St. Vincent infirmary in Little Rock, AR.
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