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 Independent Living Communities in Jacksonville, FL

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Independent living communities have exploded in Jacksonville, Florida, and are now one of the most popular options for active people over 65. Jacksonville, which covers over 840 square miles, accommodates plenty of these sprawling independent living communities. Jax, as it’s also known, is the largest city by land mass in the United States. But, with a population of just under 1 million, Jacksonville gives its residents plenty of elbow room.

Jacksonville is young-at-heart and attracts seniors who want to stay active while enjoying a slower pace of life. Independent living communities offer a unique blend of autonomy and a lack of daily hassles — a place where seniors no longer worry about maintenance or housekeeping, but are instead reinvigorated by their old hobbies and new social lives.

In this guide, you’ll find information about A Place for Mom’s six partnering independent living communities within a 10-mile radius of Jacksonville, Florida. This area includes parts of South Jacksonville, Northside, Westside, and The Beaches. We review what to expect from these communities and explain local and federal senior benefits that can help you afford the community of your dreams. Much of this information comes from A Place for Mom’s proprietary data. We also include reviews from real residents of our Jacksonville partner independent living communities. Read on to learn everything you need to know about Jacksonville’s independent living communities.

Jacksonville Independent Living Facilities | 506 Reviews
Showing 69 communities
Last Updated: 3/25/24
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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 Jacksonville, FL
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
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
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 Independent Living in Jacksonville, FL
4.7 / 5.0

It is a lovely community with good sized rooms. It is a nice place with well cared for grounds. The fees were a little more than we expected. Anthem Lakes is a community that is on the newer side and has been around for about 5 years.

3.4 / 5.0

They are very friendly at this community. The staff are all wonderful at this community and the meals are okay. The apartment is a good size, however the bathroom is on the smaller side and the refrigerator is on the smaller side also. They have a nice size patio and wonderful cleaning services. Thi...

5 / 5.0

Staff very friendly and accommodating. Always meeting new and very interesting new residents, all become family. Activities are very varied and always fun. Town is charming and laid back. Very good medical facilities. Attractive 2-3 bedroom stand alone homes (93) and 40 apartments. 2 blocks from the...

Photo of Benton House at Oakleaf
1818 Photos available
7.0
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20 reviews
7.0
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20 reviews
5 star
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My family and loved one have had a good experience with Benton House at Oakleaf. The community is clean when we visit our loved one. The staff are kind, caring, and helpful. Everyone seems to be friendly....
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.
We. Are. Family. Award Winning Senior Living! National Winner-Top 50 in Aging Services by Fortune magazine. A Great Place to Work certified 3 consecutive years. Multiple Pinnacle Customer Service Awards. Call or drop by to see what makes Benton House at Oakleaf the most desired in the...
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Photo of Noble Gardens of Jacksonville
8.0
Review score
6 reviews
8.0
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6 reviews
5 star
49%
4 star
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17%
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The facility is very clean. Everyone is so caring and helpful. The staff cares about their residents well-being and that is a major factor when you have family living at facilities like these. You always...
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.
There may come a time in life when a loved one can no longer participate in independent living at home. Wiley Retirement Home in Marlton, New Jersey can provide great surroundings in a very safe environment for seniors. Senior care can be very different from other types of care. This is a...
Photo of Hogans Creek Tower
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
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 Riverside Park Apartments
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
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 Campus Towers
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
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 Riverside Presbyterian Rsdncs
5 star
100%
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My mother lived here for five years. She had a one bedroom. It's a very nice place. They are regular apartments for seniors. They had extra safety features but no buzzers in the rooms or anything. One...
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
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 Peterson Assisted Living
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.
Peterson Assisted Living is a retirement home located in beautiful Osage City, KS. This facility is ideal for those who are in late age and have difficult maintaining a healthy level of self-care. This retirement community has a very helpful staff that can assist with daily living tasks and...
Photo of Dellwood Retirement Home-Aged
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
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 Riverside Presbyterian House
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Senior Apartments
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.
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of The Towers of Jacksonville
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
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.
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Photo of Autumn Village
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.
Autumn Village is an assisted living community located at the base of Milton, outside Fife. We are surrounded by lavish landscaping and mature trees that will make you feel peaceful. There are also restaurants, shopping malls and freeway access nearby. Milton is a great place to visit or even...
Photo of Diversity Me
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 Plymouth Home For Adults
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 BISHOP CHRISTIAN HOME  INC
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 Ingleside Retirement Home
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 Independent Manor
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
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 Hagan ALF
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 New Horizon Healthcare
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
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 Eureka Garden Apartments
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
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 Haven of Love
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.
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Heritage Crossings
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.
Photo of Golden Retreat Shelter Care
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 Hurley Manor Apartment
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
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 Arlington Haven
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.

Costs of independent living in Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville’s independent living communities cost an average of $3,388 a month, according to A Place for Mom’s 2022 proprietary data.[01] Independent living tends to be more expensive than senior apartments. However, independent living communities include more services and amenities than senior apartments, which can make them potentially more cost-effective.

Most independent living communities in Jacksonville, Florida, include the following as part of their monthly fee:

  • Rent for a one-, two-, or three-bedroom apartment, condo, or detached home
  • Utilities
  • Maintenance
  • Meal plans
  • Housekeeping and laundry services
  • Complimentary transportation
  • Security
  • Daily activities and events

Many seniors are surprised to find that independent living communities are actually cost-effective because of how much they include in their monthly rate. Many communities have a chart where you can compare your current monthly costs of living with their all-inclusive monthly fee to see how much you might be saving if you made the move.

Jacksonville, FL, is an affordable senior living option

Jacksonville maintains its reputation as a low-cost destination, as its independent living communities are cheaper than most other large cities. According to Forbes’ Cost of Living Advisor, Jacksonville housing is 15% more affordable than other cities in Florida.[02] Living in Florida comes with its own financial benefits, as there is no state income tax, and the state doesn’t tax Social Security benefits.

Traditional independent living communities vs. continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs)

In Jacksonville, and in most major U.S. cities, there are two types of independent living: Traditional and continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs). While they can both offer multiple care types — like assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing — on one campus, traditional independent living communities and CCRCs differ in their payment structure.

Payment structure: Traditional independent living communities

Traditional independent living communities roll all their fees into one monthly sum, but care services are treated as add-ons. For instance, many traditional independent living communities offer access to skilled nursing care services, but these come at an additional monthly fee. Because skilled nursing is so expensive, residents of traditional independent living communities can expect to pay a considerable amount in addition to their monthly fee if they ever need skilled nursing care.

Payment structure: Continuing care retirement communities (CCRCs)

On the other hand, residents of CCRCs have both a monthly fee and a one-time admissions fee, which is meant to be like insurance for future potential care needs. These admissions fees can be quite large, varying between $50,000 and $500,000. This is because they are meant to keep your monthly rate the same even if your care needs shift to assisted living or skilled nursing levels. Seniors often find they end up paying less for skilled nursing care in a CCRC because the admission fee offsets the cost of this notoriously expensive care type.

Many seniors use the sale of their home to pay their admissions fee to a CCRC.

It’s important to also note that some CCRCs offer return of capital (ROC) plans, which will return up to 80% of the admissions fee to the senior or the senior’s family if the senior moves or passes away before using the on-site skilled nursing or assisted living care services.

Baseline independent living fees

The figures in the chart below reflect the average starting cost of independent living in Jacksonville before any additional fees, such as admissions fees or extra services. These figures provide a baseline comparison between Jacksonville and nearby cities.

Average cost comparisons near Jacksonville, FL

Average monthly costs

Jacksonville, FL

$4,116

How people pay for independent living in Jacksonville, FL

Most people pay for their independent living facility by using private funds, like a retirement account, personal savings, and investments. Read on to learn how you can leverage your personal funds, Social Security, or VA benefits to help pay for independent living in Jacksonville. We also outline how to use Medicaid or Medicare to help cover your long-term care costs.

Private pay methods in Jacksonville, FL

Most seniors rely on the sale of their homes, their retirement accounts, or other investments to pay for independent living. While these are good options, there are many methods you can use to afford your dream independent living community. Learn more about some of these methods below.

Caregiver Resources
Reverse Mortgages and Long-Term Care: The Pros and Cons
By Merritt Whitley, senior living writer and editor
VA benefits for independent living in Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville considers itself the most veteran-friendly city in the nation. Because of its naval port and multiple military facilities, Jacksonville has a high number of active personnel and veterans of all ages. Many aging veterans came to Jacksonville during their service and never wanted to leave. About 34% of Jacksonville’s veterans are over 65, and the city has developed excellent veterans support programs, most notably through the City of Jacksonville’s Military Affairs and Veterans Department.{{citation:3}}

Can I pay for my independent living with veterans benefits?

You may be able to use veterans benefits to pay for some of your independent living costs in Jacksonville. Veterans may be eligible for several different VA benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Two of these benefits — the VA pension and the Aid and Attendance benefit — can be used to pay for anything that improves your quality of life, including rent or other fees in an independent living community.

Benefits counseling for Jacksonville veterans

Even eligible veterans can struggle to receive their benefits. The application process is complicated and requirements sometimes change, making it difficult to do alone. It’s best to start with a veterans services organization (VSO) that can guide you through the process. Thankfully, Jacksonville lives up to its reputation as a veteran-friendly city with plenty of city-run and other veterans resources.

Local veterans or their families can access compassionate and expert benefits counseling from these organizations in Jacksonville, Florida:

  • Jacksonville Military Affairs and Veterans Department. The City of Jacksonville offers top-notch and individualized benefits counseling to local veterans and their families. They can even appeal denied claims on behalf of local veterans. Veterans services officers can meet with you to determine for which benefits you’re eligible and can walk you through the application process. The department can also refer you to local employment or housing organizations. To set up a benefits counseling appointment, call the department directly at 904-778-7907.
  • Florida Department of Veterans Affairs (FDVA). Veterans across Florida can access benefits counseling through the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs (FDVA). The FDVA provides 100% virtual benefits counseling to veterans and their family members. To set up an appointment, call 727-319-7408.
  • Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Jacksonville. Jacksonville has local branches of Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Disabled American Veterans (DAV). Both organizations are independent of the federal government and can provide an unbiased perspective on your benefits application. They can help you determine which benefits you’re eligible for and appeal denied claims. These organizations also provide social and volunteering events where you can meet new friends and find community.
  • Jacksonville Vet Center. The Jacksonville Vet Center is your go-to source for mental health counseling in the Jacksonville area. Veterans and family members can access general mental health counseling and more specialized services for PTSD, financial counseling, and more. The Jacksonville Vet Center can also refer veterans and their loved ones to employment and housing organizations.
79583

79,583 veterans live in Jacksonville, Florida

34 percent of Jacksonville’s veterans are over 65

Resources for Jacksonville veterans

Government veterans services offices

Florida Department of Veterans Affairs (FDVA)
9500 Bay Pines Blvd., #214
St. Petersburg, FL 33708
Phone: 727-316-7440
Email: VSO@fdva.state.fl.us 

Virtual benefits counseling

Jacksonville Vet Center
3728 Philips Highway, Suite 31
Jacksonville, FL 32207
Phone: 904-399-8351

Jacksonville Military Affairs and Veterans Department
City Hall
117 W. Duval St.
Jacksonville, FL 32202
Phone: 904-778-7907

Local veterans resources 

Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 7909
6204 Blanding Blvd.
Jacksonville, FL 32244
Phone: 904-778-7909

Sign up for the VFW Post 7909 Newsletter.

Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) Post 3270
915 Eighth Ave.
South Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250
Phone: 904-249-7366

Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Jacksonville
1439 Parental Home Road
Jacksonville, FL 32216
Phone: 904-720-0244

Jacksonville Medicaid for independent living

Medicaid and Medicare are both health insurance programs, which means they can’t be used to pay for independent living. Unlike other senior care types — think memory care or skilled nursing care — independent living communities are not considered care facilities, so they can’t be paid for with Medicaid or Medicare.

That said, many people residing in independent living communities in Jacksonville use Medicaid and Medicare to cover their health care expenses. Read on to learn how you can offset your health care costs using Medicaid and Medicare in Jacksonville, Florida.

Florida Medicaid: Florida’s health care program

Medicaid is federally regulated but state-run, which means each state runs their Medicaid programs differently. Florida Medicaid is run by the Agency for Health Care Administration (the AHCA).

Seniors can enroll in one of two different plans under Florida Medicaid:

  • Managed Medical Assistance (MMA). If you live in independent living in Jacksonville and you’re enrolled in Florida Medicaid, you’re likely enrolled in the MMA plan. The MMA plan functions like all other health insurance plans. It covers basic medical care, like doctor visits, prescriptions, and hospital care. It also covers transportation to and from appointments. It doesn’t cover rent, personal care services, or meals in an independent living facility.
  • Long-Term Care (LTC). Florida Medicaid’s LTC plan is specifically for individuals who need a nursing home level of care. If you’re enrolled in the LTC plan, you likely live in an assisted living facility, nursing home, or receive in-home health care.
Am I eligible for Florida Medicaid?

You’re eligible for Florida Medicaid’s MMA plan if you’re a Florida resident, in need of health care, and are low-income. A single person needs to make at most $18,075 a year before taxes to be eligible. You must also meet at least one of the following requirements to be eligible for Florida Medicaid’s MMA plan:

  • Be 65 years of age or older
  • Be blind
  • Have a disability or a household family member with a disability
  • Be responsible for someone under 18 years of age
  • Be pregnant
Medicare: A federal health care program

The federal government runs Medicare as a health care program for seniors. All seniors are eligible if they’re over 65 and have paid their Medicare taxes or are married to someone who has paid their Medicare taxes. Like Medicaid, Medicare won’t cover any independent living costs like rent, meals, or amenity fees. However, Medicare will cover many of your health care costs if they’re deemed short-term and medically necessary.

What does “short-term” mean for Medicare?

Medicare will cover 100% of inpatient care costs, such as in a hospital or rehabilitation facility, for the first 20 days. This includes rent, meals, and all care. After day 20, Medicare will cover some costs, but you will pay a daily copay. Medicare may also cover some recurring medical costs, like prescriptions or dialysis.

What does “medically necessary” mean for Medicare?

Whether or not a prescription, item, or procedure is considered medically necessary depends on whether or not a physician has stated it’s medically necessary and if the Social Security Administration agrees. What’s considered medically necessary for one person may not be medically necessary for another. You can get an idea of what Medicare covers by searching for individual medications, items, or procedures on the Medicare coverage portal.

Can Jacksonville seniors get help paying for their Medicare premiums?

Yes, in Jacksonville, seniors can get help paying for their Medicare premiums with local Medicare Savings Programs. Information about these programs is on the federal Medicare website, but to apply, you’ll need to contact Florida’s Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA). To be eligible for Medicare Savings Programs in 2023, you can’t make more than $1,549 a month, although the income limit is updated annually.

Where can I get Medicaid and Medicare benefits counseling in Jacksonville?

Jacksonville seniors can access Medicaid and Medicare benefits counseling through the Florida Department of Health. Human Services Counselors help you determine for which benefits you’re eligible and will walk you through the application process. Jacksonville has a Senior Services Division that also offers benefits counseling. You can sign up for benefits by calling 904-255-5400.

Jacksonville Medicaid and Medicare resources

Local Medicaid offices

Florida Medicaid
2727 Mahan Drive
Tallahassee, FL 32308
Phone: 866-762-2237

Social Security Administration
Medicare and Medicaid benefits counseling

Human Services Counselors
921 N. Davis St., Bldg. A, Suite 251
Jacksonville, FL 32209
Phone: 904-253-1000

Jacksonville’s Senior Services Directory
Administrative offices, City Hall at St. James building
117 W. Duval St., Suite 280
Jacksonville, FL 32202

Gloria Crawford, Chief of Jacksonville’s Senior Services Division
Phone: 904-255-5400
Email: adultsvcs@coj.net

Understand Florida laws and regulations for independent living communities

Independent living communities in Jacksonville, Florida, are regulated and licensed similarly to other rental complexes. However, independent living communities are more restrictive about who can become tenants. Most have an age requirement of at least 55 or 64, and new residents usually need to be able to care for themselves without assistance.

Because independent living communities don’t provide direct care services and, instead, partner with third-party care agencies, they aren’t regulated by the Florida Department of Health. However, many independent living communities in Jacksonville are part of larger senior living communities that include assisted living, memory care, and skilled nursing wings. In these cases, such wings are regulated by the Florida Department of Health. To learn more about the regulations in these wings, check out the Jacksonville assisted living, memory care, or nursing home pages.

Independent living rental unit regulations

Jacksonville independent living residents enter into a tenant-landlord relationship with their independent living community. Residents are expected to be good tenants and communities are expected to uphold the same living conditions and fair treatment as all landlords in Florida. Read on to learn about the state regulations for rental units in Jacksonville.

Resident rights in Jacksonville independent living communities

As a resident of an independent living community in Jacksonville, Florida, you have the same tenant rights as if you rented an apartment or house. You may be unfamiliar with tenant rights in Florida because this may be the first time you’ve rented in a long-time.

Thankfully, Florida is friendly to tenants and has a governing body to mediate landlord-tenant disputes. The Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services handles all complaints and disputes between landlords and tenants in Jacksonville.

As a tenant in Jacksonville, you have the right to live in a home that’s comfortable and safe. If your landlord doesn’t meet the following requirements, you can break your lease within one week of informing your landlord with a written notice. Written notices should be specific and give the landlord time to respond and rectify the issue. Before breaking a lease, it’s a good idea to consult with a local housing association or a lawyer to avoid any unforeseen problems.

Landlord-tenant standards in Jacksonville

Property owners, or landlords, in Jacksonville should ensure their independent living community facilities meet the following standards:

  • Living areas should meet building codes and be in a livable condition.
  • The residence should have running and hot water, gas, and electricity at all times.
  • The community should supply extermination services.
  • All maintenance and repairs should be handled by the community in a timely manner.
  • The tenant should receive locks prior to moving in.
  • The landlord can’t enter the residence without notifying the tenants beforehand.
  • The tenant’s security deposit should be returned within 15 days of move-out.

Residents of independent living communities in Jacksonville should meet the following standards:

  • Residents should pay their monthly fee on time.
  • Residents shouldn’t knowingly alter the home without asking permission from the community landlord.
  • Residents should keep the home in a livable condition.
  • Residents should follow all community rules, like keeping quiet hours and picking up after a pet.

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services

Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
400 S. Monroe St.
Tallahassee, FL 32399-0800
Phone: 800-435-7352

COVID-19 regulations for Jacksonville independent living communities

Independent living communities in Jacksonville follow the COVID-19 guidelines developed by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), Florida’s COVID-19 Response, and the City of Jacksonville. Because many of Jacksonville’s independent living communities are connected to assisted living or skilled nursing facilities, residents may need to mask if feeling ill and test when exposed.

Visitors are allowed at any time, regardless of whether or not they’re vaccinated.

The City of Jacksonville publishes updated information about COVID-19 on the Jacksonville COVID-19 FAQ page. You can find local testing sites, case numbers in your area, and more.

Get to know independent living in Jacksonville, FL

104Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
4.1/5.0 average in-network rating
100% of partnering independent living communities in Jacksonville offer complimentary or at-cost transportation
100% of partnering independent living communities in Jacksonville offer devotional and religious services
83% of partnering independent living communities in Jacksonville have an arts and crafts center
83% of partnering independent living communities in Jacksonville have a fitness room or gym
66% of partnering independent living communities have outdoor walking paths
3128
Number of seniors referred to partnering independent living communities in Jacksonville in the last 12 months
79
Average age of residents we referred to independent living communities in Jacksonville
Care type split: 83% of communities offer multiple senior care types; 17% offer only independent living. 

Types of independent living in Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville is becoming one of the most popular cities to retire in the United States. As a family city and retirement haven, Jacksonville has boomed in popularity. Even more, the area offers the same outdoor and cultural activities as other senior living hotspots in the country, but for a fraction of the price. Seniors have plenty to explore in Jacksonville.

Spread out over 840 square miles, Jacksonville is the largest city by landmass in the United States. But with a population of just under 1 million, Jacksonville feels more like multiple cities in one. Locals refer to the different areas of Jacksonville as the Northside, Westside, Southside (or South Jacksonville), and The Beaches. Each area has its own distinct personality. A Place for Mom partners with communities almost exclusively in the bustling, affluent South Jacksonville and in the laid-back, waterfront Beaches.

A Place for Mom’s partnering independent living communities provide a step-up in quality of life. Jacksonville’s young-at-heart senior population tends to live in independent living communities first before transitioning to assisted living or memory care.

Independent living communities in South Jacksonville

South Jacksonville’s independent living communities pride themselves on being all-inclusive. Most of A Place for Mom’s partnering independent living communities are in South Jacksonville, which is a bustling area with some of the best shopping districts in Florida. It’s safe, affluent, and there’s never a lack of farmers markets, movie theaters, or shopping districts. South Jacksonville is also somewhat protected from the weather patterns along the coast, making it a logical choice for many seniors.

South Jacksonville’s independent living communities focus on the finer things. You can expect restaurant-style dining, a stylish one- to three-bedroom apartment with a full kitchen, and plenty of in-house activities. Almost all of A Place for Mom’s partnering independent living communities in South Jacksonville employ an activities coordinator who’s responsible for organizing daily social and educational events for the residents. For example, you can learn pottery, attend a tai chi class, or enjoy a happy hour with new friends.

Most — but not all — of South Jacksonville’s independent living communities are Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs). You can age gracefully in the same facility and know that you’ll receive exceptional health care when you need it from the comfort of a familiar environment.

Independent living communities in The Beaches

The Beaches is composed of multiple beach-front towns that are technically part of Jacksonville but are separated from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Beaches is considerably more laid-back than other parts of Jacksonville and appeals to seniors who enjoy the quieter things in life. Picking up seashells in the morning, fishing from an ocean pier, and bird watching are some of the most popular pastimes for seniors living in The Beaches.

Because they’re further out from the city, independent living communities in The Beaches tend to be on larger plots of land with their own walking trails to the ocean. They cost about the same as communities in South Jacksonville but provide a slower, quieter pace of life.

You can expect your independent living communities in The Beaches to be more rustic than in South Jacksonville, but with all of the same convenient amenities. Restaurant-style dining, housekeeping, and daily activities are the norm. These communities also tend to include other care types, like assisted living and memory care, but fewer are CCRCs. Meaning, you won’t have a large admission fee but will still have the option to access care services for additional monthly fees later on.

Jacksonville’s senior community

Jacksonville attracts a huge variety of seniors. Many are from Jacksonville and have no desire to leave in their retirement years. Others were stationed in Jacksonville during their time in the military and returned later. Still others follow their children who moved to Jax to work in the city’s booming finance, technology, and health care industries. And some simply chose Jacksonville because it has the right mix of weather, senior living options, health care, and affordability. Regardless of why you chose Jacksonville, you’ll find an active and welcoming senior community.

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Unfamiliar with Jacksonville? Highlights for seniors

139111

Number of seniors over the age of 65 who currently live in Jacksonville

15%

Percentage of Jacksonville’s population 65 or older

58236

Median household income in Jacksonville

Health care for seniors in Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville has some of the best hospitals in the United States. The renowned Mayo Clinic has one of their main campuses in Jacksonville, and in South Jacksonville, there is a high concentration of exceptional geriatric care providers.

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Mayo Clinic — Jacksonville

The Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville is one of the main campuses of the world-class hospital system. It’s ranked the best hospital in Florida by U.S. News and World Report. Seniors should also know that it’s one of the best geriatrics and neurology providers in the nation.

4500 San Pablo Road
Jacksonville, FL 32224
Phone: 904-953-2000

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Baptist Medical Center Jacksonville

The Baptist Medical Center in Jacksonville is the main campus for the Baptist Health system. It’s considered one of the best hospitals in Florida, according to the U.S. News and World Report, and performs highly in geriatric care, diabetes, and other procedures.

800 Prudential Drive
Jacksonville, FL 32207
Phone: 904-202-2000

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University of Florida Health Jacksonville

The University of Florida Health in Jacksonville is the region’s foremost academic medical center. It’s a teaching hospital, and it offers primary and specialty services across four different locations. The primary location is called UF Health Jacksonville.

655 Eighth St.
West Jacksonville, FL 32209
Phone: 904-244-0411

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Transportation for seniors in Jacksonville, FL

Seniors in Jacksonville’s independent living communities don’t need to worry about transportation, because 100% of A Place for Mom’s partnering independent living facilities offer transportation services. These services can be complimentary or for a small fee. That said, visiting family and friends should know that Jacksonville is a driving city. It’s so large and spread out that most people use a car to get around.

For public transportation options, the Jacksonville Transportation Authority (also called the JTAFLA) is the region’s fairly reliable bus system. You can find bus schedules, fares, and routes on the JTAFLA website. Seniors can ride for free with a Senior ID STAR card.

Walkscore.com rates cities for their walkability, bike-friendliness, and public transportation. Each score is out of 100. Jacksonville received the following scores:

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26

Walk Score

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21

Transit Score

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41

Bike Score

Senior activities in Jacksonville, FL

Seniors in our partner Jacksonville independent living communities will find plenty of activities right at home. All of A Place for Mom’s partnering facilities employ an activities coordinator who arranges daily social and educational events. You can expect on-site activities like yoga classes, art tutorials, happy hours, special interest clubs, and more. Most activity coordinators also plan regular outings for their residents to nearby attractions, like the Jacksonville Zoo and Gardens and the Museum of Science and History, to name a few.

Many seniors enjoy getting out of their independent living community to experience what Jacksonville has to offer. And Jacksonville has plenty to offer! It’s a massive, sprawling city, and each neighborhood has its own personality and diversions. Read on to learn about some of the best things to do in Jacksonville, Florida.

Shopping in South Jacksonville

Most of A Place for Mom’s partnering independent living communities are in South Jacksonville. Affluent South Jacksonville is an exceptional destination for shopping, health care, and luxury apartments. The area is also home to two of Florida’s largest (and newest) indoor and outdoor shopping centers.

The Avenues is a massive indoor shopping mall where you can find top brands, luxury items, and that cinnamon pretzel you’ve been craving. Plenty of seniors use this as an indoor walking track on rainy days. St. John’s Town Center is the area’s primary outdoor shopping hub. It has anything you need or want and is a beautiful space in its own right to take a walk or meet with friends.

Arts in downtown Jacksonville

While most seniors don’t live in downtown Jacksonville, it’s not far for seniors living in South Jacksonville or The Beaches. Downtown Jacksonville has an exploding art scene, with a funky sensibility all its own.

For more traditionally minded art lovers, the Cummer Museum of Art and Gardens is the largest fine art museum in Northwest Florida. It has a stunning collection of American artists, ancient artifacts, and beautiful gardens. The museum gardens are one of Jacksonville’s hidden gems. Tours are available for $20 or $40 for an included lunch. Or, if you’re feeling up to a challenge, you can test your observation skills in the Mildred Thompson Escape Room.

The Florida Theater, established in 1927, puts on nightly shows for delighted local audiences. Performances change regularly, and you can expect to see anything from an ABBA tribute band to theatrical renditions of Harriet Tubman and the Underground Railroad to symphony orchestras. The theater is wheelchair accessible but doesn’t offer a senior discount.

To experience the real Jacksonville, get to the Riverside Arts Market. It’s a weekly vendor market where local artists sell their wares every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Southbank Riverwalk is a 20-minute walk from the market and offers some beautiful views of downtown Jax.

Adventure in North Jacksonville

The Catty Shack Ranch is a big cat sanctuary in North Jacksonville. It’s an ethical nonprofit that works to rehabilitate big cats and other endangered species. Visitors can safely see lions, tigers, panthers, and more for only $15. You can rest assured that your money is going to an organization that doesn’t breed, sell, or trade its animals for profit.

The Fort Caroline National Memorial is a historical French colonial settlement from 1564. You can learn about its long history of Spanish conflicts, native Timucua people, and the free black population that called it home during the Civil War. You can hike through the ecological preserve and watch historical reenactments.

Relaxation at The Beaches

Outside of South Jacksonville, The Beaches is the second most popular place for seniors in Jacksonville. Comprised of several beachside communities, it’s considerably more laid-back than the rest of Jacksonville.

Jacksonville Beach is the largest of these communities, with a population of about 24,000 people. Jacksonville Beach sits on a wide sandy beach and has a golf course, a fishing pier, and some good surfing spots. You can walk for miles along the water and enjoy a dinner at sunset with views overlooking the ocean.

Atlantic Beach is another community with miles of white sandy beaches. Neptune Beach is nestled between Jacksonville Beach and Atlantic Beach, and it’s an upscale bedroom community.

There’s more to do in The Beaches than lay out in the sun, fish, and collect sea shells (although you should certainly do those things). Huguenot Memorial Park commemorates the place where French Huguenots landed in 1562. It’s now a great place to camp or picnic.

No one should go to Florida without kayaking, and Kathryn Abbey Hanna Park is the best place to do just that in Jacksonville. You can paddle through hundreds of acres of rare coastal hammock groves. There’s a small fee for a day pass, and seniors don’t get a discount.

Sports in Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville is loyal to its local sports teams: Jaguars football, Jumbo Shrimp baseball, Armada soccer, Axemen rugby, Iceman hockey, Giants basketball, and Sharks arena football. The Jaguars play at home in Everbank Field, and many seniors still enjoy cheering on their favorite teams.

Golfing is a quintessential Floridian pastime, and seniors in Jacksonville took this to heart when they organized the North East Florida Senior Golf Association. This is an amateur league of senior golfers, and to sign up, you need to be over 50 and fill out the application on their website.

Jacksonville, FL, day trips

Jacksonville is conveniently located near multiple great day trip destinations. Little Talbot Island State Park is just 17 miles northeast of Jacksonville. It’s accessible by car and has beautiful sand dunes, clean beaches, and a barrier reef. Big Talbot Island State Park is located nearby and is one of the best places to birdwatch in North America.

Surrounding Jacksonville are plenty of crystal clear springs that are open to locals and visitors. Blue Springs State Park is only two hours away from Jacksonville, and it boasts bright blue, natural swimming pools and a local manatee population. Ichetucknee Springs is also only two hours away and is an ideal day trip for visiting family members with young kids.

Seniors in Jacksonville are fond of taking advantage of Amtrak’s affordable tickets for weekend trips to Orlando or other parts of the state. A ride from Jacksonville to Orlando is only about two hours and 45 minutes and costs about $26.

Local guides to Jacksonville, FL

Jacksonville has a local visitor’s guide where you can find up-to-date information about events and activities going on in the Gateway to the South. You can find more information about where to stay and what to do on the Jacksonville visitor’s guide website.

Frequently Asked Questions

Windsor Pointe, The Windsor at San Pablo and The Windsor at Ortega are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Jacksonville, FL. 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 Jacksonville is 4116.25 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

References

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

  2. Forbes Advisor. (2023, February). Cost of Living Calculator. Forbes.com

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

  4. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and sex (S0101): Jacksonville city [Data set].

  5. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Median income in the past 12 months: Jacksonville city (S1903) [Data set]. American Community Survey.

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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.

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

2.

Forbes Advisor. (2023, February). Cost of Living Calculator. Forbes.com

3.

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

4.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and sex (S0101): Jacksonville city [Data set].

5.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Median income in the past 12 months: Jacksonville city (S1903) [Data set]. American Community Survey.