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 Pensacola, FL

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Who are you searching for?

From beachcombing along the picturesque Gulf Coast shoreline to shopping at local boutiques, Pensacola has something for everyone. As a senior considering a move to an independent living community, you’ll like all the benefits and amenities of being so close to the surf in a Florida city that’s known for its warm climate, welcoming atmosphere, and constant activities and events.

A Place for Mom partners with select independent living communities throughout Pensacola. Independent living communities are designed especially for seniors like you who want the freedom to be active within an environment where chores are taken care of.

You may notice that some of our partner independent living communities feature other senior living arrangements, such as assisted living, for maximum aging-in-place potential. These all-in-one communities give you the best of all worlds and allow you to plan for today and tomorrow.

Whether you’re ready to move right away or you’re just beginning your search for a retirement location that will meet all your needs, be sure to read through this guide. It includes information on how seniors pay for independent living rent, what to do in Pensacola throughout the year, and the best health care facilities in the region. All communities in the independent living listings below are within 10 miles of the downtown in this smaller-sized city of around 52,000 residents.

Pensacola Independent Living Facilities | 502 Reviews
Showing 27 communities
Last Updated: 4/15/24
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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.

Best Meals and Dining

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.

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Photo of The Waterford at Carpenter's CreekCommunity card badge
66 Photos available
44 Floor plans available
9.8
Review score
124 reviews
9.8
Review score
124 reviews
5 star
65%
4 star
22%
3 star
7%
2 star
2%
1 star
4%
See all reviews
The food is good. Should be more flexible with supper times. The activities are great. Just need more of them. The facility is nice. The apartment is perfect. The staff is mostly great. Takes a good person...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
The Waterford at Carpenter's Creek offers Assisted Living services in the picturesque Panhandle city of Pensacola. Our senior living community has been serving residents and families in the area for almost 30 years. We offer a warm, friendly, supportive environment for residents and we're staffed...
See details
Photo of The Blake at Pensacola
2525 Photos available
8.9
Review score
19 reviews
8.9
Review score
19 reviews
5 star
68%
4 star
5%
3 star
11%
2 star
5%
1 star
11%
See all reviews
The Blake at Pensacola is a very clean, light and bright community. It was a decent space for our loved one and he has a nice private room. From what we saw the meals looked to be really good but they just...
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.
Welcome to The BlakeThe food. The music. The architecture, family and traditions. Once you’ve enjoyed the Blake way of life, it’s hard to imagine settling for anything less.Located only minutes from Historic Downtown Pensacola and some of the world’s most beautiful beaches, The Blake at Pensacola...
Photo of Summer Vista
1818 Photos available
44 Floor plans available
8.0
Review score
21 reviews
8.0
Review score
21 reviews
5 star
53%
4 star
14%
3 star
14%
2 star
14%
1 star
5%
See all reviews
I would highly recommend Summer Vista. I like that my loved one is free to roam around, and she gets the extra care that she needs.
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.
See details
Photo of University Pines by Sky Active LivingCommunity card badge
99 Photos available
9.6
Review score
83 reviews
9.6
Review score
83 reviews
5 star
55%
4 star
29%
3 star
8%
2 star
1%
1 star
7%
See all reviews
Everyone at University Pines was so compassionate to our situation and helped me get my loved one to a safe place. Everything and everyone was great, thank you so much!
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.
University Pines provides a fulfilling, independent lifestyle in a welcoming environment. Located on beautiful grounds in a quiet corner of Pensacola, we enjoy an average temperature of 61 degrees, and so will you. Residents also appreciate the convenience of being just minutes from shopping,...
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Photo of Sodalis Cantonment
1313 Photos available
9.6
Review score
33 reviews
9.6
Review score
33 reviews
5 star
85%
4 star
0%
3 star
9%
2 star
3%
1 star
3%
See all reviews
The staff is very friendly, caring and understanding. The facility is very clean with no odor and the meals are very good. I recommend Sodalis Cantonment to anyone that is looking for a loving facility to...
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.
A Lifestyle Community Engaged living, a tranquil setting, and compassionate care are the hallmarks of Sodalis Cantonment, a community that encourages an active lifestyle and daily activities for residents, both on campus and throughout the Pensacola area. With our "residents first" philosophy,...
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Photo of Sodalis Pensacola
1515 Photos available
9.4
Review score
51 reviews
9.4
Review score
51 reviews
5 star
56%
4 star
20%
3 star
12%
2 star
6%
1 star
6%
See all reviews
They are unbelievably helpful and friendly. Best prices that I found, I have complete peace, knowing that my loved one is there.They walked me through every step of this process from beginning to end it was...
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 continuing to admit new Residents, where possible and appropriate, to help residents and families in need. We will do all we can to help those who are in need of our services now and always.We are now offering Virtual Tours of our communities via Skype, Zoom and Google Duo. If you’re...
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Photo of The Beacon at Gulf BreezeCommunity card badge
1616 Photos available
66 Floor plans available
9.1
Review score
46 reviews
9.1
Review score
46 reviews
5 star
60%
4 star
20%
3 star
7%
2 star
2%
1 star
11%
See all reviews
Very nice place and am so happy my dad is moving in. [name removed] was so helpful. ??. Recommend this place to everyone if you can find a spot. Great location and very convenient. I’m sure my father will...
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.
The Beacon at Gulf Breeze is a superior Retirement, Assisted Living and Memory Care Community, providing our residents access to programs that promote well-being, security, longevity, family and self-worth. Our community has 70 apartments for individuals seeking an active, but simpler lifestyle....
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Photo of Brookdale Pensacola
88 Photos available
33 Floor plans available
8.9
Review score
42 reviews
8.9
Review score
42 reviews
5 star
50%
4 star
29%
3 star
14%
2 star
5%
1 star
2%
See all reviews
I absolutely love the employees and their interactions with the residents. I would highly recommend Brookdale Pensacola. Once the food situation is solved, they should have a 10 in every category.
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.
Your Next Great AdventureJust a short drive from local amenities like West Florida Hospital and the always pleasant gulf of Mexico, you will find a warm and cheerful assisted living community full of men and women who inspire you to pursue your golden years with enthusiasm. From the moment you...
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Photo of The Arbors of Gulf Breeze
1919 Photos available
44 Floor plans available
8.4
Review score
19 reviews
8.4
Review score
19 reviews
5 star
63%
4 star
16%
3 star
16%
2 star
5%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
Beautiful clean apartments and common areas. Good food with an extensive option menu. Friendly and helpful staff, variety of activities.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
The Arbors of Gulf Breeze offers the finest senior living experience for those needing independent living, assisted living or memory care services. Come see how our caring team can provide a wonderful home environment for you or your loved one
See details
Photo of Fairfield Manor
1717 Photos available
5 star
0%
4 star
100%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
The staff at this community are nice and helpful. Fairfield Manor is clean and well taken care of. They do not offer a meal program at this independent living community. Mom does participate in some of the...
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.
Fairfield Manor is a senior housing community situated in a quiet, upscale and unique neighborhood in Pensacola, Escambia County, FL. It is located near health care, shopping, dining, entertainment and just a few minutes from the Interstate 10. It offers carefree, comfortable and affordable...
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Photo of Grandview Retirement Center
1414 Photos available
6.5
Review score
10 reviews
6.5
Review score
10 reviews
5 star
50%
4 star
10%
3 star
10%
2 star
10%
1 star
20%
See all reviews
If you need a place for mom, dad, uncle Joe or aunt Mabel this is the place, so much to do, the food is good, free cable and internet, and so very much more, I would not be anywhere but here Come check it...
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.
Renowned for our convenient location, excellence in food, first-class staff, affordability and signature activities; Grandview Retirement Center is Pensacola’s most recommended senior community.We offer your loved one an opportunity to enjoy living a comfortable daily routine by providing an...
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Photo of Noble Senior Living at Pensacola
11 Photo available
6.0
Review score
34 reviews
6.0
Review score
34 reviews
5 star
56%
4 star
35%
3 star
6%
2 star
3%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
I have my aunt here. The reputation used to be bad here but it has changed with the new management. I want everyone to know that this place is much better than the past.
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.
Noble Senior Living at Pensacola is an assisted living and memory care community centrally located in Pensacola, Florida. Our community has beautiful courtyards that give it the feel of country living in a convenient, urban setting. Our community is set on Mobile Highway close to three area...
Photo of The Camellia at Gulf Breeze
1111 Photos available
5 star
40%
4 star
0%
3 star
20%
2 star
20%
1 star
20%
See all reviews
I would recommend the Watermark. It is a good size, you could tell that the staff knew all the residents by name. The outdoor space is okay. It is a very clean place. We really liked the community and maybe...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
See details
Photo of Homestead Village of Pensacola
66 Photos available
6.0
Review score
7 reviews
6.0
Review score
7 reviews
5 star
72%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
14%
1 star
14%
See all reviews
My dad has been a resident here for over a year. I'm so thankful that he's going to be able to age in place and not have to move to another facility as his dementia progresses. He's happy, and that's what...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Wesley Haven Villa
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 Pensalcola Retirement Vlg III
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 Northpointe and Westpointe Retirement Community
1.0
Review score
1 review
1.0
Review score
1 review
5 star
0%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
100%
See all reviews
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
See details
Photo of Sun Pointe Senior Living
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 Colonial Pines Mobile Estates
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 Whispering Pines Assisted Living Facility LLC
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 Pensacola Cluster
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.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Emerald Gardens
1.0
Review score
1 review
1.0
Review score
1 review
5 star
0%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
100%
See all reviews
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Bay Breeze Senior Living and Rehabilitation C
5 star
50%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
50%
See all reviews
My mother is there and has had excellent care. The nurses and staff are very caring and take pride in there patients. If you really want to know what kind of care your loved one is receiving visit them! No...
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 Prisyco Manor LLC
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.

What families are saying about independent living in Pensacola

Recent reviews for independent living in Pensacola

Sodalis Pensacola

3.8
They are currently renovating the facility. They do seem slightly under staffed but the staff they do have, have been wonderful. The value is great! This was the main reason we chose Sodalis. They've been very kind, welcoming and helpful when I've been there.

Sodalis Milton

4.0
My loved one is currently a resident at Sodalis Milton and things have been good for her at this facility so far. The staff is very helpful and friendly. My loved one enjoys the food. The building does not smell like most other facilities do. The cleanliness, care services, activities and value ...
Read more

The Camellia at Gulf Breeze

4.8
Great experience, new management, Things are looking very progressive, and the experience will be good for everyone.

Costs of independent living in the Pensacola area

According to proprietary data from A Place for Mom, the average monthly cost to live in our partner independent living community in Pensacola is $3,780.[01] This figure represents the total cost that seniors paid at our partner independent living communities in Pensacola, including add-ons and additional service fees.

Before making your final selection of an independent living community, always read through your leasing agreement contract carefully. That way, you can be sure you have the available funds or income streams to cover all your expenses.

The pricing listed below represents the baseline rental rate for independent living communities in the Pensacola area and does not include additional fees.

Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Pensacola, FL vs. nearby cities

Pensacola, FL

$3,493/mo

Olive, FL

$3,409/mo

Ensley, FL

$3,409/mo

How people pay for independent living in Pensacola

Typically, seniors living in Pensacola independent living communities pay for their monthly rent using private methods like savings, pensions, and Social Security benefits. However, if you are part of a military family, you or your spouse may be eligible to apply for some grant-based programs offered by the Veterans Administration. Plus, although neither Medicaid nor Medicare will directly pay for your leasing fee obligation each month, both federal programs may help you offset your rent by covering other bills.

Below is more information for you on private pay methods, VA benefits, Medicare, and Medicaid. Simply click on each tab to learn more.

Private pay methods

Many seniors who relocate to an independent living community depend on personal funds to cover all the costs associated with their monthly rent and any add-on fees. Personal funds may include savings or income streams like Social Security benefits, work-related pension deposits, investment returns, and even recurring VA benefits. Although long-term health care insurance can be good to have for future skilled nursing facility housing needs, it can’t be used for any payments related to independent living.

If you own a home or other property, you might be able to cash out the equity in your real estate through a sale or reverse mortgage. Both processes are explained in the below A Place for Mom articles.

Caregiver Resources
Reverse Mortgages and Long-Term Care: The Pros and Cons
By Merritt Whitley, senior living writer and editor
VA benefits
4867

Number of veterans who live in Pensacola

About 46% of Pensacola veterans are 65+

Pensacola and the wider Escambia County region are locations that are very military-friendly thanks to the city’s maritime and aviation history. As a veteran who served in any branch of the United States military — or the spouse of someone who served — you should feel welcomed in this community. You should also consider taking the next steps to find out if you may be eligible to receive some of the benefits available exclusively to veterans. Though these benefits won’t pay directly for your independent living apartment rent, they can be used to either improve your personal savings funds or offset other costs, such as paying for in-home medical care or housing improvements.

The most well-known of veterans benefits is the VA Pension. This Pension isn’t available to all veterans, so you may want to touch base with a veterans services officer to talk more about whether you might meet the eligibility standards.

Another funding stream available to veterans is the Aid and Attendance benefit, which can be added to your VA Pension (if you qualify). If you are approved to receive the Aid and Attendance benefit, you can use the extra money to put toward rent or other costs of living. Even if your VA Pension or Aid and Attendance benefit doesn’t add up to your monthly rent, it can lower your immediate costs and enable you to afford your preferred retirement lifestyle in Pensacola.

There are other types of financial assistance available to you or your spouse (if applicable) as a veteran. For example, if you served overseas, you may meet the eligibility requirements for a financial grant from the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW).

Because navigating veterans’ benefits can be challenging and confusing at times, avail yourself of all the resources and people who can help you. These include the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs (FDVA), the Florida Department of Elder Affairs, and representatives of local veterans services organizations (VSOs).

Resources for Pensacola veterans

Government offices

Regional VA Benefits Office
9500 Bay Pines Blvd.
Bay Pines, FL 33744
Phone: 800-698-2411
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Escambia County Veterans Services Office
221 Palafox Place
Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: 850-595-2409
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Contact: Martin Merillat, Escambia County Veterans Services Officer
Phone: 850-595-1479
Email: mrmerillat@myescambia.com

VSOs and veteran resources

VFW Post 706
5000 W. Lillian Highway
Pensacola, FL 32506
Phone: 850-455-0026
Email: vfwpost39+ContactUs@gmail.com

 

Disabled American Veterans (DAV) Office
4504 Twin Oaks Drive
Pensacola, FL 32506
Phone: 727-319-7444

Frank Marston American Legion Post 33
1401 W. Intendencia St.
Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: 850-359-4260
Email: media.post33@outlook.com

American Legion Post 240
8666 Gulf Beach Highway
Pensacola, FL 32507
Phone: 850-455-6111

Medicaid

Seniors who are age 65 and older who meet federal household low-income requirements may be eligible to apply for Medicaid. Though Medicaid is not designed to pay for rent in independent living communities, it can help alleviate financial insecurity related to the costs of short-term medical care.

The Agency for Health Care Administration is in charge of Florida Medicaid. You’ll need to fill out and submit a Medicaid application to be considered. Be advised that Medicaid approval or denial can take a long time. In the interim, you’ll want to make sure you can cover your housing costs with other payment resources such as private funds or veterans benefits.

If you receive notice that you are eligible for Medicaid benefits, look into getting a home and community based services (HCBS) waiver, sometimes called a 1915(c) waiver. This waiver is meant to be used for in-home health care that a doctor says is needed.

If you need help navigating the process of applying, contact the Northwest Florida Area Agency On Aging, Inc., which offers SHINE (Serving the Health Insurance Needs of Elders). You can meet with benefits counselors at no cost who can help discuss your potential options. The long-term care ombudsman for the Pensacola region can also help.

Pensacola resident Medicaid resources

Local Medicaid assistance

Department of Children and Families Escambia County Service Center
33 Brent Lane
Pensacola, FL 32503
Phone: 866-762-2237
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Northwest Florida Area Agency On Aging, Inc.
5090 Commerce Park Circle
Pensacola, FL 32505
Phone: 850-494-7101
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
160 W. Government St., Suite 514
Pensacola, Florida 32502
Phone: 850- 595-0469
Fax: 850- 916-6722

Medicare

As with Medicaid, Medicare is a federally-funded program meant to take the place of private insurance for people when they turn 65. Medicare covers short-term medical costs, such as your visits to your primary care physician or rehab after a knee replacement surgery. Medicare won’t pay your independent living facility rent, but it can take some of the financial burdens off you for some ongoing medical treatments.

To ensure you’re taking advantage of all the Medicare options available in Pensacola, consider making an appointment with a long-term care ombudsman. Or, simply call the Pensacola Social Security Administration Office, the Aging & Adult Service office at the Florida Department of Elder Affairs, or the State Health Insurance Assistance Program, which is called Serving Health Insurance Needs of Elders (SHINE) in the state of Florida.

As a side note, you can often customize your Medicare benefits by tapping into other savings. For instance, the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration offers added Medicare Savings Programs that can lower your copays or deductible costs. The Florida Discount Drug Card Program features similar opportunities to pay less for the medications you need most.

Pensacola resident Medicare resources

Medicare assistance offices

Social Security Administration Office
411 W. Garden St.
Pensacola, FL 32502
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

 

Florida Department of Elder Affairs (SHINE) program
4040 Esplanade Way
Tallahassee, FL 32399
Phone: 850-494-7100; 800-414-2000
Email: information@elderaffairs.org

Florida Agency for Health Care Administration
2727 Mahan Drive
Tallahassee, FL 32308
Phone: 888-419-3456

Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
160 W. Government St., Suite 514
Pensacola, Florida 32502
Phone: 850-595-0469

Understand Florida laws and regulations for independent living communities

Florida requires that all independent living communities follow Escambia County zoning laws and Fair Housing Act standards pertaining to the housing of residents ages 55 and older. The state also expects that all independent living communities (including those with multiple buildings) be licensed through the Bureau of Health Facility Regulation if assisted living is also offered.

Licensing is a way to protect you, the staff members, and all visitors to your community. Depending on the extent of the care available to you and other residents of your independent living community, your community may need to obtain a specialty license from the abovementioned Bureau. This all depends on the type of personal care services your independent living community makes available to you if it is combined with assisted living or memory care units.

To ensure that all of Florida’s independent living communities keep up their obligation to serve residents and workers, the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) performs regular inspections. These inspections are designed to give you peace of mind knowing that the spaces you use regularly comply with all standards set forth by the state government.

Each year, communities are expected to submit some of their annual reports, such as those related to fire and sanitation, to the AHCA. You can look up reports on any senior living community through this Florida Health Finder search portal.

Any time a licensed facility has a deficiency, its leaders are given the chance to rectify issues in a timely manner. If you ever want to report a concern, you can submit your observations to the AHCA.

As a recap, many of the assisted living community licensing considerations, like staff-to-patient ratio, won’t apply to you if you’re in a stand-alone independent living community. However, if your community is combined with an assisted living or memory care facility, you may feel comforted knowing that your needs and well-being are protected. Plus, if you or your spouse needs to transition to an assisted living community later, you can be sure that Florida has set regulations in motion to keep you safe and protected.

Florida Department of Health contact information

Florida Department of Health
4052 Bald Cypress Way
Tallahassee, FL 32399
Phone: 850-245-4444
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

COVID-19 regulations for Pensacola independent living communities

Since the threat of COVID-19 spread in Pensacola and the surrounding areas is low per reports from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), there are no specific Florida-related COVID policies to follow when you become a resident at an independent living community in this Gulf Shore city. With that being said, you should still follow best practices when it comes to protecting yourself from infectious diseases.

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Vaccinations.

COVID vaccinations are designed to provide first-line protection against acquiring and spreading the virus. All individuals ages 55+ should consider getting vaccinated or speaking with their physicians about the benefits of vaccination. You can register online to receive a free COVID vaccination.

An illustration of a protective breathing mask

Masking.

When indoors and around many other people, wearing a mask may help you avoid contracting or spreading viruses and germs. Masks are especially useful if you’re feeling unwell or are around someone who’s exhibiting signs of illness, such as coughing or sneezing.

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Facility cleanliness.

The cleaner you can keep your independent living space, the less chance you’ll have of allowing viruses and germs to live on high-touch surfaces like countertops and door handles.

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Social distancing.

Practicing social distancing makes sense if you’re going to be in a crowded indoor space during flu season or when the risk of contracting COVID is higher than usual.

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Quarantining.

To keep yourself and others safer, always isolate if you think you may have COVID. Take an at-home COVID test to be sure. If you’ve been diagnosed with COVID, stay home until your primary care provider says you’re no longer at risk of spreading COVID to others.

Get to know independent living in Pensacola

601
Number of people we have referred to our partner communities in Pensacola
Average age of resident we have referred to partner communities in Pensacola
Gender split: 64% female

Types of independent living in Pensacola

As you might expect from the versatility of Pensacola’s amenities and the diversity of its population, the city offers several independent living options for seniors partnered with A Place for Mom. For example, it’s not unusual to find independent living apartments that are part of broader assisted living communities as well. These combined facility arrangements enable you to more easily transition through all the stages of life without having to move to a new community every time your personal care and medical requirements change.

How can you choose which independent living facility is the right one for your needs? Ideally, you’ll want to make a list of your most important attributes, such as pet friendliness, access to bus stops, or on-site exercise or entertainment spaces. Creating a personalized overview of your “nice to have” and “need to have” desires helps you pinpoint the right places to visit.

Services to expect at independent living communities

All of our partner independent living communities, whether they are stand-alone buildings or part of broader assisted living communities, are designed to give you as much freedom as possible. You’ll come and go as usual. The difference is that you won’t have to deal with the typical hassles of being a homeowner, like paying to install a new driveway or worrying about yard maintenance duties.

Modern amenities at independent living communities

Today’s independent living communities feel a lot like micro-cities. In fact, you might find that you don’t have to go beyond your community to get world-class cuisine, sip an adult beverage at a bar, enjoy live performances, or pamper yourself at a spa or beauty salon. Instead, you can expect all these amenities to be right outside your budget-friendly or luxury apartment door.

Just a few of the common independent living community perks available at many of our partner facilities include on-site recreational opportunities, devotional services, patios and gardens, libraries, eateries, movie rooms, game rooms, and media centers. Of course, when you do want to explore Pensacola, you can take advantage of low-cost or free transportation provided as part of your monthly rental fee agreement.

Housing for all tastes in independent living apartments

The apartment choices vary greatly from one independent living community to the next. Some are more quaint and cozy, whereas others may be spacious and more architecturally open concept in design. You’ll want to make sure that any apartment layout not only matches your preferred aesthetic but also meets any accessibility needs.

If you use a wheelchair, you’ll want to ensure the apartment in your independent living facility has the inclusivity features necessary so you can be as mobile as you can. These may include lowered bathroom sinks and wider doorways. Be sure to ask about all the comforts that each of our partner independent living communities offers when you’re touring so you can feel more confident when making your final selection.

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Unfamiliar with Pensacola? Highlights for seniors

10,519

Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Pensacola

20%

Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Pensacola population

$50,045

Median annual income for Pensacola seniors 65 and older

Health care for seniors in Pensacola

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Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola Hospital

For access to specialists and critical care treatment, consider Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola Hospital. The 566-bed hospital receives high marks for many types of available care services. Some notable types of conditions the doctors at Ascension Sacred Heart Pensacola Hospital treat include colon cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes. You can also choose this facility for emergency treatment.

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Baptist Hospital

With a new health care building opening in late 2023, Baptist Hospital is one of the region’s premiere care providers. Baptist Hospital exceeds expectations for those seeking knee replacements, cardiovascular care, treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease care, and many more services.

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HCA Florida West Hospital

The full-service HCA Florida West Hospital offers both general and specialty medicine, as well as surgeries. It’s been recognized regularly as a patient-centric facility in the region. HCA Florida West Hospital offers mental health care, neurosurgery, rehabilitative medicine, and even robot-assisted surgical procedures for those looking for more minimally-invasive surgeries.

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Transportation for seniors in Pensacola

Getting around Pensacola on foot is possible in some neighborhoods. However, with a walkability score of just 36 out of 100, you’ll need to rely on other types of transportation to get to one of the area’s beautiful beaches or the historic downtown. The score is calculated by Walk Score, which measures how pedestrian-friendly a city is.[05]

For instance, you may want to drive the private car that you bring with you during your relocation to an independent living community. Or, you may want to use Uber and Lyft. Yet you don’t need to rely on personal or rideshare services because Pensacola operates a bus line seven days a week.

Pensacola’s buses are operated by the Escambia County Area Transit system, which locals call the ECAT. The ECAT has 22 bus lines, many of which run full-schedule routes on the weekends. Although ECAT buses are perfect for those who need special accommodations like wheelchair accessibility and bike racks, you or your spouse may still find it difficult to ride comfortably on ECAT’s standard vehicles. In that case, you can take advantage of the curbside ECAT ADA.

Another choice for easy transportation in Pensacola is the Go Seniors! Transportation Program, which is provided through the ECMS Foundation. To use this service, you’ll need to get a voucher from your health care provider. The voucher will enable you to ride to medical visits for $20. And if you know in advance that you’re not able to get transportation to run errands, get to a pharmacy, or make it to your next medical appointment, you can contact the ECCT Paratransit Services. This service is free but can fill up and won’t guarantee you a ride on the exact day you need it. Therefore, the more flexible your itinerary, the more useful ECCT Paratransit Services will be.

Freedom To Go is an additional transportation service tailored for seniors in Pensacola. With a team of dedicated drivers, they offer convenient transportation to various destinations, including doctor appointments, the grocery store, or brunch with friends. Their services are available Monday through Friday, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Please note their prices vary due to changing gas prices.

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36

Walk Score

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47

Bike Score

Senior activities in Pensacola

Which city was called the third best place to retire in 2022 by U.S. News and World Report? You guessed it: Pensacola. What makes this Gulf Shore town on the Florida panhandle such a destination hotspot for all ages is its comfortable year-round climate, laid-back atmosphere, and a plethora of things to do. Admittedly, Pensacola can get hot and sticky during the summer months. Nevertheless, there are plenty of air-conditioned landmarks, museums, eateries, and other places to cool off. Or, you could just go somewhere like the popular Pensacola Beach with its 9.1-mile stretch of sand, complete with beverage vendors and constant breezes.[06]

Welcoming options for seniors

When you first arrive in Pensacola, you may want to integrate as quickly as possible with other peers in the area. In addition to taking advantage of any communal gatherings offered at your independent living community, like picnics, parties, and holiday celebrations, consider taking a trip to one of Pensacola’s senior-focused organizations.

For example, the Bayview Senior Resource Center provides a range of program activities for people ages 50 and older. There, you can indulge in everything from bingo to group outings. Remember that on the third Tuesday of the month, you can head to the Pensacola State College (PSC) student center for a meeting of the PSC Senior Citizens Club. This club sets up its monthly get-togethers by theme, so be sure to find out what to wear and expect each time you stop by.

The beach lifestyle

Even if you’ve lived in a beachside community before, you’ll be amazed at the many places to catch some rays, walk along the dunes, and engage in watersports like open-water swimming and fishing. Pensacola has quite a few beaches, but Pensacola Beach tends to be the one that gets a lot of attention. Not only will you appreciate how warm the water is year-round, but you’ll start to feel more at home every time you stroll along the piers or just relax under an umbrella and watch the waves.

If you’re looking for a more rustic, untamed beach instead of a groomed one, go to the protected Gulf Island National Seashore. It’s not in Pensacola but is very nearby and features more secluded beaches like Perdido Key Beach or Johnson Beach. And when you’re ready to head back to the mainland and public beaches, try Opal Beach or Quietwater Beach to round out your surfside explorations.

Museums, monuments, and more

Though water is definitely a focal point and tourist draw, it’s far from being Pensacola’s only hallmark. Within the city limits, you’ll find lots of places to engage your interests, whether you’re interested in sports, art, history, or something else.

The National Naval Aviation Museum is an exciting place to visit. General admission is free, but if you want to try a flight simulator or other special attraction, you’ll need to pay extra. At the museum, something’s always happening — you may even be able to spot a Blue Angels practice if you time your visit just right.

Another museum that’s a must-visit in Pensacola is the Historic Pensacola Village. It’s laid out to replicate and celebrate the legacy of the Florida panhandle region. Military members and seniors ages 65 and older are eligible to receive discounted tickets. If you receive food assistance, you can tour History Pensacola Village for free.

Are you a lover of the visual arts? Quayside Art Gallery should be on your to-do list. It’s a space dedicated to both showing and selling art pieces made by local artists. You aren’t obligated to make a purchase, but if you want to support the artistic community in Pensacola, it’s the perfect way to show your appreciation.

Pensacola wouldn’t be Pensacola without the Blue Wahoos Ballpark on the picturesque Pensacola Bay. Even if you’ve never been into minor league baseball, you owe it to the home team to attend at least one game. Be sure to catch all the other happenings at the ballpark, too. These include everything from concerts to festivals.

Certainly, it can be a little overwhelming to put together your own tour of all the landmarks Pensacola’s known for. That’s where the Go Retro tour of Pensacola’s landmarks comes in handy. A refurbished 1930s Ford transit bus will transport you around the city. It’s a wonderful way to get an all-encompassing idea of what makes Pensacola unique.

The Gulf’s fitness lifestyle

Many seniors in Pensacola like to stay outdoors and indulge in their favorite fitness activities 12 months a year. From hiking and golfing to pickleball and tennis, practically every recreational sport is available to you as a resident of this activity-minded community.

For instance, try some golfing at some of the places ranked highly by GolfPass, such as the Lost Key Golf Club, Stonebrook Golf Club, or Cypress Lakes Golf Club.[07] Or follow the Pensacola Panhandle Pickleball Facebook group to stay up to date on where to play. If you’re interested in indoor pickleball and exercising in general, become a member of the Bear Levin Studer Family YMCA.

Just make sure you take time to relax after a hard day of hiking, cycling, or swinging a club. The restaurant scene in Pensacola is highly diverse and features both standard local Southern cuisine to international gems. Whether you’re in the mood for barbecue or authentic Italian fare, you’re sure to find it near your independent living apartment.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Waterford at Carpenter's Creek, Sodalis Milton and University Pines by Sky Active Living are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Pensacola, 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 Pensacola is 3492.8 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. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.

  3. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.

  4. U.S News & World Report. (2023). Best Hospitals in Pensacola.

  5. Walk Score. (2023). Living in Pensacola.

  6. TrailLink. (2023). Pensacola Beach Trail.

  7. GolfPass. (2023). Pensacola.

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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.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.

3.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.

4.

U.S News & World Report. (2023). Best Hospitals in Pensacola.

5.

Walk Score. (2023). Living in Pensacola.

6.

TrailLink. (2023). Pensacola Beach Trail.

7.

GolfPass. (2023). Pensacola.