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If you’re looking for independent living in the Chicago area, our local senior living advisors can help you each step of the way. From affordable independent living for seniors to luxury options, we’ll work with you to understand the cost of independent living in Chicago. From there, we’ll show you the best independent living communities for your lifestyle, interests, and budget.
Discover unique independent living amenities, social activities, dining, and more independent living benefits. With 155 independent living facilities in Chicago, A Place for Mom makes it easier to find your new, maintenance-free home.
We are also serving Independent Living facilities in surrounding neighborhoods like Park Manor, South Shore and North Park.
You may also consider nearby communities such as Cicero, Evanston or Stickney.
Types of care available in Chicago, IL
Independent Living
They're short of help, all the way around. That's the main challenge. Sometimes it's hard to find a nurse on the nursing floor. But I really like the assisted living building. They're very good with their activities and keeping their people up to date on things. I had one relative move to the wellness center from assisted living, and I would not do that if you can avoid it. They don't have the activities, and they're kind of isolated in wellness.
As far as enjoyment they have a good amount of social activities and there is a good amount of room to move around. As far as improvements - they could work on improving the overall quality of the meals and the food choices. We were also told that when the weather is nice the residents would be able to walk around in the outdoor areas, but we have found that not to be true. So we wish they could have better access to the outdoor areas, but we still would recommend this community to other families.
We didn't really check out anywhere else. This was the most affordable and my aunt was ok with it when we visited. They have been very attentive to my aunt. They worked with me to help step up her level of care when it became necessary. The business office is a bit less responsive, but the direct care staff are very nice and helpful. She has housekeeping services and they do her laundry for her in the Assisted Living section. They went above and beyond when she was in independent living and needed more assistance with things before she moved. It's not a super fancy facility, but for the price point (which is lower than other places), I think there is definitely value. And I would recommend it at this point.
5333 North Sheridan Road, Chicago, IL 60640
At The Breakers, I have my choice of a quiet evening in my apartment home or spending time with my friends. There is fun and lively entertainment all in one spot. What's really special is that there is always someone to visit and talk with. It's a warm, friendly community where everyone feels...
Our experience was good. There was good communication. The community could improve their communication regarding extra fees and provide assistance with change of address and utilities.
3121 North Sheridan Road, Chicago, IL 60657
Healthier Life, Healthier YouHave you been on the hunt for an exceptional senior living experience that gives you the quality care you want without sacrificing the independence and freedom you crave? If so, look no further. Our independent and assisted living community is located within walking...
At first I was interested in a seniors apartment building, not a community. Upon investigating Brookdale, I decided it offered all I was looking for and more. I'm one of the independent living residents....
929 W Foster Ave, Chicago, IL 60640
Step out your door to acres of beautiful parkland, the beach, and the lake’s shore. Look the other way and Chicago surrounds you – the stunning skyline, vibrant neighborhoods, and the cultural depth few other cities offer.Chicago’s oldest, nonprofit retirement living organization is introducing...
Dinner service at the Admiral at the Lake has successfully made it through the pandemic, staff shortages, and inflation that plague us all. Meals are nutritional and appetizing, and always include meat, fish...
3659 W 99th Pl, Chicago, IL 60655
A faith-based not-for-profit communityMercy Circle’s residents and staff together create a vibrant, caring community where all people are welcome and our non-profit status is reflected in no entrance fees. Residents pay only a monthly fee, which includes meals, services, amenities and...
I was admitted on [date removed]. Food not so good, complain reg chef on vacation, when the chef returned food improved tremendously. Nursing and therapy care excellent. My stay was for rehab after surgery.
3535 N Ashland Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Welcome to Artis—where empowerment, pride and fulfillment define memory careAt Artis Senior Living, our mission is to provide the finest level in Memory Care and assisted living through individually designed programs combined with a passionate dedication to each resident’s individualized comforts...
This is a great community. The community and staff feel it is the residents' home and treat it as such. Everything is nice and neat. There is laundry service that is included for the residents. The...
1800 River Woods Drive, Melrose Park, IL 60160
Dedicated to Good LivingOur longstanding mission is to transform the way society thinks about aging and senior living. Our Victory Centre of River Woods community is an extension of that promise. We are steadfast in our commitment to cultivate a genuine home for you or your loved one. Above all...
They were so accommodating and helped us get in here fast. My friend is getting great care and attention from the staff. He raves about the food, it is a posted a menu each week. The assistant director [name...
6700 S Keating Ave, Chicago, IL 60629
Don't let our value prices fool you -- Autumn Green is a beautiful community! Autumn Green at Midway Village offers full-service rental retirement living at a mid-range price for persons aged 62+ OR For-sale condominiums for persons aged 55+ in the adjacent Midway Village...
My mom is very happy at Autumn Green. She has pretty much everything she needs there. It's a good value for the price. The facility is clean. She says the meals are pretty good. They always have a full...
700 W Fullerton Ave, Chicago, IL 60614
Pricing promotion expiring soon
At Belmont Village Lincoln Park, you’ll find the perfect blend of comfort, care and active living. The mid-rise building maintains the look and feel of the area with an architectural style very closely replicating the Nellie Black building that previously occupied the site. Nestled in the new...
This facility is excellent! It's new and very nice. The staff is wonderful. They are a bit short staffed, but that's everywhere right now. The food is good quality and they have a good variety. They do...
4021 W Belmont, Chicago, IL 60641
Have you noticed that something doesn't seem right with mom or dad these days? It could be subtle or it could be something that's pretty obvious. Regardless, you've turned to the Internet for a reason and the best choice for assisted living is also Chicago's most notable and...
This has generally been a positive experience for our family and loved one. There isn't one person I can go to when I have questions or concerns. The have three shifts of staff members providing care, and...
1111 Ontario Street, Oak Park, IL 60302
Everything You Want, Everything You NeedIf first impressions are everything, we think we make a pretty good one. Nestled between historic Frank Lloyd Wright homes and a vibrant downtown shopping district, the location of our independent and assisted living community is just the start of what...
The staff are very friendly. The location truly couldn't be better. It's right in the middle of downtown Oak Park, with close proximity to restaurants, movie theaters, and hospitals. I think they offer...
7432 W Talcott, Chicago, IL 60631
The staff at Amazing Grace are polite, friendly and they have exceed our expectations. The facility also offers mass services that residents are able to attend regularly.
2825 S Halstead St, Chicago, IL 60608
Imagine being able to live in a beautiful building, in a community of friends, receive monthly housekeeping services and benefit from specially designed safety features - all for one low affordable monthly rate and in the Chicago neighborhood you've called home for most of your life. As a...
Very safe and clean place to stay. I have no problem walking, my day around the building. All the staff are very nice and helpful. Overall. great place for a Senior.
2800 West Montrose Avenue, Chicago, IL 60618
Imagine being able to live in a beautiful building, in a community of friends, receive monthly housekeeping services and benefit from specially designed safety features - all for one low affordable monthly rate and in the Chicago neighborhood you've called home for most of your life. As a...
Due to the pandemic everything is still pretty restricted like the dining service and the activities. However we do like the security of the community as well as the cleanliness and friendliness of the staff...
800 N Harlem Ave, River Forest, IL 60305
Pricing promotions expiring soon
The staff members at the community are so friendly that we would give them 10 stars. We brought a friend with us one day to visit our loved one and she liked it so much that she said when the time comes she...
2960 North Lake Shore Drive, Chicago, IL 60657
Good Times, Good CompanyLocated in the active and vibrant city of Chicago, Illinois, our independent and assisted living community boasts stunning views of Lake Michigan and the city skyline, spacious common areas for relaxing and entertaining, delicious meals served in a restaurant-style dining...
I would absolutely recommend the community to others. If I ever find myself in the same situation, this is the place or a place like this I would want to be. It is excellent. Sometimes the food isn't as...
4239 N Oak Park Ave, Chicago, IL 60634
Autumn Green at Wright Campus is a senior living community located in the vibrant metropolis of Chicago, Illinois. This iconic city offers some of the best amenities in the country. Glass towers, luxury boutiques and fine dining can be found amongst the busy downtown core. Visiting family members...
We chose Autumn Green because of the proximity to family, the overall value for the dollar spent, I also thought the cleanliness of the facility was attractive. The location is also near a lot of shopping....
1035 Madison Street, Oak Park, IL 60302
Belmont Village of Oak Park is located in the heart of historic Oak Park, a western suburb of Chicago. Our senior living residents don't have to go far to enjoy all the 'Windy City' has to offer. Close to the facility are shops, galleries, places of worship, and RUSH Oak Park Hospital. And when...
The management and higher ups are great however the lower staff needs improvement. The management is great at taking care of any problems and response time is responded in a timely manner. I like that they...
2800 Des Plaines Ave, North Riverside, IL 60546
Caledonia Senior Living is a small, private home providing both assisted living and 24-hour nursing care in a beautiful, intimate setting. Our home is nestled on five wooded acres, and offers a wide range of services and activities to meet all of your needs. We are a non-profit organization,...
Since mom became a resident in [date removed] our overall experience has been a very positive one. Mom will turn [age removed] in June and lived in her house for 70 years. She, time and again tells me, "If I...
4715 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60641
Clarendale Six Corners is Chicago's most exciting new senior living community opening in the spring of 2023. On a storied intersection od Six Corners, on Chciago's Northwest Side, you'll find the Senior Living You Deserve with plenty of stylish amenities and hospitality services. Clarendale Six...
I just picked out my mom's room with her and so excited. The community is GORGEOUS and the team is beyond fantastic. [name removed] helped us from the very beginning and introduced us to the lovely team...
2715 North Cicero Avenue, Chicago, IL 60639
Senior Suites of Kelvyn Park is a highly rated pet-friendly Chicago independent living community for seniors 62 and older. For retirees looking for a convenient location that allows them to maintain their lifestyle and socialize with their peers, our senior living community is here to make life...
We went with Senior Suites because we had a very close family friend whose mom had an apartment here and was here for a long time and we used to visit all the time. When my mom was ready to look, this was...
3251 East 92nd Street, Chicago, IL 60617
Dedicated to Good LivingOur longstanding mission is to transform the way society thinks about aging and senior living. Our Victory Centre of South Chicago community is an extension of that promise. We are steadfast in our commitment to cultivate a genuine home for you or your loved one. Above all...
I would rate the first 1 as a 5 the second as a 4 and the last ones as a 5. I would definitely recommend them to a friend. They were very attentive and if ever I had an issue ( which wasn't too often) they...
5700 N. Harlem Ave, Chicago, IL 60631
Senior Suites of Norwood Park is a highly rated Chicago independent living community for seniors 62 years of age or older. We offer the comfort of a private apartment with the joys of communal life. Our convenient location allows residents to fully enjoy their retirement as they take in all the...
The apartments are really nice and newer than the others we looked at. The community is very clean and neat and the staff is very friendly. This is a good value compared to other communities in the area...
51 East Cossitt, La Grange, IL 60525
Nestled in the heart of downtown La Grange, Illinois, LaGrange Pointe is the very best in Senior Living!LaGrange Pointe is a unique living experience geared for independent seniors who value their freedom of choice.A unique concept in senior living, LaGrange is an upscale retirement community...
We chose La Grange Pointe because it is more of an apartment complex facility but has special services for seniors so it doesn't feel like you are going into a nursing home. The apartment sizes are really...
1501 W Belmont Ave, Chicago, IL 60657
Seniors age 55 and better enjoy a vibrant lifestyle at Renaissance Saint Luke.Our convenient Lincoln, Belmont, Ashland location is just across the street from the huge new Whole Foods store, and serviced by Belmont/Ashland bus lines. We're close to all of the attractions of West Lakeview, an...
The building my brother is in is very clean and the people are friendly here. The staff helps if he needs it he is in the independent living side. He's meeting friends and is at ease. It is well landscaped...
848 West 103rd Street, Chicago, IL 60643
Imagine being able to live in a beautiful building, in a community of friends, receive monthly housekeeping services and benefit from specially designed safety features - all for one low affordable monthly rate and in the Chicago neighborhood you've called home for most of your life. As a...
It's a decent place to live if you're looking for affordable senior living. The price is reasonable. Cleanliness could be much better. The carpet is terrible and needs to be cleaned. We've asked...
The cost of an independent living community within 10 miles of the Chicago city center averaged $3,203 per month in 2022, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data. This figure includes rent as well as any add-on fees that the community offers. Chicago independent living costs can vary based on floor plans, amenities and add-ons, and location. North of downtown Chicago tends to have a higher cost of living, whereas south of downtown often has lower costs. The following figures represent baseline Chicago area independent living rental costs, not including add-on fees.
8.11 miles from you
Your zip code
7.75 miles from you
Independent living community costs are not covered by public sources like Medicare or Medicaid, though in-home care services may be covered for medically qualifying seniors. However, there are many private ways to pay for independent living. Veteran Affairs (also known as VA) pensions and benefits may also help to offset costs of independent living for eligible senior veterans and their spouses.
Illinois independent living communities are required to enforce a 55 year age minimum per the Illinois Administrative Code.[02] While families and children of seniors may be able to live in independent living depending on the community, residents will need to verify that at least one member of their household is 55 or over.
While Illinois does not have many requirements specific to independent living, these buildings must comply with the legal standards of any type of housing. While building codes vary across the state of Illinois, Chicago living spaces are required to maintain standards such as:
To report a building code violation in Chicago, you can call 3-1-1 or fill out an online service request.
All living spaces are also required to be ADA compliant, which means that reasonable accommodations and modifications are made for individuals with disabilities. Under federal law, owners of housing facilities cannot deny tenancy to individuals with disabilities.
Reasonable accommodations are adjustments to rules or policies so that tenants with disabilities are not left out of the activities or benefits offered to other tenants. Property managers may provide accommodations, such as the following:
Modifications involve making changes to the apartment complex and unit to make it more accessible to those with disabilities. This can mean adding a wheelchair ramp or hands-free entrance or simply installing handrails in bathrooms. The costs of these modifications are to be covered by the owner of the rental property rather than by the tenant with the disability.[04]
Find contact information and resources for tenant rights’ advocacy, housing discrimination, housing-related legal aid, eviction assistance, and more through Illinois’ Tenant Rights, Laws and Regulations website.
Illinois Department of Public Health — Chicago headquarters offices
122 S. Michigan Ave., 7th and 20th Floors
Chicago, IL 60603
Phone: 312-814-2793
69 W. Washington St., 35th Floor
Chicago, IL 60602
Phone: 312-814-5278
There are currently no COVID-19 regulations in place for Chicago independent living communities.
Number of in-network independent living facilities in Chicago
Chicago independent senior living communities typically offer private apartments or condos. Floor plans often include living areas, fully equipped kitchens, and wheelchair-accessible bathrooms with hand rails. Check out some other features common to Chicago independent living communities:
Some communities even offer the following types of on-site services for additional fees:
Resident-only clubhouses are also common to Chicago independent living communities. These clubhouses promote socialization among residents and give them access to even more shared amenities, such as the following:
Chicago independent living communities provide the active senior with an exciting urban locale that has convenient access to entertainment, shopping, dining, and the sparkling Lake Michigan shoreline. On-site storage and maintenance foster a more relaxing environment than home ownership. Some independent living communities even offer an aging-in-place option for an even more worry-free living experience.
Chicago’s independent living communities with aging-in-place options are typically part of a larger senior living facility that includes multiple care types and accommodations on one campus, such as assisted living and memory care. Communities that offer these add-on care services are ideal for the senior who may need more assistance down the line. If a senior’s care needs ever evolve past the care offered in the independent living community, they can just add on the care services they need without having to relocate to a new community. Aging-in-place features provide security in the event of surgery, illness, or other medical events. A Place for Mom has 17 partnered communities in Chicago that offer aging-in-place services, with access to home care agencies, memory care, and skilled nursing services on site.
Identify the right care for your loved one with our free assessment.
Understand cost and payment for long-term care based on your loved one's needs.
Free, personalized guidance from our Senior Living Advisors can help you narrow your search.
Our free touring checklist can help you choose the right community.
Chicago residents have many innovative and highly rated medical centers to choose from. Several of Chicago’s medical facilities also offer specialty geriatric care.
Northwestern Memorial Hospital is the highest ranking hospital in the state of Illinois, according to U.S. News and World Report. It’s nationally ranked in 10 adult specialties, and it partners with Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine to foster world-class patient care and medical innovation.
Rush University Medical Center is ranked No. 2 out of all Chicago hospitals, according to U.S. News and World Report. Rush is known for outstanding patient care, education, and medical research, with roots going back nearly 200 years.
University of Chicago Medical Center is the third-highest ranked hospital in Chicago and in the state of Illinois, according to U.S. News and World Report. Known for exceptional geriatric care services, University of Chicago Medical Center is a nonprofit academic hospital established in 1927.
NorthShore University Health System is the fourth-highest ranking Chicago hospital, according to U.S. News and World Report. The NorthShore system includes six hospitals and over 140 medical centers all over the Illinois area.
While driving in the city is an option, heavy traffic and limited parking can make it a challenge. Fourteen of A Place for Mom’s partnered independent living communities in Chicago offer transportation services at an additional cost. For those without transportation, many Chicago residents count on public transportation. The most convenient and cost effective way to get around is the Chicago Transit Authority “L” train. The Chicago Transit Authority also has over 100 bus routes.
While Chicago is relatively walkable, it’s quite big, so it can be helpful to know what other options are available. For the active individual, Chicago’s Divvy bike-share system can be a fun way to get around, and the Metra Rail train is great for commuting to the Chicago suburbs. Chicago also provides AC Med Tran transportation services specifically for seniors, veterans, and individuals who require a wheelchair or mobility assistance.
Compiled from data about Chicago’s population, public transportation, walking and bike routes, and more, the Windy City has received the following WalkScore ratings, [08] each out of 100:
77
72
65
As the most populous city in the Midwest, Chicago always has something exciting to offer. Whether you’re looking for great food, fine arts, exciting sports, or exhilarating shopping, you’ll find it in Chicago. The striking architecture of the city contrasted against the glistening Lake Michigan shoreline creates an idyllic backdrop for your golden years.
The closer to the city center, the more social opportunities seniors have with others who are in the same stage of life. The Norwood Park Senior Center sits just outside the city center’s 10-mile radius. It features a state-of-the-art fitness center, a library, and a reading room. Additionally, lunch is served Monday through Friday. Chicago seniors can make new connections as they partake in games, Zumba and yoga classes, seasonal water aerobics, music appreciation, and educational classes.
Chicago’s lovers of the arts can explore the offerings of the Belmont Theater District, Museum of Contemporary Art, and Chicago Symphony Orchestra, to name just a few local art centers.
When the family comes to visit, the Lincoln Park Zoo and Lincoln Park Bird Sanctuary offer free admission daily, or you can take advantage of the Children’s Museum senior discounts. Chicago residents can also visit the wonders of the ocean for a reduced rate at Shedd Aquarium.
When the grandkids go back home, take a trip to nearby Elgin for a scenic evening at Grand Victoria Casino on the river. Or, stay local and dine, sample locally crafted wines, and enjoy entertainment at City Winery — Riverwalk Winegarden in the spring and the City Winery — West Loop all year round.
The following are just a few Chicago attractions with senior discounts and specials:
The Admiral at the Lake, a CCRC, Independence Village Naperville and Carriage Oaks are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Chicago, IL. 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 Chicago is 3,063 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Chicago [Data set]. American Community Survey.
Illinois General Assembly. Health Facilities and Regulation(210 ILCS 9/) Assisted Living and Shared Housing Act.
International Code Council. (2019, December 1). 2019 Chicago building code with revised April 2022 supplement.
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. (2022). Reasonable accommodations and modifications.
A Place for Mom. (2022). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
U.S. Census Bureau. (2021, July 21). Chicago city, Illinois. QuickFacts.
Laflamme, E., Harper-Jemison, D., Jorgensen, E., Reina, M., Rushovich, T., Weaver, K., Prachand, N., Shah, R., Lange-Maia, B., & De Maio, F. (2019, August). Healthy Chicago databook: Older adult health. Center for Community Health Equity.
Walk Score. (2022). Living in Chicago.
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