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155 Independent Living Facilities near Chicago, IL

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155 Independent Living Facilities near Chicago, IL

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.

Chicago Independent Living Facilities | 334 Reviews

Showing 155 communities
Last Updated: 5/26/23
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Average starting price of Independent Living in Chicago, IL is $3,098/month. Learn more
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Types of care available in Chicago, IL

Independent Living

Average starting price $3,098/month
Average starting price $5,252/month
Average starting price $5,860/month
Average starting price $6,956/month
Average starting price $3,848/month
Average starting price $1,072/month
Recent reviews of Independent Living in Chicago, IL
Oak Trace a CCRC in Downers Grove, IL
4.8

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.

Clarendale of Mokena
5.0

The Memory Care staff was always polite, friendly, and always willing to assist in my mother's needs. My family and I are very satisfied with how my mother was cared for.

Tinley Court Catered Senior Living in Tinley Park, IL
4.3

My brother [Removed] lived there for 2 1/2 years. I can't say enough good things about this facility. He had a lot of health needs but was able to be there and maintain a good amount of independence. The staff were always attentive to him and responsive to me. They helped us find wonderful aides who were able to assist him with things that he couldn't do and this allowed him to be as independent as possible. The staff are very caring and personable. The food was home cooked and he raved about it all the time. There were a number of activities and the residents always seemed very social with one another. It was very home like and affordable.

The Sheridan at River Forest

800 N Harlem Ave, River Forest, IL 60305

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
17
17 Photos available
7
7 Floor plans available

Pricing promotion

Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Senior Lifestyle - Main communities
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.3(9 reviews)

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...

Belmont Village Oak Park

1035 Madison Street, Oak Park, IL 60302

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
24
24 Photos available
7
7 Floor plans available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Belmont Village communities

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...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.0(55 reviews)

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...

Caledonia Senior Living

2800 Des Plaines Ave, North Riverside, IL 60546

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
22
22 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care

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,...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
3.4(12 reviews)

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...

American House Oak Park

711 Madison St, Oak Park, IL 60302

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
6
6 Photos available
10
10 Floor plans available
Provides: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all American House communities
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
5.0(1 review)

Everybody has growing pains, it is a brand new facility but the people are here wonderful and doing the best that they can - the biggest difficulty has been staffing just like everywhere else in the world...

Cantata Adult Life Services a CCRC

8700 W 31st Street, Brookfield, IL 60513

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
14
14 Photos available
Provides: Independent Living, Assisted Living

Cantata Adult Life Services is committed to enabling older adults to achieve the greatest possible level of self-sufficiency and independence. The overarching goal of our not-for-profit organization is to facilitate active living and the continuation of healthy relationships with and among people...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Guest meals
4.3(4 reviews)

They were very helpful in selecting what type of assistance is appropriate. [name removed], the head nurse goes above and beyond to assist with setting up doctors visits, communicating issues with my mother...

La Grange Pointe

51 East Cossitt, La Grange, IL 60525

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
11
11 Photos available
Provides: Independent Living

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...

... Read more
4.8(4 reviews)

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...

Aspired Living of La Grange

35 Shawmut Ave, La Grange, IL 60525

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
18
18 Photos available
5
5 Floor plans available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Senior Lifestyle - Main communities

The Aspired Living family is excited to welcome Aspired Living of La Grange to the rapidly growing family of independent living, assisted living and memory support communities. Joining Aspired Living of Westmont and Aspired Living of Prospect Heights, La Grange’s newest state-of-the-art assisted...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.5(11 reviews)

They are doing a beautiful job. The interaction with the staff has been excellent. My loved one loves the food. The food is good. They offer wonderful opportunities to do things, for the activities. It's...

Senior Suites Midway Village

6800 S. Keating Avenue, Chicago, IL 60629

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
11
11 Photos available
2
2 Floor plans available
Provides: Independent Living
See all Senior Lifestyle - Suites communities

Senior Suites of Midway Village is a welcoming, secure independent living community in Chicago for seniors ages 62 and over. We provide the opportunity for seniors to forego home maintenance chores in favor of private apartments with housekeeping in a convenient location. We want our residents to...

... Read more
4.1(18 reviews)

It would be helpful for others to know that they have adequate handicap parking for residents, but not so much for others. There is limited parking for the guests. It is a locked facility so you have to have...

Senior Suites of Austin

335 North Menard Avenue, Chicago, IL 60644

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
6
6 Photos available
2
2 Floor plans available
Provides: Independent Living
See all Senior Lifestyle - Suites communities

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...

... Read more
4.5(10 reviews)

Management is understaffed and that has been my biggest concern. If they were fully staffed, I believe the facility and experience would be better. Not having any type of food service is a negative. ...

Senior Suites of Hegewisch

13550 South Avenue O, Chicago, IL 60633

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
4
4 Photos available
2
2 Floor plans available
Provides: Independent Living
See all Senior Lifestyle - Suites communities

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...

... Read more
4.2(8 reviews)

The staff is really good. My loved one lives in, the senior apartments, which includes a refrigerator and stove. They do have some activities, such as Bingo Night. It is a little pricey but the utilities is...

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New City Supportive Living

4707 S Marshfield Ave, Chicago, IL 60609

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Photos available
3
3 Floor plans available
Provides: Assisted Living
See all Asbury Healthcare communities
Beauty Salon
Art Classes
3.5(2 reviews)

A case of “ you can’t judge a book by its cover.” The area is on a culdesac close to a busy retail area. The Supportive facility ‘s exterior (housed in the historic old Goldblatt building) is unremarkable....

Montclare Supportive Living

4339 W 18th Place, Chicago, IL 60623

17
17 Photos available
2
2 Floor plans available
Provides: Assisted Living
See all Gardant Management Solutions communities

The Montclare Supportive Living Community is the choice for an affordable assisted lifestyle community in the Lawndale neighborhood of Chicago. Welcome to a gracious, affordable assisted lifestyle in your community. At the Montclare, you’ll enjoy friendly neighbors to share common life...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Guest meals
3.8(2 reviews)

I am very happy and pleased with this facility so far. All of the staff members have been so helpful and very accommodating. I really like the director and she was amazing in getting my cousin set up and...

Senior Suites Gage Park

3244 West 59th Street, Chicago, IL 60629

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
7
7 Photos available
2
2 Floor plans available
Provides: Independent Living
See all Senior Lifestyle - Suites communities

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...

... Read more
4.3(8 reviews)

This facility is good. A nice and clean atmosphere. We haven't had any problems so far and we're happy with it. Maintenance is quick to fix things when they need it. My loved one is happy here. I would...

Senior Suites of Central Station

1400 South Indiana Avenue, Chicago, IL 60605

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
5
5 Photos available
2
2 Floor plans available
Provides: Independent Living
See all Senior Lifestyle - Suites communities

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...

... Read more
4.3(39 reviews)

I would be careful on which apartment you take. Some apartments have high temperatures and the community can't fix that per the management. It is a nice building.

Drexel Horizon

3443 S 55th Avenue, Cicero, IL 60804

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
7
7 Photos available
1
1 Floor plans available
Provides: Independent Living
See all Alden Management Services communities

Drexel Horizon is located Cicero, Illinois which is a town in Cook County. This area is a serene environment that allows residents to relax and interact with each other. The community offers independent living that enables residents to enjoy a stress-free life.A live in Maintenance couple oversee...

... Read more
5.0(1 review)

My mom is a new resident and she is doing fine. She has been there for quite some time and she is all settled in. Things are going good, it is a good fit for her budget and the space around. The community is...

Churchview Supportive Living

2626 W. 63rd Street, Chicago, IL 60629

1
1 Video available
10
10 Photos available
2
2 Floor plans available
Provides: Assisted Living
See all Gardant Management Solutions communities

Churchview Supportive Living is an assisted living community located in Chicago, IL. The city of Chicago is located in Cook County and home to over 2.7 million people. It's an exciting city with lots of great restaurants and shops. Residents can enjoy going on outings when the weather is warm and...

... Read more
3.4(5 reviews)

[name removed] , Dir. of Mktg. was very thorough & friendly. She invited us back with relative for lunch. The staff was friendly & [name removed made sure we were introduced to any staff that came in our...

Senior Suites of West Humboldt Park

3656 West Huron Street, Chicago, IL 60624

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
7
7 Photos available
2
2 Floor plans available
Provides: Independent Living
See all Senior Lifestyle - Suites communities

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...

... Read more
4.2(5 reviews)

Happy being here. Friendly neighbor they provide entertainment/activities/the staff is a big help to us. They come and check on the senior seeing that we all are ok.

The Clare

55 East Pearson St, Chicago, IL 60611

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
16
16 Photos available
4
4 Floor plans available
Provides: Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Life Care Services LLC communities

The Clare rises as an integral part of downtown Chicago—with the blue of Lake Michigan at one hand, the proud skyline at the other and at its feet all you could ever desire for enrichment, excitement and fulfillment. This premiere retirement residence and the unique lifestyle it offers await you...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Special Dining Programs
3.7(7 reviews)

My parents have been at The Clare since 2008, first in Independent Living, then my Father in Memory care and now my mother in Assisted Living. They chose the Clare as their plan for retirement. They both...

Senior Suites of Marquette Village

7430 South Rockwell Avenue, Chicago, IL 60629

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
8
8 Photos available
2
2 Floor plans available
Provides: Independent Living
See all Senior Lifestyle - Suites communities

Senior Suites offers affordable, high quality apartments homes with specially-designed amenities to meet the needs of Chicago's older adults, those 62 years of age and better.

... Read more
4.5(6 reviews)

Our loved one is able to cook her meals in the room and because of covid they have not really had any meals. We do believe the activities are starting to come back, however our loved one has not ventured to...

Montgomery Place

5550 S Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60637

10
10 Photos available
Provides: Independent Living

Montgomery Place is a Continuing Care Retirement Community with a range of living options. Located in Chicago's historic Hyde Park, with spectacular views of Lake Michigan, there's something for everyone here! Modern apartments support active lifestyles and Independent Living. Assisted Living...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Guest meals
5.0(10 reviews)

Will you pass on to the staff the following thank you for doing, not only the job you were hired to do, but an additional variety of tasks you never signed on for - delivering hot meals to our doors, taking...

Senior Suites of Auburn Gresham

1050 West 79th Street, Chicago, IL 60620

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
10
10 Photos available
2
2 Floor plans available
Provides: Independent Living
See all Senior Lifestyle - Suites communities

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...

... Read more
4.3(23 reviews)

My brother is really enjoying his time in this community. I'am comfortable with his move here. I know he is safe, and in good hands. The director is great, and he has a very good staff at this community....

Oak Park Arms Retirement Community

408 South Oak Park Avenue, Oak Park, IL 60302

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Photos available
Provides: Independent Living, Assisted Living

Built as a luxury hotel in 1922, the Oak Park Arms retained the original charm of the grand hotels of the 20th century. The apartments, Ballroom, Georgian Room Restaurant, Lounge, and meeting rooms have been renovated on an on-going basis. A rental retirement community for 26 years, the Oak Park...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Guest meals
4.1(27 reviews)

I toured several places during my search for Independent Living. Oak Park Arms was my last place to see and I was highly impressed with not only [name removed], who showed me a couple of units, but was truly...

Sunrise of Lincoln Park

2710 Clark Street, Chicago, IL 60614

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
1
1 Video available
16
16 Photos available
4
4 Floor plans available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
See all Sunrise Senior Living communities

In elegant, residential environments, we deliver the finest in senior care, and are recognized internationally for both quality and innovation. Guided by our Principles of Service, Sunrise affords families peace-of-mind by providing today's seniors with a range of personalized assisted living...

... Read more
Beauty Salon
Enclosed Courtyard
4.0(43 reviews)

Very friendly and welcoming. Definitely can be slightly overbearing in terms of safety and what residents can do independently but that is understandable. Just a heads up for any family member where the...

Golden Years Retirement Home

7848 Ogden Ave, Lyons, IL 60534

1
1 Photos available
Provides: Independent Living

Golden Years Retirement Home is an independent living community located in the beautiful village of Lyons, Cook County, Illinois, just 14 miles from the City of Chicago. Our vibrant community is located near the great Des Plain-es River and the historic Cream City Amusement Park both of which are...

... Read more
3.3(9 reviews)

The lady they had taking care of our loved one, [name removed] was the best. She stayed with him and provided him with amazing care. [name removed] who runs the facility was amazing too. We would recommend...

Senior Suites of Garfield Ridge

5839 South Harlem Avenue, Chicago, IL 60638

Starting at$X,XXX+ monthly
6
6 Photos available
2
2 Floor plans available
Provides: Independent Living
See all Senior Lifestyle - Suites communities

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...

... Read more
4.5(15 reviews)

The people here are amazing. The process took a little longer than we anticipated, but the staff were totally on top of it and made up for it by working harder. They have a lot of great activities provided....

Viewing 26-50 out of 155 communities

Costs of independent living in the Chicago area

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.

Average cost comparisons near Chicago, IL

8.11 miles from you

Evergreen Park, IL

$2,147

per month on average

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Your zip code

Chicago, IL

$4,885

per month on average

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7.75 miles from you

Hometown, IL

$2,223

per month on average

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How people pay for independent living in Chicago

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.

  • Income: Even if you are no longer bringing in a paycheck, you may still have income in the form of Social Security benefits, savings, pensions, or investments.
  • Proceeds from the sale of a house: Many seniors transitioning to independent living are looking to downsize so as not to worry about home ownership and maintenance in retirement. Selling a home can not only free up such responsibilities, but it can also provide some equity to cover the cost of rent at an independent living community.
  • Reverse mortgage: If selling your home isn’t feasible, a reverse mortgage can enable you to take a loan from the home’s current equity.
  • Life insurance: Some life insurance policies can be sold to a third party or surrendered for cash, which can then be used to cover senior living during your retirement. Talk to your insurance provider to see what your options are.
  • Long-term care insurance: Long-term care insurance does not cover the cost of rent at an independent living community. However, it can be used for in-home care services for medical conditions. Some seniors choose in-home care rather than moving to an assisted living community. Policies do vary though, so plan ahead and check with your policy provider to see what is covered in terms of future care needs.

Housing support for independent living in Chicago

Understand Illinois laws and regulations for independent living communities

Illinois independent living communities are required to enforce a 55 year age minimum per the Illinois Administrative Code. 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:

  • Fire retardant building materials
  • Minimum square foot requirements for specific numbers of people
  • Bathrooms accessible to each bedroom without requiring passage through another bedroom
  • Proper and accessible building exits

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:

  • convenient parking
  • acceptance of rent payment on a date that corresponds to tenant’s disability payments
  • enabling tenants with disabilities to have equal access to the complex’s shared spaces or activities

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.

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.

Additional Chicago Department of Health resources

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

COVID-19 regulations for Chicago independent living communities

There are currently no COVID-19 regulations in place for Chicago independent living communities.

Get to know independent living in Chicago

142

Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market

4.1/5.0 average in-network rating
88% of these independent living communities are pet-friendly
59% of these independent living communities offer dining
90% of our independent living partners offer organized activities
59% of our independent living partners offer meal services
60% of the seniors we’ve referred to Chicago independent living communities are women

75

Seniors referred to independent living in Chicago by A Place for Mom average 75 years of age

Features of independent living communities 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:

  • Balconies or patios
  • High-speed internet access
  • Storage units
  • On-site maintenance and management staff
  • Wheelchair-accessible units and common areas

Some communities even offer the following types of on-site services for additional fees:

  • Laundry and housekeeping
  • Meal services
  • Emergency staff on call
  • Transportation services
  • Concierge services
  • Third-party care services

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:

  • Social lounges and game rooms
  • Movie theaters
  • Libraries and media rooms
  • Business centers
  • Fitness centers
  • Pools
  • BBQ areas
  • Social calendars

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.

Aging-in-place services

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.

Explore senior care with confidence:

Know where to start.

Identify the right care for your loved one with our free assessment.

See what you can afford.

Understand cost and payment for long-term care based on your loved one's needs.

Find top facilities for you.

Free, personalized guidance from our Senior Living Advisors can help you narrow your search.

Tour your favorite facilities.

Our free touring checklist can help you choose the right community.

Unfamiliar with Chicago? Highlights for seniors

342400

12%

Percent of Chicago residents age 65+

66000

72%

Percentage of Chicago’s older adults who self-report being in overall good health, according to Center for Community Health Equity

Health care for seniors in Chicago

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

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

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

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

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.

Transportation for seniors in Chicago

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, each out of 100:

77

72

65

Senior activities in Chicago

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:

Frequently asked questions

The Admiral at the Lake, a CCRC, Independence Village Naperville and Brookdale Glen Ellyn 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 3,098 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

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

  2. International Code Council. (2019, December 1). 2019 Chicago building code with revised April 2022 supplement.

  3. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. (2022). Reasonable accommodations and modifications.

  4. A Place for Mom. (2022). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  5. U.S. Census Bureau. (2021, July 21). Chicago city, Illinois. QuickFacts.

  6. 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.

  7. Walk Score. (2022). Living in Chicago.

More questions?

Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.

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