Baltimore, known as the birthplace of The Star-Spangled Banner, is a vibrant city that offers a wide range of dining, sports, and cultural events. With a thriving art scene, delightful neighborhoods, and a wide range of culinary delights, there is always something to explore, experience, and savor along its inner and outer harbors.
Independent living in Baltimore is ideal for individuals seeking to maintain an autonomous lifestyle and be involved in a community of like-minded people while avoiding the burdensome responsibilities associated with homeownership. Expect housing with all the familiar comforts of a home, with additional maintenance services and community events.
Within this guide, you will discover valuable information about independent living in Baltimore, including cost and payment options, legislation designed to protect seniors, transportation choices within the city, and many activities to enjoy alone or with loved ones.
10 Best Independent Living Communities in Baltimore, MD
Baltimore, known as the birthplace of The Star-Spangled Banner, is a vibrant city that offers a wide range of dining, sports, and cultural events. With a thriving art scene, delightful neighborhoods, and a wide range of culinary delights, there is always something to explore, experience, and savor along its inner and outer harbors.Read more
Independent living in Baltimore is ideal for individuals seeking to maintain an autonomous lifestyle and be involved in a community of like-minded people while avoiding the burdensome responsibilities associated with homeownership. Expect housing with all the familiar comforts of a home, with additional maintenance services and community events.
Within this guide, you will discover valuable information about independent living in Baltimore, including cost and payment options, legislation designed to protect seniors, transportation choices within the city, and many activities to enjoy alone or with loved ones.
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- What families are saying about independent living in Baltimore
- Costs of independent living in the Baltimore area
- How people pay for independent living in Baltimore
- Understand Maryland laws and regulations for independent living communities
- Get to know independent living in Baltimore
- Types of independent living in Baltimore
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Baltimore? Highlights for seniors
What families are saying about independent living in Baltimore
Recent reviews for independent living in Baltimore
Sunrise of Severna Park
Integrity Esther's Place at Harford in Baltimore, MD
Park View at Fullerton in Baltimore, MD
Costs of independent living in the Baltimore area
According to proprietary data from A Place for Mom, the average cost of our partner independent living communities in Baltimore is $4,933.[01] This includes fees and service add-ons, such as in-home care and meals, and may differ depending on location, floorplan, and amenities offered.
The chart below illustrates the average baseline cost of independent living in Baltimore without taking add-on services into account.
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Baltimore, MD vs. nearby cities
Baltimore, MD
How people pay for independent living in Baltimore
There are several methods available to finance independent living. While long-term care insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid do not directly cover independent living costs, they can still be utilized in different ways to help with expenses related to in-home care and necessary medical services.
Individuals often opt to combine multiple financial sources, such as retirement savings and Social Security benefits, to afford independent living. This section will provide insights on how private payments, VA benefits, Medicaid, and Medicare can all contribute toward funding a transition into an independent living community.
Seniors have various private payment options available to cover independent living expenses. These commonly include savings, Social Security benefits, pensions, and investment returns. Additionally, seniors can also use the following methods:
Number of veterans who live in Baltimore
About 51% of Baltimore veterans are 65+
Veterans who meet the eligibility criteria and live in the Baltimore area have access to a range of benefits designed to assist with independent expenses. Among the prominent options is the VA Pension, a monthly payment that can be used to cover expenses that enhance veterans’ quality of life.
Another notable benefit is Aid and Attendance, which offers additional monthly payments to wartime veterans who receive a VA Pension. This particular benefit aims to aid those who require assistance with daily activities, are bedridden due to an illness, or experience impaired vision. By accessing these VA benefits, seniors can receive the necessary support to address their specific needs in housing and health care. As it is added to the VA Pension, it can also be used on anything that enhances a veteran’s quality of life.
Although the Aid and Attendance benefit application can be accessed online, it is advisable to consult with a veterans service officer prior to applying for any benefits. By seeking guidance from a veterans service officer, veterans can receive the most current advice on benefits and ensure they claim all the help they are entitled to.
In Baltimore, veterans can connect with these officers through reputable veterans services organizations (VSOs) such as the local American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, Paralyzed Veterans of America, and Veterans of Foreign Wars. These organizations offer valuable information, provide guidance, and serve as a hub for the community. Additionally, they can connect veterans with other local resources that may be less familiar but equally beneficial.
For further support or inquiries, veterans can also contact the Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs, Baltimore’s Commission on Veterans Affairs, and the VA’s Regional Baltimore Office, all of which are readily available to assist veterans with their needs.
Resources for Baltimore veterans
Baltimore Regional VA Office
31 Hopkins Plaza
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Baltimore County Commission on Veterans Affairs
400 Washington Ave.
Towson, MD 21204
Phone: 410-887-2450
Email: johnnyo@baltimorecountymd.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs
16 Francis St., 4th Floor
Annapolis, MD 21401
Phone: 410-260-3838
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Disabled American Veterans Post Paul Thompson Mem #1
2324 McElderry St.
Baltimore, MD 21205
Phone: 410-274-6328
Paralyzed Veterans of America — Baltimore Office
31 Hopkins Plaza, Room 1236
Baltimore, MD
Phone: 410-230-4470, ext. 1020
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8509
337 E. North Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: 410-547-9455
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3065
1202 Union Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21211
Phone: 410-235-1920
Email: vfw3065@gmail.com
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10078
425 E. Fort Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21230
Phone: 410-539-4210
Email: commanderpost10078@gmail.com
The American Legion — Department of Maryland, Inc.
101 N. Gay St., Room E
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: 410-752-1405
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Medicaid (referred to as Medical Assistance in Maryland) does not cover housing expenses for independent living. However, it can help alleviate the costs of in-home health care through home and community based services (HCBS) waivers.
In Maryland, several waivers can be utilized to offset in-home health expenses, each with its own eligibility criteria. Community Services for Older Adults and People with Disabilities encompass a range of in-home personal assistance and nurse monitoring programs. Another notable program is the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), designed to support and coordinate health services for seniors, enabling them to live within their communities. PACE aims to ensure that seniors receive comprehensive health care while maintaining their independence, and it is available for Baltimore residents on-site at Hopkins ElderPlus.
Applying for Medical Assistance can be done online through myMDTHINK or by submitting an application to the Maryland Department of Human Services. Detailed information on income guidelines can be found on the Department of Health website. Eligibility criteria for Medicaid are comprehensively explained in a guide provided by the Department of Health.
To assist individuals in navigating the Medicaid application process, the Baltimore City Division of Aging and Care Services and the Maryland Medical Assistance Program are available to provide guidance and support. In cases where grievances arise or additional advocacy services are needed, Maryland’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman can assist.
Baltimore resident Medicaid resources
Baltimore City Division of Aging and Care Services
417 E. Fayette St., 6th Floor
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: 410-396-4932
Maryland Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
10 N. Calvert St., Room 300
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: 410-396-3144
Maryland Department of Human Services
311 W. Saratoga St.
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 800-332-6347
Maryland Medical Assistance Program
Phone: 855-642-8572
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
201 W. Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 410-767-6500
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
4940 Eastern Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21224
Phone: 410-550-8093
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Like Medicaid, Medicare doesn’t cover monthly rent. However, Medicare is an invaluable resource for seniors in independent living who have short-term medical needs. This federal health insurance program is accessible to individuals aged 65 and above and provides coverage for qualifying expenses, such as hospital stays, doctor visits, and medical equipment. Online Medicare applications can be found on Maryland’s Department of Aging website and can be submitted to the Social Security Administration.
Maryland has several organizations that can provide financial assistance for Medicare-related costs. The Maryland Medicare Savings Program assists eligible individuals by offsetting premiums, copays, and deductibles based on income eligibility limits. The Senior Prescription Drug Assistance Program (SPDAP) supports Medicare-eligible residents enrolled in a prescription drug plan. Finally, the State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) offers financial counseling to individuals seeking clarity on their health insurance benefits or requiring assistance with the application process. Detailed information about SHIP can be accessed on its website.
Another beneficial resource is Maryland’s Program of the All-Inclusive Care of the Elderly (PACE), known as Hopkins ElderPlus, which is operated through Johns Hopkins Medicine. This program provides comprehensive support and coordinates care services for seniors, ensuring they receive the benefits they are entitled to. More information regarding PACE and eligibility requirements is available online.
In Medicare grievances cases, the Maryland and Baltimore City Divisions of Aging and Care Services and the Maryland Long-Term Care Ombudsman offer guidance and support. They can also help with navigating the Medicare application and benefits process.
Baltimore resident Medicare resources
Baltimore City Social Security Administration
1010 Park Ave., Room 200
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Baltimore City Division of Aging and Care Services
417 E. Fayette St., 6th Floor
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: 410-396-4932
301 W. Preston St., Suite 1007
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 410-767-1100
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
4940 Eastern Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21224
Phone: 410-550-8093
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Maryland Medicare Savings Program
Maryland Department of Health
Phone: 800-638-3403
Senior Prescription Drug Assistance Program (SPDAP)
Phone: 800-551-5995
Fax: 800-847-8217
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
200 St. Paul Place, Suite 2700
Baltimore, Maryland 21202
Phone: 800-243-3425
Maryland Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
10 N. Calvert St., Room 300
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: 410-396-3144
Understand Maryland laws and regulations for independent living communities
Unlike other long-term care facilities, independent living communities do not provide on-site health care, so they are not subject to the same regulatory guidelines as assisted living or skilled nursing care communities. Instead, they are required to comply with rental property laws and regulations, of which state and federal laws are in place to safeguard tenants.
Before being made available for rent, all rental units in Baltimore City must be registered, inspected, and licensed by the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD). The DHCD provides a publicly available list of inspection requirements to ensure compliance. Direct inspection inquiries should be sent to: S8Landlord@habc.org or HCVInspections@habc.org.
Tenant protection against discrimination is enforced at both state and federal levels. The Fair Housing Act (FHA) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) safeguard individuals from discrimination and ensure that housing is accessible for people with disabilities. Additionally, Maryland prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities under State Government Article 20-701 — 20-710.
Some independent living communities also have minimum age requirements. Generally, individuals must be 62 years or older in Maryland to reside in an independent living community. However, some facilities may accommodate younger individuals with disabilities or spouses under the age of 62.
Independent living is sometimes combined with assisted living. If that’s the case, then it is subject to the same laws that apply to assisted living. Assisted living facilities in Maryland must abide by several regulations set by the Maryland Department of Health, including:
- On-site nursing is provided by a registered nurse.
- Sufficient staff must care for residents 24 hours a day.
- Managers must complete 20 hours of continuing education every two years.
- Staff who help with personal care must have at least five hours of mental illness and cognitive impairment training within 90 days of employment.
Inspections of these facilities should occur every 15 months or as needed. You can find inspection reports on the Maryland Health Care Commission search portal. Just click on the name of the particular facility and then the inspection reports tab.
Maryland Department of Health contact information
201 W. Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 410-767-6500
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
COVID-19 regulations for Baltimore independent living communities
At present, there are no specific city or statewide regulations pertaining to COVID-19. Instead, adhering to the latest guidelines provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is recommended. It is advisable to check with individual facilities, however, as they may have their own regulations. In Maryland, the current long-term care guidelines align with the recommendations outlined by the CDC.
Masking. Health care personnel and volunteers are advised to wear properly fitting, medical-grade face masks, while visitors can wear cloth face masks.
Facility cleanliness. It is recommended to assign dedicated equipment to each resident whenever feasible and ensure proper disinfection between use by different residents. High-touch surfaces should be regularly disinfected using an EPA-registered disinfectant.
Quarantining. It is important to have a designated area for observation or quarantine to accommodate individuals needing isolation. This includes new admissions as well as current residents who have been exposed to COVID-19, regardless of their vaccination status.
Get to know independent living in Baltimore
Types of independent living in Baltimore
Baltimore, the birthplace of The Star-Spangled Banner, is a dynamic and diverse city with much to offer its residents. Baltimore’s strategic location along the East Coast provides convenient access for travel enthusiasts, with easy drives or train rides to popular destinations such as New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.
Combined care options
Many individuals considering independent living also contemplate their future care needs. In Baltimore, four facilities within a 25-mile radius of the downtown area offer combined long-term care services, such as assisted living and memory care, offering a convenient option for avoiding potential stress associated with moving to a new care facility in the future and making it much easier to age in place.
Activities focused on friendship
Seniors have ample opportunities to forge new friendships through shared hobbies like golf and art or group activities such as cooking classes. Many independent living facilities provide games rooms for enthusiasts of table or card games, and they also organize day trips and group outings, allowing residents to explore and socialize with newfound friends beyond the confines of their community center.
There is also the National Aquarium at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, where you and a group of friends can marvel at thousands of marine creatures before indulging in a delightful meal at one of the upscale crab shacks conveniently located nearby. For sports enthusiasts, the MLB’s Baltimore Orioles and the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens provide the perfect opportunity to catch an exciting game with a friend throughout the year.
The comforts of home and more
Experience the comfort of home in our partner independent living communities in Baltimore. These facilities offer various amenities to suit your unique preferences. Join fellow residents in the dining room for restaurant-style meals or cook in your own kitchen. Enjoy leisure time by the swimming pool, watch a film in the theater room, or stay active at the fitness center in select communities. Many of the independent living communities allow you to bring your dog or cat — because home is where your pets are.
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Unfamiliar with Baltimore? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Baltimore
Median annual income for Baltimore seniors 65 and older
Health care for seniors in Baltimore
Johns Hopkins Hospital
Johns Hopkins, a renowned hospital in Maryland, holds the top rank and enjoys national recognition, especially in the fields of rheumatology, neurology, and psychiatry. It is consistently rated as a high-performing hospital across a wide range of procedures and conditions it provides.
University of Maryland Medical Center
U.S. News and World Report recognizes this medical and surgical facility’s exceptional performance in ear, nose, and throat procedures. It holds national rankings and is rated as a high-performing institution in five adult specialties and 12 conditions.
MedStar Union Memorial Hospital
MedStar Union Memorial Hospital has served the Baltimore area for more than 160 years. It is known for its exceptional performance in orthopedics and is recognized in 11 other procedures and conditions.
Baltimore’s relatively compact layout makes it a pedestrian-friendly city for seniors who prefer walking. Though it has a walk score of 64 and a bike score of 53 (out of 100), most residents rely on cars for transportation, although efforts are being made to enhance the city’s transit infrastructure.[07] Walk Score grades neighborhoods across the U.S. on walkability, bikeability, and ease of public transport.
For individuals who prefer not to drive, Baltimore’s Maryland Transit Administration (MTA) operates a comprehensive city bus service with multiple high-frequency routes, including CityLink, LocalLink, and Express BusLink services. Additionally, the MTA provides subway and light rail services in downtown Baltimore. The Charm City Circulator, a free shuttle system, operates four routes within the central business district, catering to those interested in exploring downtown Baltimore.
Baltimore’s TaxiCard program is an excellent transportation alternative for seniors and individuals with disabilities. This subsidized program offers transportation services through approved taxicab companies. Eligibility requirements must be met, and registration can be conveniently completed online.
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Baltimore
Baltimore is a city that celebrates its diversity, which is evident in its vast array of attractions and activities. History enthusiasts will find themselves spoiled for choice, as the city boasts an abundance of traditional museums and historical landmarks.
For a unique glimpse into Baltimore’s industrial past, the Baltimore Museum of Industry is a must-visit. It provides fascinating insights into the innovators who shaped the city’s industrial age. Whether your interest lies in garment making, airplane manufacturing, or even video game design, the museum showcases a vast collection of exhibitions complemented by live demonstrations and interactive hands-on activities.
A visit to the Maryland Center for History and Culture is highly recommended to gain a deeper understanding of Maryland’s rich culture. The center houses an impressive collection of over 200,000 items and artifacts that vividly depict the story and history of life in Maryland. It serves as a captivating resource for exploring the cultural heritage of the state. Seniors can purchase tickets to the center for a discounted rate of $18.
Baltimore offers a plethora of options for sports enthusiasts. Situated side by side, Camden Yards hosts the Baltimore Orioles baseball team, while M&T Bank Stadium is home to the NFL’s Ravens. The timing of both seasons means there is nearly always a live sports game to enjoy with friends and family.
If you want to discover more about Baltimore’s impact on the U.S., don’t miss out on some historic houses in the city. The Edgar Allen Poe House and Museum, designated as a national historic landmark, offers visitors the opportunity to explore the residence where Poe began his writing career. Open from Thursday to Sunday, the house is conveniently located near Poe’s grave, making it a worthwhile visit for enthusiasts. Another notable house to explore is the Star-Spangled Banner Flag House, once the home of Mary Pickersgill, the talented seamstress who crafted the U.S. flag that inspired the iconic poem and national anthem of the United States.
Baltimore is dedicated to providing seniors ample opportunities to engage in trips, classes, and recreational programs. The Department of Recreation and Parks organizes these events regularly. Information can be found online, often with transportation included in the ticket cost. Joining one of Baltimore’s numerous senior centers is another excellent way to establish regular connections with local seniors and participate in community activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Morningside House of Friendship, Lighthouse Senior Living at Martin’s Wood LLC for Hopkins Creek and Brighton Gardens of Columbia are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Baltimore, MD. 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 Baltimore is 3497.03 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101) [Data set]. American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data set]. American Community Survey.
U.S. News and World Report. (2023). Johns Hopkins Hospital.
U.S. News and World Report. (2023). University of Maryland Medical Center.
U.S. News and World Report. (2023). MedStar Union Memorial Hospital.
Walk Score. (2023). Living in Baltimore.
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