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 St Louis, MO

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Who are you searching for?

Known for its sports scene, blues music, breweries, and historical monuments, St. Louis is perfect for active people who love spending time in the community. Home to a plethora of museums, the Gateway Arch, and the Soulard Farmers Market, there’s a little bit of everything for everyone.

With eight independent living communities partnered with A Place for Mom within a 10-mile radius of downtown St. Louis, independent living offers a way to spend retirement stress-free. Not only will you find your community offering regular activities and social events, you also won’t have to worry about transportation, home maintenance, or dining as those costs are included in St. Louis independent living facilities.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything you need to know about independent living, including how to pay for independent living, the laws and regulations that protect your rights, veterans benefits in St. Louis, Medicare and Medicaid information, and things to do in the city.

St Louis Independent Living Facilities | 201 Reviews
Showing 43 communities
Last Updated: 3/26/24
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Types of care available in St Louis, MO
Independent Living
Independent Living
Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Assisted Living
Assisted Living
Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Nursing Homes
Nursing Homes
Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Memory Care
Memory Care
Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Residential Care Home
Residential Care Home
Residential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Senior Apartments
Senior Apartments
Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Average starting price $X,XXX/month
Home Care
Home Care
Home care relies on trained aides to provide companionship and non-medical care for seniors living at home.
Recent reviews of Independent Living in St Louis, MO
4 / 5.0

They are pretty good. It's very clean. The staff is pretty friendly. They have stuff going on for activities, but they told me they take them out at least once a week, they told us they had a bus with a lift, and they don't. They told us when she was there she would be able to eat in any of the dini...

5 / 5.0

this is a first class place. excellent for the amount you pay. the only complaint is the consistency of the food quality. it all depends on who is cooking from day to day

5 / 5.0

After an extensive search, I realize Lutheran Senior Services' Laclede Groves retirement community in Webster Groves offers the best Life Plan facility in the St. Louis area. I'm experiencing the high level of quality of life and care that all seniors hope to experience in their retirement. All faci...

Photo of Altenheim St. Louis
44 Photos available
8.7
Review score
21 reviews
8.7
Review score
21 reviews
5 star
56%
4 star
29%
3 star
0%
2 star
10%
1 star
5%
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The n/a's are for what I am not directly involved with at the community. However, the director [name removed] is very easy to work with and he is also very approachable. Based on the experience we have had...
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.
Experience elegant, boutique senior living at affordable rates. The charm of the Altenheim begins with its magnificent location on the banks of the scenic Mississippi. From the moment you walk in, you'll feel at home with the most delightful surroundings you could ask for in an independent,...
Photo of Tower Grove Manor
99 Photos available
44 Floor plans available
8.0
Review score
14 reviews
8.0
Review score
14 reviews
5 star
79%
4 star
14%
3 star
7%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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[name removed], the director, is very patient and kind. She explained everything in detail and was very accommodating to our requests. She made the transition very comfortable and is always available for...
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.
You have earned the right to expect good things from life. Tower Grove Manor has built its reputation on fulfilling those expectations. Located in the heart of historic South St. Louis, Tower Grove Manor takes pride in the traditional values of friendliness and excellent service. With a scenic...
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Photo of Crestview Senior LivingCommunity card badge
1919 Photos available
33 Floor plans available
9.8
Review score
86 reviews
9.8
Review score
86 reviews
5 star
77%
4 star
21%
3 star
1%
2 star
1%
1 star
0%
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I would tell others looking - Don't hesitate to ask questions. The staff goes above and beyond to be helpful. First the info is by phone and then you make an appointment to meet with a staff member and you...
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.
Life is an Invitation .... Enjoy Yours!Conveniently located in Crestwood, MO. Crestview offers Luxury Living at an affordable month to month price. Choose from studio, one bedroom, and two bedroom apartment homes. Crestview's quiet neighborhood is within minutes of Grants Farm and Grants Trail....
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Photo of The Rockwood
1111 Photos available
9.4
Review score
18 reviews
9.4
Review score
18 reviews
5 star
55%
4 star
11%
3 star
28%
2 star
6%
1 star
0%
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Very welcoming and a lot going on for a smaller community. The apartments are beautiful and fit in with the surrounding area. The food is excellent. I would highly recommend.
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.
The Rockwood is a historic building in Old Webster Groves, Missouri from the 1928 era and was renovated in 2007, however each year, our owners complete projects to keep current with seniors' wants and needs. Our staff has combined 50 years in senior care and senior living. We are not part of a...
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Photo of Lutheran Convalescent Home
11 Photo available
8.5
Review score
3 reviews
8.5
Review score
3 reviews
5 star
100%
4 star
0%
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Marvelous facility! My mom lived at Laclede Groves for the last 3 years of her life. From her 90th birthday party in the first month of her stay to her last week in Laclede’s hospice care, our family was...
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living, Home Care, Nursing Homes
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.
Home Care: Home care relies on trained aides to provide companionship and non-medical care for seniors living at home.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of Brentmoor
99 Photos available
8.0
Review score
11 reviews
8.0
Review score
11 reviews
5 star
82%
4 star
18%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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We're quite happy and satisfied with it. I would tell other families to come and visit. The cost was the number one factor for us. The staff are also very friendly. And the location was very good for my...
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.
Life Begins at Brentmoor! Centrally located in mid-St. Louis County (Delmar and I-70), this high-rise community offers 72 independent living apartments which include studio, one, two and three bedroom units. Senior Living at The Brentmoor includes all the comforts of home, plus scheduled...
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Photo of McCormack House-Forest Park Southeast
1616 Photos available
5 star
50%
4 star
50%
3 star
0%
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The staff have been kind helpful and quick to respond when my mother in law needs assistance. The community is very clean and we are happy with it. They do offer some daily social activities for the...
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.
Here at McCormack House at Forest Park Southeast we offer spacious one and two bedroom apartments for seniors 62 and older. We are located in the Tower Grove Community, at the intersection of Manchester and Kingshighway. We have a Fitness Center, Activity Room, and Dining Facility. We have...
Photo of Kingsland Walk Senior Living
1010 Photos available
6.9
Review score
15 reviews
6.9
Review score
15 reviews
5 star
27%
4 star
33%
3 star
13%
2 star
20%
1 star
7%
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I wish they were cheaper, but I really loved this community. My mom was loved when she was there. She was treated with respect. Her apartment was cleaned. The menu choices were great. She was treated...
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.
Kingsland Walk Senior Living offers so much more than a place to hang your hat. We are a true community, shaped by the relationships we form and the adventures we share. We are committed to crafting a lifestyle rich in experiences that go beyond the traditional concept of senior living, and we...
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Photo of Clarendale Clayton
1818 Photos available
1313 Floor plans available
Pricing promotion expiring soon
6.6
Review score
11 reviews
6.6
Review score
11 reviews
5 star
27%
4 star
18%
3 star
18%
2 star
0%
1 star
37%
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My loved ones has preferences and the food does not always meet their needs. It was the first community that we picked, and the value for the money is great. We picked based on what we saw during the tour,...
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.
See details
Photo of Pacific Place Retirement Community
66 Photos available
5 star
60%
4 star
40%
3 star
0%
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My grandmother has lived at Pacific Place for over ten years now, and we couldn't be happier...The size and location makes visits so easy. The neighborhood is fun to walk around, there are lots of great...
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.
Pacific Place offers one of the most inviting and gracious retirement lifestyles in the area. The first urban senior Living community in St. Louis built in 1997. We are an independent community, designed exclusively for active, independent Seniors. Here you will discover that where you live has a...
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Photo of The Estates of Hidden Lake AL IL
22 Photos available
5 star
66%
4 star
17%
3 star
17%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
So far my experience has been great. It came just when the family needed it and it has been a godsend to me. The Head of Nurse is very informative and keeps communication open with the family. The staff...
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 Estates of Hidden Lake, (CCRC), offering the peace of mind that comes with knowing your'll enjoy priority access to additional levels of care should your needs ever change.Independent Living: Thirty two distinctive cottage homes or select from a one or two bedroom apartment. Which suits...
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 Eads Square Apartments
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Rosary House
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 Jefferson Arms Apartments
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Rosati Center
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 Ollie Langhorst Apartments
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Alpha Terrace Apartments
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Bavarian Tower
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Bevo Place Apartments
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of The Riverview Care Center
5 star
33%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
67%
See all reviews
Everything is going well for my brother since his move to this community. I'am satisfied with the care and everything they have done for us. He is doing very good. They have a pleasant staff, they have been...
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.
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 Bethesda Barclay House
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 Carondelet Retirement (Mental Health)
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 Lucas-Hunt Village Apartments
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.

Costs of independent living in the St. Louis area

According to recent data from A Place for Mom, the average monthly cost of independent living, including associated fees and service fee add-ons, is $3,954, several hundred dollars more than the state and national averages.[01] Fees and service add-ons are included in this price.

The following chart illustrates the average baseline costs of independent living in St. Louis without taking any add-on fees into account.

Average cost comparisons near Saint Louis, MO

Average monthly costs

Saint Louis, MO

$3,822

How people pay for independent living in St. Louis

Independent living isn’t classified as a type of senior care; because of this, seniors can’t use funding methods like Medicaid and Medicare to cover the housing costs associated with independent living.

Seniors commonly combine various income streams like retirement savings, social security benefits, and VA benefits to offset housing and medical costs for independent living. In this section, you’ll learn how these methods, as well as other private pay options and public assistance, can be used to fund a move into an independent living community.

Private pay methods

Private income sources are often used to pay for costs related to independent living, whether through Social Security benefits, investment returns, or pensions. Other sources seniors often turn to include:

Caregiver Resources
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VA benefits
45003

Number of veterans who live in St. Louis

About 56% of those veterans are over the age of 65

Veterans in St. Louis have several resources available to them that can help assist with the costs of independent living and the process of identifying eligibility and filing claims.

There are several VA benefits for seniors who need support with living costs, each with slightly different eligibility requirements. The most common is the Aid and Attendance benefit, which supports people who are bed-bound due to illness, have limited eyesight, or who need help performing daily activities. This benefit is added to a veteran’s Pension payment.

When trying to determine eligibility, we recommend contacting a veterans services officer who can work with you to ensure no benefits are left on the table. Veterans services officers can be accessed through various veterans services organizations and are vetted by the VA. They’re recognized by the VA as the best resource for eligibility and application support.

There are 5 Veterans of Foreign Wars posts in the city and 17 American Legion locations. We’ll list some of the American Legions below, but here is a directory of all 17. The St. Louis County Veterans Program is available for additional case assistance, advocacy, and referral services.

Resources for St. Louis veterans

Local veterans resources 

St. Louis County Veterans Program
St. Louis County Government Center NW
715 NW Plaza Drive
St. Ann, MO 63074
Phone: 314-615-7400
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

St. Louis Veterans Services Officers
Virgina Mack
Missouri Veterans Home
10600 Lewis & Clark Blvd., Rm # R1-109
St. Louis, MO, 63136
Phone: 314-421-8637
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Christy Allison 
Missouri Veterans Home
10600 Lewis & Clark Blvd.
St. Louis, MO, 63136
Phone: 314-421-8654
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Thursday, 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Derrick Russell
9700 Page Ave.
St. Louis, MO, 63132
Phone: 314-421-8676
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Nathan Ruhnow
Prevedel Federal Building/Missouri Veterans Commission
9700 Page Ave., Rm # R1-109
St. Louis, MO, 63132
Phone: 314-421-8673
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Malinda Graves-Sampson
Prevedel Federal Building/Missouri Veterans Commission
9700 Page Ave., Rm # R1-109
St. Louis, MO 63132
Phone: 314-421-8674
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Veterans associations

Veterans of Foreign Wars Posts

Post 3480 Capt. Horace G. Burke Post
5020 State St.
East St. Louis, IL 62205
Phone: 618-271-7004

Post 6137 Newport Heights Memorial Post
5468 Gravois Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63116
Phone: 314-352-6137

Post 8112 Gruhala-Gmeiner Memorial Post
4310 S. 38th St.
St. Louis, MO 63116
Phone: 314-351-8890

American Legion

Quentin Roosevelt Post 1
St. Louis Altenheim
5408 S. Broadway Blvd.
St. Louis, MO 63111

Griesedieck-Fournier Post 3
4617 Dahlia Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63116
Fred W. Stockham Post 4
405 Washington Ave.
St. Louis, MO 63102

Medicaid

Known as MO HealthNet in Missouri, Medicaid is available for people in the state who need assistance with medical care. While independent living itself isn’t covered, in-home health care services (even those within an independent living community) are available for some people who qualify for a waiver program.

The Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver program is available to people over the age of 63 and who meet the state’s income requirements, can assist with personal care, housekeeping and errands, nursing services, and meal deliveries. To apply for Medicaid and any waivers, apply online through MO HealthNet and your application will be sent to all programs to check for eligibility.

For assistance or support applying for benefits, Aging Ahead, operated by St. Louis Area Agency on Aging (SLAAA), offers several services. The St. Louis Ombudsman can also support seniors through grievances and advocate for those in the claims process.

St. Louis resident Medicaid resources

Local Medicaid resources

Missouri Department of Social Services, MO HealthNet Division
615 Howerton Court
Jefferson City, MO 65102
Phone: 573-751-3425

Aging Ahead
14535 Manchester Road
Manchester, MO 63011
Phone: 800-243-6060
Email: info@agingahead.org

St. Louis County Ombudsman
8050 Watson Road, Suite 155
St. Louis, MO 63119
Phone: 314-918-8222

Medicare

Medicare is federal health care for people who are at least 65. While it doesn’t cover the cost of independent living, residents can use it for short-term medically necessary health expenses, including in-home care. To apply for Medicare, fill out the online application or contact your local Social Security Administration office.

The St. Louis Area on Aging (SLAAA) offers funding for those who need financial assistance with health care and may cover Part A and Part B premiums, deductibles, and copays. MORx, the Missouri State Pharmacy Assistance Program, is available for people with Medicare Part D who need assistance paying for prescription medication.

In terms of other Medicare resources, Missouri CLAIM is Missouri’s State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) which provides free financial counseling to Medicare users. Circle of Care Counseling is local organizations that provide advocacy and financial counseling through free, unbiased services.

The Social Security Administration, which runs Medicare programs, is also a helpful resource for those with general questions about Medicare and what is and isn’t covered. For those of you who have grievances or complaints, or need advocacy, two ombudsmen are available. The St. Louis Ombudsman Program (run by VOYCE) and the State Office of Long Term Care Ombudsman Program are both on hand to support.

St. Louis resident Medicare resources

St. Louis Medicare assistance and advocacy

Social Security Administration Office
717 N. 16th St.
St. Louis, MO 63103
Phone: 800-772-1213

St. Louis Area Agency on Aging (SLAAA)
1520 Market Road
St. Louis, MO 63103
Phone: 314-612-5918
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Circle of Care Counseling
423 Chez Paree
Hazelwood, MO 63042
Phone: 314-873-3501

State Office of Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services
Phone: 800-309-3282

St. Louis Ombudsman
8050 Watson Road, Suite 155
St. Louis, MO 63119
Phone: 314-918-8222

St. Louis Medicare programs

SLAAA Medicare Savings Program
City Hall
1200 Market St.
St. Louis, MO 63103
Phone: 314-622-4800

Understand Missouri laws and regulations for independent living communities

Because independent living apartments aren’t classified as long-term care facilities, they don’t have the same licensing requirements that communities like assisted living or memory care need to adhere to. There are, however, state and federal laws communities need to abide by:

  • The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requires independent living communities to be accessible and make reasonable accommodations when requested. It also prohibits discrimination from disability.
  • The Fair Housing Act prohibits rental discrimination from disability, sex, race, and familial status. The Housing for Older Persons exemption also ensures that approved housing can only be rented by those over the age of 55.
  • Renters in Missouri are also protected under the Landlord-Tenant Law, which protects renters from code violations and requires landlords to maintain safe housing standards.

However, if an independent living facility is part of a combined community with assisted living or memory care, for example, there will be additional licensing required due to these communities being classified as long-term care facilities. In this case, the Department of Health and Senior Services requires annual inspections and regular staff training. This document outlines the minimum requirements of assisted living and residential care facilities. To find inspection reports for assisted living facilities, search here.

Missouri Department of Health contact information

St. Louis Department of Health
1520 Market St.
St. Louis, MO 63103
Phone: 314-657-1528
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

COVID-19 regulations for St. Louis independent living communities

There are no COVID-19 mandates for independent living communities However, the St. Louis Department of Health recommends people follow best practices based on the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) guidance and provides some recommendations that are in line with the CDC.

An illustration of a syringe

Vaccinations. Encouraged but not required.

An illustration of a protective breathing mask

Masking. No mask mandate exists, but wearing a mask is recommended if transmission rates are up.

An illustration of two people with a double-sided arrow beneath them indicating distance

Social distancing. Avoidance of people with COVID-19 or symptoms of it is recommended.

An illustration of a person in bed within a house

Quarantining. No specific quarantining requirements exist.

Get to know independent living in St. Louis

8Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
3.9/5.0 average in-network rating
88% of communities offer pet-friendly services
100% of partner communities in St. Louis offer complimentary transportation
100% of partner communities are convenient to public transit
88% of partner communities in St. Louis offer wi-fi/high speed internet
1396
Number of people we have referred in market
79
Average age of resident we have referred in market 
Gender split: 67% female

Types of independent living in St. Louis

Independent living is a wonderful way to enjoy retirement without the stress of household errands. Expect to see communities that provide activities and social outings, prepared meals, transportation, as well as housekeeping and maintenance. Independent living typically doesn’t offer personal care services, making it ideal for people who are active and healthy but want the convenience of living within these communities.

More time for joy

In an independent living community, most tasks related to home upkeep — like landscaping, and home maintenance — are covered in the costs of independent living. This leaves more time to spend on hobbies and activities you enjoy, with many independent living communities having amenities like a golf course, pool, clubhouse, and tennis center.

Care to suit your future needs

For those thinking about future care needs, it’s important to note that many independent living communities are part of more extensive care communities. For example, only four independent living communities we partner with in St. Louis are standalone; one is combined with an assisted living facility, and three are combined with an assisted living and memory care facility. These combination communities make transitioning according to care needs smoother and less stressful than moving to a new standalone facility.

Independent living in the surrounding St. Louis suburbs

Beyond the 10-mile radius of downtown St. Louis, there are an additional 32 communities we partner with offering independent living within a 25-mile radius of the city center. Eleven are standalone facilities, while the rest are part of larger care communities and living facilities, including assisted living, memory care, and senior apartments.

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Unfamiliar with St. Louis? Highlights for seniors

187,821

Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in St. Louis

19%
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the St. Louis population
$54,928

Median annual income for St. Louis seniors 65 and older

Health care for seniors in St. Louis

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Barnes-Jewish Hospital 

Ranked No. 11 on the Best Hospitals Honor Roll, Barnes Jewish Hospital is nationally ranked in 20 procedures by U.S. News and World Report.

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Missouri Baptist Medical Center

A general medical and surgical facility, Missouri Baptist Medical Center performs highly in 15 procedures and 3 adult specialties according to U.S. News and World Report.

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Mercy Hospital St. Louis

Rated as high performing in three adult specialties and 13 procedures by the U.S. News and World Report, this general medical and surgical facility is spread across two campuses.

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St. Luke’s Hospital – Chesterfield
St. Luke’s Hospital – Chesterfield is particularly well known for treating heart conditions but is rated as high performing in 13 procedures and conditions according to the U.S. News and World Report.

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Christian Hospital 

Known for its treatment of COPD and lung cancer, Christian Hospital is a regionally ranked surgical and medical facility according to the U.S. News and World Report.

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St. Louis VA Medical Center

The St. Louis VA Medical Center is designed to provide veterans with primary and specialty care. This includes mental health care, extended care and rehab, recreation therapy, and treatment for substance abuse.

Transportation for seniors in St. Louis

Getting around St. Louis has been made easy by our partner independent living communities because they all offer complimentary transportation. But there are certainly other ways to get around, too.

While some neighborhoods in St. Louis are very walkable with a walk score of 66 out of 100[07], most people use cars to get around the city easily. The higher the walk score, the easier it is for people to walk around the city.

St. Louis’ public transport is called the Metro system, which offers several different transport options, including buses and trains. All Metro transit is accessible; MetroBus has lifts and ramps and is equipped with kneelers for people who need stairs. The MetroLink offers similar accommodations, floor-level entry and exit platforms, and ramps or elevators at all stations.[08] Amtrak also offers accessible seating, but reservations must be made in advance.[09]

For those unable to use public transportation, the Metro system and several St. Louis organizations offer transportation for seniors and those with disabilities.

  • Metro’s Call-A-Ride program offers curb-to-curb transport for those with physical or cognitive disabilities.
  • City Seniors provides transportation to people 60+ for medical appointments, banking appointments, and other errands.
  • Seniors on the Fly offers a number of personal assistance transportation services in the St. Louis metro area.
  • The City of St. Louis has free transportation to SLAAA senior centers and for non-emergency medical transportation.
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66

Walk Score

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58

Transit Score

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43

Bike Score

Senior activities in St. Louis

For the best views of St. Louis, there’s no better place to see the city than the St. Louis Arch Grounds and Museum. Reaching 630 feet in the air, you can see the U.S.’s tallest monument from the ground or take the tram to the very top. Another great spot for great views (and sports lovers) is Busch Stadium. The stadium hosts regular Cardinals baseball games and also features accessible seating.

Another iconic part of St. Louis’ history worth visiting is the Anheuser-Busch brewery, home to the oldest Budweiser brewery. Here you can explore the old caves where beer was traditionally stored while learning about the brewing traditions that make this brand what it is today.

Theater lovers, particularly those who love Broadway, will enjoy spending an evening at The Fabulous Fox or The Muny. Both theaters have regular shows and are extremely accessible, offering accessible seating, listening, and communication aids.

If you like spending time outside, Tower Grove Park and its surrounding neighborhood are a wonderful way to spend the day. Spread across 289 acres; it’s the largest and best preserved 19th Century Gardenesque park in the United States.[10] Beyond the park, wander through the local boutique stores or sip coffee at one of the many cafes in the area.

Art lovers also have plenty to do. The St. Louis Art Museum has a variety of art on display — from Monet watercolors to Ming Dynasty textiles — and is wheelchair accessible. For some local flavor, the Missouri History Museum and Soldiers Memorial have short- and long-term exhibitions that delve into the history of St. Louis.

For people interested in staying active in the community and making new friends, the following senior centers have various programming and supportive services:

Frequently Asked Questions

Avalon Park Independent Living, Crestview Senior Living and Keystone Place at Richland Creek are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near St Louis, MO. 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 St Louis is 3821.97 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

References

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

  2. U.S News & World Report. (2023). Barnes-Jewish Hospital.

  3. U.S News & World Report. (2023). Missouri Baptist Medical Center.

  4. U.S News & World Report. (2023). Mercy Hospital St. Louis.

  5. U.S News & World Report. (2023). St. Luke’s Hospital-Chesterfield.

  6. U.S News & World Report. (2023). Christian Hospital.

  7. Walk Score. (2023). Living in St. Louis.

  8. Metro St. Louis. (n.d.). Accessibility | Metro Transit – Saint Louis

  9. Amtrak. (n.d.). Accessible Travel Services | Amtrak

  10. City of St. Louis. (n.d.). Tower Grove Park | City of St. Louis Parks

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

2.

U.S News & World Report. (2023). Barnes-Jewish Hospital.

3.

U.S News & World Report. (2023). Missouri Baptist Medical Center.

4.

U.S News & World Report. (2023). Mercy Hospital St. Louis.

5.

U.S News & World Report. (2023). St. Luke’s Hospital-Chesterfield.

6.

U.S News & World Report. (2023). Christian Hospital.

7.

Walk Score. (2023). Living in St. Louis.

8.
9.
10.

City of St. Louis. (n.d.). Tower Grove Park | City of St. Louis Parks