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 Buffalo, NY

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The Buffalo area offers a nice mix of history, culture, and recreational activities for residents of all ages. The park system alone makes it worth living here, designed by the renowned landscape architect, Frederick Law Olmsted. The city also has a thriving art scene, with galleries and museums galore. Additionally, the cost of living is 5% lower in Buffalo than the national average, making it ideal for almost anyone looking to remain active during retirement.

Speaking of retirement, the Buffalo area is home to many senior living options – independent living being chief among them. Like many communities across the country, independent living facilities in the city offer a senior-friendly living environment that will allow you to age in place, with their centralized locations, improved accessibility, onsite amenities, and socializing opportunities aplenty. Should you need assistance, there are also those independent living communities that offer additional services, such as assisted living and memory care, as part of their combination of care offerings.

With several factors to consider when looking for an independent living community, A Place for Mom has put together this guide to make the process easier. Below, you’ll find listings for the five Buffalo independent living communities in A Place for Mom’s network, ranked by a variety of categories. Further in, you can also find details on payment options, local and state regulations, transportation, health care, and more on Buffalo itself.

Buffalo Independent Living Facilities | 519 Reviews
Showing 78 communities
Last Updated: 3/26/24
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Best of Senior Living

The top senior living communities stand out for their exceptional care and support of seniors in independent living, assisted living, memory care, and in-home care. Our Best of Senior Living Award winners represent the top 1-2% of senior care providers nationwide based on reviews from those who matter most: residents and families.

Review Score
Distance
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Amenities
Providers
Types of care available in Buffalo, NY
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 Buffalo, NY
4.3 / 5.0

My loved one currently lives at St. Charles Village and overall the experience has been great. They have been amazing and my loved one has improved in overall health and is happy here! The dining room is very nice, with a view of the canal. The staff is very friendly and helpful. The move in was eas...

5 / 5.0

The staff at River Road are very friendly and attentive to the residents. My sister in law enjoys the food and they have a variety to choose from. They have activities for the residents, however she does not participate in any. The community is well maintained inside and out.

3.6 / 5.0

Brompton Heights does a good job at working with you to make sure your loved one has the best care possible. They are compassionate, and skilled at different levels of care for the residents. The meals are decent for my loved one. Ice cream socials, outside entertainment, book readings, celebrations...

Photo of The AmberleighCommunity card badge
99 Photos available
66 Floor plans available
9.5
Review score
146 reviews
9.5
Review score
146 reviews
5 star
58%
4 star
25%
3 star
4%
2 star
3%
1 star
10%
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The staff is wonderful. The housekeeping is okay. The meals need improvement and are served cold. I would recommend the facility, but not the food.
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.
Explore new interests at The Amberleigh, where our blend of desired amenities and convenient services offers residents a vibrant lifestyle that encourages health and independence through innovative recreational, educational, health and wellness programs. Our Williamsville, New York, Independent...
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Photo of Brookdale Kenmore
1313 Photos available
22 Floor plans available
9.4
Review score
52 reviews
9.4
Review score
52 reviews
5 star
38%
4 star
31%
3 star
23%
2 star
4%
1 star
4%
See all reviews
We were told and paid for two showers a week, for 8 months we had trouble getting her one shower per week sometimes it would stretch to 10 days now we have withheld the fee for the showers hoping to motivate...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Here you’ll get to redefine your independence, pursue new hobbies and live your life your way. At our enhanced assisted living community, you’ll have choices for how to spend your time. With enhanced assisted living, you’ll have assistance with medications, dressing and bathing, as well as...
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Photo of Peregrine Senior Living at CheektowagaCommunity card badge
1111 Photos available
9.2
Review score
53 reviews
9.2
Review score
53 reviews
5 star
39%
4 star
25%
3 star
15%
2 star
6%
1 star
15%
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A place for mom called me back within a minute of my request online. She was so helpful. Gave me direction where to start and make appointments to tour. Gave me names of who to contact. I was given the...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
At Peregrine's Landing Senior Community, every day you will be greeted by members of our friendly, caring staff who will offer freshly prepared, restaurant-style meals in our elegant dining room. Participate in exciting, fulfilling daily activities. Or, visit with friends and family, enjoy a...
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Photo of FayeBrooke on Youngs
1414 Photos available
77 Floor plans available
9.2
Review score
5 reviews
9.2
Review score
5 reviews
5 star
80%
4 star
20%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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My loved one is a resident at this facilty. We would highly recommend Fayebrooke on Youngs to others. The staff is friendly and fantastic. The food and the food choices/variety are fantastic (one of 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.
See details
Photo of Elderwood Assisted Living at West Seneca
1010 Photos available
8.8
Review score
24 reviews
8.8
Review score
24 reviews
5 star
55%
4 star
29%
3 star
8%
2 star
8%
1 star
0%
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We think the facility is very nice. Our experience the past year has been very good. Overall I think our complaint would be with the day of arrival entry process. It was VERY long, often duplicative of...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Elderwood Assisted Living at West Seneca offers an independent lifestyle with caring personal attention. The community in West Seneca, New York, features comfortable common spaces and private studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments. The backyard patio features a lovely koi pond and overlooks a...
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Photo of Fayebrooke on Maple
1919 Photos available
8.5
Review score
3 reviews
8.5
Review score
3 reviews
5 star
67%
4 star
33%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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I have been living at Fayebrooke on Maple for almost a year and I am very pleased with my decision to move here to this facility. The staff are very friendly and helpful. I have had no problems since I...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Welcome Home to FayeBrooke Senior Apartments where Lifestyle, Luxury & Location are key! We are Amherst' s premier Retirement Community, offering all the amenities and comforts you desire.. You have a new place to call 'HOME' Choose from our spacious one or two bedroom floor plans.
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Photo of Elderwood Village at Bassett Park
99 Photos available
8.4
Review score
72 reviews
8.4
Review score
72 reviews
5 star
38%
4 star
38%
3 star
18%
2 star
6%
1 star
0%
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Staff is very friendly. Housekeeping and maintenance do an excellent job. Communication with family is lacking at times, but has definitely improved after my mom has been there for a few months. My mom...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Elderwood Village at Bassett Park offers exceptional assisted living services in the historic village of Williamsville, New York. As part of the Buffalo Metro Region, Williamsville is a great place to call home offering all the charm of small town living and the conveniences that come from being...
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Photo of Tennyson Court
1111 Photos available
8.2
Review score
27 reviews
8.2
Review score
27 reviews
5 star
48%
4 star
22%
3 star
15%
2 star
4%
1 star
11%
See all reviews
After touring 5 communities in the area, we settled on Tennyson Court. I cannot understate how happy I am with the decision we made. This family run business has some of the sweetest employees I've ever...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
While it is easy to boast about the true beauty of Tennyson Court our dedicated and professional team members are our true offering. Tennyson Court Assisted Living and Memory Care has been providing outstanding care to the WNY community for over 20 years. Our Nurses and Care Aides have been...
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Photo of Elderwood Residences at Cheektowaga
88 Photos available
33 Floor plans available
8.0
Review score
2 reviews
8.0
Review score
2 reviews
5 star
50%
4 star
50%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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Really amazing. Staff has been unbelievably helpful and supportive and my loved one couldn't be happier after the transition. The only thing we can't really comment on is meals and dining, as that is not...
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.
Elderwood Residences at Cheektowaga, a unique, conveniently located independent living patio home community near Buffalo in Cheektowaga, NY, is designed for seniors age 62 and older who want to enjoy retirement living without the commitment of home ownership. Enjoy the view from the private front...
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Photo of Elderwood Village at Williamsville
1111 Photos available
33 Floor plans available
7.8
Review score
26 reviews
7.8
Review score
26 reviews
5 star
49%
4 star
27%
3 star
8%
2 star
8%
1 star
8%
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I would recommend. We toured only two facilities and really liked Elderwood in Williamsville. My mom is very happy there. And I'm so grateful for the assistance I got from you.
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Elderwood Village at Williamsville offers an independent lifestyle with a caring, personal touch. Our community, located close to the Village of Williamsville, features studio, one- and two-bedroom apartments with kitchenettes. Our experienced and attentive staff handles cooking, housekeeping and...
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Photo of Heathwood Assisted Living and Memory Care
1818 Photos available
55 Floor plans available
7.8
Review score
12 reviews
7.8
Review score
12 reviews
5 star
50%
4 star
25%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
25%
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Overall, the place is very, very nice staff is very good. You get a few like everywhere that it's just the job. The big thing is the cost. And they just have a large increase
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Photo of The Belvedere
1515 Photos available
7.5
Review score
1 review
7.5
Review score
1 review
5 star
0%
4 star
100%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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It's a 55 and over independent apartment. It is a very nice facility for about the same price as other places. We picked this community, because it was newer/bigger. My loved one ultimately chose it. I would...
Provides: Independent Living, Senior Apartments
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.
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Nestled comfortably inside Lancaster's rolling hamlet meadows along the Williamsville and Clarence border, the Belvedere is unlike any other existing 55 and older active adult rental community in the area. Conveniently located just 5 minutes from Transit Road, you will find shopping, dining and...
Photo of Elderwood Assisted Living at Cheektowaga
1010 Photos available
5 star
20%
4 star
20%
3 star
20%
2 star
0%
1 star
40%
See all reviews
Overall our experience with Elderwood Assisted Living has been a good one. The staff is very compassionate, and they do a great job explaining everything that is going to be going on. We had a few difficult...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Elderwood Assisted Living at Cheektowaga is a assisted living community located in the growing town of Cheektowaga, NY. Cheektowaga is located in Erie County, close to Buffalo, and home to just over 88,000 people. Cheektowaga has a lot of great stores, shopping, and restaurants giving residents...
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Photo of Elderwood Assisted Living at Tonawanda
1212 Photos available
2.5
Review score
14 reviews
2.5
Review score
14 reviews
5 star
36%
4 star
21%
3 star
29%
2 star
7%
1 star
7%
See all reviews
it's going okay with my loved one being here so far. i've personally spent some time at another Elderwood community and did not like it. they have several locations, and this one gets a FIVE!
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.
While we may be new to the Elderwood family, our facility has been located in Tonawanda for over 20 years. Formally Tonawanda Manor, Elderwood Assisted Living at Tonawanda prides itself on the staff that have worked here for decades. Our administrator, Ann Marie, has been a part of our community...
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Photo of Crestmount Senior Apartments
44 Photos available
5 star
100%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
CrestMount Square Senior Apartments is a safe community for seniors ages 55 and better. With plenty of activities to make new friends and have more fun in your later years. Centrally located in the Town of Tonawanda near the Thruway.
Photo of Eagle Crest Senior Village
66 Photos available
5 star
67%
4 star
33%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
Eagle Crest and my mom has been a good match. She has been there almost a year now, and has settled in nicely. My siblings and I are pleased with the cleanliness, security and quality of employee's and...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
At Eagle Crest Senior Village we offer spacious one and two bedroom apartment homes in a luxury, 2-story, independent living community. Envision it... a New York lifestyle without all the challenges - no snow to shovel, no lawns to mow, and no property to maintain, PLUS daily events to nourish...
Photo of Sandra Lane Senior Apartments
66 Photos available
5 star
100%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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Sandra Lane has turned out to be perfect for my parents. [Removed]was excellent and very helpful when we were researching and going through the move-in process, and I love that they have an amazing community...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Conveniently located near shopping, our lovely community is in a beautiful wooded setting. We are a 55+ and Pet Friendly Community.ALL UTILITIES ARE INCLUDED!!!Here's what our residents say about Sandra Lane…“There’s always something fun to do!” ~ Mary Snyder“In the last year we’ve made so many...
Photo of Weinberg Campus
1010 Photos available
5 star
50%
4 star
50%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
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.
Enjoy the inviting warmth and comfort of Weinberg Campus, where services are tailored to suit your lifestyle. Our 70-acre, park-like community is located in Amherst, minutes from restaurants, shopping and the University at Buffalo’s North Campus.Choose from spacious one- or two-bedroom apartments...
Photo of Brompton Heights
22 Photos available
5 star
44%
4 star
31%
3 star
13%
2 star
6%
1 star
6%
See all reviews
Brompton Heights does a good job at working with you to make sure your loved one has the best care possible. They are compassionate, and skilled at different levels of care for the residents. The meals...
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.
Assisted LivingFor the active senior who seeks to maintain a healthy and enriched lifestyle without the worries of maintaininga home, the Assisted Living services and accommodations at Brompton Heights offerthe perfect solution. Our community is more like home than ever before. In addition to...
Photo of The Fairways at Lancaster
1212 Photos available
5 star
0%
4 star
100%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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My parents highly recommend it. They seem happy with the community. The community is quick to respond to maintenance requests. The apartments is a somewhat open floor plan, they are bright and spacious.
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
BRAND NEW 55+ ACTIVE ADULT PATIO HOME RENTALS. No HOA fees. One floor living, fully accessible. The Fairways at Lancaster is a pet-friendly, luxury patio home community. All units feature 2 BR/2 FULL baths with an attached one or two car garage. You'll also enjoy a gas fireplace, granite counter...
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Photo of Eden Heights of West Seneca
8.0
Review score
22 reviews
8.0
Review score
22 reviews
5 star
63%
4 star
18%
3 star
9%
2 star
5%
1 star
5%
See all reviews
Eden Heights was a wonderful facility. We chose them because it was quick, they had availability, and they took her on short notice. The room sizes at the facility were adequate for what she needed. The...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Eden Heights of West SenecaEden Heights is an assisted living community that is found among the rolling hills and wide open skies of West Seneca, NY. Our community is only minutes from downtown Buffalo, which gives visiting relatives plenty of lodging and dining choices during their visit. Eden...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Roosevelt 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 Trinity Tower
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Linwood Elderly Housing
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 Buffalo area

The monthly costs of an independent living community can vary greatly based on a variety of factors. Neighborhood, unit size, floor plan, amenities, and even type of community are just a few of the variables that can impact the expense involved. In Buffalo, the average cost of our partnered independent living communities averages about $3,096 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.[05] This figure reflects what residents of our network facilities actually paid and accounts for the price of rent, service fee add-ons, different floorplans, and any associated fees.

The following figures represent the average baseline and rent costs for the Buffalo area. These figures do not include add-on fees.

Average cost comparisons near Buffalo, NY

Average monthly costs

Buffalo, NY

$2,898

How people pay for independent living in Buffalo

Paying for independent living often entails utilizing a combination of resources, most of which will be private in nature. A large part of this is due to the fact that independent living is not technically a senior-care facility, meaning that residents will not receive health or medical care from trained staff as part of the services of the facility. Because of this, programs such as Medicaid, Medicare, and long-term care insurance do not cover independent living costs. However, you may be eligible for assistance from these programs if you require medically necessary in-home care services while you’re residing in an independent living community.

Below, you’ll find additional information on a variety of payment methods, including housing assistance, VA benefits, Medicare, Medicaid, and private funds.

Private pay methods

For the most part, seniors will find themselves relying on private resources when moving to an independent living community. This may include retirement savings, Social Security benefits, pensions, distributions from retirement accounts, income generated by investments, and any one or combination of the following:

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VA benefits
9460

Number of veterans who live in Buffalo

About 44 percent of Buffalo veterans are over the age 65

As is the case in many cities, Buffalo veterans have a range of benefits available to them that may help offset the costs associated with moving to an independent living community – chief among them being the VA Pension. Depending on your age, income, net worth, and time of service, you may be eligible for the Pension. Veterans can use these funds toward the monthly costs of independent living.

If eligible for the VA Pension, you may also be eligible for the VA Aid and Attendance (A&A) benefit, which is made available to veterans who require assistance with day-to-day activities (i.e., bathing, grooming, feeding, etc.).

Additionally, the Buffalo area is home to WNY Heroes, Inc., a local nonprofit that has a number of grants available for veterans in need of financial assistance. For housing-related expenses, the  Heroes Bridge helps veterans in paying for rent and utilities. Contact WNY Heroes, Inc. through its website or by calling 716-630-5020 for further details. The New York State Division of Veterans Affairs also offers local resources to veterans, like programs for disabled veterans.

If you find yourself wondering how to apply for benefits or which benefits you’re eligible for, rest assured that you’re not alone. The VA benefits system is complex, and it’s often beneficial to work with a veterans service officer. They can provide assistance for veterans, their dependents, and their survivors in applying for the federal and state benefits owed.

The local VA offices or a slew of Buffalo area veterans service organizations (VSOs) are where you can find a veterans service officer to help you. There are a large number of VSOs in Buffo, so while some are listed below, a complete list of Buffalo VSOs can be seen here.

Resources for Buffalo veterans

VA offices

VA Buffalo Regional Office
130 S. Elmwood Ave., Suite 601
Buffalo, NY 14202
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Erie County Veterans Service Agency
Rath Office Building
95 Franklin St., Suite 800
Buffalo, NY 14202
Phone: 716-862-8902

VSOs

Disabled American Veterans
130 S. Elmwood Ave., Suite 620
Buffalo, NY 14202
Phone: 716-858-6363
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Erie County American Legion
609 City Hall
65 Niagara St.
Buffalo, NY 14202
Phone: 716-852-6500

AMVETS Post 72
1881 Clinton St.
Buffalo, NY 14206
Phone: 716-825-6207

Vietnam Veterans of America Post 77
57 Main St.
Tonawanda, NY 14150
Phone: 716-693-4479

VFW Post 898
Col. John B. Weber Post
2909 S. Park Ave.
Buffalo, NY 14218
Phone: 716-823-9605

Medicaid

New York’s Medicaid program does not cover the rent and other costs associated with living in an independent living community, but Medicaid can cover required medically necessary in-home health care while in an independent living setting through Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers for those who qualify.

Though the Medicaid enrollment process entails only a few steps, it can get a little confusing. You can start by applying online. Here is a step-by-step instruction page for applying for Medicaid online. If you’d fill out a paper application for Medicaid, you can do so and then mail it to the Erie County Work Center. If you need some help or have questions, there are  New York State of Health navigators available to assist. You can look at this navigator directory to find a monthly schedule of where you can meet with a navigator or find information about how to call them or chat online.

The Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program is also a good source of information. The Ombudsman can answer questions about Medicaid or Medicare.

Buffalo resident Medicaid resources

Apply for Medicaid

Medicaid application mailing address
P.O. Box 120
Buffalo, NY 14201-9903

Erie County Work Center
159 Pearl St.
Buffalo, NY 14202
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Medicaid application assistance

New York State of Health Customer Service Center
Phone: 855-355-5777
TYY: 800-662-1220
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Local Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program – Region 15
Contact: Susan Fenster, ombudsman coordinator
2447 Main St.
Buffalo, NY 14214
Phone: 716-817-5626
Email: sfenster@people-inc.org

Medicare

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for people who are 65 and older to cover health-related care services, like inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing, lab tests, surgery, home health care, medical equipment, and some preventative care. Medicare cannot be used to help offset the monthly costs of an independent living community.

However, it’s still an important benefit for eligible seniors that can provide some cost savings on health care. Seniors in the Buffalo area may want to look into the following Medicare programs and resources for assistance:

  • Medicare Savings Program
    The Medicare Savings Program (MSP) helps people on a limited income pay for Medicare premiums, fees, and deductibles. It can also help cover a range of cost-sharing expenses. Upon enrollment, seniors will automatically receive Extra Help, which pays most of the prescription drug plan (Medicare Part D).
  • EPIC for New York
    The Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) program helps income-eligible seniors with the costs associated with Medicare Part D, including premium payments and medication costs after meeting the Part D deductible.
  • Catholic Health LIFE
    Catholic Health LIFE is a Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) for seniors who still live in the community yet require a nursing home level of care. Services include but are not limited to doctor and nursing care, rehabilitation therapies, meals, activities, and transportation.
  • Fallon Health Weinberg-PACE
    Fallon Health Weinberg-PACE is another local Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly. Seniors who still live on their own but require some level of nursing-home care may be eligible to receive comprehensive medical care and support through this program.
  • Health Insurance Information, Counseling, and Assistance Programs
    The Health Insurance Information, Counseling, and Assistance Programs (HIICAP) is New York State’s state health insurance assistance program (SHIP), which provides assistance to seniors who need help navigating Medicare.

You can sign up for Medicare at the local Social Security Administration office. If you need help understanding Medicare requirements or with filling out the application, look for a New York State of Health (NYSOH) navigator in your area. You can also reach out to the local ombudsman program for assistance.

Buffalo resident Medicare resources

Apply for Medicare and programs

Social Security Administration Office
478 Main St., Suite 200
Buffalo, NY 14202
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

EPIC Application and Contact Information
Phone: 800-332-3742
TYY: 800-290-9138
Email: nysdohepic@magellanhealth.com

Catholic Health LIFE PACE Program
55 Melroy Ave.
Buffalo, NY 14211
Phone: 716-819-5433
Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

Fallon Health Weinberg PACE
461 John James Audubon Parkway
Amherst, NY 14228
Phone: 855-665-1112
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Advocacy and assistance

Local Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program – Region 15
Contact: Susan Fenster, ombudsman coordinator
2447 Main St.
Buffalo, NY 14214
Phone: 716-817-5626
Email: sfenster@people-inc.org

NYSOH Navigator Program – Erie County
237 Main St., Suite 400
Buffalo, NY 14203
Phone: 716-847-0650
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Understand New York laws and regulations for independent living communities

Independent living communities are not care facilities since they do not provide residents with health or personal care, so they do not need a license from the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH) to take in residents.

Combination independent and assisted living facilities

There is a caveat, however. An independent living community may need to be licensed by HYSDOH as an Adult Care Facility (ACF) if it provides, arranges for, or coordinates any one of the following:

  • Health-related services
  • Medication management
  • 24-hour supervision or oversight
  • Assistance with personal care
  • Assistance with finances
  • Case management or service coordination beyond information and referral
  • Creation, implementation, or oversight of a resident’s service plan

Some of our partner independent living communities in the Buffalo area do offer more than independent living. They provide care services like assisted living and memory care in combination with independent living. These combination facilities are required to have an Assisted Living Residence (ALR) license, for all offering assisted living care, and an additional Special Needs Assisted Living Residence (SNALR) certification, if offering memory care, to operate and be subject to certain requirements based on the type of care being offered.

Standalone independent living

Standalone independent living communities are subject to federal, state, and local housing laws. This includes remaining compliant with the Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

To learn  more about tenant’s rights, the guides below provide information about housing laws and guides to tenant rights:

Inspections

With standalone independent living communities being similar to any other rental community, the Department of Permits and Inspections conducts regular inspections of the property. These inspections include maintenance of indoor and outdoor spaces for minimum housing standards, lead paint presence, and more.

The City of Buffalo’s Permit and Inspections Data Resources website lists access to public data around violations and more. The city’s open data guide gives a rundown on how to use the site. If you need assistance, reach out to the office for help.

For independent living facilities combined with licensed assisted living or memory care facilities, view inspection reports on the New York State Department of Health website. Type in the community’s name, run a search, and then click the inspection tab for report details.

New York Department of Health contact information

New York State Department of Health
Corning Tower, Empire State Plaza
Albany, NY 12237
Phone: 866-881-2809
Email: dohweb@health.ny.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.

COVID-19 regulations for Buffalo independent living communities

In the Buffalo area, no specific COVID-19 mandates are currently in effect for independent living communities. Even so, the Erie County Department of Health strongly encourages property owners and residents to follow CDC guidelines and safety measures, such as wearing masks in public, staying current with vaccinations, getting tested upon presenting symptoms, isolating, and conducting passive screening — among a host of other measures.

Also, it’s important to note that an independent living community may have its own guidelines and safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

An illustration of a syringe

Vaccinations.

Communities are not required to enforce vaccinations but may strongly encourage vaccinations for staff.

An illustration of a protective breathing mask

Masking.

People may choose to mask at any time.

An illustration of a broom

Facility cleanliness.

Regular cleaning and disinfecting of surfaces is encouraged

Get to know independent living in Buffalo

5Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
3.3/5.0 average in-network rating
80% of our partner communities are pet-friendly
80% of our partner communities in Buffalo offer a fitness center
80% of our partner communities in Buffalo offer billiards lounge
100% of our partner communities in Buffalo offer resident parking
1371
Number of people we have referred to our partner communities in Buffalo
81
Average age of resident we have referred to our partner communities in Buffalo
Gender split: 67% female

Types of independent living in Buffalo

Independent living communities in the greater Buffalo area offer a range of residential options for seniors looking to live on their own in an age-friendly environment with various amenities and convenient services – not to mention, some much-needed communal support. As with any change to your living situation, there are several factors to consider when deciding which of our partner communities to choose.

A mix of care and support offerings

If care and support services are a factor in your decision, some independent living communities do provide such options as part of a combination of care services, but standalone independent living facilities do not provide care services. Of our Buffalo partner independent living facilities, two are standalone communities and one offers senior apartments, too. However, we have another partner that offers assisted living alongside independent living, as well as another that adds memory care. Should, for example, you and a spouse require different levels of care, then you’re assured that the two of you can remain both safe and secure in the same community if you choose one with a combination of care services.

An array of amenities for a variety of interests

One of the benefits of moving to an independent living community is its amenities, especially these days. Many senior communities try to create an all-inclusive experience for residents, some going so far as to even design the property with an onsite barber shop and/or beauty salon. You’ll also find those with a fitness center, game room, billiards lounge, movie room, and arts and crafts center. If you enjoy gardening, there are those that make available raised garden beds for residents. Plus, about 80% of our partner communities in the Buffalo area are dog- and cat-friendly, so there’s no need to worry about your four-legged family members.[05]

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Unfamiliar with Buffalo? Highlights for seniors

35,727

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

13%
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Buffalo population
$38,843

Median annual income for Buffalo seniors 65 and older

Health care for seniors in Buffalo

The health care options for seniors living in the Buffalo area shouldn’t be much of a concern as the city is home to many excellent medical facilities.

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Buffalo General Medical Center

Rated high performing in 13 conditions and procedures, U.S. News & World Report has also awarded this hospital with the status of No. 1 in the area.

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Mercy Hospital-Buffalo

Mercy Hospital is rated high performing in four areas by U.S. News & World Report, including in COPD and diabetes care.

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Erie County Medical Center

Erie County Medical Center is a general medical and surgical center rated high performing in hip replacement by U.S. News & World Report.

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Sisters Of Charity Hospital

Sisters of Charity Hospital has been ranked high performing in the areas of COPD, kidney failure, and maternity care by U.S. News & World Report – though the facility does offer a number of other care services.

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Buffalo VA Medical Center

The Buffalo VA Medical Center is the primary medical center for area veterans, providing medical, surgical, and outpatient care. Primary specialties include cardiac surgery, cardiology care, and comprehensive cancer care.

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Transportation for seniors in Buffalo

For the most part, people living in Buffalo rely on their cars to get around. A large part of this has to do with convenience, of course. The other part has to do with the somewhat limited public transportation options available through the Niagara Frontier Transportation Authority (NFTA).

NFTA offers the Metro Rail, which is one line that runs along Main Street from the KeyBank Center to the South Campus of the University at Buffalo. The larger option is the bus system. Metro buses cover both Erie and Niagara counties with more than 300 buses in operation. Both the rail and the buses are wheelchair accessible.

Seniors, however, can take advantage of the transportation services available through their independent living communities. More than half of our partner facilities offer complimentary transportation while the rest provide it at cost.[07]

They can also use the  Going Places Transportation System, a senior-specific, curb-to-curb van service. Just make sure to schedule the service ahead of time – two weeks for health-related trips and one week for non-medical trips. The Metro also offers a paratransit service called PAL Direct.

Additionally, seniors looking to walk to places can certainly do so. The city’s walk score is 67 on a scale to 100, according to Walk Score, which rates cities on the ease of getting around compared to other cities across the nation. A score of 67 means Buffalo is walkable, but there will be some locations or errands that would require a car or other transportation. The neighborhoods of Allen, Grant Ferry, the Central Business District, Bryant, and Front Park are much more pedestrian, with walkability scores of anywhere between 85 and 94. You may even live in a community where you can walk to some restaurants, bars, or coffee shops in no more than five minutes, which is the average for Buffalo residents.[07]

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67

Walk Score

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47

Transit Score

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63

Bike Score

Senior activities in Buffalo

Buffalo has long been known for its rich history and culture. For one, the city is home to Frank Lloyd Wright’s Martin House, considered one of the architect’s most important projects during his Prairie School era. The house is an integrated composition of connecting buildings, which includes the Martin House itself, as well as a conservatory, carriage house-stable, and smaller residence. On the outskirts of Buffalo, you can also find another of Wright’s homes built for the Martin family, Graycliff, which served as their summer residence.

If architecture isn’t of much interest, then there’s the Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Historic Site, which allows visitors to tour historically restored rooms, learn more about the event, and experience a number of interactive exhibits. Being on the Eastern shoreline, the city also is home to the Buffalo and Erie County Naval and Military Park, where visitors have a variety of tour options that include a museum, the grounds, and four decommissioned Naval vessels.

Seniors looking to enjoy the outdoors couldn’t have picked a better city than Buffalo. The city’s entire park system was designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, a renowned landscape architect.[01] Delaware Park, one of his creations, is considered one of the top 10 parks in the world, with plenty of walking paths, a carriage drive, a picturesque lake, and myriad other features – including an audio tour.[01] There’s also always Niagara Falls State Park, with its hiking trails, gorgeous views, interactive exhibits, and other attractions.

Head over to the college campus and take in a football or basketball game (or many other sports) and cheer on the University of Buffalo Bulls. If you’d rather get involved in more senior-related activity, there are many senior center options available in Buffalo that offer an array of activities, including exercise classes, music, arts and crafts, computer classes, and pickleball, of course. The South Buffalo Community Association is just one of Buffalo centers that provides many activities for seniors, including arts and physical activities available as well as nutrition programs. The Erie County Department of Senior Services also schedules regular events and activities for the senior population. You may find yourself taking part in gardening, doing some crafts, or visiting a local attraction, like the  Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens or Shea’s Performing Arts Center.

You can always roll the dice at the Seneca Buffalo Creek Casino, which offers table games, slot machines, a sports lounge, and dining. You could also head over to the Seneca Niagara Resort and Casino for concerts, comedy, and other live entertainment.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Amberleigh, Brookdale Kenmore and Solstice Senior Living at East Amherst are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Buffalo, NY. 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 Buffalo is 2897.79 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

References

  1. Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy. (2018). Buffalo’s Frederick Law Olmsted Legacy: The Park System that Started It All.

  2. Payscale.com (2023). Cost of Living in Buffalo, New York.

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

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

  5. A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  6. U.S. News & World Report. (2023). Best Hospitals in Buffalo, NY.

  7. Walk Score. (2023). Living in Buffalo.

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2.
3.

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

4.

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

5.

A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

6.

U.S. News & World Report. (2023). Best Hospitals in Buffalo, NY.

7.

Walk Score. (2023). Living in Buffalo.