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 Philadelphia, PA

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The historic city of Philadelphia consistently ranks among the top cities to retire in, and for good reason. With world-class museums, over five professional sports teams, and a seemingly unlimited selection of dining options, Philadelphia is anything but short on things to see and do. For retirees looking to lead a maintenance- and hassle-free life, A Place for Mom partners with 23 independent living communities within 10 miles of Philadelphia’s Center City district. These independent living communities offer all the benefits of living in one’s own home or apartment, but with bonus amenities for seniors like housekeeping, maintenance, social event calendars, and sometimes even meal plan options.

There are many factors to consider when trying to find the right community for you or your loved one, so we make it easy with our guide to independent living in Philadelphia. Explore the costs of Philadelphia independent living communities, their state regulations, and the types of services and amenities they offer. We’ve also included reviews from real residents, advice from local senior living experts, and information on senior living demographics in Philadelphia. Additionally, you’ll find helpful state resources for Pennsylvania and New Jersey residents, given the proximity between the two.

Philadelphia Independent Living Facilities | 578 Reviews
Showing 46 communities
Last Updated: 3/27/24
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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 Philadelphia, PA
4.2 / 5.0

We chose this facility because I thought it would fit my brother-in-laws personality better. He is in a community where there are 3 or 4 suites, almost like a motel set-up. He has a dog so he is able to go out the front or back door, its more private and personal. His cottage is good sized, it has a...

4.9 / 5.0

Wesley Enhanced Living Main Line is a very spread out facility for independent living, but the section for assisted living is more condensed and tight knit. For independent living they offer a studio apartment, one bedroom or two bedroom apartment. They have tons of activities provided for residents...

4.5 / 5.0

There could have more activities for the residents, some days they are bored. The place is spotless. The people are very nice. As far as I can tell they are doing a good job. I've heard some of the residents say they don't like the choices, but the menu looks good to me. They need to have more excit...

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.
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 Simpson Mid-Town
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 Philadelphia Protestant Home
3.0
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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 Edgewood Retirement Home Inc
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 Robinson Personal Care Home
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.
Robinson Personal Care Home is a senior living community located in Philadelphia, PA. Philadelphia is a very busy city and home to about 1.5 million people. Residents can find a host of activities to partake in, including going to restaurants, doing their shopping, going to games, concerts and...
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Photo of Victory Support Services
11 Photo available
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 Mt Olivet Village
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.
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 58th and Greenway Presbyterian
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.
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Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, 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.
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.
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.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, 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.
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.
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 Cadbury Continuing Care-Home
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living, 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.
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.
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.
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Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living, 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.
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 Harbor View Towers
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 Parkers Bend Retirement
2222 Photos available
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.
Located in the historic and culture-rich community of Moorestown, Parkers Bend Retirement Community emphasizes an engaging lifestyle with convenient access to local sight-seeing and myriad dining and entertainment options. Spend an afternoon admiring the architecture in the 47-acre Moorestown...
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Photo of Stanfill Towers
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.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, 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.
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.
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 Shady Oaks Rest Home
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.
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living, 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.
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.
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.

Costs of independent living in Philadelphia

Philadelphia independent living communities typically cost an average of $4,399 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.[01] This amount is what actual families paid and includes extra costs for care and optional add-on services — painting a more accurate picture of what families can truly expect to pay for independent living in Philadelphia. Compared to the national average, independent living in Philadelphia is comparatively less expensive than other large cities in the region, such as New York City ($6,184 per month) and Boston ($5,774 per month).

At first blush, it might seem more cost-effective to continue aging in your own home rather than moving into an independent living community. However, independent living communities offer a variety of benefits and amenities to seniors, which can include:

  • Utilities and maintenance
  • Housekeeping
  • Access to in-house amenities (pools, gym, salon, movie theatre, lounge, and more)
  • Social activities
  • Transportation

Many independent living communities have a baseline monthly fee, as well as entrance fees and optional monthly add-on fees, a la carte fees, and pet fees. Keep in mind to ask all prospective communities what is included in the baseline rent to avoid paying for extra services that aren’t needed.

The costs below represent starting costs and don’t take into account extra expenses for add-ons, care services, and entrance fees at independent living communities.

Average cost comparisons near Philadelphia, PA

Average monthly costs

Philadelphia, PA

$4,336

How people pay for independent living in Philadelphia

Unlike some other types of senior care communities, rent in an independent living community is not covered by long-term care insurance, Medicare, or Pennsylvania’s Medicaid program, Medical Assistance (MA). Most seniors use a variety of private sources to pay for an independent living community.

Private pay methods

Sources of retirement income from pensions, Social Security benefits, and an IRA or 401k are often the first funds considered to pay for independent living. These assets can go a long way for senior Philadelphians, as Pennsylvania doesn’t tax retirement income for residents ages 59 1/2 and older.

While these funds may be enough for some, others may look for additional options to cover the costs of independent living. Thankfully, there are additional private pay options that can help pay for independent living. Read on for some other ways people typically pay for their move to an independent living community.

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VA benefits for independent living in Philadelphia

A senior veteran who qualifies for a pension and benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can use these funds to pay the costs of an independent living community. Veterans aged 65+ can receive supplemental income through the VA’s pension program if they meet service and financial requirements. The Aid and Attendance and the Housebound allowance are two possible benefits that can be added to a disabled veteran’s VA pension. Unlike the Aid and Attendance, which can be used for anything that helps improve the disabled veteran’s quality of life, the Housebound allowance is specifically used to cover the costs of in-home care for a veteran who is housebound due to a permanent disability. A veteran cannot receive both the Aid and Attendance and the Housebound allowance at the same time.

You can find out more about services and programs available to Pennsylvania veterans by reaching out to a veterans benefits advisor through your local Philadelphia county VA website. It offers two convenient portals specific to veterans or their caregivers. If you’re outside of Philadelphia county, you can find your county VA website and contact information through the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) online directory.

New Jersey veterans

New Jersey veterans and their families can find supportive services and a guide to veterans benefits on the state’s Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMAVA) website. You can also reach out to a local Family Assistance Center for information about resources and benefits available to veterans and their families, which is listed below.

45682

Number of veterans who currently live in Philadelphia, according to the U.S. Census Bureau

Percentage of Philadelphia’s veterans age 65+, per data from the U.S. Census Bureau

Additional resources for veterans

Philadelphia County veterans benefits advisors

Phone: 215-686-3256

VA Philadelphia regional office

5000 Wissahickon Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19144
Phone: 800-827-1000

City of Philadelphia Office of Veterans Affairs

City Hall #127
Philadelphia, PA 19131
Phone: 215-686-3256

Northeast Philadelphia Vet Center

101 E. Olney Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19120
Phone: 215-924-4670

Center City Philadelphia Vet Center

801 Arch St.
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 215-627-0238

Veterans Administration Center Philadelphia Field Office

Phone: 215-381-3040

Burlington County Veteran Service Office

555 High St., Suite #6A
Mount Holly, NJ 08060
Phone: 609-518-2273
609-518-2274

Joint Military and Family Assistance Center

1048 US Highway 206 South
Bordentown, NJ 08505
Phone: 609-496-9242

Medicaid

Pennsylvania’s Medicaid program, Medical Assistance (MA), can’t be used to pay for the cost to reside in an independent living community. But if a senior requires medically necessary in-home care services, the cost of those services may be covered under Medicaid. Income-eligible seniors who require a high level of skilled nursing care may be eligible for MA’s Community HealthChoices (CHC) waiver, which covers services such as the following:

  • Assistance with activities of daily living
  • Cognitive rehabilitation therapy
  • Transportation services

New Jersey residents may also be able to receive help from New Jersey’s Medicaid counterpart — NJ FamilyCare Aged, Blind, Disabled program — which can cover some medically essential long-term services under Medicaid Managed Long Term Services and Supports (also known as MLTSS).

You can learn more about what services are covered under local Medicaid programs by contacting the Philadelphia County Assistance Office (CAO) in your area. The New Jersey Medicaid office contact information is also provided below.

More Medicaid resources:

Health and Welfare Building, Room 631
625 Forster St.
Harrisburg, PA 17120
Phone: 717-783-7375

New Jersey Medicaid office

2 Riverside Drive, #401
Camden, NJ 08103
Phone: 856-614-2870

Medicare

Though Medicare will not pay for the costs of living at an independent living community, like rent, it may pay for care services in the home. If a senior is in need of medically necessary long-term care, look into Medicare for in-home care services that support their medical needs. Some of the following medical and supportive services that may be covered under Medicare:

  • Skilled nursing care and rehabilitative therapies
  • Personal care services
  • Hospice care
  • Medical equipment

Many independent living communities offer access to in-home care services on-site, from assisted living and memory care to skilled nursing services. Understand what public resources are available to help pay for different types of medical care, so you and your family are prepared should the need for it ever arise.

The Pennsylvania Medicare Education and Decision Insight (PA MEDI) can help eligible seniors navigate through eligibility, different plans, and enrollment with free counseling services. Pennsylvania also has Medicare cost-savings programs to help with out-of-pocket insurance costs. For help with prescriptions, PACE and PACENET can provide assistance to qualified senior Pennsylvanians.

New Jersey also offers free Medicare counseling for seniors through its Medicare Information and Referral Service. You can contact or visit your local Social Security Administration office for help with questions about Medicare or reach out to one of the resources below.

More Medicare resources

PA MEDI Helpline

1-800-783-7067

Wallace Building
642 N. Broad St.
Philadelphia, PA 19130-3049
Phone: 215-765-9000
Helpline: 215-765-9040
Helpline for the hearing impaired: 215-765-9041

New Jersey’s Medicare Information and Referral Service

Phone: 1-800-792-8820

Understand Pennsylvania laws and regulations for independent living communities

Since residents in independent living communities generally don’t need help with personal tasks or taking care of themselves, many of the on-site services don’t need to be regulated by the state. However, independent living communities that offer medical care and skilled nursing services on-site are more heavily regulated and are required to comply with state and federal regulations, such as:

  • Having a distinct area of the facility dedicated to providing nursing services
  • Treating each resident with dignity and promoting their personal well-being and quality of life
  • Providing appropriate services to help maintain or improve a resident’s ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs)
  • Having a discharge plan to make sure the resident has the necessary supports in place when they leave

All businesses in Philadelphia are required to obtain a Commercial Activity License (CAL), and long-term rental properties must have a rental license and meet the city’s zoning requirements. Additionally, the city has regulations in force to make sure these properties maintain a safe living environment. These regulations hold independent living community property owners accountable for the following:

  • Having a bed bug control plan in force
  • Verifying the building is lead free and providing inspection reports
  • Keeping all heating and plumbing equipment in working order
  • Performing all necessary maintenance services and building repairs

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Fair Housing Authority (FHA) have laws in place to prevent housing discrimination for individuals with disabilities. Under these regulations, a person with a disability can make reasonable modifications to their living areas that help them use and enjoy their home. Residents are also allowed to live with a service animal, as long as there is a disability-related need for the animal.

You can learn more about specific Pennsylvania senior living regulations by contacting the following state agencies listed below.

Additional resources

Pennsylvania Department of Aging
555 Walnut St., 5th.Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101-1919
Phone: 717-783-1550

Pennsylvania Department of Health
Health and Welfare Building
625 Forster St., 8th Floor West
Harrisburg, PA 17120
Phone: 877-724-3258

New Jersey Department of Health
55 N. Willow St.
Trenton, NJ 08625
Phone: 1-800-367-6543

Camden County Senior Services Division
512 Lakeland Road, #4
Blackwood, NJ 08012
Phone: 856-858-3220

COVID-19 regulations for Philadelphia independent living communities

Philadelphia independent living communities are advised to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) safety protocols for COVID-19. As of November 2022, there aren’t any COVID-19 restrictions or mandates in place for independent senior living settings.[04] However, private institutions, including independent living communities and other types of senior care settings, may have stricter procedures in place than the city does for masking and vaccine requirements.

You can get the most up-to-date information by contacting a community directly or by looking up your local Area Agency on Aging. The Department of Human Services also has a list of COVID-19 guidelines for senior facilities, which is revised upon any changes to policies.

Division of Disease Control
1101 Market St., 13th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 215-685-5488

New Jersey Department of Health
369 S. Warren St.
Trenton, NJ 08608
Phone: 800-367-6543

Since older adults are at a greater risk for COVID-19 complications, many Philadelphia independent living communities are continuing to take precautions to protect residents and prevent the spread, which may include:

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Masking. Masks are recommended in public spaces and common areas in independent living communities.

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Facility safety. Independent living communities should have visitor policies for hand hygiene and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

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Vaccinations. Residents, staff, and visitors are encouraged to be up to date on all recommended COVID-19 vaccine doses, including boosters.

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Cleanliness. Highly touched surfaces are regularly disinfected and sanitized to meet guidelines set by the CDC.

Get to know independent living in Philadelphia

152Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
4.0/5.0 average in-network rating
85% of partnered independent living communities have a beauty salon
69% of partnered communities have an on-site fitness center
55% of our partner Philadelphia independent living communities have access to an on-site physician
87% of these independent living communities are pet-friendly
97% of these independent living communities have activity programming
13720
Number of people A Place for Mom referred to partnered Philadelphia independent living communities in 2022
80
Average age of residents referred to our partner independent living communities

Types of independent living in Philadelphia

There are several options for independent living communities in Philadelphia. The key differences between communities lie in the on-site services and amenities available, as well as location. Whether you prefer the fast-paced nature of the Center City or something a little more low-key, Philadelphia’s metro area has ample independent living options to suit all lifestyles.

Urban independent living communities

Philadelphia’s Center City urban scene delivers a diverse selection of independent living communities to meet a variety of tastes, budgets, and care needs. Venture to the heart of Center City to find modern apartment environments with oversized windows, city views, and stainless-steel appliances. Independent living communities in this area offer urban retreats with historic charm, impeccable landscaping, and peaceful walking paths. These communities typically offer amenities like restaurant-style dining featuring international cuisines, on-site beauty salons, and enriching activity schedules — such as holiday parties, day trips, and stretching classes. Some independent living communities even give their residents access to on-site care services, like assisted living and memory care, so seniors can age in place without worry.

Suburban independent living communities

While the fast-paced lifestyle may be better suited for some, other seniors may opt for Philadelphia’s surrounding suburbs for a quieter lifestyle or to be closer to family. These suburban communities sit about 10 miles or further from Philadelphia’s bustling Center City district on the New Jersey side of the metro area. You’ll find many of these communities have cozy, homelike interior spaces with traditional furnishings and an abundance of natural light. They also typically offer an ample selection of amenities, like complimentary transportation, housekeeping, and concierge services. They also host engaging social activities like art classes, garden clubs, and live musical performances. While some of these independent living communities are exclusively for active independent seniors, you’ll find some that also provide care resources, like access to assisted living or memory care services on-site, for aging in place.

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New to Philadelphia? Highlights for seniors

52%

Percentage of Philadelphian seniors age 65+ with retirement income, according to the U.S. Census Bureau

6%

Percentage of seniors in Philadelphia age 75+, per the U.S. Census Bureau

226776

Number of seniors age 65+ living in Philadelphia, as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau

Health care for seniors in Philadelphia

While some Philadelphia independent living communities offer access to on-site health care professionals, others don’t. Either way, there are many acclaimed hospitals in the Philadelphia area that specialize in both complex and everyday procedures. This includes hospitals in nearby Wynnewood, Paoli, and Newark, Delaware.

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Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania – Penn Presbyterian

The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania is the No. 1 ranking hospital in both Philadelphia and Pennsylvania, as well as No. 13 on the U.S. News and World Report Best Hospitals Honor Roll. This highly regarded facility also ranks nationally in 12 adult specialties and as a high-performing hospital in two adult specialties and 19 procedures and conditions.

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Thomas Jefferson University Hospital

Jefferson University Hospital is nationally ranked in nine adult specialties that include cancer, cardiology, heart surgery, and diabetes. It’s the No. 2 hospital in Philadelphia and No. 3 in Pennsylvania. The Center City campus offers free shuttle services, as well as interpreter services and hearing devices.

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Main Line Health Lankenau Medical Center

Lankenau Medical Center is part of Main Line Health and is the No. 3 hospital in Philadelphia. It’s also Pennsylvania’s No. 6 hospital. The comprehensive medical facility is recognized as a high-performing hospital in specialties that range from cardiology, hip fractures, and lung cancer surgery to diabetes.

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Christiana Hospital

Christiana Hospital is one of three hospitals under the renowned health care organization, ChristianaCare. It’s considered the No. 4 hospital in Philadelphia and is nationally ranked in Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN). Christiana Hospital’s Center for Heart and Vascular Health performs over 1,000 open-heart surgeries a year and offers access to cutting-edge technology, treatments, and therapies.

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Transportation for seniors in Philadelphia

Although Philadelphia ranks among the country’s top walkable cities, reliable transportation is equally essential when it comes to maintaining an independent lifestyle in the city. This is why many independent living communities offer their residents shuttle services or private transportation options. And even when they do not, local public transportation provides the freedom to go where you need to go on your own time — whether to appointments, the grocery store, or sightseeing.

Philadelphia’s public transportation system is especially accommodating and accessible for the city’s seniors. Seniors ages 65 and older can apply for a Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) senior fare card and enjoy free transit on the city’s bus, trolley, and rail lines. For those seeking adventure outside the city limits, the senior fare card permits free travel throughout Pennsylvania on SEPTA’s Regional Rail line, and also offers a 50% discount to and from Delaware and New Jersey stations.

Much like a city’s public transportation system, its walkability is an important factor to living independently. Philadelphia ranks among the most walkable cities in the country, with access to restaurants, stores, and bars within minutes.

You can discover even more available transportation services and discounts by contacting the Mayor’s Commission on Aging, included in the information below.

Transportation resources

Mayor’s Commission on Aging
100 S. Broad St., 4th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19110
Phone: 215-686-8450

SEPTA
1234 Market St.
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 215-580-7800

NJ Transit
Customer Service: 973-275-5555

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Walk Score

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Transit Score

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Bike Score

A senior man reading outdoors on a park bench

Senior activities in Philadelphia

A city rich in history, Philadelphia is home to striking colonial architecture and famous sites, such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Among the many historic attractions, you’ll find an abundance of renowned art museums, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where you can also enjoy running up the famed “Rocky steps” and recreating the iconic scene.

Those who prefer a more low-impact approach to exploring the city will enjoy strolling through the numerous parks and walking trails. The sprawling Rittenhouse Square serves as an urban sanctuary with mature trees and downtown views, while Spruce Street Harbor Park features incomparable waterfront views of the Delaware River.

Culture flows like electricity throughout Philadelphia’s vibrant neighborhoods, and it’s especially apparent among the city’s passionate sports fan base and food scene. Cheering on Philly’s teams is a time-honored tradition, whether you’re enjoying a game at a community watch party or at one of Philadelphia’s famed sports bars. An equally important ritual of the city’s culture is indulging in an almost endless selection of Philadelphia dining options — ranging from classic Philly staples and genuine Italian cuisine to British pub-style fare.

Frequently Asked Questions

Arbour Square, Cardinal Village and Merrill Gardens at West Chester are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Philadelphia, PA. 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 Philadelphia is 4336.45 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. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Philadelphia City [Data set]. American Community Survey.

  3. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population estimates (S0103): Philadelphia City.

  4. Philadelphia Department of Public Health Division of COVID-19 Containment. (2022, November 8). Personal communication [Personal email].

  5. Walk Score. (2021). Living in Philadelphia.

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1.

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

2.
3.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population estimates (S0103): Philadelphia City.

4.

Philadelphia Department of Public Health Division of COVID-19 Containment. (2022, November 8). Personal communication [Personal email].

5.

Walk Score. (2021). Living in Philadelphia.