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 Austin, TX

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Austin is known as a cultural hub filled with tasty eats, lively music, and a variety of activities. Though the city has become wildly popular among millennials over the last decade, it’s still an increasingly aging-friendly place. The warm summers, mild winters, and classic Southern hospitality entice seniors while the robust senior living options help them find an ideal home in the vast city. To help seniors stay active and enjoy all the city has to offer, Austin offers 14 independent living communities scattered throughout a 10-mile radius of its downtown.

Independent living enables seniors to age alongside individuals in the same age group. It eliminates the daily stressors of homeownership and renting, as residents no longer spend their time cooking, cleaning, or driving — unless it’s something they wish to do. Convenient amenities and services help seniors age gracefully as they continue doing the things they love.

In this guide, you’ll be able to narrow down your search by browsing through our in-network Austin independent living facilities based on factors that matter most to you — affordability, services, activities, and amenities. You’ll also learn about local independent living costs, how seniors pay, and independent living features, as well as local senior demographics, resources, and activities.

Austin Independent Living Facilities | 1263 Reviews
Showing 55 communities
Last Updated: 4/24/24
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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.

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Photo of Village on the Park Onion Creek
2222 Photos available
66 Floor plans available
7.7
Review score
36 reviews
7.7
Review score
36 reviews
5 star
63%
4 star
25%
3 star
6%
2 star
6%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
My loved one is currently a resident at Village on the Park Onion Creek. Overall, everything about the experience has been great so far at this facility. The cleanliness and friendliness are great. The staff...
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.
Village on the Park - Onion Creek is an independent living - assisted living community located in Austin, TX. Austin is located in Travis County and is home to just over 912,000 people. Austin is a fun city where residents can enjoy dancing, shopping, going out to great restaurants, going to...
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Photo of Overture Mueller 55+ Apartment Homes
1414 Photos available
1010 Floor plans available
5 star
100%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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It is a great community, and I would recommend it to anyone. They have a variety of activities such as Zumba, social activities, swimming and more for the residents to choose from. They have a continental...
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.
Overture Mueller is the perfect place to find a 55+ apartment homes for rent in Austin, Texas. Live the carefree lifestyle you’ve always wanted. Say goodbye to all the ‘to-dos’ that go along with home ownership and maintenance, and say hello to more time to enjoy the thriving, creative city of...
Photo of The Reserve at Lake Austin
77 Photos available
6.8
Review score
4 reviews
6.8
Review score
4 reviews
5 star
25%
4 star
25%
3 star
25%
2 star
0%
1 star
25%
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The Reserve is a beautiful facility. Feeling like visiting an upscale spa hotel, not like some that feel very institutional. A big plus is that residents can remain in the same apartment if their needs...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
The perfect senior living choice for those who desire the conveniences of supportive care and enjoy the perks of upscale independent living: The Reserve at Lake Austin will be a rare jewel in the Texas Hill Country. Top-shelf amenities, abundant outdoor spaces, exceptional local cuisine, and...
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Photo of Overture Domain 55+ Apartment Homes
1515 Photos available
1111 Floor plans available
5 star
67%
4 star
0%
3 star
33%
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.
Overture Domain is conveniently located in the heart of The Domain – the most desired place in Austin to shop, dine, live and work featuring over 100 upscale and mainstream retail stores, restaurants and four hotels. In addition, Overture Domain residents will enjoy over 13,000 square feet of...
Photo of Buckner Villas
1717 Photos available
55 Floor plans available
6.5
Review score
23 reviews
6.5
Review score
23 reviews
5 star
61%
4 star
26%
3 star
4%
2 star
9%
1 star
0%
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I would say to come and visit because you will enjoy it. They have activities like work outs all day, indoor swimming pool, there is a card room, a theater and evening activities. There is so much to do that...
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.
Senior Living in Austin, TXWelcome to Buckner Villas!These are the best years of your life, and we know that you’re not simply looking for a place to settle. You’re looking for a senior living community that will engage you, care for you, and invest in you. That’s exactly what you’ll find at...
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Photo of Overture Arboretum
1313 Photos available
1010 Floor plans available
5 star
100%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
This is a really nice place to live and it feels very homey. you still have all of your independence and options for activities. I really enjoy being here at this community. They have a lot of different...
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.
Overture Arboretum opened their doors March 7, 2019. Greystar and The Carlyle Group recognized the need for an active, fun-filled, maintenance-free alternative to single-family homes and traditional senior housing. Overture was created with an innovative approach to 60+ living. Residents can...
Photo of Pavilion at Great Hills
1818 Photos available
2.7
Review score
62 reviews
2.7
Review score
62 reviews
5 star
42%
4 star
34%
3 star
15%
2 star
3%
1 star
6%
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We chose Pavilion at Great Hills because of the cleanliness of the facility, we were very price driven so the value for the money, and the friendliness of all of the staff we interacted with. The room sizes...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
The Pavilion at Great Hills Assisted Living & Memory Care community has a little something for everyone. Located in beautiful North Austin hill country, we are near three major hospitals, numerous shopping centers including two miles from the Arboretum, theaters, museums, great restaurants,...
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Photo of Brookdale Beckett Meadows
1010 Photos available
55 Floor plans available
6.5
Review score
67 reviews
6.5
Review score
67 reviews
5 star
36%
4 star
36%
3 star
12%
2 star
3%
1 star
13%
See all reviews
Our Loved One has lived at Beckett Meadows for 10 months. Initially, there was a period of adjustment, as we expected, and she required PT, OT & SP therapies, all of which she was able to receive on site. We...
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.
Redefine your independence with a worry-free lifestyle.There are plenty of active seniors out there who are ready, willing and able to take on the world—with just a bit of help. If you’re living a mostly independent lifestyle, but you could use an extra hand with some of your day-to-day...
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Photo of The Watermark at Southpark Meadows
1010 Photos available
5 star
75%
4 star
19%
3 star
6%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
We have had a great experience here and my mom is very comfortable. Their activity program is amazing. The activities have actually increased since the lock-down, so they are keeping the residents very busy...
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 Heritage at Hunters Chase
1212 Photos available
5 star
46%
4 star
29%
3 star
21%
2 star
0%
1 star
4%
See all reviews
Looked for three months to find an assisted living for our Mom, went and looked everywhere. Walked into the Heritage and it felt like home. Music playing, fresh flowers. We tried the food and it was...
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.
The Heritage at Hunters Chase is conveniently located in Northwest Austin near surrounding communities of Cedar Park, Leander, Round Rock, and Pflurgerville. The Heritage at Hunters Chase is an unique fully renovated community with beautiful courtyards, walking paths, and spacious common areas...
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Photo of Grace House Assisted Living
1111 Photos available
5 star
69%
4 star
31%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
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I would highly recommend this community they are like a family here. They have activities like arts and crafts and more for the residents to do.
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.
Grace House Assisted Living provides seniors with more than just a place to live, we provide a HOME. Grace House is the only privately owned and operated Assisted Living Facility in the area. In an industry dominated by large corporate facilities housing over 100 residents in one building, Grace...
Photo of Ledgestone Senior Living (IL)
1414 Photos available
55 Floor plans available
1.0
Review score
4 reviews
1.0
Review score
4 reviews
5 star
25%
4 star
25%
3 star
25%
2 star
0%
1 star
25%
See all reviews
We chose Ledgestone because they had cottages available, they had a wheel chair accessible shower, and it was open and attractive with friendly staff. The cottages are very large and spacious.. The food is...
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.
Nestled within the abundant green vistas of historic Dripping Springs, our assisted living community offers seniors the cozy conveniences of life with personalized luxury.At Ledgestone Senior Living, we offer a variety of flexible lifestyle options with specialized programs for assurance and...
Photo of Arborview Circle C Ranch
3636 Photos available
1010 Floor plans available
5 star
75%
4 star
25%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
It has been a pretty good experience. My loved one is in an exterior apartment, and the walk outside can be challenging because of her age and also because the yard doesn't have a sidewalk. But that's...
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.
Arborview is the newest concept of living. Where people in similar life stages can meet and live around others who share in similar interests and ideas. Our 62+ Active Adult community was designed for those that are ready to leave the house maintenance and yard work behind and are ready to relax...
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Photo of Brookdale Round Rock
88 Photos available
33 Floor plans available
7.0
Review score
45 reviews
7.0
Review score
45 reviews
5 star
33%
4 star
40%
3 star
18%
2 star
2%
1 star
7%
See all reviews
We found the caregiving staff out on the floor to be very good. They took great care of people and seemed to really care. The meals were good, no complaints there. The housekeeping staff was wonderful and...
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.
Savor Your Golden YearsIf you want to exchange the everyday burdens of cooking, cleaning and maintenance for a lifestyle rich in activities, friendship and quality care, our assisted living and memory care community in Austin, Texas just might be the place for you. Surrounded by a trained and...
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Photo of Everleigh Lakeline
1414 Photos available
1515 Floor plans available
5 star
67%
4 star
33%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
The community is extremely clean, an most of the staff members are extremely nice but there are a few who work there that can be very condescending. The breakfast are pretty minimal, its like granola bars,...
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.
Everleigh Lakeline is a 60+ Active Adult apartment home community located just outside of Austin, Texas, where modern conveniences meet wide open spaces. Enjoy all of the pleasures of resort-style living while exploring all of the activities, cultural events, parks, and gardens around Austin....
Photo of Affinity at South Park Meadows
8.5
Review score
10 reviews
8.5
Review score
10 reviews
5 star
40%
4 star
30%
3 star
30%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
[name removed] the sales representative here is just a gem, she truly is a germ and is always upbeat and never steps out of line. I do wish they had some kind of a welcoming packet or even a welcoming...
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.
At Affinity at Southpark Meadows we’ve created a new kind of 55+ lifestyle community for people who are ambitious about the years ahead and aren’t willing to compromise their freedom.Rents start at $1,445, which includes everything: utilities, WiFi, expanded television services, swimming pool,...
Photo of Barton Hills Assisted Living
5 star
33%
4 star
0%
3 star
33%
2 star
0%
1 star
34%
See all reviews
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.
Private and Semiprivate Floor plans, Three meals daily, 24 hour attendant supervision, Housekeeping Daily, Nurse on Staff, Full Time Activities Program, Emergency Call System, Utilities & Cable included in base price.  Our home offers different levels of care which can include assistance with...
Photo of Silverleaf Eldercare
5 star
50%
4 star
50%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
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.
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.
Photo of Anthology of the Arboretum
1212 Photos available
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.
See details
Photo of The Maravilla at The Domain
5 star
100%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
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.
Photo of Maravilla at the Domain
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Senior Apartments
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.
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 Querencia at Barton Creek
77 Photos available
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.
Querencia at Barton Creek is a resort-style life care retirement community in Austin for ages 62 and over. We are located on 38 acres and our Independent Living section includes 10 villas and 157 apartment homes (one, two, or three bedroom), with a choice of 19 different floor plans ranging from...
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Photo of Marriott's Duval Oaks Guest Home
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.
Marriott's Duval Oaks Guest Home offers assisted living for seniors in a warm and comfortable environment without being formal. A single story design makes it easier for residents to navigate and find their way. At Village Oaks, we have created Companion Living® to encourage our seniors to...
Photo of Regent at Parmer Woods
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.

What families are saying about independent living in Austin

Recent reviews for independent living in Austin

Brookdale Georgetown

4.4
My father has lived at Brookdale GT for several years. Prior to moving him there, we were at another assistant living facility which was an absolute awful experience. On one occasion, my father called me afraid and upset because there were no staff members answering. When I phoned the direct ...
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Highland Estates in Cedar Park, TX

5.0
My dad was here about a year and they were excellent, it was a very nice facility. He ended up needing more care than they were able to provide which is the reason he moved out. It is a great place for independent living.

The Auberge at Bee Cave

5.0
1. It was fine, always considerate 2. Very clean 3. Very friendly 4. Very caring staff 5. Terrible, once in a while it was okay? 6. Mom never participated 7. All nursing homes are very expensive! Go see your loved one often, get to know the staff well! They are seriously interested in knowing ...
Read more

Costs of independent living in the Austin area

The median rent for independent living in Austin is $3,775 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s 2022-2023 proprietary data on partnering facilities.[01] This cost is significantly higher than the average rent cost for an apartment in Austin. However, it’s for good reason as rent includes built-in costs for the following services and amenities:

  • A dining plan with three meals and snacks
  • Maintenance and landscaping
  • Day trips and outings to local attractions and events
  • On-site activities (fitness classes, interest clubs, game nights, etc.)
  • On-site amenities (pools, crafts centers, libraries, movie theaters, fitness centers, etc.)

For additional monthly fees, Austin independent living residents can also benefit from convenient on-site services, such as:

  • Room service and special meal accommodations
  • Housekeeping and laundry services
  • Beauty salon and barber shop services
  • Transportation services

The following costs represent average baseline costs across the area and give a good cost comparison of nearby cities. However, these costs don’t account for any additional fees paid by residents.

Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Austin, TX vs. nearby cities

Austin, TX
$4,290/mo
$4,030/mo
$4,113/mo

Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Austin, TX vs. the state and national average

Austin, TX
$4,290/mo
$4,057/mo

Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Austin vs. other types of senior living

$5,574/mo
Independent Living
$4,290/mo

Median monthly costs of Independent Living in Austin, TX by room type

$4,884/mo
$5,230/mo
$5,599/mo
$6,865/mo

How people pay for independent living in Austin

Seniors typically rely on private retirement funds to pay for independent senior living in Austin, as Medicaid and Medicare do not cover independent living room and board costs. However, seniors can still save on health care costs and pay for potential senior care services in the future using Medicaid and Medicare.

Depending on their history and current situation, seniors may also use their veterans benefits and/or Social Security benefits to defray some costs of senior independent living in Austin, Texas. Learn about all of these methods and more in this section.

Private pay methods in Austin

Most seniors pay for Austin independent living using private payment methods, which include all personal income and asset resources. Your income might include savings accounts, retirement pensions, investment returns, and/or Social Security benefits. All of these methods can be used to pay for independent living in Austin. Plus, Texas seniors are in luck as Texas doesn’t levy a personal income tax, so these income sources aren’t taxed at the state level.

Depending on your resources and current situation, you may also combine a few of these private pay methods to cover independent living costs:

  • Selling a house. Many seniors moving into independent living are looking to downsize, often resulting in the sale of a house, which could free up some funds to help you pay for independent living.
  • Reverse mortgage. If selling your house isn’t an option, you might want to consider a reverse mortgage. This option will allow you to borrow from your home’s equity to pay for some independent living costs.
  • Life insurance. You can sell, surrender, or borrow from a life insurance policy to free up some cash for independent living costs.
  • Social security benefits. If you’re a former worker, you might qualify for some Social Security benefits. The most common is Social Security Retirement (SSR), which provides a monthly check to you after retirement.
Veterans benefits for independent living in Austin
Can I use veterans benefits to pay for independent living?

If you’re a veteran, you can use additional funds provided by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to pay for rent at an independent living community. Senior veterans and their surviving spouses may be eligible for VA pension benefits. The Aid and Attendance benefit is especially important for seniors as it can be added to their existing VA pension benefits to cover anything that improves a senior’s quality of life — which could include independent living.

Do I qualify for veterans benefits?

If you’re unsure about your eligibility for VA benefits, don’t fret. You can reach out to a local veteran service organization (VSO) to help you find options you may not know about. They’ll even help you successfully file for a claim or appeal a denied claim.

VSOs are vetted by the VA to provide assistance and resources to veterans, so it’s in your best interest to reach out a local VSO before applying for benefits. Some Austin independent living communities also partner with local veteran programs to help potential senior residents obtain the benefits they’ve earned.

31607

Number of veterans who live in Austin

Approximately 39% of Austin veterans are 65+

Resources for Austin veterans

Find an Austin area Veteran Service Organization (VSO)

Travis County Veterans Services Department
5325 Airport Blvd.
Austin, TX 78751
Phone: 512-854-9340
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. (By appointment only)
Virtual contact: Veterans services contact form

Texas Veterans Commission (TVC)
1700 N. Congress Ave., Suite 800
Austin, TX 78701
Phone: 512-475-2395

Find a regional branch of national veteran organizations

Regional Disabled American Veterans (DAV) office
VA Regional Office — One Veterans Plaza
701 Clay Ave.
Waco, TX 76799
Phone: 254-299-9932
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Austin Medicaid and Medicare coverage for independent living
What is Medicaid and can I use it to pay for independent living in Austin?

Medicaid is a public health insurance program jointly funded by the Texas and federal governments. It cannot be used to pay rent at an independent living facility in Austin, Texas, but it can be used to cover long-term health care services and medically necessary in-home care services received within an independent living community.

Most Texas seniors who receive Medicaid receive their coverage through STAR+PLUS, the state’s managed care program run by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (or the HHSC). This program is specifically for seniors 65+ and individuals with disabilities. To qualify for the Medicaid program, you mustn’t exceed a monthly income of $2,742 as an individual or $5,484 as a couple.[03]

If you’re planning for care needs that may arise in the future, be sure to learn about STAR+PLUS’ Home and Community Based Services waiver program. It can be used to cover the cost of some personal care services, health care services, and medical supplies within a care facility.

What is Medicare, and can I use it to pay for independent living in Austin?

Medicare is a federal health insurance program and anyone who is 65+ and/or disabled qualifies for it within the state of Texas. It cannot be used to cover rent or living costs at an independent living community, but it can help cover many medical services. Some services include hospital stays, hospice care, certain doctors’ services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventative services.

If you’re a senior who qualifies for Texas Medicare, you can receive assistance with your Medicare application, legal advice, and referrals by utilizing the resources listed below. Legal aid attorneys may direct financially eligible, low-income seniors to the Texas Medicare Savings Program — which aids seniors with their Medicare premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and/or copayments. If you have additional questions about Medicare, you can visit the federal Medicare website or dial 2-1-1.

What if I qualify for both Medicare and Medicaid?

If you’re an Austin resident who qualifies for both Medicare and Medicaid, you might qualify for dual coverage. The state of Texas offers a joint Medicare-Medicaid Plan (MMP) called the Dual Eligible Integrated Care Demonstration Project, commonly referred to as “the Demonstration.”

With the Demonstration, Texas strives towards the following:

  • Improve health care service coordination
  • Enhance quality of care services
  • Eliminate cost shifting between Medicare and Medicaid
  • Reduce costs for the state and federal governments

To qualify for the Demonstration, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:

  • Have Medicare Parts A, B, and D, and receive full Medicaid benefits
  • Be enrolled in Texas’ STAR+PLUS program for at least 30 days

If you qualify, you should automatically be enrolled in the Demonstration. You may choose to opt out of the Demonstration once you’ve received a notifying letter of enrollment in the mail. If you’d like additional information on the program, you can email managed_care_initiatives@hhsc.state.tx.us.

It can be difficult to navigate Medicaid and Medicare on your own, so Austin and Texas offer several programs and organizations to help you better understand your benefits and apply for them. Below, you’ll be able to find Medicaid and Medicaid applications, local organizations that can assist you with your application, and resources to help you better understand your senior living options and benefits.

Austin resident Medicare and Medicaid resources

Social Security Administration (SSA)
Capital Area Council of Governments (CAPCOG)

Long-term care ombudsman
Clement “Pete” Moreno, Managing Local Ombudsman at the AAA of the Capital Area
6800 Burleson Road, Building 310, Suite 165
Austin, TX 78744
Phone: 512-916-6054
Email: cpmoreno@capcog.org

Understand Texas laws and regulations for independent living communities

Unlike assisted living and memory care facilities, Texas doesn’t require a state agency to regulate independent living facilities, as they are not considered care facilities. However, independent living communities are still required to comply with Texas’ general housing and apartment standards for rental units, such as the Texas Property Code and Fair Housing Act.

But, if an independent living facility shares a campus or building with an assisted living facility (or ALF), the assisted living-designated area must comply with the assisted living regulation requirements set forth by Texas Health and Human Services (or HHS). If you would like to see the regulations for Austin assisted living facilities, check out the laws and regulation section on that page.

What are my rights as an independent living tenant in Austin, Texas?

Stand-alone independent living rental communities are required to comply with the state’s housing and apartment regulations for landlords and tenants. It’s important to learn about your rights as a tenant, as it’ll help you find a safe and satisfactory living situation while renting.

Here’s a brief overview of tenants’ rights in Texas:

  • Residents hold the right to ask their landlord to repair problems that risk their health and safety, and landlords must make a diligent effort to repair the problems at hand.
  • Residents may terminate their lease if a problem that affects their health hasn’t been resolved after two notices to the landlord and within a reasonable timeframe — usually seven days.
  • Residents may hire an external contractor to fix the problems at hand if their landlord fails to resolve issues that affect their health after multiple notices within a reasonable timeframe. Residents can then submit their expenses to the landlord to deduct from their rent.

Before attempting to terminate an independent living agreement or hiring an external contractor, it’s strongly recommended that you reach out to an attorney or a tenants association. Consulting a housing expert will prevent you from breaching any lease or contractual agreements, and it’s also ultimately more likely to lead you to the result you desire. It’s also recommended for tenants to provide written notices of complaints or maintenance requests to their landlord and that they keep a copy of each notice as proof.[04]

If you’re seeking more information on your rights as a tenant in an independent living facility, be sure to read the Texas Tenants’ Rights Handbook.

Can I ask for disability-related accommodations and modifications at an independent living community?

In Texas, federal nondiscrimination laws — such as the Fair Housing Act, Section 504, and Americans with Disabilities Act (or ADA) — are in place to help protect tenants from being discriminated against due to a disability. This prohibits independent living facilities from refusing housing due to a senior’s disability. Furthermore, these laws require housing providers to provide reasonable accommodations and modifications in housing, programs, and activities for individuals with disabilities.

In most independent living communities, accommodations and modifications are provided; however, some smaller communities may not provide them. If you’re an individual with a disability, it’s important for you to learn about your right to ask for reasonable accommodations and modifications.

Reasonable accommodations are defined as changes to facility policies and could include the following:

  • Allowing a service animal to live with a resident even when there’s a no-pets policy in place
  • Assigning a parking spot for easy entry to the resident’s building
  • Changing the due date of rent to reflect a resident’s disability income payment dates

Modifications are structural changes to common areas and individual units and could include the following:

  • Installing a specialized smoke detector for a resident with a hearing impairment
  • Adding a wheelchair ramp to enable a disabled resident to easily access shared spaces and participate in resident activities
  • Installing grab bars or widening doorways in a unit to accommodate residents who use a wheelchair[05]

These nondiscrimination laws apply to all independent living facilities in Austin. Independent living facility owners are required to pay for such modifications unless providing them would pose an undue financial or administrative burden. If you’d like more information, see this detailed infographic on reasonable accommodations and modifications.

COVID-19 regulations for Austin independent living communities

Austin currently doesn’t have any COVID-19 regulations specific to independent living communities. However, the city does provide a COVID-19 in Austin page on its city website to provide residents with regular updates regarding risk levels, testing, vaccinations, and more.

Additionally, if an independent living facility shares a building with an assisted living facility, it must comply with any protective measures set forth by the assisted living facility. In Texas, assisted living facilities are required to develop their own infection prevention and control measures for common infections, including COVID-19. The measures may include the community’s hygiene practices, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), disinfection and sterilization techniques, safe injection methods, and physical distancing requirements.

Because communities are allowed to set their own standards, it’s best to check with your prospective community directly to see if they have any specific COVID-19 regulations in place.

Get to know independent living in Austin

114Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
3.7/5.0 average in-network rating
100% of communities offer pet-friendly services
92% of communities offer an on-site beauty salon
71% of communities offer multiple care types
57% of communities employ Spanish-speaking staff
2900
Number of people we referred in-market
79
Average age of residents we referred in-market
Gender split: 63% female, 33% male[01]

Austin: A unique and aging-friendly city for active seniors

Austin’s senior population is on the rise — in fact, the city has seen a nearly 75% increase in its senior population over the last decade.[06,07] The city attracts seniors due to its robust health care options, warm weather, and recent increase in senior living options. And, to keep up with the rapid growth, Austin has enacted an action plan called Age-Friendly Austin.

The Age-Friendly Austin initiative aims to make the city more friendly and supportive for current and future seniors. It addresses eight areas that influence the health and quality of life for seniors, including the following:

  • Outdoor spaces and buildings
  • Transportation options
  • Housing
  • Social participation
  • Respect and social inclusion
  • Civic participation and employment
  • Communication and information
  • Community support and health services

As the population grows, an increasing number of seniors are looking for unique retirement options. Luckily, Austin has expanded its independent living scene to help seniors maintain their independence and thrive without the stress of homeownership. Check out some features unique to Austin independent living communities below.

Diverse amenities and engaging activities offer luxury and convenience

Austin independent living communities aim to help seniors continue their tried-and-true hobbies, form new friendships, maintain optimal health, and discover new interests. To do so, communities house a range of amenities for seniors to enjoy at their leisure.

Some of the most common amenities seen in Austin independent living communities include the following:

  • Beauty salon and/or barbershop
  • Picnic and barbecue areas
  • On-site cafes and/or bistros
  • Gardens with raised gardening beds
  • Fitness centers
  • Swimming pool
  • Walking paths
  • Movie theater
  • Library
  • Business center
  • Game room
  • Arts and crafts center
  • Concierge services

Many Austin communities also offer on-site activities facilitated by an activity and/or life enrichment director. These directors craft a monthly schedule of dynamic activities catered to the needs and interests of current residents. Some of the most popular activities at Austin independent living communities include the following:

  • Art and cooking classes
  • Educational classes and/or lectures (guest speakers, TED talks, etc.)
  • Fitness classes (chair yoga, tai chi, aerobics, etc.)
  • Musical events (live performances, music lessons, karaoke, etc.)
  • Holiday and birthday parties
  • Interest clubs (book clubs, current events club, walking club, etc.)
  • Card and board games (trivia nights, bingo, scrabble, etc.)
  • Devotional services
  • Group outings and day trips

A range of services and floor plans offer safety, convenience, and quality

Many seniors believe moving to a senior living community will result in sacrificing their privacy and space. However, that’s a common misconception, and Austin independent living communities do their best to help ensure residents get the space and privacy they need. In fact, the most popular in-network communities offer stunning, spacious villas and cottages. These villas and cottages often look like smaller homes or townhomes and offer seniors more privacy and space. Here are some key differences between regular units and cottages or villas:

A typical independent living unit in Austin features the following:

  • Full-size washer and dryer
  • Full kitchen or kitchenette
  • Patio or balcony
  • Closets

A villa or cottage offers the aforementioned amenities, and may also include:

  • Larger kitchen
  • Private patio
  • Multiple walk-in closets
  • Private garage

On top of these features, Austin independent living residents benefit from the added safety of emergency call response systems and security systems. Several in-network communities have installed robust tech to help ensure residents reside in a safe environment. Plus, seniors never have to worry about chores that usually come with home ownership — communities happily offer housekeeping, dining, landscaping, maintenance, and transportation services.

Multi-tiered care levels support aging in place

Most Austin independent living communities share a campus with an assisted living facility, enabling residents to gracefully age in place. If you’re not familiar with how the two differ, check out how assisted living differs from independent living. Typically, independent living eliminates the stresses of home ownership and offers seniors a maintenance-free lifestyle filled with activities and amenities. On the other hand, Austin assisted living offers seniors all of that in addition to assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) and personalized care services.

Some communities even offer a memory care unit, making for an easy transition for any seniors who develop memory loss problems or a type of dementia down the line. This multi-tiered care approach also helps senior couples with differing care needs age together. Many of these communities also have on-site doctors and nurses to monitor residents’ vitals, medications, and health issues.

Independent living in the surrounding Austin suburbs

Because of Austin’s fast pace, some seniors prefer to live further from the city’s downtown. Luckily, there are many suburbs that’ve become popular. For example, Round Rock is often clumped in with Austin, as it has become a part of the city’s metro area due to the city’s rapid growth and expansion. It offers all of the independent living luxuries of Austin communities at a slightly lower starting price. Plus, the city offers gorgeous parks and premium outlets to shop.

However, if you’d prefer a lower cost and don’t mind living 30 minutes from Austin’s downtown, Pflugerville might be your best option, where costs are cut nearly in half. It offers peaceful, family-friendly neighborhoods without sacrificing quality of life, as it’s still close to daily conveniences and not too far from Austin’s attractions.

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Unfamiliar with Austin? Highlights for seniors

93,861

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

28%
Percentage of Austin seniors 65+ with at least one disability
$38,096

Average annual retirement income for Austin seniors 65+[07]

Health care for seniors in Austin

Austin’s range of health care options makes it attractive to seniors. The city has robust medical centers throughout the city. Here’s some information on Austin’s top-rated medical centers:

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St. David’s Medical Center

St. David’s Medical Center has multiple campuses in Austin. The main location on 32nd street is ranked as the No. 1 hospital in Austin and ranks 37th nationally in rehabilitation, according to U.S. News and World Report. St. David’s South Austin Medical Center also ranks as the No. 3 hospital in Austin and is nationally accredited for its oncology program.

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Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin

Ascension Seton Medical Center Austin is the No. 2 hospital in Austin, according to U.S. News and World Report. This medical center offers a comprehensive Level I stroke center and Level IV trauma center. It also offers multiple locations in Austin and Round Rock.

Transportation for seniors in Austin

Austin’s vast urban sprawl makes it difficult for residents to easily walk everywhere, so many residents own a vehicle to drive themselves around. However, the city’s downtown area is known for being easy to walk and bike. And, to seniors’ advantage, 100% of our in-network independent living communities offer complimentary transportation services. Do remember that some communities may limit their rides to appointments and errands, while others also offer rides to leisure events.

Seniors can also utilize CapMetro — the citywide public transportation system offering buses, rail lines, shuttles, and more. CapMetro offers a $3 Reduced Fare ID (RFID) Card for seniors 65+, Medicare card holders, and individuals with disabilities, which offers half-priced fares for all transportation services. Seniors must renew the card every two years.

The city’s parks and recreation department also operates a Senior Transportation Program to offer rides to seniors 60+ in the Austin area. This transportation service is funded by the City of Austin and Capital Area of Council of Governments (CAPCOG) to enhance the quality of life for seniors and to promote independence among the population. Seniors must apply for the service. After approval, seniors can receive free rides for medical appointments and select routes. To reserve a ride for errands, riders must pay a $3 fee per destination.

To get a better understanding of Austin’s sprawl, check out the following scores from WalkScore. They’re each out of 100 and are based on downtown Austin’s public density, walking routes, public transportation options, biking routes, and infrastructure:[08]

Transportation card image
92

Walk Score

Transportation card image
68

Transit Score

Transportation card image
90

Bike Score

Senior activities in Austin

With an infamous slogan like “Keep Austin Weird,” the city has a reputation to live up to — and it does. Seniors have a world of unique activities and experiences awaiting them in Austin. And most of them are happy to accommodate seniors with disabilities — just be sure to ask.

Check out some unique, senior-favored places and activities in Austin:

  • Harry Ransom Center. This internationally renowned humanities research center is a catch-all for museum lovers — and it’s free to visit. It features extensive collections from around the world, including nearly a million books, over 42 million manuscripts, 5 million photographs, and 100,000 works of art. Movie and book lovers can examine original scripts, costumes, props, and more.
  • Zilker Botanical Garden. Spanning over 28 acres, this hidden garden is nestled within Zilker Metropolitan Park. It offers several themed gardens and flora from around the world for seniors to explore. And seniors get a discount.
  • Austin Country Club. This luxurious country club was founded in 1899, and it’s located along the banks of the Colorado River. It spans over 180 acres and offers stunning views of rolling hills and canyons. Seniors can become members of the club and hit the putting greens at their leisure. They can also relish savory meals at the restaurant or attend lively events.
  • Lone Star Riverboat Cruises. Seniors can embark on sightseeing cruises on Lady Bird Lake and bask in the sights of the captivating greenery, waterfowl, and stunning Austin skyline. The cruise line offers a senior discount and multiple tours, depending on interests.
  • Poker rooms and card houses. Because gambling is largely illegal in Texas, casinos are almost nowhere to be found. However, the city does make up for it by offering several card houses and poker rooms where seniors can partake in fun, competitive card games. Texas Card House is the most popular as it has several locations across the state.

Frequently Asked Questions

Solstice Senior Living at Austin, Brookdale North Austin and The Isle at Cedar Ridge are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Austin, TX. 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 Austin is 4289.97 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

References

  1. A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom Proprietary Data.

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

  3. Texas Health and Human Services. (2023). Appendix VIII, monthly income/resource limits in STAR+PLUS Handbook.

  4. Texas Young Lawyers Association & State Bar of Texas. (2019). Tenants’ Rights Handbook.

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

  6. United States Census Bureau. (2011). Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.

  7. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.

  8. WalkScore. (2023). Living in downtown Austin.

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1.

A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom Proprietary Data.

2.

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

3.

Texas Health and Human Services. (2023). Appendix VIII, monthly income/resource limits in STAR+PLUS Handbook.

4.

Texas Young Lawyers Association & State Bar of Texas. (2019). Tenants’ Rights Handbook.

5.

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

6.

United States Census Bureau. (2011). Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.

7.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.

8.

WalkScore. (2023). Living in downtown Austin.