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 Houston, TX

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Houston is home to the largest senior population in Texas, making it a hotspot for health care, outdoor activities, and senior living options. Independent living senior communities are designed for 55+ adults, so seniors can reside alongside individuals in their same stage of life. A Place for Mom partners with 11 independent living communities within a 10-mile radius of downtown Houston. These communities enable aging adults to enjoy a carefree retirement with convenient services, like on-site maintenance, housekeeping, and meal plans, that make daily life easier.

In this guide, we’ve put together a wealth of information on Houston’s independent living facilities, so prospective residents can find their ideal community. We use our 20+ years of senior living experience, proprietary data on local communities, and feedback from seniors and their families to inform you on local independent living costs, services and amenities, state regulations, and even payment tips. Each section also includes valuable senior-specific, local resources and demographics.

Houston Independent Living Facilities | 1166 Reviews
Showing 108 communities
Last Updated: 3/27/24
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Best of Senior Living

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

Review Score
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Amenities
Providers
Types of care available in Houston, TX
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 Houston, TX
4.6 / 5.0

Very welcoming staff and community. They have learned the names of my brothers and my children and they greet us by name whenever we show up. They treat my mother and us with kindness, dignity, and respect. The food has been wonderful - good variety and nice quality.We really liked the size of this ...

3.6 / 5.0

This community appeals to the needs of the most residents as possible. The community is kept very clean, and the staff and fellow residents are very friendly and fun to be around. The activities are quite varied.

3.8 / 5.0

I am currently a resident at Braeswood Estates Senior Living and overall everything has been good for me so far at this facility. The facility is kept very clean and the staff is very well managed. The friendliness is great. The staff, activities and value for cost are good. I have no basis for comp...

Photo of The Tradition - Woodway
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It was a little bit of a rocky start in the beginning but the friendliness of the staff members have been very good. We assume the meals are great because our loved one has gained a decent amount of weight....
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 Good Living Community Care
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We chose Good Living Community Care because of the convenient location and they worked really hard to get my dad into dialysis. The room sizes here were pretty good for what he needed. As assisted living, I...
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.
Providing You with home-like Community Nursing Care. Welcome to Good Living Community Care, your Community nursing care and Assisted living that provides a homelike environment structured with compassionate staff dedicated to enhancing the quality of life. Taking a pick at our range of our...
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Photo of The Cottage of Spring Branch
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My mom was at The Cottages for 6 months before she passed away last July. We couldn’t have found a better place for her. She had advanced dementia that my father and I had been dealing with for about two...
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 Cottage of Spring Branch is licensed by the state of Texas in assisted living and certified in Alzheimer’s care and related dementia care. Our trained staff is geared specifically for the challenges that Alzheimer’s and related dementia present. We take pride in offering senior care that is...
Photo of Holly Hall
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I have lived at Holly Hall for five years, in Independent Living. It is a friendly, caring community, and I highly recommend it.
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.
Founded in 1949, Holly Hall Retirement Community is a Christian, non-profit, Retirement Community concerned for the physical, psychological, social and spiritual well-being of each of its residents. Holly Hall, a full service retirement community, offers living accommodations ranging from...
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Photo of The Tradition - Buffalo Speedway
1111 Photos available
6.0
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We have had a very good experience so far with The Tradition, we have heard no complaints for our loved one about the meals and dining. We have heard the activities are very good and we would recommend this...
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 Tradition-Buffalo Speedway is now open! Situated inside the Loop (Interstate 610) convenient to the Texas Medical Center, the Museum District, entertainment venues such as the NRG Stadium, and shopping. A rental community with no buy-in fee, The Tradition-Buffalo Speedway offers a 222-unit...
Photo of Brazos Towers
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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.
Full service, non-profit, CCRC. Offering 183 independent living condos; 25 assisted living one bedrooms; 8 memory care studios and 37 skilled nursing and rehabilitation (private rooms available); Medicare certified.Submission of completed applications and approvals needed prior to...
Photo of Cottage Grove Living
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My grandmother-in-law was only at Cottage Grove Living for about a month, but during that time. We found the community to be a wonderful place, and she was very happy there. The staff and the owners were...
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.
Photo of Best Personal Care Facility LLC
66 Photos available
3.0
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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.
Best Personal Care provides a warm and inviting environment in a luxurious, residential home in southwest Houston within walking distance of a beautiful park, neighborhood churches and a buddhist temple. At Best Personal Care, our mission is to enrich the lives of our residents and their...
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Photo of Brookdale Memorial Oaks
1111 Photos available
22 Floor plans available
6.5
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I would suggest improvements on the food as well as having a dedicated staff member to open the front door after hours to admit visitors Overall I would recommend Brookdale Memorial Oaks to others looking...
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.
If you’re living a mostly independent lifestyle, but you could use an extra hand with some of your day-to-day activities, we can help.With both assisted living and Alzheimer’s and dementia care on one campus, at our senior living community in Houston, Texas, you’ll have the care you need when you...
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Photo of Windermere Estates Senior Living
1313 Photos available
Pricing promotion expiring soon
6.7
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When we were first looking into places, everything stuck out about Windermere Estates over others, they were far better than our second choice! Did not have an old folks home feel to them. Most of the...
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Windermere Estates offers engaging and personalized care focused on the uniqueness each resident and provide services best suited to their individual needs. We are conveniently located in northwest Houston. Since 1995 when our first community opened, we have offered a full range of personalized...
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Photo of Apex Oaks at Cypress Assisted Living and Memory Care
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We moved our mother 4 years ago to Apex Oaks. I want to express my gratitude and appreciation to the ladies of this fine company. They welcomed her with open arms and made her feel at home. They cared for...
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.
Apex Oaks Assisted Living & Memory Care strives to redefine senior living with professional care and an environment where the welcome never fades.We are nestled in a cozy, quiet neighborhood in Northwest Houston, Texas. Our community has ~20,000 square feet of living space with a private...
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Photo of Solea Copperfield
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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.
Solea Copperfield is a new boutique, resort style, 55+ active adult apartment community. A new housing option for those that are ready to live a stress free, maintenance free lifestyle. Live easy, where friendships and laughter fill beautifully designed apartment homes and community spaces. Enjoy...
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My parents have been residents for more than a decade. Mom is still in independent living, but will probably transition to assisted living soon. Dad recently passed after a lengthy stay in the on-campus...
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 Houston Heights Tower
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My mom was at the heights tower for several years. It was a pretty good place but they are beginning a remodeling of the whole place, trying to redo every apartment. It looked like it was up in the air how...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of The Watermark at Houston Heights
2020 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.
Where elegant living meets dazzling Houston skyline views.WHERE EVERY DAY IS WELL SPENTModern residences elevate your lifestyle.At The Watermark at Houston Heights, the days can flow in many ways – ramped up with activity, relaxed and full of quiet moments, or the perfect blend of both....
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Photo of Cullen Residence Hall (The Center Houston)
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.
Photo of Pleasant Hill Village
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Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Sparrow Assisted Living
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.
Photo of Woodland Christian Towers Inc
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of W Leo Daniels Towers
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of The Hallmark Senior Living
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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 Hallmark Independent Living
1818 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.
Since 1972, The Hallmark has been the ideal community in Houston for energetic seniors who want to remain active and socially engaged in their retirement.Experience a place that you can call home, nestled in the exciting Uptown Park area. Connect with new friends, while enjoying the pastimes you...
Photo of Park Shadows Retirement Community
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of WALIPP Senior Residences
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In this community they bring meals to us through the week and they have a lot of activities like bible study bingo and more for the residents. I was really happy when I came to this community. They are very...
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.
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I don't understand these other reviews here because I have a totally different experience at the Pinemont Apartments. People here in the office are friendly and very helpful. In fact the first person I...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.

Costs of independent living in the Houston area

The median rent cost of independent senior living in Houston is $2,820 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s 2022-2023 proprietary data of partner communities. This figure excludes any additional fees for amenities and care services. You’ll find that independent living facilities in Houston have a lot to offer at an affordable price. These costs can include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Meal plans
  • Utilities, maintenance, and landscaping
  • Housekeeping and laundry services
  • Transportation services
  • Access to shared spaces, such as fitness centers, game rooms, and movie theaters
  • Security systems

The below costs give an area comparison of average senior independent living costs and don’t necessarily account for any additional fees, such as meal plans or extra services.

Average cost comparisons near Houston, TX

Average monthly costs

Houston, TX

$4,082

How people pay for independent living in Houston

Medicaid and Medicare don’t cover independent living senior community costs, as these are not considered long-term care communities. So, Houston seniors typically combine their personal resources to pay for independent senior living. Houston veterans may also use their veteran benefits to offset some costs for independent living in Houston, Texas.

It’s important to note that if you’re planning for care needs that may arise in the future, Medicaid and Medicare may be used to cover some in-home care services or care expenses in assisted living or memory care communities.

Private pay methods for independent living in Houston

Private pay methods include a senior’s savings accounts, Social Security benefits, retirement pensions, investment returns, and more.

Note: Long-term care insurance doesn’t typically apply to independent living communities, as these policies usually only cover medical care costs in senior care communities. However, learning about long-term care insurance can be useful for future planning, in case a transfer to an assisted living care facility ever becomes necessary.

Also note: Texas is one of the few states in the nation without personal income tax, saving you from paying additional taxes on Social Security benefits or other retirement income.[02,03]

Read on for some insights into other ways you might pay for independent senior living costs:

Caregiver Resources
Can You Use Your HSA for Long-Term Care Costs?
By Celia Searles
Caregiver Resources
Reverse Mortgages and Long-Term Care: The Pros and Cons
By Merritt Whitley, senior living writer and editor
Veterans benefits for independent living in Houston

Houston is a popular destination for Texas veterans as it belongs to Harris County — home to the highest number of veterans in Texas. Veterans in Houston can receive advice and assistance from benefits advisors employed by the Harris County Veterans Services Department. These advisors can help you or your loved one apply for pensions and benefits, process VA claims, file appeals, and more.

If a senior veteran qualifies for a VA pension, they can use those funds to cover independent living expenses. Veterans requiring assistance with activities of daily living may also be entitled to the Aid and Attendance benefit in addition to their pension, which can also be used to cover costs of senior living. Do keep in mind that senior veterans must be enrolled in VA health care and meet eligibility requirements to qualify for the Aid and Attendance benefit. The resources below can help Houston’s seniors access their eligible VA pensions and benefits.

59735

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

About 45% of Houston veterans are 65+, according to the U.S. Census Bureau

Resources for Houston veterans

Harris County Veterans Services Department

The Harris County Veterans Services Department helps veterans obtain their VA benefits, process their VA claims, file appeals, and more.

2929 McKinney St.
Houston, TX 77003
Phone: 281-876-6600
Email: vsdinfo@harriscountytx.gov

Veterans Affairs Houston Regional Office

Veterans Affairs Houston Regional Office website

6900 Almeda Road
Houston, TX 77030
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Amazing Soldiers, Inc.

Amazing Soldiers, Inc. is a nonprofit program dedicated to providing resources and reliable services to veterans in need of support or assistance.

3880 Greenhouse Road, Suite 409
Houston, TX 77084
Phone: 346-900-4551
Email: amazingsoldiers16@gmail.com

Texas Veterans Commission (TVC)

TVC advocates for veterans and their families in Texas. They offer eight programs dedicated to helping veterans obtain benefits, file claims, and more.

A Place for Mom Veterans Benefits Guide

Read or download the A Place for Mom Veterans Benefits Guide.

Houston Medicaid for independent living

Medicaid programs typically cannot be used to pay for independent living; however, they can help offset some associated senior care costs. Most seniors receiving Medicaid in Texas receive their coverage through the state’s Medicaid managed care program — STAR+PLUS. This program is run by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (or HHSC) and is specifically for 65+ adults and/or adults with disabilities. This program can be used to cover the cost of some long-term health care services.

If you or a senior loved one are planning for future care needs at home, it might prove useful to learn about the STAR+PLUS Home and Community Based Services waiver program. This waiver program can help cover the costs of care services within a senior’s home or at a senior living facility. The HHSC also offers a number of programs that help seniors with Medicaid through their local area agencies on aging (commonly known as AAAs) for seniors 60+, as well as other long-term care programs for low-income seniors and seniors with a disability.

Houston resident Medicaid resources

Find a Medicaid office in Houston

This search tool can help you find a Medicaid benefits office near you.

Find services through the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC)

The Texas Health and Human Services website offers a services search page to help you find Medicaid services.

Apply for Medicaid in Houston

You can apply for Medicaid online through the Your Texas Benefits website.

Medicaid FAQs for Houston
A Place for Mom guide to Medicaid, Medicare, and long-term care

Read A Place for Mom’s public payment guide.

Medicare independent living coverage in Houston

Medicare is a federal health insurance program. Anyone who is over the age of 65 and/or has a disability is eligible for Medicare in Texas. Even though it cannot be used to cover rent or living costs in independent living communities, it can help cover some medical services. Medicare will cover things like hospital stays, hospice care, certain doctors’ services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventative services.

Houston seniors can reach out to Texas’ Health Information, Counseling, and Advocacy Program (or HICAP) to receive assistance with Medicare benefits, legal advice, and referrals. The program may direct financially eligible seniors to the Texas Medicare Savings Program, which aids seniors with their Medicare premiums, deductibles, copayments, and/or coinsurance.

Houston resident Medicare resources

Online Medicare application

You can apply for Medicare benefits through the Social Security Administration website.

Texas Medicare Savings Programs application

This Medicare Savings Program PDF includes the application as well as directions on how to apply. You can print the PDF or request a paper form by mail.

Find a Social Security Administration (SSA) office

Use this Social Security Office Locator to find your local Social Security office in Houston.

Harris County Area Agency on Aging

As part of a nationwide Aging Network headed by the U.S. Administration on Aging, the Harris County Area Agency on Aging provides support services for local seniors and their caregivers.

8000 N Stadium Drive
Houston, TX 77054
Phone: 832-393-4301
Email: aging@houstontx.gov

Public assistance for seniors in Houston

Because Medicaid and Medicare do not cover independent living costs, seniors often turn to housing assistance programs or Social Security benefits. These assistance programs can offset some costs of living, like rent, at an independent senior living community. Check out some more information on both below:

Housing assistance programs

Some independent living communities accept housing vouchers from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, also known as HUD. The most common voucher program is the Housing Choice Voucher, formerly known as Section 8. Low-income seniors or individuals with disabilities may qualify for the voucher and receive rent assistance in an independent living community. The owner of the independent living community must agree to rent under the Housing Choice Voucher program, so make sure to check with the prospective community before moving in.

Additional resources:

Social Security benefits

Many seniors use their Social Security benefits to offset their living costs. There are many types of Social Security benefits and the ones available to a senior will depend on their work history and current situation. Here’s a breakdown of the types:

  • Social Security Retirement (or SSR) benefit: SSR is a monthly check received during retirement after an individual has reduced their working hours or retired. Eligibility is dependent on the senior’s prior work.
  • Social Security Disability Insurance (or SSDI): The SSDI program pays monthly benefits to individuals with qualifying disabilities who’ve worked long enough.
  • Supplemental Security Income (or SSI): The SSI program provides monthly payments to qualifying individuals with a disability or seniors 65+ regardless of work history. These payments may be received in addition to SSR and SSDI payments. Eligibility requirements include having limited income and resources.
  • Social Security survivors benefits: The survivors benefits plan pays a monthly benefit to provide financial support for military widows, widowers, and dependents. This monthly payment is known as an annuity and is meant to ensure a reliable income stream for the survivors of a deceased military member or veteran who worked and paid Social Security taxes.

Understand Texas laws and regulations for independent living communities

Independent living communities in Houston are not regulated by a state agency. However, most of our partner Houston communities share their campus with an assisted living facility. This means they are required to comply with assisted living licensing and regulation requirements set forth by the Texas Health and Human Services, also known as the HHS. Texas independent living facilities with an assisted living facility on the same campus are required to regulate the following in order to pass inspections and stay licensed:

  • Sufficient staffing
  • Employee background checks
  • Management of the facility
  • Construction of the facility
  • Implementation of safety and emergency features
  • Protection from hazardous areas
  • Document reports of fire drills, system checks, etc.[05]

Tenant rights

Stand-alone independent living facilities aren’t regulated by the Texas Health and Human Services, but they are still required to comply with Texas’ general housing and apartment standards for landlords and tenants. It’s important for seniors and their families to understand their tenant rights to ensure a safe, satisfactory living situation while renting. Below, you’ll find a brief summary of tenants’ rights in Texas:

  • Residents have the right to ask their landlord to repair problems that risk their health and safety. Landlords are required to make a diligent effort in repairing the problems at hand.
  • Residents may terminate a lease if a problem that affects their health hasn’t been resolved after multiple notices and within a reasonable timeframe.
  • If a landlord fails to resolve issues that affect a resident’s health after multiple notices within a reasonable timeframe, the tenant may hire an external contractor to fix the problem. The tenant can then submit the expenses to the landlord to deduct the expense from their rent.[06]

Before making any major decisions in a tenant-landlord dispute, it’s strongly recommended that a tenant consults with an attorney or tenants association. Consulting a housing expert is the best way to ensure that you don’t breach any lease agreements and will ultimately help you get the outcome you want.

If you’d like more information on your rights as a tenant in a Texas independent living facility, see this Tenants’ Rights Handbook.

Americans with Disabilities Act (also known as ADA) compliance

Tenants with disabilities also have the right to request reasonable accommodations and modifications when they rent from any property owner. Reasonable accommodations are changes to community policies, and modifications are structural changes to common areas or individual units. These accommodations or modifications could include the following scenarios:

  • Smoke detectors need to be installed by the property owner within each room of a unit. If a tenant has a hearing impairment, a specialized smoke detector must be installed.
  • Owners must provide common area accommodations for tenants with disabilities, so tenants can easily access shared spaces and participate in resident activities.
  • Property owners must pay for modifications to units or common areas to make them more accessible to individuals with disabilities, or they must provide a sufficient alternative. Modifications can include adding a wheelchair ramp, installing grab bars in the bathroom, or removing carpet for easy wheelchair use.[06]

For detailed examples and information on reasonable accommodations and modifications, see the Texas Department of Housing and Human Affairs’ infographic. Also note that property owners may lawfully deny a request if the modification poses an undue financial and administrative burden.

COVID-19 regulations for Houston independent living communities

Neither Houston nor Texas have specific COVID-19 regulations for independent living communities. However, independent living communities with an assisted living unit on-site must comply with any guidelines set forth by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (also known as the HHSC). The HHSC retired its COVID-19 response plan for assisted living facilities in January of 2023, but facilities are still required to develop their own infection prevention and control measures regarding masks, physical distancing, and additional protocols for personal protective equipment (PPE) during an active infection or outbreak.[07]

Get to know independent living in Houston

232Number of in-network assisted living facilities in market
3.8/5.0 average in-network rating
90% of communities have an on-site beauty salon
81% of communities have an on-site pool
81% of communities have an on-site movie theater
81% of communities have an on-site fitness center
2655
Number of people we have referred in Houston in 2022
76
Average age of residents we have referred in Houston in 2022

Unique features of independent living communities in Houston

Houston is home to the highest population of seniors in Texas. So, naturally, the city’s independent living communities check every box when it comes to helping seniors find their home — because the market is competitive. To learn exactly how Houston communities work to keep seniors healthy and happy, check out the following Houston independent living features:

Multiple care types under one roof

It’s common practice for independent living to be provided in assisted living facilities or continuing care retirement communities. In fact, almost all of our partner independent living communities in Houston are on a campus that provides multiple care types, namely assisted living and memory care. Many communities even partner with third-party home care agencies on-site for seniors seeking advanced care services.

To further accommodate senior residents, many of these communities take extra security measures to make sure residents and their belongings remain safe. For example, most of our partnered communities have 24-hour staffing and a secured, gated campus with video-monitored entrances and exits.

Services that make life easier

Many of our independent living communities help seniors lead active lifestyles, free of daily stresses and chores. While residents are off enjoying their beloved hobbies and pastimes, staff members take care of the cleaning, maintenance, and landscaping. Most of our partner communities offer in-unit housekeeping and laundry services. Staff will also happily coordinate transportation, ensuring residents get from place to place safely. Plus, residents don’t have to worry about leaving the community for a haircut, as some partner communities offer on-site beauticians to provide new styles, colors, beard trimmings, and more.

Shared spaces and on-site activities encourage friendship

Independent living residents are often looking to form new friendships and connections. That is precisely why many of our in-network Houston communities provide shared amenities, gathering spaces, and a myriad of on-site activities. Residents are free to gather in on-site arts and crafts centers, libraries, movie theaters, lounges, pubs, and more. They can also choose to attend events and activities hosted by the community. Many communities have a rotating calendar filled with interest-centered club meetings, fitness classes, off-site trips, holiday parties, birthday celebrations, and more.

Independent living in the surrounding Houston suburbs

Many seniors find themselves wary of Houston’s traffic as they age, so they tend to gravitate toward the city’s suburbs for retirement. Some of the most popular Houston suburbs for retirement include Sugar Land and Katy. These cities offer master-planned communities filled with community parks, pools, and courts. Residents in both cities also benefit from a range of amenities, enjoy cuisines from all around the world, shop local boutiques and name-brand stores, and explore niche museums. Plus, the spacious nature of the suburbs enables independent living communities to maximize their on-site amenities.

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Unfamiliar with Houston? Highlights for seniors

276960

Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Houston, according to the U.S. Census Bureau

76%

Percentage of Houston seniors 65+ that are retired from the workforce, according to the U.S. Census Bureau

21018

Median annual Social Security income for Houston seniors 65 and older, according to the U.S. Census Bureau

Health care for seniors in Houston

Aging adults have access to many health care facilities in Houston — some of which are nationally ranked in geriatrics. Below, you’ll learn more about what Houston’s top-rated hospitals have to offer.

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Houston Methodist Hospital

Houston Methodist Hospital is the No. 1 hospital in Texas and Houston, according to U.S. News and World Report. It’s nationally ranked in 10 specialties, including No. 22 in geriatrics, No. 15 in neurology, and No. 11 in orthopedics.

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Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center

Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center is the No. 2 hospital in Houston and is nationally ranked in six specialties, including No. 43 in geriatrics, according to U.S. News and World Report.

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Memorial Hermann Hospital

Memorial Hermann Hospital is No. 3 in Houston and is high performing in seven specialties, including diabetes, orthopedics, and cardiology, according to U.S. News and World Report.

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MD Anderson Cancer Center

MD Anderson is the No. 1 cancer center in the nation, according to U.S. News and World Report. It’s the largest cancer center in the U.S. and is also nationally ranked in geriatrics, diabetes, and urology. It’s world-renowned for its evolving research and high level of care.

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Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center

Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center is a popular veteran hospital in Texas. It’s known for providing a wide array of services, including a range of health, legal, and even caregiver resources.

Transportation for seniors in Houston

There are several ways to get around in Houston, but due to the city’s urban sprawl, most residents own cars. Luckily, many of our in-network independent living facilities enable residents to travel safely by providing complimentary or at-cost transportation services.

However, some communities only offer rides to a limited number of events, such as strictly to appointments, errands, etc., so knowing your public transportation options will come in handy. Houston’s most popular public transportation method is METRO. It offers buses, rails, and paratransit services throughout Harris County. Houston residents who are 65+ or have a disability may also qualify for RIDES.

Additionally, active seniors may benefit from checking out the following scores from WalkScore. Each score is out of 100 and based on hyperlocal data on Houston’s public density, walking routes, public transit options, biking trails, and more: [09]

Transportation card image
47

Walk Score

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36

Transit Score

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49

Bike Score

A senior woman smelling flowers in a garden

Dynamic senior activities in Houston

As Texas’ largest city, the saying “everything’s bigger in Texas” rings true in Houston. The diverse city proclaims itself as the cultural capital of the South. To live up to this claim, the city works to accommodate the interests of all ages — most importantly, seniors. Aging adults can enjoy the city’s robust shopping and dining options, participate in senior programs at local community centers, or explore the following types of attractions:

Arts and culture

  • Space Center Houston: This is Houston’s most popular museum and enables seniors to view space artifacts and learn about space travel.
  • The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston: Art lovers can view stunning exhibitions and world-renowned artworks at this famous Houston art museum.
  • Theater District: Houston’s theater district spans 17 blocks and hosts a range of plays, ballets, symphonies, and more.

Nature and wildlife

  • Houston Zoo: Animal lovers can enjoy afternoons strolling the zoo’s exhibits and interacting with some of its animals.
  • Downtown Aquarium: This unique aquarium offers several activities, including a restaurant, various rides, and of course, aquatic exhibits.
  • Houston Botanic Garden: Seniors with an affinity for nature can surround themselves with flowers and plants for an afternoon at this expansive botanical garden.

Parks and recreation

  • Houston parks and recreation: Seniors can choose to stroll and relax in one of the many parks across the city. Or, they can use their well-maintained tennis courts and pickleball courts to break a sweat.
  • River Oaks Country Club: Seniors can take part in indoor and outdoor activities or socialize and relax in facilities at the city’s most popular country club.

Note that many of these attractions provide accommodations for individuals with disabilities, and some even offer senior discounts. To confirm the exact accommodations and specials available, be sure to inquire about each respective location prior to your visit.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Watercrest at Kingwood, Cypress Woods and Watercrest at Shadow Creek Ranch are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Houston, 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 Houston is 4081.75 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. TurboTax. (2022, September 7). States with the lowest taxes and the highest taxes.

  3. Fritts, J. (2020, August 9). Does your state tax social security benefits? Tax Foundation.

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

  5. Assisted Living Facility Licensing Act, Health Facilities § 247.001 (2021).

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

  7. Texas Health and Human Services. (2023, January 11). HHSC retires ALF COVID-19 response plan and COVID-19 FAQs.

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

  9. WalkScore. (2023). Living in Houston.

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The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, legal or financial advice or create a professional relationship between A Place for Mom and the reader. Always seek the advice of your health care provider, attorney or financial advisor with respect to any particular matter, and do not act or refrain from acting on the basis of anything you have read on this site. Links to third-party websites are only for the convenience of the reader; A Place for Mom does not endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
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1.

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

2.
3.

Fritts, J. (2020, August 9). Does your state tax social security benefits? Tax Foundation.

4.

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

5.

Assisted Living Facility Licensing Act, Health Facilities § 247.001 (2021).

6.

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

7.

Texas Health and Human Services. (2023, January 11). HHSC retires ALF COVID-19 response plan and COVID-19 FAQs.

8.

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

9.

WalkScore. (2023). Living in Houston.