A haven for outdoor lovers, art aficionados, and music enthusiasts, Seattle is an ideal option for people looking for independent living options with activities and amenities close by while still supporting their newest phase of life.
Independent living doesn’t provide the personal care or health assistance long-term care facilities offer but is ideal if you’re looking for a community feeling with amenities such as:
In this guide, you’ll learn about some of the best independent living communities in Seattle. With 37 facilities within a 10-mile radius of downtown Seattle (and an additional 39 communities in a 25-mile radius), there are options to fit several needs. You’ll also learn about cost and payment options, laws that guide independent living, and the types of services and amenities on offer in Seattle.
I am very pleased about how everyone is so friendly! The opportunity to ask for anything from books to read to help if I fall or become ill. I am happy here.
The staff at Cogir were very responsive and attune to my mom’s needs during her move in. Lots of great activities for her to participate in, and she has made a number of friends in the short time she has...
The staff there are really great, and turnover has been relatively low, which means the people who care for mom on a daily basis are very familiar with her needs. Also, she has friendly people dropping in to...
I like that they have parking there and based on the experience we have had so far, we would recommend Truewood by Merrill to other families who may need a place for their loved ones.
He's been Northgate Plaza three months so far so good. He is tough but they still keep him. I like the overall feel there and like I say he seems good and engaged. Happy with the food and activities and...
My older sister has been at the MG / University for 10 years. She had been living on her own but suddenly found herself needing a little more community support. The staff at MG is amazing - providing support...
Lucky for us my mother was able to live at Village Green for the past two years, after the abrupt closing of Vashon Community Care, Vashon Island, WA. She often referred to it as her home. The CNA staff is...
The staff in the memory care unit was as caring as any staff could be,. They took my dad on trips as long as he was able. But don't think that you can leave all the care of your loved one up to any staff....
Staff are extremely friendly. The shared spaces such as the library, theater, and entrance are inviting and beautifully maintained. We enjoy the terrace too!
I was looking fir an assisted living community that was comfortable, convenient and served excellent meals. I found this but what really surprised me was how many friendly, interesting residents I got to...
The dining staff is very helpful with [name removed] special needs. The caregivers are also very thoughtful and we would recommend this community to other families based on the experience we have had so far.
Beautiful dining room with view of Lake Washington. Grounds beautiful and well taken care of. Staff is friendly and kind. Secure with gated entrance. Some menu options are very good - maybe rotate menu...
We moved from Hawaii to Seattle to be closer to our children. Seattle is a bit of a disappointment , but the Mirabella Retirement Community makes up for it. The residents are friendly and interesting. The...
My sister is the 3rd resident in the newly opened Memory Care in Aegis Living Ballard. The facility is beautiful, the staff are amazing, and the food is delicious. If your loved one needs Memory Care...
I love this place. residents are not as young and independent as they say, but lots of fun and interesting people. As they have grown, they have cut way back on things like free Lyft rides. Room cleaning is...
My mother has been living at Laurel Cove for a month, coming from another facility. She is entirely happy with the daily care, the quick response from staff and the high quality of the food. The environment...
I moved my father in for a respite stay after a fall. Things went so well we he stayed permanently. The staff is superior. The care provided is consistent. The building is clean. The food is ok.
The staff keeps me well informed of my dad's status. They have several activities available each day and frequent outings, which are important to us as dad is very social. I would recommend the facility to...
I like the indoor saltwater pool, the gym and the fact they have an on-site physical therapist the most. Everyone is very friendly and welcoming (residents and staff). We have a great life enriching group as...
We are happy. Working with people and staff changes there were a few hiccups but staff very helpful in working out the bumps.
Our family very much appreciated Madison House while Grandma was living there. The caregivers took amazing care of her. Always respectfully and with kindness. I slept well knowing she was looked after and...
Staff is friendly. The residents, like most 'dorm ' living situations, vary in personality & temperament. This makes for a challenge in getting along. If you participate in the activities, the cost is...
Sagebrook made me feel at home and that they cared about my experience as well as my wife's. Although my wife had stopped being responsive to care, they went out of their way to attempt to reach her and...
She's done really great there. We're very happy. It is a much better experience than her previous facility. Very friendly staff. Great help and assistance. Love all the activities. Very easy to get...
Everyone at Regency Newcastle was very nice and I did enjoy meeting people from all walks of life. I would recommend this community to other families based on the experience I have had.
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Seattle community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:
We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information
We have 387,000+ reviews from senior living residents and family members that provide first-hand accounts about senior living communities
The average monthly cost of independent living in our Seattle network of partners is $5,315 per month, according to proprietary data from A Place for Mom.[01] This cost includes associated fees and service add-ons. This is substantially higher than the national average cost of independent living, which sits at $3,376.[01]
Independent living offers a mix of amenities within the communities but also prioritizes residents’ desires to live as independently as they please. So, while you might see plenty of dining options, on-site barbers and beauty salons, community common areas, and activities, independent living also often provides full kitchens or kitchenettes in rooms, parking, and transportation so it is easy to participate in anything Seattle offers.
The following costs represent only Seattle’s baseline independent living costs, without any add-on fees.
While insurance programs like Medicaid or Medicare don’t cover independent living because they’re technically not senior care communities, there are ways you can use these resources to fund this new stage in life.
In this section, you will find some of the more common ways people pay for independent living, from private pay options and VA benefits to housing assistance and Medicare and Medicaid resources.
There are several private pay sources to fund the move to independent living. In addition to Social Security benefits, investment returns, and pensions, the following methods are also options:
Veterans who qualify can use the VA Pension to help with independent living costs. It is an option for some veterans who meet the income requirements set by Congress and who did not receive a dishonorable discharge.
There is also the Aid and Attendance benefit. This benefit helps with any costs that improve qualified veterans’ quality of life. This benefit is paid out on top of the VA pension. It’s best to contact one of the local organizations listed below to help determine your eligibility status and guide you through the claims process.
Seattle has several local organizations certified as veterans service organizations (VSOs) that support veterans through things like eligibility and claims assistance. Some even have their own financial assistance programs and other services, including transportation.
Applying for benefits can get complicated; as you start this process, we recommend touching base with some of the resources listed to ensure you’re getting the most out of your VA benefits. Many will have Veterans Service Officers who can help guide you.
Number of veterans who live in Seattle, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
About 46% of Seattle veterans are 65+, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Resources for Seattle veterans
Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs
1102 Quince St. SE
Olympia, WA 98504
Phone: 1-877-838-7787
Email: benefits@dva.wa.gov
King County Veterans Services Program
Department of Community and Human Services
9725 3rd Ave. NE, Suite 300
Seattle, WA 98115
Phone: 206-263-8387
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Ballard Eagleson Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3063
2812 NW Market St.
Seattle, WA 98107
Phone: 206-782-8618
Email: adjutant@vfwseattle.org
Hours: Thursday and Saturday, 11 a.m. – 3 p.m.
The American Legion Department of Washington
3600 Ruddell Road SE
Lacey, WA 98503
Phone: 360-491-4373
Fax: 360-628-8364
Disabled American Veterans
915 Second Ave.
Room 1040
Seattle, WA 98174
Phone: 206-341-8267
Phone: 1-888-604-0234
Hours (by appointment only): Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, 8 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. and Wednesday, 8 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.
The Seattle Public Library Veterans Services
1000 Fourth Ave.
Seattle, WA 98104
Phone: 206-386-4636
Hours: Thursdays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Both Medicaid, which is known as Apple Health in Washington, and Medicare can’t be used for housing costs associated with independent living. Still, they will pay for certain in-home healthcare services.
The Home and Community-Based Services Waiver Program, through Apple Health, will cover in-home care, while Medicare Part A and Part B cover short-term care needs for people over the age of 65. Medicare coverage includes services like:
For help with Medicaid-related costs, programs like the Pharmaceutical Assistance Program are on hand to help with prescription costs. The Medicare Savings Program program supports Medicare premiums but is offered through Washington’s Medicaid program, Apple Health.
For support with Medicare, the Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors (SHIBA) can assist people applying for Medicare benefits. The Washington State Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program serves as a safeguard for any complaints, grievances, or questions about the appeals process for people in long-term care communities.
The additional resources below can also help you determine eligibility and provide support. Washington’s Community Living Connections (CLC) Network can help seniors find benefits that might suit their situations and connect them with the right person who can help.
Seattle Medicaid and Medicare resources
Washington Apple Health626 8th Ave. SE
Olympia, WA 98501
Phone: 800-562-3022
Office Hours: Monday through Friday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Seattle Social Security Administration
Suite 901
915 Second Ave.
Seattle, WA 98174
Phone: 1-800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors
1501 N 45th St.
Seattle, WA 98103
Phone: 206-753-4806
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Providence ElderPlace (PACE)
4515 Martin Luther King Jr Way S
Suite 100
Seattle, WA 98108
Phone: 206-320-5325
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Aging and Long-Term Support Administration
1737 Airport Way S, Suite 130
Seattle, WA 98134
Phone: 206-341-7600
Office Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Washington State Long-Term Care Ombudsman
1200 S 336th St.
Federal Way, WA 98003
Phone: 206-623-0816
Because independent living communities aren’t classified as healthcare facilities, they aren’t subject to the same licensing or regulatory oversight that communities like assisted living face. However, because some independent living communities provide services like transportation or dining, they may need to obtain licenses for those specific services.
You may also find your independent living community has a minimum age requirement. This is up to the authority of the community itself, but the minimum age is typically between 55 and 62 years old.
While independent living may not have the same licensing that other long-term care facilities require, they do have to comply with several state and federal laws that protect your rights as a renter.
Additionally, there are maintenance and safety requirements everyone, no matter what type of accommodation they’re in, is entitled to. This includes adequate heat, hot water, plumbing, fire equipment, and timely repairs of anything that is broken. For more in-depth information, consider reading through these resources:
Washington State Department of Health
111 Israel Rd SE
Tumwater, WA 98501
Phone: 800-525-0127
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
While standalone independent living facilities do not have to adhere to any COVID-19 guidelines, most of Seattle’s independent living communities are part of more extensive assisted living or memory care facilities, so you may find COVID-19 guidelines being practiced.
For independent living facilities that are part of another community regulated by the Department of Health, expect guidelines that follow the CDC and the Washington Department of Health’s Interim Recommendations for SARS-CoV-2 Infection Prevention and Control in Healthcare Settings.[02]
Vaccinations. Up-to-date vaccinations and boosters are recommended for staff and residents.
Masking. If appropriate, staff should wear well-fitting masks.
Facility cleanliness. Ventilation and filtration should be optimized. Dedicated medical equipment should be used when caring for a person with a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19. Additionally, routine cleaning and disinfection are recommended.
Quarantining. The movement of people with COVID-19 should be limited to medically necessary reasons.
Seattle is an ideal place to live if you value independence. The ninth most walkable city in the United States, Seattle is an excellent option for independent people who enjoy their social life and want to stay as active as they can.[04] Whether it’s shopping at Pike Place Market, participating in one of the many local community groups, or adventuring out to Mount Rainier for the day, there’s something for many different lifestyles.
Residents of independent living communities in Seattle can expect a number of amenities, most of which center around remaining active and keeping up with hobbies. Of our 37 partner communities:
For people who like to spend time outside, almost all of our listings have outside patios.[01]
Seattle’s independent living communities make it easy to get out and enjoy the city, as 97% are conveniently located next to public transportation. In addition, all of our listings offer complimentary transportation.[01]
Each facility offers different amenities and services, which is why our senior living advisors are available to arrange tours for any seniors interested in specific locations.
Many independent living communities in Seattle offer multiple levels of care. That’s because the majority of them aren’t standalone independent living communities. Most of our listings offer a combination of independent living and assisted living or a combination of independent living, assisted living, and memory care.[01] Communities that combine independent living, assisted living, and memory care are progressive in the market and, therefore, great options for care seekers in Seattle.
These types of facilities make it easy to go from an independent lifestyle to one that requires more support and health care. In other words, they allow residents to age in place. As their health needs change, so do their care options. Later in life, care needs can change often. If you know you want to stay in one place rather than move to different locations as your needs fluctuate, these kinds of combination communities are excellent choices.
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Our free touring checklist can help you choose the right community.
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Seattle, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Seattle population, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Median annual income for Seattle seniors 65 and older, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Seattle has many health care options, from high-ranking hospitals and primary care options to specialty clinics.
Named one of the best hospitals in the nation, UW Medical Center currently ranks in seven specialties. This teaching hospital is particularly well known for its cancer care, nephrology, and urology.
Virginia Mason is known for taking a patient-centered approach to its healthcare. Its specialties include orthopedic care, cancer care, and digestive disorder programs.
Just 10 miles from downtown Seattle, Bellevue-based Overlake Medical Center offers a wide range of healthcare services and is s rated as high performing in 13 adult procedures.
Named by U.S. News and World Report as the best Seattle Metro hospital, this general medical and surgical center has two Seattle locations.
Offering a range of services and prioritizing patients over the age of 75, this clinic is part of UW Medical Center and specializes in primary care, palliative care, and memory care.
Seattle’s VA Medical Center serves the veteran community and offers a number of specialty health services, senior care, and primary care.
While most of Seattle’s independent living communities have on-site parking and offer transport services, there are also several public transport options in Seattle.
The city has heavily invested in streetcars, buses, and ferries, and a new light rail serves downtown Seattle and Seattle-Tacoma Airport. Beyond public transportation and any services independent living facilities offer, there are a variety of community-led initiatives to help seniors get around.
Seattle is the ninth most walkable city in the U.S.[04] You can map out a route for walking with the help of this Seattle Department of Transportation website. Walk, transit, and bike scores are graded from one to 100 and measure the ease at which a person could go about their daily lives using the walk and bike paths available as well as public transportation.
Nestled between the Puget Sound and the immense Mount Rainier, Seattle is ideal for people who love the outdoors. It has some of the best parks and trails, and the Seattle Parks and Recreation Department offers a full calendar of events, including senior-specific activities for those who want to meet new people or have fun with friends and family.
The arts, theater, and music communities are also thriving in Seattle — from the Chihuly Garden and Glass to the Fifth Avenue Theatre and beyond. The online event guide EverOut lists dozens of theater and music recommendations if you have an evening to fill, while there are also several fun museums to take in. The Museum of Flight, Museum of Pop Culture, and the Seattle Art Museum all have high ratings and offer senior discounts and accommodations for various levels of mobility.
Seattle is home to a number of professional sports teams, so it’s easy to go to a game almost any time of year. Head to T-Mobile park for a Mariners game, Lumen Field for a Seahawks game, or the Climate Pledge Arena for a Kraken or Seattle Storm game. For pro soccer fans, the Seattle Sounders might be the right choice for you.
A short drive out of the city you will find two casinos, each offering something a little different. North of Seattle is Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort, which also has golf and spa services, making it a great destination for a weekend away for groups with multiple interests. South of the city, you’ll find Muckleshoot Casino, which has the largest smoke-free area for table games in the state.
Seniors centers and senior-specific groups abound to connect like-minded seniors for activities or day trips Here are some of the most popular groups and senior centers in Seattle:
Revel Issaquah, Cogir of Mill Creek and Laurel Cove are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Seattle, WA. 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 Seattle is $4,351 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
Washington State Department of Health. (2022). Interim Recommendations for SARS-CoV-2 Infection Prevention and Control in Healthcare Settings.
Centers for Disease Control. (2022, September 23). Infection Control: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). CDC.
Walk Score. (2021). 2021 City & Neighborhood Ranking.
U.S. News. (2023). U.S. News Best Hospitals. U.S. News & World Report L.P.
Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
Washington State Department of Health. (2022). Interim Recommendations for SARS-CoV-2 Infection Prevention and Control in Healthcare Settings.
Centers for Disease Control. (2022, September 23). Infection Control: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). CDC.
Walk Score. (2021). 2021 City & Neighborhood Ranking.
U.S. News. (2023). U.S. News Best Hospitals. U.S. News & World Report L.P.