Are you looking for an active retirement life in eastern Washington? Then the City of Spokane might be a great choice. Older adults who are still self-reliant flock to Spokane, mostly for the gorgeous nature scenes, vibrant city culture, and affordable living just over 200 miles South of the Canadian border.
A Place for Mom partners with seven independent living communities in a 10-mile radius of downtown Spokane. These facilities will take care of all the things you don’t want to do, like cook meals and clean the house, while giving you plenty of opportunities for everything you do want to spend time on.
Besides viewing these listings, we’ll also discuss payment options and resources, regulations, health facilities, demographics, and entertainment opportunities that are highly popular with active seniors in Spokane.
10 Best Independent Living Communities in Spokane, WA
Are you looking for an active retirement life in eastern Washington? Then the City of Spokane might be a great choice. Older adults who are still self-reliant flock to Spokane, mostly for the gorgeous nature scenes, vibrant city culture, and affordable living just over 200 miles South of the Canadian border.Read more
A Place for Mom partners with seven independent living communities in a 10-mile radius of downtown Spokane. These facilities will take care of all the things you don’t want to do, like cook meals and clean the house, while giving you plenty of opportunities for everything you do want to spend time on.
Besides viewing these listings, we’ll also discuss payment options and resources, regulations, health facilities, demographics, and entertainment opportunities that are highly popular with active seniors in Spokane.
Spokane Independent Living Facilities | 672 Reviews
My Mom lives here currently. As far as the facility is concerned, things are going well. Part of the reason for choosing them was because they offer a continuum of care, regardless of what part of life the...
People here are wonderful...the residents and staff are vibrant and welcoming. Can not imagine a better environment to truly live life! I have lived here for a year and am constantly surprised with all the...
Our free advisors can help
- Compare local facilities
- Determine care type
- Schedule tours
- Evaluate pricing
My sister and brother in law live here--I have visited them 3 times now and all 3 times the staff at Rockwood have been exceptional! They are all super-friendly and greet the residents and even us family...
I moved in here on the 11th of Sept and so far I'm very very happy with the place. My apartment was just like moving into a new place, everything didn't even look like it had been used. There are a...
- What families are saying about independent living in Spokane
- Costs of independent living in the Spokane area
- How people pay for independent living in Spokane
- Understand Washington State laws and regulations for independent living communities
- Get to know independent living in Spokane
- Types of independent living in Spokane
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Spokane? Highlights for seniors
What families are saying about independent living in Spokane
Recent reviews for independent living in Spokane
Sapphire at Moran Vista in Spokane, WA
South Hill Village in Spokane, WA
Revel Spokane
Costs of independent living in the Spokane area
According to proprietary data from A Place for Mom, the average actual cost of independent living is $4,015 per month.[01] This sum includes all associated fees plus service fee add-ons. The cost figure reflects a variety of amenities, care options, floor plans, and entertainment options.
The chart below outlines the average baseline costs without add-on costs in the Spokane area.
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Spokane, WA vs. nearby cities
Spokane, WA
How people pay for independent living in Spokane
You can lean on different financial resources to fund your independent lifestyle in Spokane. Some sources can pay for rent, but others, like Medicaid and Medicare, cannot. This is mainly due to the fact that independent living communities are not classified as care facilities. However, you can still use both programs to offset your medical costs.
In this section, we’ll discuss the various types of payment options. You’ll learn more about private payment methods, VA benefits and resources, Medicaid, and Medicare.
Independent living residents have many options to help pay for monthly rent. Keep in mind that long-term care insurance cannot cover the cost of rent for the same reason as Medicaid and Medicare (such communities are not care facilities). However, private resources that can go toward all living expenses include savings, investment returns, pensions, Social Security benefits, and any of the following:
Eligible veterans can apply for benefits to offset the costs of an independent living community. It’s important to consider these options if you’re a veteran, as they can be really useful to pay for rent, medical expenses, and personal purchases. Next, we’ll suggest the best benefits programs and also discuss eligibility requirements, how to apply, and who to contact for assistance.
The most useful veterans resources are the VA Pension and Aid and Attendance benefit. The VA Pension monthly payments can be used for anything; groceries, personal buys, rent, or whatever you require. Aid and Attendance is more specific but can be used for anything that improves the quality of life for eligible wartime veterans. This is also paid on a monthly basis, and eligibility depends on whether you or your spouse needs assistance with day-to-day activities. If you qualify for the VA Pension due to a disability, chances are that you also qualify for Aid and Attendance, providing you with a dual source of income.
The VA benefits application process is complicated. Your first step should be to contact your local veterans service officer. As VA-vetted and trained experts, they can assess your eligibility, help you with the application process, discover if you qualify for more benefits, and help solve any problems you might encounter as an applicant.
In the next section, you’ll find several helpful resources like the contact details of the Spokane County Veteran Services. We also included local veterans service organizations. It’s worth noting that many of them are located in the same building as the Seattle Regional VA Office.
Number of veterans who live in Spokane
About 42 percent of Spokane veterans are 65+
Resources for Spokane veterans
Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs
1102 Quince St. SE
Olympia, WA 98504-1150
Phone: 800-562-2308
VFW Department of Washington 13109 E. Mirabeau Parkway
Spokane, WA 99216
Phone: 509-444-8387
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
915 Second Ave., Room 1040
Seattle, WA 98174
Phone: 206-341-8267
Hours: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m; Wednesdays, 8 – 11:30 a.m
American Legion, Room 1042
Phone: 206-341-8262
Disabled American Veterans, Room 1040
Phone: 206-341-8267
National Association for Black Veterans, Room 1062C
Phone: 206-341-8281
Paralyzed Veterans of America, Room 1054
Phone: 206-342-8210
Veterans of Foreign Wars, Room 1044
Phone: 206-341-8284
Vietnam Veterans of America, Room 1058
Phone: 206-341-8294
In Washington State, Medicaid is called Apple Health. While it cannot cover rent at an independent living community, you can get Medicaid to provide medically necessary in-home health care services. This usually happens through home and community based services (HCBS) waiver programs.
Another program to consider if you need daily assistance is the Medicaid Personal Care program. Seniors who are 65 or older, need help with at least three daily activities, with a monthly income below $841, are eligible for this support.
To apply for Medicaid, you need to check your eligibility and apply online. Always remember, you don’t have to struggle to see results. Aging & Long-Term Care of Eastern Washington and the local ombudsman can assist you every step of the way. Their contact details can be found below.
Spokane resident Medicaid resources
Washington State Health Care Authority
Cherry Street Plaza
626 Eighth Ave. SE
Olympia, WA 98501
Phone: 800-562-3022
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Aging & Long-Term Care of Eastern Washington
1222 N. Post
Spokane, WA 99201
Phone: 509-960-7281
Fax: 509-458-2003
Aaron Riley
3102 W. Ft. George Wright Drive
Spokane, WA 99224
Email address: riley@snapwa.org
Phone: 509-456-7133; 800-660-7133
Fax: 509-534-5874
Medicare is another useful resource, but there are limitations. It cannot cover costs such as rent at an independent living community. Also, while Medicare can pay for medically necessary in-home care, it will only do so in the short term. In order cut more costs, you can consider the following programs:
- Medicare Savings Programs: If you qualify, this program can help cover your Medicare premiums, co-payments, and deductibles. You can turn in an application for this program online or fill out a paper application.
- Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE): PACE helps seniors to gain access to medical treatments, including dental care, physical therapy, occupational therapy, prescription drug coverage, and more.
- Washington Prescription Drug Program (WPDP): This program offers seniors safe medications at lower prices with the ArrayRx discount card.
- SHIP (State Health Insurance Assistance Program): An empowering program that provides free benefits counseling so that seniors can better navigate Medicare. In Washington, this is called Statewide Health Insurance Benefits Advisors, or SHIBA.
Eligibility for Medicare depends on your age and physical health. Individuals with a disability or those who are 65 or older qualify for coverage. To get the process started, you can go to the Social Administration office or apply online. If you need assistance, your local ombudsman is the person to contact. In the next section, you’ll find the contact details of the local ombudsman, the Social Security Administration, and the aforementioned programs.
Spokane resident Medicare resources
Spokane Security Administration Office
714 N. Iron Bridge Way, No. 100
Spokane, WA 99202
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Aaron Riley
3102 W. Ft. George Wright Drive
Spokane, WA 99224
Email address: riley@snapwa.org
Phone: 509-456-7133; 800-660-7133
Fax: 509-534-5874
Phone: 800-562-3022, extension 16129
Phone: 800-913-4146
Providence ElderPlace (PACE Program)
6018 N. Astor St.
Spokane, WA 99208
Phone: 509-482-2475
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Understand Washington State laws and regulations for independent living communities
Since independent living communities are not categorized as care facilities, they generally don’t have to be licensed. However, they will still be subject to applicable rental and housing laws. We’ll cover those particulars, plus regulations for assisted living and memory care since some of our partner communities offer this type of care under the same roof.
Fair housing for all
All independent living communities must be Fair Housing Act-compliant. This law prevents a landlord from refusing a potential tenant based on their circumstances, gender, race, age, religion, health conditions, family situation, or because they rely on assistance (like Section 8 vouchers). ADA compliance is another must, ensuring that seniors with disabilities are given easy access to entrances and amenities. Disabled residents with service animals must also be accepted even when no pets are usually allowed. However, landlords may decide whether they want to permit emotional support animals or not, as these pets are not technically viewed as service animals.
Maintenance and safety laws
Under Washington State law, landlords must maintain their property in such a manner that the safety and well-being of tenants are guaranteed at all times. Every relevant code, statute, ordinance, and regulation must be followed to ensure that the community’s premises remain habitable, safe, and sanitary.
Rental laws
Rental laws in Spokane exist to protect both parties. In independent living communities, landlords are allowed to hold tenants responsible when the latter causes property damage. The responsibilities of both parties must be clearly stated in the rental contract. Once signed, said responsibilities must be honored by both the tenant and landlord.
For example, a tenant must comply with rules and regulations, pay their rent on time, and never damage the property on purpose. Landlords must agree to perform all necessary repairs, keep the grounds safe, put out garbage bins, and deal with pests.
If you want more information about the rights of tenants in Washington State, this complete renter’s guide is a wonderful place to start.
Independent living age requirements
Entry requirements for an independent living community are generally not very strict. However, some insist on a minimum age for residents. Depending on the facility, this age can range from 55 to 62.
Laws for combined communities
In Spokane, three of A Place for Mom’s partners are standalone independent living facilities. Beyond that, one facility combines independent living with assisted living, and three communities offer both independent living care and assisted living plus memory care. Since they provide these services, they must abide by regulations that apply to assisted living. By default, we’ll also discuss memory care since it falls under assisted living as a subtype of care.
In Washington State, assisted living facilities must be licensed by the Aging and Long-Term Support Administration from the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services. The same department performs facility inspections every 15 to 24 months. These surveys cover quality of care, resident complaints, staff and resident interviews, and safety compliance. If you’re looking for inspection reports regarding a specific facility, you can use this facility locator.
Other laws that assisted living facilities must comply with include running security background checks on staff and not employing people with a history of abuse, keeping a sufficient number of trained personnel on duty at all times, providing care and security for all residents, and offering basic services such as housekeeping, laundry, activities, meals, snacks, and attention to special needs.
Washington State Department of Health contact information
Washington State Department of Health
111 Israel Road SE
Tumwater, WA 98501
Phone: 800-525-0127
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
COVID-19 regulations for Spokane independent living communities
COVID-19 rules for seniors who are still active and not living in long-term care facilities are no longer so strict. People are free to decide which recommendations to follow. That being said, the City of Spokane advises citizens to get the latest vaccinations, wear masks when sick, and follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s recommendations for isolation should they be diagnosed with COVID-19 or suspect they might have it.
While things are relaxed at the moment, it’s worth noting that independent living communities might have their own COVID-19 regulations for residents to follow. Don’t hesitate to reach out to your chosen complex for more information.
Vaccinations.
Seniors are encouraged to stay up-to-date with the latest vaccines and boosters.
Masking.
It is recommended to wear a mask when sick or in a crowded public area.
Social distancing.
Avoid visiting people who have contracted COVID-19.
Quarantining.
Self-isolate for five days when you suspect you have COVID-19 or have been positively diagnosed.
Get to know independent living in Spokane
Types of independent living in Spokane
Settling down in Spokane is a big decision; perhaps a little background color can convince you that this lovely city is the right place to settle in your golden years. In this section, we discuss the types of independent communities in Spokane and the amenities they offer, as well as give a snapshot of what the city is like.
A variety of independent living communities
A Place for Mom partners with seven independent living communities in Spokane. There are three standalone facilities, but what happens if you’re still active but your spouse requires personal care? Well, you can still live together in a combined community. In Spokane, three independent living facilities offer assisted living, and three others provide both memory care and assisted living under one roof.
The best local amenities
Amenities will differ based on the community, but you can expect a rich variety of personal services, entertainment, and room features. Most will offer different floor plans, complimentary transportation, fitness centers, barber and beauty shops, cable or satellite TV, a cafe or bistro, a billiards lounge, high-speed internet, resident parking, a library, and more.
A diverse, vibrant city
Spokane is known for its natural beauty and wealth of urban amenities. Outdoor enthusiasts can hike beautiful trails, ski during the winter, or explore the nearby lakes and rivers on a boat. Foodies can enjoy a diverse culinary experience in Spokane, home to restaurants that offer anything from tasty takeaways to chef-prepared meals. Art lovers can visit the city’s vibrant art scene and yearly festivals. Long-time residents also describe Spokane as a neighborly place to live.
Explore senior care with confidence
Know where to start.
Identify the right care for your loved one with our free assessment.
See what you can afford.
Understand cost and payment for long-term care based on your loved one's needs.
Find top facilities for you.
Free, personalized guidance from our Senior Living Advisors can help you narrow your search.
Tour your favorite facilities.
Our free touring checklist can help you choose the right community.
Unfamiliar with Spokane? Highlights for seniors
Median annual income for Spokane seniors 65 and older
Health care for seniors in Spokane
Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center
Providence is Spokane’s best hospital. It’s also rated as the third-best in Washington State overall. This Level II Trauma Center is also nationally acclaimed for its superior urology department and surgeries related to hip and knee replacements.
MultiCare Deaconess Hospital
MultiCare Deaconess Hospital is where Spokane residents go to receive general care and surgery. Besides being a Level III Trauma Center, this hospital is also highly respected for its expertise in cardiac emergency response, such as heart failure and heart attacks. Deaconess is also a leader in kidney failure treatment.
Mann-Grandstaff Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center
Mann-Grandstaff serves veterans living in Spokane and proudly offers mental and physical care to transgender veterans. Besides providing general primary care, they also encourage integrated care options such as yoga and acupuncture.
Transportation for seniors in Spokane
Walk Score data is a nice way to learn more about the walkability of a city. Places are scored on a scale of 0 to 100, with 100 being the most desirable rating. Spokane has a score of 49.[04] With a bicycle score of 52 out of 100, that means there is some infrastructure in the city to support biking.[04] You can use this interactive bike route map to determine how to get around by bike. You can also make use of Spokane’s WheelShare program to use electric-assist bicycles and electric scooters in the city.
Older adults in Spokane can rely on many senior-friendly options, too. You can also utilize 1,700 City Bus stops. All their vehicles are ADA-compliant, and anyone 65+ qualifies for discounted fares. If you’re looking for a bus with more space to accommodate wheelchairs and walkers, then The City Line is a better choice. Vanpool is a good choice if you’re on a budget. For unlimited rides, you only pay $60 a month, provided that at least three other people in your area also want a ride somewhere close to your destination.
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Spokane
Spokane provides endless opportunities for active seniors who want to socialize, integrate with nature, and explore different entertainment venues. In this section, we look at some of the best activities that are popular with seniors and their families.
Top outdoors activities for active seniors
Riverfront Park is a favorite destination for Spokane residents of all ages. There are many beautiful nature scenes to take in, but the property also offers activities, shopping, amusement rides, and restaurants. Centennial Trail attracts hikers who just want to walk in nature as it snakes for 38 miles along the Spokane River. Don’t forget to visit the spectacular Spokane Falls if you love waterfalls!
Art and history
Spokane is known for its lively art culture. You can visit the Martin Woldson Theater at the Fox for different shows or listen to classical and original compositions at the Spokane Symphony House. There’s always something new at Gonzaga University, including performing musicians, comedians, and shows. If you’re feeling nibbly and arty at the same time, Steam Plant Square is the place to be. This well-known restaurant is also an art gallery.
Play golf or catch a sporting event
If you love playing golf, then Spokane’s four public golf courses are a must. For those days when you just want to relax and be a spectator, visit the Avista Stadium, home to the minor-league Spokane Indians, for an exciting baseball showdown. Spokane is also home to the Gonzaga University Bulldogs, whose gorgeous 152-acre campus is in the heart of downtown. The Bulldogs men’s basketball team contends for the national championship on a regular basis, and the women’s rowing team is nationally recognized for excellence.
Visit the best local gardens
At Manito Park, you can browse 98 acres of land that includes miniature gardens and a popular restaurant. Nishinomiya Tsutakawa Japanese Garden is perfect if you love Japanese scenery, while Gaiser Conservatory offers visitors a chance to appreciate rare tropical plants. Both Nishinomiya and the Conservatory have benches for resting. Looking for a more interactive experience? At Green Bluff Farm, you can pick your own vegetables or sample their homegrown cider.
Spokane’s best senior centers
If you love socializing with others your age, there’s no shortage of senior centers in this city. Known for amazing camaraderie, you’re sure to make a new friend or learn a completely new skill! Just some of the top choices include Corbin Senior Activity Center, where people aged 55 and over are given access to a variety of health checks. You can also perfect your punch in their martial arts studio, win prizes on bingo night, or show your hand at one of their card game tournaments. Hillyard Senior Center focuses more on hobbies, workouts, and outings while Sinto Senior Activity Center organizes social events to encourage new friendships and better health through physical activities such as ballroom dancing and aerobics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Broadway Court Estates, Revel Spokane and South Hill Village are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Spokane, 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 Spokane is 3076.49 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
US News & World Report (2023). Providence Sacred Heart Medical Center.
US News & World Report (2023). Multicare Deaconess Hospital.
Walk Score. (2023). Spokane, WA.
More questions?
Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.
- Spokane Valley, Washington
- Liberty Lake, Washington
- Post Falls, Idaho
- Medical Lake, Washington
- Mead, Washington
- Airway Heights, Washington
- Millwood, Washington
- Dartford, Washington
- Fairfield, Washington
- Otis Orchards-East Farms, Washington
- State Line, Idaho
- Howelltown, Idaho
- Newman Lake, Washington
- Chattaroy, Washington
- Colbert, Washington
- Waverly, Washington
- Pasadena Park, Washington
- Hutton Settlement, Washington
- Yardley, Washington
- Parkwater, Washington