As one of America’s oldest and most historic cities, Baltimore is a diverse location with plenty of dining, sports, and cultural events to offer — especially for seniors who are looking for an exciting spot to spend their golden years.
Senior apartments in Baltimore are a fantastic option for those who want to continue an independent lifestyle but don’t want to continue bothering with the upkeep and responsibilities of owning a home. Expect senior apartments to have all the regular features of a home but with the added benefits of apartment maintenance and community events.
In this guide, you’ll learn about senior apartment living in Baltimore, including payment options, legislation that protects seniors, transportation options in the city, and ways you can spend your time solo or with friends and family.
Senior Living Apartments in Baltimore, MD
As one of America’s oldest and most historic cities, Baltimore is a diverse location with plenty of dining, sports, and cultural events to offer — especially for seniors who are looking for an exciting spot to spend their golden years.Read more
Senior apartments in Baltimore are a fantastic option for those who want to continue an independent lifestyle but don’t want to continue bothering with the upkeep and responsibilities of owning a home. Expect senior apartments to have all the regular features of a home but with the added benefits of apartment maintenance and community events.
In this guide, you’ll learn about senior apartment living in Baltimore, including payment options, legislation that protects seniors, transportation options in the city, and ways you can spend your time solo or with friends and family.
Senior Apartments Facilities near Baltimore, MD
I am currently a resident at BCI Fairspring and everything is great. I love my apartment! I would recommend this place to others.
My Mom moved to Brightwood 6 months ago and we all are so happy. The building as well as the grounds are beautiful and the staff is super accommodating and pleasant. We are so glad to have found Brightwood!
I am very happy with this community, they based the rent on income. The room sizes are good, she has a one-bedroom, kitchen with new appliances and a living room I would recommend this community to...
The community itself is very clean and attractive and the value is good. I like just about everything with the community. There are not any activities right now due to all the restrictions but usually we can...
The community is a very nice place to live and it's in a nice area. Because of covid, it's hard to get to know people but that's understandable. I am happy with my apt.
I am satisfied with my stay at Park View at Taylor. The apartment size that I have is perfect for what I need and is nice and roomy. The staff are extremely friendly and they have a lot of good activities...
The community is very nice, neat, and clean. The staff is very friendly and helpful. The only issue has been due to the pandemic the activities have been sparse and we would like to see those get going...
They are taking good care of my loved one. They are supplying meals four days a week. They have lots of activities for the residents. My loved one was starting to make friends prior COVID.
My son and I looked at a number of facilities. When we got here we were impressed by how friendly there were compared to the other places. Here they are very warm. They have a lot of activities. It seemed...
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I am basing my responses on my experience living at a senior housing environment. So far, I'm having a positive experience.
The building is very nice and up to date. the only issue I have is I would open past 3 pm. The communication could be better between the staff and the residence. I would definitely recommend this community...
Dad is still trying to adjust to his new living situation, but from what I've heard from him he seems to be enjoying it so far! He says everyone has been very friendly, and they were very easy to work with....
My loved on loves the religious services and because of COVID they haven't been happening. There are lots of activities such as shopping centers, game rooms, and games. There are a lot of raccoons near...
She is really liking it there a lot. She is joining in the activities and really enjoying herself. There isn't a meal plan, they may have pizza day or something like that once in a while. We are pretty happy...
Although I have lived here for several years, and I love it for its friendliness, activities, and walking distance to many stores, there has recently been a change in administration which has not been good. ...
I enjoy living at Oliver Plaza. The staff are nice and answer all my questions. I have a nice view from my apartment. They keep the community clean. I have noticed a lot of activities posted on the...
My friend is doing well here at these senior apartments. They do a very good job with keeping the community and grounds well maintained. The staff is good, they have been very helpful with this whole...
The people here are wonderful and really caring. We love this place there is just so much to do and see. The only thing that I would change is that they only have one elevator for all the residents. Other...
- What families are saying about senior apartments in Baltimore
- Costs of senior apartments in the Baltimore area
- How people pay for senior apartments in Baltimore
- Understand Maryland laws and regulations for senior apartment communities
- What to expect from senior apartments in Baltimore
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Baltimore? Highlights for seniors
What families are saying about senior apartments in Baltimore
Recent reviews for senior apartments in Baltimore
Park View at Fullerton in Baltimore, MD
The Willows at Victoria Falls in Laurel, MD
St Mary's Roland View Towers in Baltimore, MD
Costs of senior apartments in the Baltimore area
The average cost of senior apartments in Baltimore is $1,700 but ranges from $1,532 to $2,930.[01] Factors like floor plan, location, and apartment size all influence final costs.
The figures in the following chart represent the average baseline costs and don’t include additional service and amenity fees.
Average monthly cost of Senior Apartments in Baltimore, MD vs. nearby cities
Baltimore, MD
How people pay for senior apartments in Baltimore
There are several methods available to finance a senior apartment. While long-term care insurance, Medicare, and Medicaid do not directly cover the costs of living in senior apartments, they can still be utilized in different ways to help with expenses related to in-home care and necessary medical services.
Individuals often opt to combine multiple financial sources, such as retirement savings, Social Security benefits, or veteran’s benefits, to afford senior apartments. This section will provide insights on how private payments, public assistance, VA benefits, Medicaid, and Medicare can all contribute toward funding a transition into a senior apartment community.
Seniors can use several different private pay methods to fund senior apartment costs. These most commonly are savings, Social Security benefits, pensions, and investment returns. They can also include any of the following:
Number of veterans who live in Baltimore
About 51% of Baltimore veterans are 65+
Seniors needing financial support can access various VA benefits that cater to housing expenses and health-related costs. One such benefit is Aid and Attendance, which provides additional monthly payments to wartime veterans receiving a VA Pension. This benefit assists those who need help with daily activities, are bedridden due to an illness, or have impaired vision.
While the Aid and Attendance benefit application can be found online, we recommend speaking to a veterans services officer before applying for any benefits. These VA-vetted officers provide veterans with the most up-to-date benefits advice and will ensure a veteran is able to claim everything they’re entitled to.
In Baltimore, veterans can find an officer through the American Legion, Disabled American Veterans, Paralyzed Veterans of America, Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Maryland Department of Veteran Affairs, and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. These organizations can also provide guidance beyond veterans services officer information. They can serve as a point of community and provide access to other local resources that may be less well known.
For additional support or questions, Baltimore’s Commission on Veterans Affairs and the VA’s Regional Baltimore Office are also on hand.
Resources for Baltimore veterans
Baltimore Regional VA Office
31 Hopkins Plaza
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Baltimore County Commission on Veterans Affairs
400 Washington Ave.
Towson, MD 21204
Phone: 410-887-2450
Email: johnnyo@baltimorecountymd.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Maryland Department of Veterans Affairs
16 Francis St., 4th Floor
Annapolis, MD 21401
Phone: 410-260-3838
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 9 p.m.
Disabled American Veterans Post Paul Thompson Mem #1
2324 McElderry St.
Baltimore, MD 21205
Phone: 410-274-6328
Paralyzed Veterans of America — Baltimore Office
31 Hopkins Plaza, Room 1236
Baltimore, MD
Phone: 410-230-4470, ext. 1020
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 8509
337 E. North Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: 410-547-9455
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 3065
1202 Union Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21211
Phone: 410-235-1920
Email: vfw3065@gmail.com
Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 10078
425 E. Fort Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21230
Phone: 410-539-4210
Email: commanderpost10078@gmail.com
The American Legion — Department of Maryland, Inc.
101 N. Gay St., Room E
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: 410-752-1405
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Medicaid (known as Medical Assistance in Maryland) doesn’t cover rent costs for a senior apartment. However, it can offset the costs of in-home healthcare through home and community based services (HCBS) waivers. Several waivers in Maryland can be used toward in-home health care costs, each with different eligibility requirements. Two of these specifically target older people:
- Community Services for Older Adults and People with Disabilities comprise several programs that offer in-home personal assistance and nurse monitoring.
- The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) is a health program created to support and coordinate health services for seniors so they continue living in the community. PACE is available for Baltimore residents on-site at Hopkins ElderPlus.
Medical Assistance is available for individuals over 65 who meet income, Social Security, and residency status requirements. More information on income guidelines can be found online, while an in-depth guide to Medicaid eligibility is available on Maryland’s Department of Health website. People can apply for Medical Assistance online through myMDTHINK, or an application can be submitted to the Maryland Department of Human Resources.
The state’s Department of Health is a great resource for any Medicaid-related questions, as are the Baltimore City Division of Aging and Care Services and the Maryland Medical Assistance Program. If you have grievances or need additional advocacy services, Maryland’s Long-Term Care Ombudsman is also available to lend a helpful hand.
Baltimore resident Medicaid resources
Baltimore City Division of Aging and Care Services
417 E. Fayette St., 6th Floor
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: 410-396-4932
Maryland Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
10 N. Calvert St., Room 300
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: 410-396-3144
Maryland Department of Human Services
311 W. Saratoga St.
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 800-332-6347
Maryland Medical Assistance Program
Phone: 855-642-8572
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.; Saturday, 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Maryland Department of Health
201 W. Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 410-767-6500
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Hopkins ElderPlus
4940 Eastern Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21224
Phone: 410-550-8093
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Medicare can be a valuable resource for those with short-term medical needs to help cover in-home health care costs. This federal health insurance program is open to people over 65 and will cover qualifying expenses like hospital stays, doctor visits, and certain medical equipment. Medicare applications are available online on Maryland’s Department of Aging website.
For those who need financial assistance with the costs associated with Medicare, Maryland has several organizations which may be able to help:
- The Maryland Medicare Savings Program offsets the cost of premiums, copays, and deductibles if you meet income eligibility limits.
- The Senior Prescription Drug Assistance Program (SPDAP) was established to assist Medicare-eligible residents with their prescription drug plan costs.
- The State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP) provides financial counseling to those concerned about their health insurance benefits or who want help with the application process.
Another helpful resource is Maryland’s Program of the All-Inclusive Care of the Elderly (PACE), Hopkins ElderPlus. Run through Johns Hopkins Medicine, this program provides support, coordinates care services for seniors, and ensures they get the benefits they are eligible for. More information on PACE and eligibility requirements is available online.
Applications for Medicare can be submitted to the Social Security Administration. For advocacy and support for Medicare grievances, both the Maryland and Baltimore City Divisions of Aging and Care Services are available to assist. The Maryland Long-Term Care Ombudsman can provide direction and guidance.
Baltimore resident Medicare resources
Baltimore City Social Security Administration
1010 Park Ave., Room 200
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Baltimore City Division of Aging and Care Services
417 E. Fayette St., 6th Floor
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: 410-396-4932
Maryland Department of Aging
301 W. Preston St., Suite 1007
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 410-767-1100
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Hopkins ElderPlus
4940 Eastern Ave.
Baltimore, MD 21224
Phone: 410-550-8093
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Maryland Medicare Savings Program
Maryland Department of Health
Phone: 800-638-3403
Senior Prescription Drug Assistance Program (SPDAP)
Phone: 800-551-5995
Fax: 800-847-8217
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP)
200 St. Paul Place, Suite 2700
Baltimore, Maryland 21202
Phone: 800-243-3425
Maryland Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program
10 N. Calvert St., Room 300
Baltimore, MD 21202
Phone: 410-396-3144
For individuals who have a fixed low income, the Housing Choice Voucher Program (HCVP) may be an option to supplement senior apartment costs. The Housing Authority of Baltimore City administers HCVP and assists in paying for rental costs in approved apartments.
In addition to the Housing Choice Voucher Program, other local organizations can support low- and moderate-income individuals:
- The Department of Aging Congregate Housing Services Program provides daily help, housekeeping, and support services to residents of low-income senior housing.
- The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), operated by the Maryland Department of Human Services, offers financial assistance for utility costs.
Seniors can also use Social Security benefits to cover their living expenses, including rent. Various Social Security benefits are commonly utilized to provide housing assistance, each with its own set of eligibility criteria. The Social Security Administration is the best place to find more information about the different coverage types.
- Social Security Retirement Benefit (SSR) is intended to replace a portion of your income when you either cease working or reduce your working hours. While this benefit does not necessitate disability, it does require a certain number of work credits.
- Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) is aimed at individuals who have worked for specific durations within a recent time frame and have made Social Security tax contributions based on their earnings. To qualify for this benefit, one must meet the disability requirements and have accumulated sufficient work credits.
- Supplemental Security Income (SSI) is available to those with a limited income and a qualified disability. This benefit is specifically tailored for seniors who do not possess the necessary work credits.
- Social Security survivors’ pension is designed to aid widows and widowers of eligible workers. This benefit does not require the person applying to have a disability or work credits.
Baltimore resident public assistance resources
The Housing Choice Voucher Program of Baltimore City
1225 W. Pratt St.
Baltimore, MD 21223
Phone: 443-984-2222
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Department of Aging Senior Assisted Living Subsidy Program
301 W. Preston St. #1007
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 410-767-1100
Department of Aging Congregate Housing Services Program
301 W. Preston St. #1007
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 410-767-1100
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
Maryland Department of Human Services
311 W. Saratoga St.
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 800-332-6347
Baltimore City Social Security Administration
1010 Park Ave., Room 200
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Understand Maryland laws and regulations for senior apartment communities
Because senior apartments do not provide health care or assistance like other long-term care communities, they don’t follow the same regulatory guidelines. Instead, senior apartments must comply with the same laws and regulations as rental properties.
In Baltimore, state and federal laws are in place to protect tenants and ensure housing is safe and accessible. Before going on the market, all rental units in Baltimore City are registered, inspected, and licensed by the Department of Housing and Community Development, with a complete list of inspection requirements available to the public. Direct inspection inquiries can be sent to: S8Landlord@habc.org or HCVInspections@habc.org.
Renters are also protected from discrimination at the state and federal levels. The Fair Housing Act (FHA) and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) protect from discrimination and ensure housing is accessible for those with disabilities. Maryland prohibits discrimination against people with disabilities under State Government Article 20-701 – 20-710.
Senior apartment housing also has minimum age requirements. In Maryland, senior apartments generally require individuals to be 62 and older (though some facilities accept younger people with disabilities or spouses under 62).
Maryland Department of Health contact information
Maryland Department of Health
201 W. Preston St.
Baltimore, MD 21201
Phone: 410-767-6500
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
COVID-19 regulations for Baltimore senior apartment communities
Currently, there aren’t any city or statewide ordinances related to COVID-19. Instead, officials recommend following the most recent guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). You may find some facilities have their own regulations, so it’s always wise to check before visiting a specific community.
Current long-term care guidelines in Maryland are similar to those advised by the CDC.
Masking. Health care personnel and volunteers should wear a well-fitting, medical-grade face mask. Visitors can wear cloth face masks.
Facility cleanliness. Dedicate specific equipment to each resident as much as possible and disinfect between residents. High-touch surfaces should also be disinfected with an EPA-registered disinfectant.
Quarantining. A separate observation or quarantine area should be available for those requiring quarantine. This includes new admissions and current residents exposed to COVID-19 regardless of vaccination status.
What to expect from senior apartments in Baltimore
The home of Major League Baseball’s Orioles and the National Football League’s Ravens, Baltimore is a fun, vibrant, and diverse city with plenty to offer residents of all ages. Known for its rich art scene, charming neighborhoods, and tasty food offerings, there’s plenty to do, see, and taste along its inner and outer harbors. Baltimore is also considered part of the so-called Northeast Megalopolis, making it an easy drive or train ride to other cosmopolitan cities like New York, Philadelphia, Boston, and Washington, D.C. for those who love to travel.
Transportation options for an independent lifestyle
Many senior apartments have on-site parking facilities. While some may include this in the rental cost, it may also be offered for an add-on fee, providing seniors easy access to their vehicles. For those who don’t have a car or would prefer not to drive, many senior apartments offer at-cost or complimentary transportation, typically including shuttle services to shopping centers, doctor’s appointments, and senior centers.
On-site activities that encourage friendship
There are many opportunities for seniors to make new friends at Baltimore’s senior apartments, whether bonding over shared interests like golf and art or participating in group activities like a cooking class. Most facilities have games rooms for people who enjoy table or card games, and many organize day trips and group outings for those who prefer to explore with new friends beyond the limits of their community center.
A professional sports-centric community
Baltimore is a city that loves its big-time sports, and there’s plenty year-round to follow. Aside from the aforementioned Orioles and Ravens, Charm City is also just a 40-mile trip to the nation’s capital, which boasts the Washington Commanders (NFL), Capitals (NHL), Wizards (NBA), and Nationals (MLB). Horse-racing aficionados can also travel to Pimlico Race Course, which hosts the Preakness Stakes, the “middle jewel” of the elusive Triple Crown, on the third Saturday in May.
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Unfamiliar with Baltimore? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Baltimore
Median annual income for Baltimore seniors 65 and older
Health care for seniors in Baltimore
Johns Hopkins Hospital
Ranked as the best health care facility in the state of Maryland, Johns Hopkins is a nationally acclaimed hospital that’s internationally recognized for Rheumatology, Neurology, and Psychiatry. U.S. News and World Report rates it as high performing in nearly all procedures and conditions it offers.
University of Maryland Medical Center
This general medical and surgical facility is nationally ranked for its Ear, Nose, and Throat procedures and is ranked as high performing in five adult specialties and 12 conditions by U.S. News and World Report.
MedStar Union Memorial Hospital
U.S. News and World Report has recognized this Baltimore hospital for its high performance in orthopedics and 11 other procedures and conditions.
Transportation for seniors in Baltimore
Baltimore is a relatively compact city, meaning it’s reasonably walkable for seniors who prefer to get around on foot. With a walk score of 64 and a bike score of 53, however, most people still get around by car.[07] Walk Score grades cities across the country on walkability, bikeability, and ease of public transport. Efforts are being made to improve the transit infrastructure in the city.
For those who don’t want to drive, Baltimore has a city bus service through the Maryland Transit Authority, which provides multiple high-frequency bus routes, including the CityLink, LocalLink, and Express BusLink services. Additionally, the MTA offers subway and light rail services in downtown Baltimore. The central business district also has a four-route, free shuttle system called the Charm City Circulator for those who want to explore downtown Baltimore.
For seniors and those with disabilities, Baltimore’s TaxiCard program is a great alternative. This subsidized transportation program provides transport with any subsidized taxicab companies. Individuals must meet program requirements and registration can be completed online.
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Baltimore
Baltimore is a diverse city, something that’s reflected in the sights and activities that fill the calendar year. Those interested in history will be inundated with options, from traditional museums to historical landmarks.
The Baltimore Museum of Industry offers unique insights into the innovators behind Baltimore’s industrial age. Whether you’re interested in garment making, airplane manufacturing, or video game design, this museum offers a vast number of exhibitions along with live demonstrations and hands-on activities.
To understand a little more about the culture of Maryland, consider a visit to the Maryland Center for History and Culture, which houses more than 200,000 items and artifacts that tell the story and history of life in Maryland. For those interested in the city’s historic landmarks, be sure to visit the Edgar Allan Poe House and the Star-Spangled Banner Flag House. Listed as a national historic landmark, the Edgar Allan Poe House & Museum lets visitors explore the house the famous poet lived in when he launched his career. Open Thursday to Sunday (reservations are required), the house is a short distance from his grave. Another house worth visiting is the Star-Spangled Banner Flag House, which was home to Mary Pickersgill, the woman who sewed the U.S. flag that inspired the American national anthem.
Ranked as one of the top three aquariums in the nation, the National Aquarium is located in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor and has discounted rates for seniors aged 70-plus. Another great daylong excursion is the Maryland Zoo, which is located just minutes outside of downtown in Druid Hill Park and also offers discounted rates to senior visitors.
It’s worth noting that the city of Baltimore puts a lot of effort into ensuring seniors have access to trips, classes, and recreational programs. The Department of Recreation and Parks frequently hosts these events. For those who would like a more regular opportunity to connect with local seniors, consider visiting one of Baltimore’s many senior centers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Lorien Bel Air, Regency Crest and The Willows at Victoria Falls are the top-rated Senior Apartments facilities near Baltimore, MD. These Senior Apartments facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Senior Apartments in Baltimore is 1130.57 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.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran Status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and Sex (S0101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
U.S. News and World Report. (2023). Johns Hopkins Hospital.
U.S. News and World Report. (2023). University of Maryland Medical Center.
U.S. News and World Report. (2023). MedStar Union Memorial Hospital.
Walk Score. (2023). Baltimore, Maryland.
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