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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Senior Living Apartments in Tulsa, OK

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Who are you searching for?

Welcome to Tulsa, Oklahoma’s second-largest city, which earned the title Oil Capital of the World early in the 20th century. With the Arkansas River winding through it, this metropolis features one of the U.S.’s largest concentrations of art deco architecture, the Oil Capital Historic District, artsy culture, numerous parks, and an affordable cost of living.

Tulsa attracts seniors with its low cost of living, but many stay for its culture and diverse senior living options. Depending on your preferences and budget, Tulsa is home to various senior apartment communities with convenient amenities. Tulsa strives to provide a budget-friendly lifestyle, so a majority of senior apartments are affordable with income-based rent. Senior apartments are ideal for retirees looking to downsize, reduce the responsibilities of home ownership, and thrive independently. If you’re looking for more on-site services and have a larger budget, check out Tulsa independent living communities.

This comprehensive guide details senior apartments within a 10-mile radius of eastern Tulsa. Below, we’ll guide you through senior apartment costs, how to pay, what type of regulations apartments must follow, and how budget-friendly options differ from standard senior apartments. You’ll also learn about Tulsa health care systems, senior-friendly activities, and how to get around the city.

Senior Apartments Facilities near Tulsa, OK
Showing 16 communities
Last Updated: 3/14/24
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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
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.
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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.
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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
Independent Living
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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
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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
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Home care relies on trained aides to provide companionship and non-medical care for seniors living at home.
Recent reviews of Senior Apartments in Tulsa, OK
5 / 5.0

Friendliest staff who knew all the residents by name and spoke to them. Lots of daily activities and on the weekends. Good communication with doctors. Great food. Large apartments. Not set up like a fishbowl Worked well with the family in the transition and weren't anal. Worked well with the hospita...

5 / 5.0

My Mom and our family love Canoe Brook Broken Arrow. We looked at many places before moving Mom to assisted living four years ago. Mom feels so safe, and she is well looked after. All of the staff is so good to Mom, and are always willing to answer any question I may have. I feel as if they are our ...

5 / 5.0

The meals are superb. Staff are very personable. Housekeeping will do whatever you need. The move in process was quick. I would recommend this facility to others.

Photo of Heatheridge Assisted Living
33 Photos available
33 Floor plans available
8.6
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19 reviews
8.6
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Their staff went above and beyond helpful, from aiding us in moving her in, to seeing after her daily wants and needs Mom never had a complaint while living there, and made quick friends with the residents...
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.
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Photo of Aberdeen Heights Assisted Living
88 Photos available
33 Floor plans available
8.4
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30 reviews
8.4
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30 reviews
5 star
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As a Senior Advocate, I have visited many assisted living facilities and by far, Aberdeen Heights is the Best of the Best. I have been so impressed that it was worth writing a review. It has a very unique...
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.
Welcome to Aberdeen Heights Assisted Living! Aberdeen Heights offers a warm and relaxed atmosphere that enables residents to maintain their independent lifestyle while receiving personalized assistance. Aberdeen Heights is located on Yale near medical facilities and numerous services and is an...
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Photo of Canoe Brook Assisted Living - Broken Arrow
77 Photos available
8.0
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5 reviews
8.0
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5 reviews
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This seems like to be a good place. The food, administrative staff, the cleanliness, and friendliness all stand out to me about the community. Some of the activities available include bingo, exercising,...
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.
Located in the friendly city of Broken Arrow in the suburbs of Tulsa, OK, Canoe Brook Broken Arrow makes the human element of caring our first priority.Assisted Living at Canoe Brook offers freedom, dignity and security along with premium amenities and the personal care that we sometimes need....
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Photo of Glenwood Apartments
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.
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.
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 Plaza Hills East
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 Mansion House
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.
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 Pythian Manor West
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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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 Western Pines Apartments
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 Edenwood Apartments
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 Park View Terrace
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 West Edison Plaza
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.
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.
Edgewood at the Gables offers affordable one and two bedroom apartment homes built in 2001 to any seniors over the age of 62. Each home has professionally designed interiors. Extra touches such as ceiling fans, garbage disposals,mini blinds, and large walk-in closets complement the efficient...

Costs of senior apartments in the Tulsa area

Monthly rental costs for senior apartments in Tulsa range between approximately $550 and $1,670. These costs vary so much because apartment costs for seniors in Tulsa depend on many variables:

  • Renter’s income (if a low-income community)
  • Location
  • Size of apartment
  • Floor plan (studio, one-bedroom, or two-bedroom)
  • Amenities
  • Admission fees
  • Pet rent

You can usually expect your monthly rental fees for a senior apartment to include the following:

  • Rent
  • Some or all utilities, like water, sewer, electrical, gas, and garbage
  • On-site laundry facilities or in-unit washer and dryer connections
  • On- or off-site parking options (carports or garages may cost extra)
  • Access to common areas and amenities, like social lounges, gyms, pools, or business centers

The following costs represent average baseline rental fees for senior apartments in the greater Tulsa area. This can help you compare Tulsa apartment costs to other nearby areas.

Average cost comparisons near Tulsa, OK

Average monthly costs

Tulsa, OK

$2,608

Bixby, OK

$2,608

How people pay for senior apartments in Tulsa

Seniors typically pay for senior apartments by combining their own income with public assistance or benefits. While Medicaid, Medicare, and long-term insurance will not cover rental costs in senior apartments, other options can assist you with rental fees. Read on to learn more about housing assistance, veterans benefits, Medicare, Medicaid, and typical private pay methods.

Private pay methods

Similar to regular apartments, most retirees pay for senior apartments with their own income. If you no longer receive a paycheck, you could use other private pay methods like savings, pensions, investment returns, or Social Security benefits. Plus, there are other ways you can maximize your money, including the following:

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VA benefits
20433

Number of veterans who live in Tulsa

About 67% of Tulsa veterans are aged 55 and older.

Senior veterans and surviving spouses may qualify for benefits through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

Can I use veterans benefits to pay for a senior apartment?

Yes, many veterans benefits can be used to pay for some or all senior apartment fees. While there are a wide range of VA benefits, most veterans find the Aid and Attendance benefit to be the most substantial payment, and it can be added on top of a Veterans Pension.

Additionally, qualifying veterans may save money through Oklahoma state tax exemptions on property, income, sales taxes, and taxes on retirement benefits.

How can I learn more about VA benefits?

Since veterans benefits have an extensive list of eligible service-related conditions, it’s likely you may qualify for benefits and/or pensions. This list doesn’t include all eligible conditions, so it’s important to reach out to a qualified veterans service officer for benefits counseling to ensure you understand what you qualify for. Finding help with veterans benefits is simple in Tulsa thanks to its numerous local resources like veterans service organizations (VSOs).

Below we only list a handful of the countless VSOs available in Tulsa, but you can find more through the Resources for Veterans list on the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission website. Additionally, Tulsa’s community resource line, which is provided by the nonprofit organization Tulsa United Area Way, offers an online search engine where you can find local resources to help guide you through veterans benefits.

Oklahoma also has a veterans assistance locator called VALOR or OKVALOR to help veterans find nearby resources like support groups, food pantries, and local VSOs. We created a step-by-step guide, so you can also utilize this helpful system:

  • Go to the OKVALOR link and click on GO TO OKVALOR.
  • On the left-hand side, there are five clickable options — LAYERS, NAVIGATION, FILTERS, FEATURES, and CONTACT. Click LAYERS. Then, toggle on the resources you’re looking for. If you’re looking for VSOs, click the toggle-on button for Veteran Support.
  • Next, click NAVIGATION. Select your county or city.
  • Now, click on FILTERS. This tab helps filter any resources you’re looking for. For VSOs, toggle on Veterans Assist and select Veteran Service Organization.
  • Lastly, OKVALOR will generate a list of resources (in this case VSOs) on the right-hand side. Click on the resource name or the map’s clickable triangles for more details on that specific location, like hours, fees, and services.

If you need additional help, click FEATURES at any time to learn more about operating the system.

Note: You may want to enter an address into the right-hand corner, but unless this is an exact address for a veterans-related resource, it can cause confusing results or errors.

Resources for Tulsa veterans

Governmental offices for veterans assistance

City of Tulsa
Chief of Intergovernmental Relations and Veterans Liasion: Jed Cochran
175 E. Second St., Suite 15-048
Tulsa, OK 74103
Phone: 918-596-7485
Email: jcochran@cityoftulsa.org

Muskogee VA Regional Benefit Office
125 S. Main St.
Muskogee, OK 74401
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Veterans service organizations (VSOs)

Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
1109 E. Sixth St.
Tulsa, OK 74120

Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
3131 E. Pine St.
Tulsa, OK 74110
Phone: 918-834-4643

Vietnam Veterans of America
Chapter #524
12407 E. 13th Place
Tulsa, OK 74128
Phone: 918-437-7507
Email: bbstacker31@aol.com

Volunteers of America Oklahoma
9605 E. 61st St.
Tulsa, OK 74133
Phone: 918-307-1500

Medicaid and Medicare

While Medicaid and Medicare don’t cover monthly rent for a senior apartment, both can help cover medical expenses. Medicare and SoonerCare, Oklahoma’s Medicaid program, are both health insurance programs that can help seniors.

What health care services are covered by SoonerCare?

Low-income families and individuals may be eligible for health insurance coverage through SoonerCare. Older adults aged 65+ or disabled adults who reside in a senior apartment may find the home and community based services waivers helpful. Waivers like the ADvantage waiver program help provide in-home care services to seniors in their current residences, including senior apartments. If you qualify for coverage through this waiver, you may be eligible to receive in-home health care services like the following:

  • Adult day health and personal caregiver services
  • Respite care for family caregivers
  • Environmental modifications to the home
  • Home-delivered meals
  • Skilled nursing care services
  • Hospice care services
  • Rehabilitative services, like physical, occupational, respiratory, and speech therapy
What health care services are covered by Medicare?

Like Medicaid, Medicare provides health care coverage for seniors over the age 65. Coverage varies depending on the type of Medicare plan you qualify for and receive:

  • Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) covers services from hospital stays to hospice care.
  • Medicare Part B (medical insurance) covers medical services like doctors’ visits and preventive services.
  • Medicare Part D (prescription insurance) covers prescription drugs.

Both Medicare Part A and B also help cover short-term in-home health care services like those listed below:

  • Part-time or intermittent skilled nursing care
  • Part-time or intermittent home health care aid
  • Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
  • Medical supplies and equipment

To qualify for home health care coverage, you must be enrolled in Medicare Parts A and/or B, be under the care of a doctor willing to certify your need for care, and be considered homebound. To be considered homebound, you must meet the following criteria:

  • You need help leaving your home due to an illness or injury.
  • It’s not recommended for you to leave your home due to your condition.
  • It’s too much effort to leave your home.

You’ll become ineligible if you need more than part-time or intermittent care. Before you receive care, a home health agency should explain what costs Medicare covers and what you’ll pay for their services.

How can I find help with Medicare costs?

Oklahoma helps low-income individuals with Medicare-related costs through programs overseen by Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA):

How can I learn more about SoonerCare and Medicare?

There are many local resources to help Tulsa seniors with SoonerCare and Medicare. Your local Medicaid office, Social Security office, and Area Agency on Aging can help you understand SoonerCare and/or Medicare, apply for benefits, and file claims. The Area Agency on Aging is an office dedicated specifically to Oklahoma seniors. You can also find additional help through the Oklahoma resource line provided by the nonprofit organization Tulsa Area United Way. Additionally, Oklahoma staffs a local long-term care ombudsman in Tulsa to advocate for senior rights and provide information on health insurance issues.

Tulsa Medicaid and Medicare resources

Local offices for senior benefits assistance

Oklahoma Department of Human Services
201 W. Fifth St.
Tulsa, OK 74103
Phone: 405-522-5050
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Community Living, Aging, and Protective Services (CAP)
Phone: 405-521-2281
Fax: 405-521-2086

INCOG Area Agency on Aging
2 W. Second St., Suite 800
Tulsa, OK 74103
Phone: 918-584-7526
Fax: 918-583-1024
Email: incog@incog.org

Area agency on aging senior information line
Tulsa Phone: 918-579-9477
Statewide Phone: 800-211-2116

Tulsa Area United Way

Tulsa community resource line
Call 2-1-1 or 877-836-2111
Text “HELP” to 877-836-2111

Contact a specialist online
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Oklahoma long-term care ombudsman

Current long-term care ombudsman contact
Name: Bill Whited
Phone: 405-521-2281
Fax: 405-522-6739

General information and assistance for seniors
Phone: 800-211-2116

Medicare Improvements for Patients and Providers Act (MIPPA)

Local MIPPA coordinator
Name: Casey Jones
Phone: 918-579-9477
Email: cjones@incog.org

Public assistance

Public assistance can help offset senior apartment rental costs in Tulsa. Many seniors look for apartments through local housing assistance programs like the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program — formerly called Section 8. Seniors will also use Social Security benefits if they can to help cover some of their living expenses. Read on to learn how these benefits can lessen the burden of senior apartment costs.

Is there housing assistance for Tulsa senior apartments?

Yes, Tulsa helps low-income individuals and families afford housing through the rental assistance program — Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program, formerly known as Section 8. Through this program, low-income seniors pay rent based on a percentage of their income, while the Tulsa Housing Authority subsidizes the remainder.

Whether you’re eligible for HCV/Section 8 depends on the following income limits, as of 2023:[02]

  • An individual can’t make more than $29,850 annually.
  • A family of two can’t make more than $34,100 annually.
  • A family of three can’t make more than $38,350 annually.
  • A family of four can’t make more than $42,600 annually.

Senior veterans, their surviving spouses, or the disabled may take precedence when the program selects eligible individuals.

Keep in mind, not all apartments accept HCV/Section 8 vouchers, so make sure to ask your prospective apartment complex. If they do, they’re required to meet Housing Quality Standards set by the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and pass inspections.[02] For inspection results or report, you must contact your property’s landlord or representative.[03]

Besides the Housing Authority of the City of Tulsa, you can also find additional information on housing options through your local area agency on aging.

Can I use Social Security benefits to pay for a senior apartment?

Yes, you can use Social Security benefits towards senior apartment costs. Social Security Administration benefits have different qualifications. Below are some of the most common Social Security benefits for seniors:

Before applying for Social Security benefits, contact your local Social Security office or other local resources to ensure you’re receiving all potential benefits.

Tulsa resident public assistance resources

Local Social Security office

Tulsa Social Security office
14002 E. 21st St.
Tulsa, OK 74134
Phone: 866-931-7106
TTY Phone: 800-325-0778
Fax: 833-950-3007
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Local area agency on aging

INCOG Area Agency on Aging
2 W. Second St., Suite 800
Tulsa, OK 74103
Phone: 918-584-7526
Fax: 918-583-1024
Email: incog@incog.org

Senior information line
Tulsa Phone: 918-579-9477
Statewide Phone: 800-211-2116

Understand Oklahoma laws and regulations for senior apartments

Senior apartments typically follow standard apartment laws and regulations. This includes following the federal Fair Housing Act, which prevents Oklahoma landlords from discriminating against residents for their disability, race, sex, religion, sexual orientation, etc.

Read on to understand how regulations help protect your rights and allow you to live in a safe environment.

How do senior apartments differ from regular apartments?

Senior apartments set age requirements for residents. These requirements vary by apartment complex, but usually residents are required to be aged 55+ or 62+. However, you may be able to live with someone younger than you, as many landlords only require one tenant to meet the age requirement.

What are Oklahoma senior apartment requirements?

Oklahoma enforces strict apartment statutes to ensure landlords provide a safe, clean, and habitable living environment. Landlords must keep utilities like the following in good condition:[04]

  • Electrical
  • Plumbing, like running hot and cold water
  • Sanitation, such as trash removal
  • Heating and air conditioning
  • Ventilation and smoke detectors
  • Outside areas

Storm shelters

Senior apartments aren’t required to have storm shelters. But, because Oklahoma is located in tornado alley, some apartment buildings may have storm shelters, rooms, or doors to help protect residents.[05]

Since storms are common, you may experience flooding. Landlords must disclose any flooding from the last five years in your initial lease. If your landlord doesn’t disclose this information, they may be liable for any flood damage during your tenancy.[04]

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) compliance

Landlords are required to make reasonable accommodations for people with disabilities, according to the ADA. Below are some common examples of reasonable accommodations:

  • Reserved accessible parking for persons with low mobility
  • Ramps in entrances and exits for wheelchairs or walkers
  • Grab bars in bathrooms

If such accommodations would create undue financial or administrative burden, the landlord may be exempted. Luckily, if an apartment complex was built after March 13, 1991 and has more than four units and an elevator, the facility is required to ensure the following accessible features:[06]

  • Accessible public common areas
  • Doorways and hallways wide enough for wheelchairs
  • Accessible routes through the units
  • Reachable light switches, outlets, thermostats, and environmental controls
  • Reinforced bathroom walls in case the installation of grab bars is needed
  • Wheelchair-accessible kitchens and bathrooms

However, if an apartment complex doesn’t have an elevator, these features are only required in ground floor units.

One particularly helpful and common accommodation you can request is to live with a service or therapy animal — even if the apartment complex doesn’t allow pets. Your landlord may request proof of your need for the animal, which seniors can easily request from a doctor or therapist.[04]

For additional information, review this helpful resource guide to housing for people with disabilities in Oklahoma.

What does Oklahoma require of tenants and landlords?

Like landlords, tenants must abide by their own requirements, including maintaining the unit and safely using utilities. If you, a visitor, or your pet damages a rental property, a landlord can bill you for repairs or even terminate your rental agreement.

That said, as a renter, you do have rights. You have options if your landlord doesn’t provide livable conditions or fails to make essential repairs to your unit. If you repair issues in your unit yourself, you may be able to deduct the cost from your rent or bill your landlord. If you’re unable to cover the costs of essential repairs and your landlord has failed to make them, you may be able to terminate your lease.[04]

If issues like those listed below are not addressed, you may have the right to bill your landlord or terminate your lease:

  • You have no running or hot water.
  • Your air conditioner has stopped working.
  • There’s mold in or near the unit.
  • There’s a pest infestation.

You must give your landlord several written notices and give them plenty of time and opportunity to address it. Keep a copy for yourself, and give the landlord a reasonable chance to respond and make repairs. It’s important to seek advice from your local housing association or an attorney before you move forward independently. This will help ensure a positive outcome.

Review the Oklahoma Residential Landlord and Tenant Act and take advantage of the Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma, Inc. — a nonprofit offering legal advice to low-income individuals throughout the state. Find Tulsa County’s Legal Aid Services of Oklahoma, Inc. office in your area with their law office search page.

COVID-19 regulations for Tulsa senior apartments

Oklahoma doesn’t enforce any COVID-19 restrictions since the governor terminated the public health emergency in May 2021.[07] However, it’s still important to ask your prospective apartment complex whether they have any safety measures or restrictions.

The Oklahoma Department of Health (OSDH) still recommends following current Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) guidelines for the general public. For further information, visit the City of Tulsa COVID-19 resource page.

What to expect from senior apartments in Tulsa

Between budget-friendly options and senior apartments with comfortable amenities, you’ll be able to find something that fits your preferences in Tulsa. Here, we dive into Tulsa’s different senior apartment options and what you can expect from your future senior living community.

Comfortable senior apartment amenities and services

Tulsa’s senior apartment options offer senior-focused amenities and comfortable living spaces for independent seniors. These apartments provide many of the same amenities as independent living communities, with more budget-friendly layouts and limited services. Even still, you can expect the following from senior apartment communities in Tulsa:

  • Swimming pools
  • Fitness centers
  • Picnic areas with grills
  • Libraries
  • Business centers
  • Clubhouses and lounges
  • Game rooms

Most senior apartments in Tulsa have 24-hour emergency maintenance and on-site management. Some senior apartments also provide access to extravagant comforts like on-site beauty salons, housekeeping, and concierge or transportation services. However, this isn’t commonly seen across all senior apartment options in Tulsa. This is more common in Tulsa independent living communities.

Note: If you have a larger budget and are looking for even more conveniences, services, and amenities, you may benefit from our guide to independent living in Tulsa.

Senior apartment in-unit features

Most senior apartment units in Tulsa have similar features and layouts. For example, many Tulsa senior apartments offer one- or two-bedroom options. Apartment sizes can vary depending on the complex. Some Tulsa senior apartment buildings also offer townhome or duplex options if you want extra space. Either way, senior apartment units in Tulsa typically include the following layout features:

  • Controlled access
  • Carpeting
  • Full kitchens with dishwashers
  • Private patios or balconies
  • In-unit washers/dryers or connections available
  • Wheelchair-accessible options

Some units also include add-on features like ceiling fans, extra storage space, open floor plans, and walk-in closets. Additionally, most senior apartments are pet-friendly, but it’s important to ask about pet policies, charges, and breed or size restrictions to ensure your pet will be allowed.

Affordable senior apartments in Tulsa

Many senior apartments in Tulsa are affordable through Section 8 (or HCV) income-based rent. These apartments usually base the monthly cost on 30% of your income. These apartments are more affordable while still including amenities common to other senior apartments in Tulsa. Like standard senior apartments, affordable options are typically one- or two-bedroom units. You can still expect to find features like the following in Tulsa’s budget-friendly senior apartment communities:

  • Outdoor and indoor common areas for socializing
  • Controlled access/security systems
  • Senior-specific services, like transportation access

Many affordable senior apartment options also offer in-unit washer and dryer connections, which may cost extra. Low-income senior apartments in Tulsa typically staff on-site maintenance and management.

Note: While minimum age requirements vary depending on the apartment complex, affordable senior apartments in Tulsa commonly require residents to be age 62+.

LIFE Senior Services apartments

LIFE Senior Services is a nonprofit United Way organization helping the aging population in various parts of Oklahoma. They offer several beneficial services including senior living options, adult day health cares, senior centers, and more. LIFE Senior Services is home to seven senior apartment options in Tulsa and two in the nearby suburb, Broken Arrow. LIFE apartments are specifically for low-income seniors who fall under 60% of the area’s median income.

Apartment features are similar to other affordable communities, with some additional features, such as offering units exclusively for seniors aged 55 and older. Additionally, many of these locations also serve as senior nutrition sites, where seniors can enjoy meals with other residents and locals. They’re also often located near public transit stops or offer limited transportation services, enabling residents to run errands or attend doctors’ appointments.

Tulsa senior apartments’ neighborhoods

While neighborhood features depend on the senior apartment location, many buildings have similar nearby attributes.

For instance, since Oklahoma lies firmly in the Bible Belt, Tulsa features a church on nearly every corner. As such, most senior apartments in Tulsa are near a church or two. In addition to places of worship, most apartment communities rest within driving distance of various city amenities, like the following:

  • Health care systems: These could be prominent hospitals or nearby medical clinics.
  • Outdoor areas: Since Tulsa is home to many outdoor areas, several senior apartments rest near outdoor areas ranging from parks to golf courses.
  • Dining options: Restaurants near senior apartments could be local diners, trendy restaurants, or well-known chains.
  • Shopping centers: Shopping centers near senior apartments typically include at least one major chain, like Walmart, or a local grocery center.
  • Public transit stops: Some senior apartments are along Tulsa Transits fixed routes offering convenience to seniors needing a ride.

Unfamiliar with Tulsa? Highlights for seniors

110,133

Number of seniors over the age of 55 currently living in Tulsa

26%
Seniors aged 55+ make up 26% of Tulsa’s population.
$22,932

Mean Social Security income for seniors 60+ in Tulsa[01]

Health care for seniors in Tulsa

You’ll be able to find top-notch care in Tulsa, as it houses some of the highest-ranked hospitals in Oklahoma. Below are two of the well-known area hospitals, both rated the best in the state.

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Saint Francis Hospital

You’ll find top-rated care at Saint Francis Hospital, which ranks No. 1 in Tulsa and Oklahoma, according to U.S. News and World Report. The health care system performs highly for several conditions and procedures common in older adults, such as diabetes, stroke, hip and knee replacements, heart attacks, kidney failure, and more. These performance scores also include the South Tulsa location — another prominent hospital, though smaller with only 96 beds.

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Ascension St. John Medical Center

Another distinguished area hospital is Ascension St. John Medical Center, ranking No. 2 on U.S. News and World Reports’ list in Tulsa and Oklahoma. Ascension St. John Medical Center is award winning with multiple accreditations and awards for treatment of conditions like heart attacks and strokes. The hospital also received recognition from the Institute of Healthcare Improvement as an age-friendly health system.

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Find a doctor near you

Transportation for seniors in Tulsa

Most residents in Tulsa use their own means of transportation or carpool to get around the area. Most apartments have parking options, which may include carports or garages to help protect your vehicle from potential storm damage. Additionally, some senior apartment options offer on-site transportation services. However, such services may cost extra depending on the community.

If you don’t have your own vehicle or access to transportation services, Tulsa may be more difficult to get around. Despite being such a large city, it has limited public transportation options. We’ve outlined a few Tulsa Transit options below:

  • Fixed Routes: Tulsa Transit travels along many different fixed routes, from Downtown Tulsa into the surrounding suburbs. Outside standard hours, Tulsa Transit also offers Nightline and Sunday Service for weekends and late nights.
  • Bus Rapid Transit (BRT): BRT runs more often than other Tulsa Transit systems, with buses available every 20-30 minutes daily.
  • Micro Transit Pilot Program: This program is available on an app, with stops available along a fixed route in northwest and northeast Tulsa.
  • Lift Paratransit: Tulsa Transit’s ADA-paratransit service helps individuals with disabilities who can’t use other forms of public transportation.
  • Connectors: Jenks Connector, Broken Arrow Connector, and Turley Connector are all bus routes that travel between commonly needed destinations, like stores and the Tulsa Health Department.

Note: Check for any senior discounts with each Tulsa Transit system.

Other transportation options — trails, rails, bike lanes, etc. — can be found through the City of Tulsa transportation webpage. Below is Tulsa’s Walk Score rankings, each out of 100, for ease of navigating the city by walking, transit, or biking.[09]

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39

Walk Score

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23

Transit Score

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47

Bike Score

Senior activities in Tulsa

Tulsa is home to rich history, artsy activities, and fantastic community. Whether you’re looking for local history or a live performance, there are countless activities scattered throughout the city. Below are a few of the endless opportunities to enjoy yourself in Tulsa. You can also learn more about Tulsa through the Travel Oklahoma Tulsa or the Visit Tulsa webpages.

Senior centers

A handful of senior centers currently call Tulsa home. Two of the senior centers are operated through LIFE Senior Services. These centers help seniors stay active, find care services, and meet people of a similar age. They’re open daily, with monthly activity schedules including pastimes below:

  • Pickleball, yoga, tai chi, walking, basketball, and dancing
  • Classes to inspire, like art or writing
  • Knitting sessions
  • Musical instrument lessons
  • Luncheons to engage with other seniors
  • Bingo games

Senior centers go beyond simply providing activities. They help seniors access services, such as the following:

  • Visiting nurse associations
  • Hearing and vision screenings
  • Defensive driving lessons
  • Computer lessons
  • Foot care services

Tulsa Arts District and art museums

Tulsa Arts District is home to a multitude of businesses, restaurants, and art galleries. In addition to nearly 20 local art galleries, the district hosts art crawls on the first Friday of every month. Art crawls feature art and performances, as well as local galleries, studios, and museums.

Tulsa is celebrated for its numerous art museums, including but not limited to the following:

Historic museums and landmarks

Tulsa goes beyond its artsy culture by adding countless museums throughout the area. Below are two of the most popular historic museums in the area:

  • Tulsa Historical Society and Museum: Located in a historic building, this well-known museum encapsulates Tulsa’s history, from Route 66 to the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre.
  • Route 66 Historical Village: This outdoor museum showcases Tulsa’s history in preserved transportation systems, from trains to oil and gas pipelines.

In Tulsa, you can also find landmarks signifying moments in history, from the large Golden Driller monument to the John Hope Franklin Reconciliation Park.

Tulsa is prominently known for its Native American heritage and role in African American history. Tulsa celebrates being a prominent fixture in African American history at the informational Greenwood Cultural Center. While Tulsa doesn’t have any cultural centers for Native Americans, Oklahoma dedicates part of their website to information about Oklahoma Native American tribes, since it’s such a prominent population in the state.

Performing arts and music venues

You’ll be able to find endless entertainment in Tulsa thanks to its countless performing arts centers and music venues. Some of the popular Tulsa performing arts centers include the following:

As the birthplace of many musicians, Tulsa houses many music venues, like the popular Tulsa Theater and BOK Center.

Sports teams

Tulsa locals fiercely support their professional sports teams.

  • FC Tulsa is Oklahoma’s professional soccer club that plays in the USL Championship as a second-division team. The ONEOK Field, where FC Tulsa plays, has $1 beer nights on certain Fridays during the soccer session.
  • Tulsa Drillers is Tulsa’s minor league baseball team that plays at ONEOK Field, where you can find some unique concessions, from hand-made sausages to several brewery bars.
  • Tulsa Oilers is Tulsa’s midlevel professional ice hockey team, a part of the East Coast Hockey League (ECHL). Depending on your budget and love for hockey, the team offers season or single game tickets.
  • Tulsa Oilers Football is the local professional Indoor Football League (IFL) team. If you don’t know the differences between IFL and NFL, the Tulsa Oilers Football website created a guide to indoor football.

Meat lovers and beer drinkers’ paradise

Whether you’re looking for a juicy steak, smoked barbeque, or rich beer, Tulsa restaurants and breweries are full of delicious flavors. Outside of Oklahoma City and Tulsa, Oklahoma is full of farmlands known for their abundant cattle ranching. With locally sourced meats so close to home, there is an overarching popularity of steakhouses in Tulsa. Despite Oklahoma being a land-locked state, many of these steakhouses also offer seafood dishes making seafood extremely popular across the city.

It’s customary to try local barbeque joints in any Southern state, and Oklahoma’s don’t disappoint. Tulsa tops off the experience with fun nightlife options, including local breweries. From traditional IPAs to unique stouts, every beer lover can find something to enjoy.

Outdoor activities

Even though Tulsa is a large metropolis, the city doesn’t lack outdoor areas. In fact, the city maintains many outdoor areas:

  • Tulsa Zoo: The local 84-acre zoo has various exhibits, from a rainforest to a conservation center.
  • Tulsa Botanical Garden: The local 170-acre botanical garden circles around a 7-acre lake and has many different exhibits, from beautiful plant displays to an upcoming lotus pool that’s expected to be completed in 2023.
  • Tulsa parks and outdoor recreation: Tulsa has countless parks, where locals enjoy various activities, such as biking, boating, fishing, hiking, kayaking, canoeing, or picnicking.

Frequently Asked Questions

Heatheridge Assisted Living, Aberdeen Heights Assisted Living and Canoe Brook Assisted Living - Broken Arrow are the top-rated Senior Apartments facilities near Tulsa, OK. 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 Tulsa is 2607.67 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.

References

  1. United States Census Bureau. (2021). Tulsa city; Oklahoma. [Data set]. American Community Survey.

  2. Housing Authority of the City of Tulsa. Housing Choice Voucher Program.

  3. U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Inspection information for residents.

  4. Landlord and Tenant, Oklahoma Senate § 41 (2022).

  5. State of Oklahoma Uniform Building Code Commission. (2009). Minimum state requirements for storm shelters.

  6. Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services. Section 1: Disability laws and complaint procedures.

  7. Oklahoma State Department of Health. COVID-19 frequently asked questions.

  8. U.S. News and World Report. Best hospitals in Tulsa, OK.

  9. Walk Score. Living in Tulsa.

  10. Donovan, L. (2023, June 5). Personal communication [Phone interview].

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1.

United States Census Bureau. (2021). Tulsa city; Oklahoma. [Data set]. American Community Survey.

2.

Housing Authority of the City of Tulsa. Housing Choice Voucher Program.

3.

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Inspection information for residents.

4.

Landlord and Tenant, Oklahoma Senate § 41 (2022).

5.

State of Oklahoma Uniform Building Code Commission. (2009). Minimum state requirements for storm shelters.

6.

Oklahoma Department of Rehabilitation Services. Section 1: Disability laws and complaint procedures.

7.

Oklahoma State Department of Health. COVID-19 frequently asked questions.

8.

U.S. News and World Report. Best hospitals in Tulsa, OK.

9.

Walk Score. Living in Tulsa.

10.

Donovan, L. (2023, June 5). Personal communication [Phone interview].