Senior living cost calculator

In general, if care needs are minimal, in-home care is a lower cost option. If care needs are robust, then assisted living is the more cost-effective care solution. Assisted living often includes housing, meals, utilities, housekeeping, and care services, which can make it more cost-effective than paying for at-home care, especially if extensive support is required.  Assisted living provides a bundled approach to care, while at-home care can be more flexible but may add up quickly if lots of support is required. 

The cost of assisted living typically covers:

- A private or semi-private room or apartment.

- Three meals a day and snacks.

- Housekeeping and laundry services.

- Assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, and medication management.

- Utilities, including electricity, water, and sometimes internet.

- Access to community amenities like fitness centers, social activities, and transportation.

While most services are included in the base fee, some communities may charge extra for specialized care or premium amenities.

While most communities are transparent about costs, it’s important to make sure you understand how each community structures its costs.  There can be additional fees for:

- Personal care services beyond what is included in the standard package.

- Specialized care such as memory care or skilled nursing.

- Move-in fees or community entrance fees.

- Transportation outside of scheduled services.

- Premium amenities like private dining or on-demand concierge services.

Always request a detailed breakdown of costs upfront and ask if there are extra charges for specific services to avoid surprises.

Medicare does not typically cover assisted living costs, as it is designed to cover medical care rather than housing or personal care services. However, Medicaid may help pay for a portion of fees related to medical needs in certain states. Eligibility and coverage vary by state, and you may need to meet income and asset requirements to qualify.

To determine if you’re paying a fair price, it’s essential to compare the costs of similar assisted living communities in your area. Seniorly makes this easy by providing up-to-date data on average assisted living costs based on location, care level, and amenities. You can use this information to see how your current or potential community stacks up. 

We hear from so many families who are surprised by the cost of senior living. But there are so many good reasons why quality care can be expensive:

- Location: Communities in urban areas or regions with a high cost of living tend to be more expensive.

- Level of Care Needed: Higher levels of care, such as memory care or skilled nursing, come with increased costs.

- Room Type: Private rooms are more expensive than shared or semi-private accommodations.

- Amenities and Services: Luxury features like pools, gourmet dining, or concierge services can significantly raise costs.

- Community Size and Reputation: Larger or highly-rated communities often charge a premium.

- Labor Conditions: Regions with higher wages or staffing shortages may experience increased operational costs, which are passed on to residents.

- Inflation: Rising costs for food, utilities, and supplies due to inflation can also impact senior living prices.

Understanding these factors can help you evaluate costs and choose a community that aligns with your budget and care needs.