How Much Does Independent Living Cost?
It’s hard to put a price tag on your quality of life, but we understand that the cost of living is an important factor to consider when moving into an independent living community. Since we serve a wide range of seniors across our many communities, the cost can vary based on location, level of care and your personal needs. With a variety of home-like apartments and conveniently located communities, you're sure to discover a place that not only fits your preferences but also fits your budget.
What Affects the Cost of Independent Living?
The services you choose are as unique as you are. As a result, your cost is determined by your choices.
Here are just a few factors that influence cost:
Costs vary depending on the services and amenities offered by communities.
Our floor plan options allow you to choose the perfect apartment size that suits your needs and lifestyle.
Factors such as cost of living, local real estate market and availability of amenities play a role in pricing.
The Cost of Independent Living
While independent living pricing may typically be comparable across regions in the US, it's worth noting that pricing may vary from region to region and city to city due to factors such as location and cost of living.
Monthly Price Ranges by Region*
*Numbers as of 3/4/24; subject to change
In addition to the monthly fee, you may be responsible for other fees, including a one-time community fee, which can range from $550 to $6,100.
What's Included in Your Independent Living Cost
Independent living is an excellent option for seniors seeking a comfortable life free from the hassles of daily chores. It provides a relaxed, home-like environment, offering both the freedom to enjoy personal pursuits and the opportunity to engage in a vibrant community, creating connections and new experiences.
Here some things you could enjoy when you make your home at an independent living community: *
Numerous events, classes, excursions and social opportunities to help your entertainment budget go further every single month
A comfortable living space with security features to ease your mind and allow you to enjoy your life with fewer worries
Fresh meals giving you the energy needed to make the most of your day
Great for socializing with friends or entertaining family
Such as our signature B-Fit exercise classes
Low property maintenance means you get to enjoy the comforts of home without the hassle of upkeep
Housekeeping and laundry, so you can spend less time dealing with chores and more time engaging in fun social events and outings
Book your next doctor's appointment with our friendly drivers, or join us on a community excursion for all the fun without the hassle of driving.
Learn more about what life is like at a Brookdale independent living community >
*The services listed are for informational purposes to educate on what's typically available. Services vary with each community and may not include the services listed.
Comparing the Cost: Senior Living vs. Staying at Home
Starting your senior living journey is a big step, and it’s completely normal to feel a bit nervous, especially considering the potential cost. While senior living may seem expensive, it's important to recognize that the cost of living at home can be surprisingly high, and it often includes fewer amenities. Take a moment to look at the chart below, and you might be surprised by the overall savings and enhanced value that senior living brings to your everyday life.
| Expense Type | Potential Yearly Expense of Staying at Home |
|---|---|
|
Rent & Mortgage Housing is one of the costliest parts of living on your own. The average United States rent is $1,200 a month. If you’ve paid off your mortgage, you should consider other costs like HOA fees and property taxes. Even if you only spend $1,000 a month on your home, that adds up to a whopping $12,000 a year. |
$12,000 |
|
Utilities Keeping the lights on, the water running and the house heated all come at a price. Utilities can cost up to $500 a month, which is approximately $6,000 per year. |
$6,000 |
|
Groceries Groceries are a necessity and how much you spend on them is based on your preferences and needs. The general rule of thumb is that $250 feeds one person for a month. That means you can easily spend upwards of $3,000 a year on food. This does n’t include the hours of labor it takes to feed yourself — hours that could be used to focus on your hobbies or spend time with your family. |
$3,000 |
|
Transportation Just like the grocery bill, transportation costs vary depending on your circumstances. Assuming you drive your own car, gas can cost a round $250 a month. That's another $3,000 a year, and it doesn't include any maintenance or the cost of insurance. |
$3,000 |
| Potential Total Year Expense: | $24,000 |
The necessities alone add up to around $24,000 a year. If you want to enjoy all the interesting and fun things life has to offer, then your cost only increases. So if staying at home sounds like it might be less expensive, take a moment to compare the cost of staying at home against the cost of moving into a senior living community. You might just discover that your money can go a lot further in a senior living community.
If you want more detailed pricing information or help understanding your options, give one of our Senior Living Advisors a call.
Get all of the basics you need to know about independent living.
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Discover the experiences and amenities you could be enjoying in independent living.