Factors That Influence Assisted Living Costs

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Updated: May 22, 2024

Wondering why Assisted Living costs are getting more and more expensive? Is it inflation? The economy? How does this affect my aging Loved One’s needed care? Assisted Living costs may vary depending on the specifications you are looking for. Let’s discuss the primary factors that determine the cost of Assisted Living facilities.

Key Takeaways

Costs are directly determined with the type of care facility your aging Loved One Needs
Determine exactly what your Loved One exactly needs to ensure you aren’t overpaying for Care
Understand all the factors and seek the advice of a Care Advisor that can help guide you to the right care options for your Loved One

1. Type of Assisted Living Facility

What type of Assisted Living Facility are you looking for? Do you or your elderly loved one need an Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care or Skilled Nursing? Usually, Memory Care facilities and Nursing Homes are more expensive than Assisted Living. Independent living, on the other had tend to be the most affordable Assisted Living option.

Typically, in Independent Living Communities the residents do not need any assistance so there is not extra fee for care. However, Independent Living communities can also be expensive especially if you select a high end Assisted Living community. For instance, there are some luxury Assisted Living communities that charge over $7000 per month. This is due to the amenities and several Assisted Living programs offered in the community.

2. Assisted Living Needs

When people with certain disabilities require special attention from highly trained professionals the monthly cost is usually higher. The Assisted Living facility cost would depend on the care level, which is usually determined upon the assessment of are needs. Assistance with daily living like eating, bathing, toileting, grooming, dressing, medication management and other personal services are available for an additional cost. Remember, the higher the level of care is, the more expensive it gets.

3. Location, Location, Location

I’m sure you’ve heard this several times. The price of the property depends on the city and state where the Assisted Living facility is located. Usually if it is in major cities, the monthly cost is higher. If you are trying to save on cost, it will be wise to consider Assisted Living facilities that are outside of the city. Studies show that the cost of living in rural areas are cheaper compared to living in urban areas.

4. Amenities in the Assisted Living Facility

Amenities and services vary per community. Some Assisted Living facilities offer a wide-range of programs, social activities and services, while some don’t. Be sure to ask about additional costs. Most community costs include utilities but charge extra costs for services like laundry, banking, transportation services, etc. If you want a community with more amenities and services, expect to pay more.

5. Assisted Living Facility Size

The size of Assisted Living Facilities vary from a small 6-bed Board and Care Home to an upscale resort-style retirement community. The smallest care facility is called a Board and Care Home. Board and care homes look like regular houses, which is licensed by the state to provide care for about 6 seniors per home. The more luxurious you go, the more expensive the Assisted Living facility becomes.

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Kate Allado | Senior Advocate / Care Advisor( State Licensed Certified Administrator | Co-Founder at SeniorCareHomes.Com )

Catharine “Kate” is a Certified Administrator for Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFE) and an Expert Senior Care Advisor. Kate’s grandmother battled Alzheimer’s Disease and Kate personally understands what millions of families are going through. Kate and her team are very passionate in empowering Seniors and their families by providing them with the Best Available Senior Care Options based on Senior’s care needs, preferred location and family’s budget.