If you’ve started exploring senior living options, you’ve probably noticed that finding a straight answer to “how much does it cost?” is surprisingly difficult. Prices can vary widely depending on care needs, location, and amenities—but families deserve transparency. In this post, we’ll break down the real costs of assisted living and memory care so you can plan ahead with confidence.

🏡 Assisted Living Costs: What’s Included?

In most assisted living communities, monthly rates are all-inclusive—but “all” can vary. Generally, costs include:

• A private or shared apartment

• Meals and snacks

• Housekeeping and laundry

• 24-hour staffing

• Social activities and transportation

• Help with daily tasks (like dressing or bathing)

💰 Average Monthly Cost in the U.S.:
$4,500 – $5,000/month
(In major metro areas like Charlotte, Denver, or Phoenix, you might see $5,500 – $6,000+)

📍 Example from Charlotte, NC:
A one-bedroom assisted living apartment with basic care averages $4,900/month. Add-ons like medication management or extra personal care may push it to $5,500 or more.

🧠 Memory Care Costs: Why Is It Higher?

Memory care is for seniors with Alzheimer’s or other types of dementia and includes:

• Specialized staff training

• Secured environments

• Higher staff-to-resident ratios

• Structured routines and activities

• Behavioral support

💰 Average Monthly Cost:
$6,000 – $7,500/month

📍 Example from Denver, CO:
Memory care costs average $6,165/month, but some upscale communities may exceed $8,000/month depending on the level of supervision and amenities.

💸 What’s Not Included in the Base Price?

Even in all-inclusive communities, you may pay extra for:

• Personal laundry service

• Medication management

• Incontinence care

• Transportation beyond standard routes

• Pet fees or second-person fees (like a spouse)

These add-ons can range from $100 to $1,500/month depending on services needed.

👛 Can Insurance or Medicare Help?

• Medicare does not cover room and board in assisted living or memory care

• Long-term care insurance may help if you have a policy

• Some states offer Medicaid waiver programs for lower-income seniors, but there are waitlists

✅ Cost-Saving Tips

• Look for shared rooms or smaller floorplans

• Ask about move-in specials or “community fee” waivers

• Compare pricing at 3+ communities before committing

• Work with a senior living advisor (like me!) to find value-based options in your area

💬 Final Thoughts

The cost of senior living is one of the biggest concerns families face—but having a clear, realistic picture helps make smarter decisions. If you’re overwhelmed by options or wondering what’s realistic for your budget, I can help you navigate the process—for free.

Want a personalized breakdown for your area?  Call or email Star Light Senior Advisors for information and/or your FREE assessment.

• Jennifer Carter, Founder
• Star Light Senior Advisors
• [email protected]