What senior living actually costs
Prices vary more by care type and staffing than by amenities. Here's how to read them without the marketing gloss.
What drives the price
The biggest cost driver is staffing intensity. Independent living needs the least, memory care and skilled nursing the most, and the monthly price follows that curve far more than it follows the lobby chandelier.
Typical starting ranges
Across the communities on Elderwise, monthly prices start roughly as follows. Your actual cost depends on unit size, care level, and city.
- Independent living: from around $3,800 / month
- Assisted living: from around $4,000 / month
- Memory care: from around $5,800 / month
- Continuing care: larger up-front commitment, priced per contract
How we show prices
On Elderwise, a starting price is the community's own figure, shown where they publish one and marked 'Ask' when they don't — so you can compare like for like.
Not sure where to start?
Compare communities side by side, or read the trade-offs before you ever pick up the phone.