What Is the Best Way to Research Independent Living Options: Including Ratings and Costs?
Category: Life Care or CCRC
April 12, 2025 — Steve S. asked us a question we know a lot of people have: “What Is the Best Way to research Independent Living housing and see ratings and costs?” The same question might apply to Assisted Living and Continuing Care Retirement Communities (CCRCs – or Life Care Communities). We asked Chatgbt the question, and they instantaneously came up with a very good answer. Here goes:
Researching Independent Living housing—especially for yourself or a loved one—can feel overwhelming, but a structured approach makes it much easier. Here are some practical steps and tips for gathering accurate info on options, ratings, and costs:
The primary rating system for independent and assisted living communities is the Five-Star Quality Rating System developed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While this system is primarily for nursing homes, it can provide some insights into the quality of care in assisted living facilities. Additionally, states often have their own rating systems or regulations that can help families evaluate facilities
Here is the link to their Comparison Tool.
Step-by-Step Guide to Researching Independent Living Housing
1. Clarify Your Priorities
Before diving into listings, ask:
- Preferred location(s)?
- Budget range?
- Must-have amenities (e.g., dining, transportation, activities)?
- Medical services on-site or nearby?
- Age or income qualifications?
2. Use Reputable Online Platforms
These sites specialize in senior living options and often include reviews, pricing estimates, and virtual tours:
- Medicare.gov Care Compare
- Though more focused on skilled nursing, some facilities overlap.
- A Place for Mom
- Free service that matches you with communities.
- Includes ratings, cost ranges, and advisor support.
- Caring.com
- Great for user reviews and side-by-side comparisons.
- Seniorly
- Features detailed cost breakdowns and community profiles.
- AssistedLiving.org
- Independent and thorough research, plus consumer guides.
- BestAssistedLiving.com. This sister site of Topretirements has capsule reviews of hundreds of assisted living, independent living, and CCRC communities. They capsule summaries are unbiased, and there are no fees being paid for referrals.
3. Get Local
- Search local directories or regional senior service centers.
- Contact Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) – they often have printed guides and advice.
- You can find one near you via Eldercare Locator.
- Visit or call local senior centers or churches—they often have word-of-mouth insights.
4. Compare Costs
- Independent living typically ranges from $1,500 to $6,000/month, depending on location and amenities.
- Use online calculators on A Place for Mom or Caring.com to estimate costs.
- Ask about:
- Entrance fees or deposits
- What’s included in rent (utilities, meals, housekeeping?)
- A la carte services
5. Check Reviews Thoughtfully
- Look for recent reviews.
- Note any consistent complaints (staff turnover, food quality, etc.).
- Visit their Better Business Bureau (BBB) profile for red flags.
6. Schedule Tours (In-Person or Virtual)
- Ask to join for a meal or event to get a feel for the community.
- Speak with current residents, if possible.
Questions to ask:
- Are leases flexible?
- What is the staff-to-resident ratio?
- How are emergencies handled?
- How often are rent increases?
7. Ask for a Cost Sheet
Most communities will provide an itemized cost sheet or brochure. Don’t hesitate to ask for it, and compare a few side by side.
8. Consider Hiring a Senior Living Advisor
They can simplify the process (often for free), and some even help with applications or move-in coordination.
Bottom line:
Would you like help compiling a shortlist of communities in a specific area? Chatgbt can search local options with current reviews and pricing info if you provide a city or ZIP code
Comments on "What Is the Best Way to Research Independent Living Options: Including Ratings and Costs?"
Steve S says:
Hi John
It's under the influence from your website that I moved to Lewes, DE although now I'm living in Swanville ME!
Something I learned that might be of interest -- if you google Independent Living with no buy in fees in the state you want to live in, you can find places that don't charge what I consider to be very expensive rights to live in their development - some well over $1 million - though they sometimes give you a credit if you need a higher level of care or move out.
As I get older, I think about living in Independent living developments though my visits to a few have left me a little shocked since I'm pretty active and don't feel like I want to eat 3 meals a day with strangers and I'm not drooling yet...
Some of the sites like A Place for Mom are very aggressive and your phone will ring quite often if you give them your phone number.
I'm happy that you were able to use my question for the site and I'll keep an eye on it. Thank you.
Steve S
John says:
One of the things I am wrestling with is are there good options for being a snow bird and living in a ccrc or life are community. While we can still travel easily it would be great to enjoy the best of both worlds. Balance that against the expense. Some places might not charge for the food component while we are away. Anyone have any ideas on this ?
Patricia says:
I was told by one independent living recruiter that I would not want to dine with assisted living folks, and that his community has two different campuses, one for independent living and one for assisted living, which were across the street from one another. Another place I found had different dining rooms for independent living and assisted living. I just keep it simple by not looking at a combined location, and there seem to be options for just residing with others who chose independent living residences only.