As we age, our needs change. This doesn’t mean you need to give up your daily routine and independence. There are many affordable senior communities that offer a variety of comforts, amenities, and services. Luckily, you can do an online search to find active senior communities near you.
Whether you’re searching for yourself or a loved one, you want to make sure you’re choosing the most affordable senior apartment available. Make a list of the services and amenities most important to your individual needs before starting your search. Whatever your highest priorities, there is an active senior community out there for you.
Masonic Village at Elizabethtown
Location: Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania
The Masonic Village at Elizabethtown is a retirement community that offers seniors the chance to live an active and social lifestyle. There are plenty of activities available to residents, including a fitness center, library, and an on-site restaurant. Plus, the community is located near downtown Elizabethtown, so there’s always something to do nearby.
Whether you’re looking to downsize into a studio apartment, a nice one bedroom, or need a bit more room in a townhouse, there’s a size and floorplan for everyone. Accommodations start at just $1,915 a month, which covers almost everything! Yes, the Masonic Village at Elizabethtown is all-inclusive, meaning you don’t need to worry about any hidden costs while enjoying your retirement.
The Clare
Location: Chicago, Illinois
For those who’d like a little more help in their day-to-day lives, look no further than The Clare in Chicago. From on-site dining, a fitness center and spa, to medication management and a wellness center open daily, The Clare has everything to ensure you’re well taken care of. Your most important needs are taken care of so you can spend your time enjoying local attractions like the Art Institute of Chicago, the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, or any of the local activities available to you.
The Clare’s monthly costs vary based on apartment size and level of care needed. It is important to note that they are a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC), so an entrance fee is required. However, this means you will always enjoy downtown Chicago living regardless of the type of care you need.
Shell Point Retirement Community
Location: Fort Myers, Florida
Shell Point is a CCRC located in southwest Florida. The community is situated on the edge of the Caloosahatchee River in Fort Myers, which provides residents with beautiful views of the water. The community offers a variety of amenities and activities for residents, including an on-site golf course, tennis courts, pickleball courts, fitness center, and a pool. There are also several restaurants and cafes on-site, as well as a grocery store and pharmacy. Shell Point is home to a vibrant senior community with plenty of opportunities to get involved and stay active.
Shell Point offers a variety of house options, depending on your needs. A cute garden studio starts at around $1,947 a month, and you can choose which level of care is needed.
The Villages
Location: The Villages, Florida
The Villages, located in Florida, isn’t just one retirement community — it’s a collection of unique communities nestled together. Whether you prefer to be busy or relax, The Villages has a community for you. With multiple shopping and dining options, daily entertainment including three performing arts centers, and over 50 golf courses, there’s always something to explore for the active senior.
While prices vary based on which house you purchase, there are options for every budget. Finding available houses is easy, just take a look at the houses they have listed. If you’re looking for traditional apartment living, there are also the condo-style Lofts at Brownwood.
Sun City Hilton Head
Location: Hilton Head, South Carolina
The Sun City Hilton Head retirement community is a great place for social seniors to live. The community is in the heart of Hilton Head, South Carolina and offers residents a variety of amenities and activities, such as clubs, fitness classes, and outings. The community is also close to shopping, dining, and entertainment options. Furthermore, residents have access to four clubhouses, an onsite theater, over 300 acres of lush landscaping, and so much more.
Residents can choose from a wide range of senior living options at Sun City Hilton Head — from active adult living to assisted living — all designed around their needs. There are three different types of housing available, including apartments, villas, and single-family homes. Costs vary housing, so be sure to take a thorough look at your options.
How to Save Money on Senior Living
If apartment living in a retirement community is calling to you, Good Samaritan Society could be the right option. With activities and social aspects like any retirement community, it provides income-based housing — meaning you can enjoy retirement at a lower cost. If you’re over 50, take a look at the requirements to see if you qualify.
Another option is to investigate housing vouchers. While not the exact same as retirement living, it can be a good option if you or your family are low-income and want more choice over where you live. To find out what you qualify for, contact your local public housing agency.
No matter the option you choose to help pay for housing, the next year or so may be the best time to do it. The U.S. government recently approved a massive $90.9 billion in funding to transportation, housing, urban development, and related agencies for 2023. As part of this funding, the government wants to encourage homeownership and renting by providing over 140,00 housing vouchers and building about 5,600 new units for seniors and people with disabilities.
Finding the Affordable Senior Community for You
Whether you’re just looking for somewhere nice to retire or need a little bit more help in your day-to-day routine while maintaining your independence, there’s a lively retirement community out there that is sure to meet your needs. A quick search online can show you all the retirement communities that meet your required level of support.
Retirement should be a time of fun and leisure, which is why choosing the right senior living arrangement is key. Enjoy where you live without any of the unneeded stress, so you can get the most out of your retirement years.
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