10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Lincoln, NE
Lincoln has a thriving group of seniors who enjoy the unhurried, community-focused culture. Football lovers will enjoy taking in a Husker game at Lincoln’s University of Nebraska’s flagship campus. The inviting atmosphere in Lincoln is present in its assisted living facilities, too. Seniors can receive assistance throughout the day with mobility, medication management, and more.
This guide to assisted living in Lincoln includes information about local communities, cost and payment data, veterans benefits, assisted living regulations, senior-friendly activities, and more.
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The meals and dining service at Pemberly Place is very good, and even though our love one does not participate in the activities they do have an abundant amount. We would recommend the community to others.
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How we rank order the Lincoln community options above
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Lincoln community options based on factors we know are important to seniors and their families:
- Proximity to your search location
- Availability of recent, high-quality reviews
- The amount of detailed community information available
Where we source our information
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We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information
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- Costs of assisted living in the Lincoln area
- What families are saying about assisted living in Lincoln
- How people pay for assisted living in Lincoln
- Lincoln laws and regulations for assisted living facilities
- What assisted living is like in Lincoln
- Lincoln assisted living services and amenities
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Seniors’ guide to the city of Lincoln
Costs of assisted living in the Lincoln area
The average cost for assisted living in Lincoln is $5,350 a month, according to A Place for Mom’s data of what families paid for care and services to communities we partner with.[01]This monthly fee typically includes the following baseline services:
- Rent for a private apartment or room
- Utilities and maintenance
- Housekeeping
- Daily meals and snacks
- Access to amenities, such as a pool or gym
- Personal care services, such as mobility assistance
Assisted living facilities may offer other services or amenities. These may be included in the monthly bill. Sometimes, however, there’s an additional fee. These services or amenities may include the following:
- Monthly pet rent
- Transportation
- Barbershop or salon services
- Laundry
The cost of living in Lincoln, Nebraska
Lincoln has a lower overall cost of living than the national average. This means groceries, gas, and housing are more affordable in Lincoln than in much of the U.S. However, at our partner assisted living communities costs lie at or slightly above the national average, according to our internal data.
Additionally, Nebraska offers fewer tax benefits for seniors compared to Sunbelt states like Florida or Arizona. In Nebraska, seniors can expect to pay slightly higher income and property taxes. They’ll also be taxed on retirement accounts, including pensions, 401(k) plans, and IRAs. Nebraska also taxes some Social Security benefits. The tradeoff for many seniors is a city with high-quality assisted living facilities, low crime, and close proximity to family.
The chart below highlights the baseline costs of assisted living in Lincoln. This is before adding any additional fees. It’s best read as a comparison between Lincoln’s assisted living costs and those of nearby areas. Your actual assisted living costs may vary.
Average monthly cost of Assisted Living in Lincoln, NE vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Assisted Living in Lincoln, NE vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Assisted Living in Lincoln vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Assisted Living in Lincoln, NE by room type
Average cost of Assisted Living in Lincoln over time
What families are saying about assisted living in Lincoln
Recent reviews for assisted living in Lincoln
CountryHouse at 70th and O - Lincoln 3
Greene Senior Living in Seward, NE
Waterford at Williamsburg in Lincoln, NE
Lincoln review score based on 51 family reviews
This proprietary review score is based on 51 reviews of 40 Lincoln assisted living communities. All reviews were submitted in the past two years by verified community residents and family members.Lincoln review score compared against nearby cities
Review subcategories for Lincoln assisted living
When assisted living residents and family members submit a review on our site, they rate each community on categories such as cleanliness, activities, meals, and more. The chart below is based on 51 reviews of 40 Lincoln assisted living communities. This chart helps you compare Lincoln resident and family assisted living satisfaction rates against national averages. Use it to assess your needs and develop criteria for your own search. If you know that one of these categories is important to you or your loved one, our senior living advisors can help you find communities to match your needs.How people pay for assisted living in Lincoln
Seniors and their families typically use multiple resources to pay for assisted living. The most common include savings accounts, insurance policies, and retirement income. Many seniors also take advantage of federal and state programs. This includes veterans benefits, Medicaid, and Medicare.
Here’s an in-depth look at how to use different payment options to keep your dream assisted living facility within reach.
When reviewing payment options for assisted living, many seniors and their families start with private funds. Retirement accounts are the most common private payment method. However, seniors can also use their income, assets, pensions, and investment returns. Other effective options include the sale of a house or a Health Savings Account. The following articles offer more details about each private pay option:
Number of veterans who live in Lincoln
About 46% of Lincoln veterans are 65+
Veterans or their surviving spouses may be eligible for benefits that can go toward assisted living costs. The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers many different benefits for veterans.
The Aid and Attendance benefit is particularly generous to senior veterans. Usually, it’s added to an existing VA pension. Seniors can use this money to pay for anything that improves the veteran’s quality of life, including assisted living fees.
Nebraska offers a tax benefit for eligible senior veterans. The Military Retirement Benefits Exclusion removes military retirement benefits from taxable income as of 2022.
Applying for benefits is complex. Most senior veterans and their families can benefit from counseling and application assistance. Local veterans service organizations (VSOs) are trustworthy nonprofit groups vetted by the VA. VSOs often help veterans and their families navigate the application process. They also help appeal denied claims.
Some ailments or disabilities may immediately qualify you or a loved one for benefits, while others may not. You can review the VA’s service-related disabilities fact sheet, but may still want to contact a local VSO.
Local, state, and city veterans departments offer veterans benefits counseling. You can also access assistance through nonprofit organizations, such as Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Disabled American Veterans (DAV). The following offices are a good place to start when looking for veterans benefits counseling:
- Lincoln Regional Office (VA). Here you’ll find a wide range of services, including benefits counseling and application assistance. Reach out to the public contact team to schedule your virtual or in-person appointment. Or, you can fill out the Visitor Engagement Reporting Application (VERA). All services come at no cost to you or your family.
- Veterans’ Affairs State Service Office. This office provides benefits counseling and application assistance to local veterans and their families. Veterans service officers can also manage and appeal claims for veterans benefits. You can chat with a VSO agent from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday on the website.
- Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) and Disabled American Veterans (DAV). Both VFW and DAV are independent, nonprofit organizations for local veterans. Lincoln has multiple chapters of the VFW and DAV. You can find your closest chapter on the VFW or DAV websites. Both organizations provide free, reliable benefits counseling to veterans.
Resources for Lincoln veterans
Veterans’ Affairs State Service Office
3800 Village Drive
Lincoln, NE 68516-4737
Phone: 402-420-4021
Fax: 402-471-7070
Email: ndva.sso@nebraska.gov
Nebraska Department of Veterans’ Affairs
P.O. Box 95083
301 Centennial Mall South, 4th Floor
Lincoln, NE 68509-5083
Phone: 402-471-2458
Fax: 402-742-1142
Email: ndva@nebraska.gov
Lincoln Regional Office
3800 Village Drive
Lincoln, NE 68516
Monday – Friday from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Meeting Location and Time
3340 W. A St.
Lincoln, NE 68522
Phone: 402-432-1747
7 p.m., second Wednesday
Mailing Address:
PO Box 29311
Lincoln, NE 68529
Meeting Location:
3901 N. 70 St.
Lincoln, NE 68501
Phone: 402-464-4475
7 p.m., first Monday
Medicaid is a health insurance program for low-income individuals and people with disabilities. Each state runs its own Medicaid program according to federal guidelines. The coverage for assisted living costs will vary across states. Nebraska Medicaid usually doesn’t cover the cost of room and board in assisted living. However, some medical care costs may be covered.
Usually, Medicaid covers skilled nursing services, such as wound and catheter care, for eligible individuals. Sometimes this care is offered in an assisted living community. A senior may have a visiting home health aide who provides medical care. Some assisted living communities have on-site skilled nursing on the same campus. In these cases, Medicaid may cover care. Medicaid won’t cover other costs in assisted living. Uncovered costs include meals, rent, amenity fees, and nonmedical care.
Nebraska Medicaid Assistance Programs
Nebraska Medicaid offers multiple programs to seniors who need additional financial assistance. These include the following:
- Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE). Nebraska offers the PACE program to seniors 55 and older. To be eligible, seniors must need skilled nursing care. This program can cover some of the cost of long-term care services, including meals, prescriptions, skilled nursing care, and physical therapy.
- Aged and Disabled program. This program covers some of the care services offered in assisted living. However, it doesn’t cover room and board. Covered services include personal care, transportation, housekeeping, assistive technology, and companion care.
- Personal Assistance Services program. This program offers in-home care for adults who need assistance with daily activities. Seniors must be 60 years or older to be eligible.
Find help applying for Nebraska Medicaid
Applying for Medicaid can be confusing. To help, the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services offers free Medicaid benefits counseling. The local elder care ombudsman can help with concerns about your Medicaid coverage. They’ll also direct you to helpful resources.
Lincoln resident Medicaid resources
301 Centennial Mall South
Lincoln, NE 68509
Phone: 402-471-3121
Medicaid assistance: 855-632-7633
State Unit on Aging mailing address
P.O. Box 95026
Lincoln, NE 68509-5026
Phone: 402-471-2307
Email: DHHS.Aging@nebraska.gov
Medicare is a federal program that provides health insurance coverage to seniors over 65 who’ve paid their Medicare taxes. Medicare won’t cover assisted living costs. However, it does cover a range of health care services commonly needed by seniors in Lincoln’s assisted living facilities.
Medicare covers short-term and medically-necessary health care costs. Typically, a physician and a Medicare representative need to agree that a procedure or item fulfills the requirements before providing Medicare coverage. You can explore examples of what Medicare typically covers on the Medicare coverage portal.
Medicare financial assistance programs in Nebraska
Medicare Savings Programs help low-income individuals pay for their Medicare costs. Often, seniors with Medicare contribute some funds towards their cared, known as Share of Cost. The senior’s financial situation determines their amount. These Medicare Savings Programs help seniors who may not be able to contribute to their Share of Cost.
Medicare benefits counseling
Many seniors and family members don’t apply for Medicare benefits until they have an unexpected health care expense. If this describes you, or if you have coverage questions, consider contacting the Nebraska State Health Insurance Assistance Program (SHIP). Additionally, the long-term care ombudsman can answer questions about your Medicare benefits.
Lincoln resident Medicare resources
Volunteers Assisting Seniors
1941 S. 42nd St., Suite 312
Omaha, NE 68105
Phone: 402-444-6617
Lincoln laws and regulations for assisted living facilities
Lincoln’s assisted living facilities offer safe, secure, and compassionate care. The Department of Health and Human Services licenses Lincoln’s assisted living facilities. Licensure, inspections, and report cards help ensure that Lincoln’s assisted living facilities provide high-quality care to every resident.
Licensure for assisted living facilities in Lincoln
Any facility that provides assisted living services to at least four residents must be licensed as an “ALF,” or Assisted Living Facility. ALFs provide meals, housing, and personal assistance, but not skilled nursing care. In some cases, a facility may provide on-site memory care or skilled nursing care. However, this requires an additional license.
Before a facility receives its license, it undergoes an initial inspection. Afterwards, the department conducts annual inspections. You can view inspection results on the License Information System Search. Before signing a contract with a community, it’s helpful to look at their most recent inspection results.
If you’d like to learn more about nursing homes or memory care in Lincoln, you can read our Lincoln nursing homes and Lincoln memory care pages.
Assisted living facility requirements in Lincoln
All assisted living facilities in Nebraska follow building and safety codes. There are also additional, senior-specific requirements, such as the following:
- Equip stairways and ramps with handrails.
- Install fully functioning doors on private rooms. These need to open easily in an emergency.
- Ensure passageways are wide enough to accommodate assistive devices.
- Have an outdoor area for resident recreational use.
- Keep facilities and grounds clean and hygienic.
- Furnish common areas and private rooms.
Resident rights in Lincoln assisted living facilities
All Nebraska assisted living facility residents have the right to safety, autonomy, and dignity. In assisted living facilities, residents have the following rights:
- Written information on pricing and rates, including when they change
- Choice of physician
- Personal visitors at any time
- Respectful treatment by all staff
Nebraska Department of Health contact information
Visit the Nebraska Department of Health website to learn more about assisted living facilities website.
Search for licensed assisted living facilities
301 Centennial Mall South
Lincoln, NE 68509
Phone: 402-471-3121
COVID-19 regulations for Lincoln assisted living facilities
Lincoln doesn’t have any COVID-19 mandates for assisted living facilities. However, assisted living facilities do follow CDC guidance. Assisted living facilities can determine how to mitigate COVID-19. Some facilities may use quarantine measures or ask staff to mask. All visitors are allowed into Lincoln assisted living facilities at any time, regardless of vaccination status.
Updated COVID-19 guidance, vaccine, and treatment information is on the COVID-19 Nebraska guidance documents page. There’s also a respiratory illness dashboard with information about the spread of influenza throughout the state.
Vaccinations. Nebraska doesn’t have mandatory vaccination requirements for assisted living facilities.
Masking. Facilities may ask staff members to wear masks, but this can’t be a mandate.
Facility cleanliness. Facilities should be clean and hygienic at all times.
Social distancing. Lincoln’s assisted living facilities allow visitors.
CDC guidelines. Lincoln asks all assisted living facilities to follow CDC guidelines.
What assisted living is like in Lincoln
ncoln, Nebraska, is the state’s capital and home to the flagship campus of the University of Nebraska. Ultimately, the quiet, community-oriented culture is what appeals to seniors. Many seniors have lived in Lincoln or the surrounding communities their entire lives. When it’s time for assisted living, most seniors find no reason to leave.
The city has a population of 292,627. It’s growing around 25% each year. The low cost of living, low crime, and friendly people contribute to this growth. The median gross rent in Lincoln is $1,200, which is 34% below the national average.[02] The average cost of assisted living in Lincoln is $5,350 a month.[01]
Assisted living facilities in Lincoln offer residents a comfortable living situation and nonmedical help. Facilities in Lincoln provide home-cooked meals, snacks, daily social activities, and attentive care from professional caregivers. In fact, this holds true for the rest of the state. Nebraska’s assisted living was one of the top-ranked states in 2023.[01]
Assisted living is a good option for seniors who would benefit from medication management, personal care assistance, or mobility assistance. If your loved one wants a social environment with other seniors, independent living in Lincoln is likely a better fit.
Seniors who need or want more socialization or planned activities may enjoy the community structure of assisted living facilities. Seniors with dementia or medical needs, however, may be a better fit for Lincoln’s memory care facilities or nursing homes.
Types of assisted living facilities in Lincoln
A Place for Mom partners with a handful of assisted living communities in Lincoln. All of these are on the east side of the city. About one-third of communities offer assisted living services, and one-third offer assisted living and memory care. The remaining third offer assisted living, memory care, and independent living. All facilities offering assisted living in Lincoln have room for between 25 and 75 residents. Seniors receive personalized care from a group of dedicated caregivers. This makes it easier for them to get to know staff members and fellow residents.
Quality of life in assisted living facilities in Lincoln
Our partner communities either have had renovations or are in buildings less than 20 years old. As a result, residents enjoy state-of-the-art security systems, insulation, amenities, and stylish interiors. Rooms are spacious and tend to have excellent natural light. It’s more common for residents to have a private room in a Lincoln assisted living facility than in other cities.
Social activities in assisted living facilities in Lincoln
Community is king in Lincoln. It’s even notable in Lincoln’s assisted living facilities. All of the assisted living facilities in Lincoln offer on-site activities. And, most facilities reflect the interests of their residents through clubs such as gardening, birding, and billiards.
Lincoln assisted living services and amenities
Availability of select care services in Lincoln assisted living
Availability of select dementia care services in Lincoln assisted living
Availability of select dietary accommodations in Lincoln assisted living
Availability of select dining options in Lincoln assisted living
Availability of select programs and activities in Lincoln assisted living
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Seniors’ guide to the city of Lincoln
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Lincoln
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Lincoln population
Median annual income for Lincoln seniors 65 and older
Best hospitals for seniors in Lincoln
Lincoln offers a few different hospitals that provide quality health care for seniors. Read on for more information about local options.
Bryan Medical Center
Bryan Medical Center is a nonprofit health care organization with a wide range of primary and specialty services. It’s locally owned and operated, and has 640 beds. There are two campuses in Lincoln. Patients can expect exceptional inpatient and outpatient care at this center. Bryan Medical Center received the Gold Seal of Approval from the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations.
CHI Health St. Elizabeth
Founded in 1889, CHI Health St. Elizabeth is one of the most established health care providers in Nebraska. It offers a full range of specialty and primary services, including geriatrics, cardiology, orthopedic surgery, and nephrology. With 260 beds, this nonprofit organization is based on the east side of Lincoln within minutes of most of A Place for Mom’s partnering assisted living facilities.
Transportation for seniors in Lincoln
Most seniors in assisted living facilities in Lincoln typically don’t worry about transportation. It’s often a complimentary service or available for a fee through the community. Seniors often need transportation for visiting physicians or going to events. Often, the community’s transportation services cover these trips. Visiting family and friends can also take seniors to appointments, trips, and outings. Residents who prefer to drive can use community parking, but there may be a fee.
Seniors who do not drive and want to travel around Lincoln independently can use the StarTran Bus Service. The bus is an affordable and reliable way to get around Lincoln. You can find routes, updates, and other information on the StarTran site. Seniors can use their Senior Saver status for a 50% reduction in their bus fees. Ride-sharing services and car rentals are also widely available in Lincoln.
The lack of traffic in Lincoln might surprise visiting family and friends. It generally takes no more than 45 minutes to drive across the city through downtown.
Things to do in Lincoln for seniors and their families
Seniors living in Lincoln’s assisted living facilities don’t need to go far to find something to do. All of A Place for Mom’s partner assisted living facilities offer on-site activities and classes. Game nights, visiting performers, social hours, and dances are common activities. Physical activities such as chair yoga, tai chi, and walking clubs are also popular. Lincoln also offers a host of local senior-friendly activities outside of the communities.
Museums in Lincoln
As the state capital, Lincoln has several exceptional museums. Seniors receive discounted admission to all museums in Lincoln.
- The Museum of American Speed. Founded in 1992, this museum highlights racecars from the United States and international tracks. Hours change seasonally, and both guided and self-guided tours are available.
- University of Nebraska State Museum. This natural history museum has something for all ages. Seniors can enjoy going alone, but it’s also a good option for visiting family with young children. You can find accessible parking along 14th Street. The museum offers a limited number of wheelchairs to use, free of charge.
- Kiechel Fine Art. This small, private museum showcases American artists and the collections of a few local private collectors. It has pieces from Alexander Calder, Mary Cassatt, Albrecht Durer, Andy Warhol, and more.
- Eisentrager-Howard Art Gallery. This gallery, run by the University of Nebraska, highlights professional and student art. Hours are limited to weekdays only, and may change seasonally.
- International Quilt Museum. Also run by the University of Nebraska, the International Quilt Museum has the largest quilt collection in the world. The museum’s goal is to celebrate the artistic achievements in quilt making. Many seniors appreciate the history and receive a discount on admission. The museum is open from Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Hours may change seasonally.
Cultural and outdoor activities in Lincoln
- Nebraska State Capitol. Visitors can attend free guided tours daily, typically from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It’s a great opportunity to learn about Nebraska’s history.
- Sunken Gardens. Since 1930, this Lincoln landmark has offered enjoyment. National Geographic named it one of the best gardens to visit in the U.S. Visitors enjoy a tranquil experience through lily ponds, groomed paths, and gazebos. It’s open all day throughout the year, and restrooms are available at the park.
- Memorial Stadium. All true Lincoln locals attend at least one Husker’s game at Memorial Stadium. Renowned for filling its seats at record rates, Memorial Stadium is perfect for sports-loving seniors.
- Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. This institute is part of the University of Nebraska’s goal to make learning accessible for all. Adults over 50 are eligible to become members. Members enjoy access to a range of non-credit courses, events, and even travel opportunities. An annual membership costs $75.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bailey Pointe on Van Dorn, Aviva Woodlands and CountryHouse at 70th and O - Lincoln 3 are the top-rated Assisted Living facilities near Lincoln, NE. These Assisted Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Assisted Living in Lincoln is $4,901 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
Rentcafe.com. (2022). Lincoln, NE rental market trends.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Lincoln city [Data set]. American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Age and sex (S0101): Lincoln city [Data set]. American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2023). Mean income in the past 12 months (S1902): Lincoln city [Data set]. American Community Survey.
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