10 Best Independent Living Communities in Cleveland, OH
Cleveland, Ohio, is a historic lake-port town located along scenic Lake Erie that has grown into a vibrant metropolis. Cleveland strives to be senior-friendly so its growing population of retirees will feel comfortable spending their retirement years in one of the city’s many senior living options. Cleveland is home to many annual festival celebrations and iconic American nostalgia, such as the “A Christmas Story” house and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Cleveland offers beautiful Great Lake beaches, the Great Lakes Science Center, Cleveland Metroparks Zoo, the scenic Cuyahoga Valley National Park, and more. In Cleveland independent living, you’ll have access to the best the city has to offer, as well as luxurious accommodations and on-site restaurant-style dining.
A Place for Mom has seven independent living community partners within a 10-mile radius of the city center and 39 communities within a 25-mile radius. This guide to Cleveland independent living communities is based on our extensive senior living experience, proprietary data, and access to local senior living experts. Find information about payment options, health and safety regulations, and other resources for Cleveland seniors below.
Cleveland Independent Living Facilities | 554 Reviews
My most outstanding feeling about this place is that I know going into any situation, things are not always going to be perfect wherever you go. What gives me great satisfaction about Bickford of Rocky River...
As of late they have hired contract nurses for weekend support. The contract nurses have been quick to send my father to the hospital for treatment/ evaluation when it's questionable if it's warranted. ...
We've experienced very good response times to the call buttons. The staff listen to us and take time with the family as well as with my mother. It's just been a very warm and inviting environment there. ...
My loved one is a resident at Saint Luke's Manor. This facility is perfect for her and we are grateful! It's an Independent Senior Living Facility. I would definitely recommend Saint Luke's Manor to others...
I'm really happy here and was hoping this would be my last move. I'm in the independent living apartments. My apartment is beautiful, I have a big, beautiful yard, nice neighbors and we're invited to join...
Everyone was nice and smiling for the most part. Spacious eating area. Daily activities. The big thing that stuck out was the minimum length of stay for respite. 2 weeks was the minimum which no other...
The apartments are MUCH nicer than others in this area. The balcony's are long and have great views. Most of my neighbors are super nice. The only problems I encountered were leaking from upstairs...
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I do not know what else that they can improve on. They are just welcoming and they spend time with the elderly, and make sure they are comfortable. The neighbors introduce themselves. It is just a wonderful...
My Mother lives in the Educator. She is very happy with her life on a daily basis. Lots of friendly people everywhere and many activities to keep her social and moving. Her apartment is a corner one...
Our methodology
How we rank order the Cleveland community options above
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Cleveland 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
14,000+ communities
We collect proprietary data from our network of 14,000+ senior living communities in the U.S., with regular refreshes of data and information
350,000+ reviews
We have 387,000+ reviews from senior living residents and family members that provide first-hand accounts about senior living communities
- Costs of independent living in the Cleveland area
- What families are saying about independent living in Cleveland
- How people pay for independent living in Cleveland
- Understand Ohio laws and regulations for independent living communities
- What to expect from independent living in Cleveland
- Cleveland independent living services and amenities
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Cleveland? Highlights for seniors
Costs of independent living in the Cleveland area
The monthly cost of Cleveland independent living averages $4,402, according to A Place For Mom’s proprietary data.[01] This number represents the amount paid by real individuals referred to our partnered Cleveland independent living communities in 2022–2023. This cost includes rent plus the costs of optional add-ons, such as the following:
- Parking and transportation costs
- Pet fees
- Room amenities
- Salon and spa services
- Special diets
- Concierge services
- Community social outings
- Medical and personal care services
- Floor plan varieties
The rates outlined below represent baseline monthly costs of Cleveland-area independent living before any add-on fees. They are helpful to compare costs locally.
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Cleveland, OH vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Cleveland, OH vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Cleveland vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Independent Living in Cleveland, OH by room type
Average cost of Independent Living in Cleveland over time
What families are saying about independent living in Cleveland
Recent reviews for independent living in Cleveland
Vitalia Senior Residences of Montrose in Copley, OH
Westerly Apartments in Lakewood, OH
Wesleyan Meadows in Sheffield Village, OH
How people pay for independent living in Cleveland
You can combine several private and public assistance options to cover the cost of Cleveland independent living. Assess your own unique financial circumstances to decide on the best way to pay for independent living and any additional personal care services you may need.
Resources like Medicaid and Medicare won’t help cover rent in an independent living community, but they may offset home health care costs. If you need home health services due to a chronic health condition or a disability, these programs may help cover the cost of care services in your independent living residence.
Private pay options such as your income or other asset may be enough to cover your expenses at an independent living facility. If you are retired and no longer receive a paycheck, your income and assets could include savings, Social Security benefits, pensions, investment returns, and any of the following:
Number of veterans who live in Cleveland
About 76% of Cleveland veterans are 55+.
If you’re a veteran of the U.S. military, you may be eligible for benefits offered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) that can help you cover living and care expenses. Veterans pension benefits and additional stipends like Aid and Attendance are designed to provide supplemental monthly income for senior veterans and their surviving spouses.[03]
Getting assistance from veterans service officers
The application process for veterans benefits can be challenging. You may qualify and still be denied eligibility because of a mistake on your application, which is why assistance can be highly beneficial. A veterans service officer in your area can help you get through the application process successfully. As fellow veterans trained and certified in benefits offerings, veterans service officers are available to help Ohio senior veterans get the most out of their eligibility. Visit one of the Ohio Department of Veterans Affairs field offices to receive help with your VA benefits application.
Additional assistance with VA benefits
To get more support, go to the Ohio Department of Veterans Services webpage or reach out to your local VA office. On the Ohio Attorney General website, you’ll find information on community resources for veterans including the following:
- Financial support
- Legal advice and advocacy
- Housing assistance
- Rehabilitation services
The VA vets veterans service organizations (VSOs) in each state. Find information on Cleveland veteran service organizations, such as the Veterans of Foreign Wars offices, Disabled American Veterans offices, and other resources below.
Resources for Cleveland veterans
Cuyahoga County Veterans Service Commission
1849 Prospect Ave., Suite 150
Cleveland, OH 44115
Phone: 216-698-2600
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.
Cleveland Regional Office
1240 E. Ninth St.
Cleveland, OH 44199
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Verne Riff State Office Tower
77 S. High St., #7
Columbus, OH 43215
Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW)
VFW — Ohio
Cleveland Regional Office
1240 E. Ninth St., Suite 1013a
Cleveland, OH 44199
Phone: 216-522-3510
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
DAV — Ohio
Cleveland Regional Office
1240 E. Ninth St., Suite 1017b
Cleveland, OH 44199
Phone: 216-522-3507
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Medicaid is a federal- and state-funded health insurance program for Americans with disabilities or low incomes. While each state’s Medicaid program varies, they’re all required to follow federal guidelines. To receive Medicaid benefits, you must be enrolled in a managed care organization (MCO), and the agency providing the care services must be contracted with that MCO. Medicaid in Ohio is simply called Ohio Medicaid.
Because it’s a form of medical insurance, Medicaid won’t help you cover rent in independent living. However, if you need personal care services due a medical condition, Medicaid can help you pay for such services in the comfort of your independent living community.
Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) Medicaid
Aged, Blind, or Disabled (ABD) Medicaid is a Medicaid program designed for seniors and individuals with qualifying disabilities. To qualify for Ohio ABD Medicaid, you’ll need to meet Medicaid’s basic eligibility requirements as well as one of the following additional criteria:
- You must be aged 65 or older.
- You must be legally blind.
- You must have a disability as defined by the Social Security Administration.
ABD Medicaid can be used to cover medical care and some long-term care services, such as in-home personal care.[04]
Ohio Medicaid PASSPORT waiver
If you require a nursing facility level of care but would prefer not to live in a skilled nursing facility, you may be able to use the PASSPORT waiver to cover personal care services in independent living. The PASSPORT waiver is a home and community based services waiver for Ohio residents age 60 and over.
In addition to basic Medicaid coverage, the PASSPORT waiver can cover costs of more specialized long-term care services, including the following:[05]
- Personal care such as support with activities of daily living
- Meal services
- Adult day and respite care
- Transport to medical appointments
- Medical equipment
If you receive Ohio Medicaid, you can manage your care through the Ohio Medicaid Consumer Hotline Member Portal. You can also visit one of the Ohio Department of Aging’s several area agencies on aging (AAAs) to seek additional support with Medicare, Medicaid, and other services. A long-term care ombudsman can offer you advice and advocacy for your rights as a resident of Cleveland independent living.
Cleveland resident Medicaid resources
Ohio Medicaid Member Portal
Phone: 800-324-8680
Ohio Department of Medicaid
50 W. Town St., Suite 400
Columbus, OH 43215
Western Reserve Area Agency on Aging
1700 E. 13th St., Suite 114
Cleveland, OH 44114
Phone: 800-626-7277
Medicare is a federal medical insurance program designed to extend coverage to Americans aged 65+ or with qualifying disabilities. Medicare has multiple parts that cover different aspects of health care such as the following:
- Inpatient hospital stays or skilled nursing care
- Doctors’ services, medical services, and medical supplies
- Prescription medications
As a form of health insurance, Medicare can’t be used to pay for room and board in an independent living facility. However, if you qualify for Medicare, you can use it to cover medically necessary in-home care and care for short-term medical conditions. To find more information on Medicare costs and coverage, you can visit the federal Medicare website or contact your local Ohio Social Security Administration office. Qualified seniors may get help paying for Medicare deductibles and premiums through Medicare Savings Programs.
You can receive additional Medicare support from the U.S. Social Security Administration. If you are able to enroll in both Medicare and Medicaid, you can pay your Medicare premiums using Medicaid benefits. If you need advice or advocacy on your rights as a resident in senior living, contact a long-term care ombudsman. Find links to these resources below.
Cleveland resident Medicare resources
Understand Ohio laws and regulations for independent living communities
Cleveland independent living communities generally have a minimum age requirement of 55, 62, or 65. These parameters are in place to keep the independent living community relatively insulated, mainly occupied by retirees with similar preferences.
Independent living communities are subject to the same regulations as any other Ohio apartment. Tenants and landlords each have their own rights and obligations. However, independent living communities with assisted living or memory care on-site may be more strictly regulated. For more information on the assisted living or memory care unit regulations of your potential community, visit our guide to Cleveland assisted living.
Ohio apartment regulations
As a tenant in any Ohio apartment, including independent living, you’re entitled to appropriate and safe living conditions. Landlords are responsible for upholding standards of maintenance, safety, and cleanliness for their tenants. Landlords’ obligations include the following:[06]
- Ensure that all electrical, plumbing, sanitation, heating, ventilation, air conditioning, elevators, and other facilities are safe and operational.
- Organize waste removal services.
- Provide heat and running water.
- Keep the building safe and usable through proper repairs.
- Uphold building code regulations for health and safety purposes.
- Keep communal areas clean, sanitary, and safe.
Tenants of Ohio apartments are required to do their part in upholding the facility’s living conditions for themselves and their neighbors. As a resident of Cleveland independent living, your responsibilities will include the following:[07]
- Avoid disturbing your neighbors with excessive noise.
- Keep the premises clean and safe.
- Practice appropriate use of plumbing and electrical equipment.
- Dispose of waste properly.
- Comply with state and municipal drug laws on the premises.
- Comply with health and safety codes for housing.
ADA compliance
Independent living communities are subject to the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). This means that owners are required to provide reasonable accommodations and modifications to individuals with disabilities. The ADA protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination; thus, owners of housing facilities are prohibited by federal law from denying residency to these individuals.
Reasonable accommodations are defined as changes to rules or policies that enable residents with disabilities to access the same activities and benefits as the other tenants. Examples of reasonable accommodations include the following:
- Provide convenient parking.
- Provide those with disabilities equal access to the property’s communal areas or social activities.
- Adjust rent payment due date to accommodate the tenant’s disability payments.
Modifications generally involve construction changes to the apartment building and unit to make it more accessible for individuals with disabilities. Modifications could be adding a wheelchair ram, providing a hands-free entrance, or installing handrails in bathrooms. The costs of these modifications are the responsibility of the property owner, rather than of the tenant with the disability.[08]
Regulations for Ohio senior care communities
Cleveland has many senior living options that offer multiple levels of care, combining independent living, assisted living, and memory care all on one campus. Senior living communities that offer care may have more strict regulations in their care wings. Some of these regulations include staff requirements, minimum staff-to-resident ratios, and service offerings like the following:
- Medication administration assistance
- Personal care, such as assistance with activities of daily living
- Social and recreational activities
- Housekeeping, laundry, and linen services
- Either provide three meals per day or food-safe storage where residents can take care of their own food
Ohio senior care facilities that offer assisted living or memory care must be licensed by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH). The ODH performs facility inspections before licensing the facility and then a minimum of every 15 months after licensure.
To view details on a given senior care facility, use the Health Care Provider Search tool. Look up a specific facility by choosing the category of care provider from the drop-down menu. Narrow your search further by entering the county, city, organization’s name, or any information you have for the appropriate fields. Note that while Ohio does show whether an assisted living or memory care community’s license is active, it does not reveal the full inspection report.
Access additional information on related Ohio tenant-landlord laws by following the links below.
- View the Ohio Tenant and Landlord Guide
- View the Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging Housing Guide for Seniors and Individuals Who Have a Disabilities
Ohio Department of Health contact information
Ohio Department of Health
246 N. High St.
Columbus, OH 43215
Phone: 614-466-3543
Cleveland Department of Public Health
75 Erieview Plaza
Cleveland, OH 44114
Phone: 216-664-2324
COVID-19 regulations for Cleveland independent living communities
Most COVID-19 restrictions in Ohio have been lifted, so there are no specific COVID-19 restrictions in place for Cleveland independent living communities at this time. However, senior care facilities that include assisted living are recommended to put precautionary measures in place following CDC guidelines. Each community may have its own rules in place, so guidelines can vary. The general guidelines are as follows:
Testing.
Staff and residents should be tested for COVID-19 if they have been exposed to someone who is COVID-positive or if they are experiencing symptoms.
Masking.
Masks are encouraged for individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19, health care workers with COVID-positive patients, and immunocompromised individuals.
Quarantining.
Patients who test positive for COVID-19 should be placed in isolation or in rooms with other COVID-positive patients.
What to expect from independent living in Cleveland
In Cleveland independent living, you can enjoy a worry-free retirement. Shed the hassles of home ownership, and live without the worries of lawn care and maintenance. Perhaps best of all, independent living offers dining services, so you don’t have to plan and prep unless you want to. You’ll be surrounded by friends and neighbors in the same stage of life, being pampered by luxurious amenities in a community designed to help you make the most of your golden years.
Senior living communities with a continuum of care
Out of our partner Cleveland communities offering independent living, over 71% feature some combination of independent living, assisted living, and memory care all in the same community. This type of integrated community is ideal for aging in place, as it enables residents to easily transition to a support level that fits them if their needs change. Combining multiple care types can mean more variety among residents, often giving more opportunity for friendships and social engagement, rather than limiting residents’ interactions to only those with similar levels of need.
Luxury amenities in Cleveland independent living
Our Cleveland independent living community partners feature private apartments with convenient features including the following:
- Private balconies or patios
- High-speed internet
- Fully equipped kitchens
- Wheelchair-accessible showers
- Multiple floor plan options
Many of the independent living communities in Cleveland, particularly those with a continuum of care, offer not only private independent living apartments but also the option of private villas right on campus. Residents of private villas can take advantage of the dining and other luxurious amenities of the community while still maintaining an extra level of privacy and independence.
Independent living communities in Cleveland feature service offerings designed to improve your quality of life. The services available at our partner independent living communities generally include the following:
- Restaurant-style dining
- Maintenance services
- Housekeeping services
- On-site management staff
- Transportation services
- Laundry and linen services
- Planned social events
- Grocery and errand services
Finally, in Cleveland independent living, you can enjoy on-site luxurious community amenities, such as the following:
- Beauty salons/barbershops
- TV and movie lounges
- Swimming pools
- Spas
- Fitness centers
- Libraries and media centers
- Dining areas
- Cafes/bistros
- Pubs/bars
Independent living in the surrounding Cleveland suburbs
A Place for Mom partners with seven independent living communities within a 10-mile radius of the Cleveland city center. However, if we zoom out to a radius of 25 miles around the city center, the total independent living partners in this larger area goes up to 39. Beachwood, Highland Hills, and Hudson are all popular neighborhoods with luxury Cleveland independent living and other senior living options.
Cleveland independent living services and amenities
Availability of select dietary accommodations in Cleveland independent living
Availability of select dining options in Cleveland independent living
Availability of select programs and activities in Cleveland independent living
Explore senior care with confidence
Know where to start.
Identify the right care for your loved one with our free assessment.
See what you can afford.
Understand cost and payment for long-term care based on your loved one's needs.
Find top facilities for you.
Free, personalized guidance from our Senior Living Advisors can help you narrow your search.
Tour your favorite facilities.
Our free touring checklist can help you choose the right community.
Unfamiliar with Cleveland? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Cleveland, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Median annual retirement income for Cleveland seniors 65 and older[09]
Health care for seniors in Cleveland
Cleveland residents have access to several state-of-the-art medical centers.
Cleveland Clinic
The Cleveland Clinic is ranked No. 1 in Cleveland, according to U.S. News and World Report. The Cleveland Clinic is nationally ranked in 13 adult specialties.
University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center
Founded in 1866, UH Cleveland Medical Center is a high-performing teaching hospital ranked No. 2 in Cleveland, according to U.S. News and World Report. Its 35-acre campus includes the Rainbow Babies and Children’s Hospital and the Siedman’s Cancer Center.
Cleveland Clinic Hillcrest Hospital
Cleveland Clinic Hillcrest is the third-highest ranking hospital in Cleveland and the fourth in the state of Ohio, according to U.S. News and World Report. It is high performing in four adult specialties and 11 procedures.
Transportation for seniors in Cleveland
Downtown Cleveland is very walkable and reasonably bike friendly, in addition to having excellent public transportation. The further out you are from the city center, the more likely you’ll need to use a car or your independent living community’s transportation services.
Of our Cleveland independent living partners, 86% offer transportation services, either complimentary or at-cost. Costs associated with transportation depend on the community’s policies and whether the services are on-demand or scheduled.
The Greater Cleveland Regional Transit Authority offers options for getting around the city, with safety, connection, and inclusion kept at the forefront of its mission. You can choose between railway lines, bus routes, a downtown trolley, and paratransit services designed for those with disabilities, depending on what transportation type will suit you best.
Downtown Cleveland is ranked as very walkable by Walk Score, which gives it the following transportation ratings out of 100:[11]
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Cleveland
Cleveland is a goldmine of nostalgic attractions, annual festivals, and even more for you and the family to see and do. Cleveland is home to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, where you can attend concerts, see famous music paraphernalia, and enjoy traveling installations showcasing some of the world’s most iconic musical artists. Check out even more fun attractions, delicious dining options, and offerings just for seniors.
Cleveland attractions
Cleveland has so many must-see attractions, including museums, wildlife centers, and more. You can take in the Cleveland orchestra or catch a game of the Browns, Monsters, or Guardians. Some popular Cleveland attractions include the following:
- “A Christmas Story” House
- Rock & Roll Hall of Fame
- Greater Cleveland Aquarium
- Children’s Museum of Cleveland
- Cleveland Botanical Garden
- Cleveland Metroparks Zoo
Cleveland drinking and dining
Cleveland is a go-to destination for craft beer. Don’t miss any of Cleveland’s local brews — pick up an annual Brewery Passport to get discounts on Cleveland’s craft beers.
Like any Midwest metropolis, Cleveland has a vast collection of restaurants encompassing a variety of cultural cuisines, or just straight-up American comfort food, if that’s your jam. Be careful not to fill up too much on dinner because you’ll definitely want to check out Cleveland’s breakfast and brunch options in the morning.
Cleveland 60+
If you’re looking for events exclusively for seniors, Cleveland features a number of senior centers designed to offer engagement, enrichment, and social activities. If you want to explore the city but would rather do it with friends, or if you just need additional support when you’re out and about, find a senior center near you and stay connected.
Continued education doesn’t have an age limit. All of Ohio’s state colleges and universities offer free classes to seniors aged 60+. Whether you’re after a degree or you just want to explore a variety of interests, take advantage of Ohio’s learning community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Westwood Place, Springwood Luxury Active Adult Living and Maplewood at Cuyahoga Falls are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Cleveland, OH. These Independent Living facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Independent Living in Cleveland is $3,435 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
A Place for Mom. (2022-2023). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Cleveland [Data set]. American Community Survey.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2022, October 12). VA Aid and Attendance benefits and Housebound allowance.
Ohio Department of Medicaid. Aged, Blind or Disabled (ABD) Medicaid.
Ohio Department of Aging. PASSPORT.
Landlords and Tenants, Ohio Revised Code § 5321.04 (2012).
Landlords and Tenants, Ohio Revised Code § 5321.05 (2012).
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. (2022). Reasonable accommodations and modifications.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103): Cleveland. [Data set]. American Community Survey.
U.S. News and World Report. (2023). Best Hospitals Cleveland.
Walk Score. (2023). Downtown, Cleveland.
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