10 Best Independent Living Communities in Philadelphia, PA
The historic city of Philadelphia consistently ranks among the top cities to retire in, and for good reason. With world-class museums, over five professional sports teams, and a seemingly unlimited selection of dining options, Philadelphia is anything but short on things to see and do. For retirees looking to lead a maintenance- and hassle-free life, A Place for Mom partners with 23 independent living communities within 10 miles of Philadelphia’s Center City district. These independent living communities offer all the benefits of living in one’s own home or apartment, but with bonus amenities for seniors like housekeeping, maintenance, social event calendars, and sometimes even meal plan options.
There are many factors to consider when trying to find the right community for you or your loved one, so we make it easy with our guide to independent living in Philadelphia. Explore the costs of Philadelphia independent living communities, their state regulations, and the types of services and amenities they offer. We’ve also included reviews from real residents, advice from local senior living experts, and information on senior living demographics in Philadelphia. Additionally, you’ll find helpful state resources for Pennsylvania and New Jersey residents, given the proximity between the two.
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Our methodology
How we rank order the Philadelphia community options above
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Philadelphia 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
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- Costs of independent living in Philadelphia
- What families are saying about independent living in Philadelphia
- How people pay for independent living in Philadelphia
- Understand Pennsylvania laws and regulations for independent living communities
- Types of independent living in Philadelphia
- Philadelphia independent living services and amenities
- Explore senior care with confidence
- New to Philadelphia? Highlights for seniors
Costs of independent living in Philadelphia
Philadelphia independent living communities typically cost an average of $4,399 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.[01] This amount is what actual families paid and includes extra costs for care and optional add-on services — painting a more accurate picture of what families can truly expect to pay for independent living in Philadelphia. Compared to the national average, independent living in Philadelphia is comparatively less expensive than other large cities in the region, such as New York City ($6,184 per month) and Boston ($5,774 per month).
At first blush, it might seem more cost-effective to continue aging in your own home rather than moving into an independent living community. However, independent living communities offer a variety of benefits and amenities to seniors, which can include:
- Utilities and maintenance
- Housekeeping
- Access to in-house amenities (pools, gym, salon, movie theatre, lounge, and more)
- Social activities
- Transportation
Many independent living communities have a baseline monthly fee, as well as entrance fees and optional monthly add-on fees, a la carte fees, and pet fees. Keep in mind to ask all prospective communities what is included in the baseline rent to avoid paying for extra services that aren’t needed.
The costs below represent starting costs and don’t take into account extra expenses for add-ons, care services, and entrance fees at independent living communities.
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Philadelphia, PA vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Philadelphia, PA vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Philadelphia vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Independent Living in Philadelphia, PA by room type
Average cost of Independent Living in Philadelphia over time
What families are saying about independent living in Philadelphia
Recent reviews for independent living in Philadelphia
Friends Village, Styer Campus in Newtown, PA
Sunrise of Abington
Christ's Home in Warminster, PA
Reviews mention these favorite features of communities
How people pay for independent living in Philadelphia
Unlike some other types of senior care communities, rent in an independent living community is not covered by long-term care insurance, Medicare, or Pennsylvania’s Medicaid program, Medical Assistance (MA). Most seniors use a variety of private sources to pay for an independent living community.
Sources of retirement income from pensions, Social Security benefits, and an IRA or 401k are often the first funds considered to pay for independent living. These assets can go a long way for senior Philadelphians, as Pennsylvania doesn’t tax retirement income for residents ages 59 1/2 and older.
While these funds may be enough for some, others may look for additional options to cover the costs of independent living. Thankfully, there are additional private pay options that can help pay for independent living. Read on for some other ways people typically pay for their move to an independent living community.
A senior veteran who qualifies for a pension and benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) can use these funds to pay the costs of an independent living community. Veterans aged 65+ can receive supplemental income through the VA’s pension program if they meet service and financial requirements. The Aid and Attendance and the Housebound allowance are two possible benefits that can be added to a disabled veteran’s VA pension. Unlike the Aid and Attendance, which can be used for anything that helps improve the disabled veteran’s quality of life, the Housebound allowance is specifically used to cover the costs of in-home care for a veteran who is housebound due to a permanent disability. A veteran cannot receive both the Aid and Attendance and the Housebound allowance at the same time.
You can find out more about services and programs available to Pennsylvania veterans by reaching out to a veterans benefits advisor through your local Philadelphia county VA website. It offers two convenient portals specific to veterans or their caregivers. If you’re outside of Philadelphia county, you can find your county VA website and contact information through the Pennsylvania Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMVA) online directory.
New Jersey veterans
New Jersey veterans and their families can find supportive services and a guide to veterans benefits on the state’s Department of Military and Veterans Affairs (DMAVA) website. You can also reach out to a local Family Assistance Center for information about resources and benefits available to veterans and their families, which is listed below.
Number of veterans who currently live in Philadelphia, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Percentage of Philadelphia’s veterans age 65+, per data from the U.S. Census Bureau
Additional resources for veterans
Phone: 215-686-3256
5000 Wissahickon Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19144
Phone: 800-827-1000
City Hall #127
Philadelphia, PA 19131
Phone: 215-686-3256
101 E. Olney Ave.
Philadelphia, PA 19120
Phone: 215-924-4670
801 Arch St.
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 215-627-0238
Phone: 215-381-3040
555 High St., Suite #6A
Mount Holly, NJ 08060
Phone: 609-518-2273
609-518-2274
1048 US Highway 206 South
Bordentown, NJ 08505
Phone: 609-496-9242
Pennsylvania’s Medicaid program, Medical Assistance (MA), can’t be used to pay for the cost to reside in an independent living community. But if a senior requires medically necessary in-home care services, the cost of those services may be covered under Medicaid. Income-eligible seniors who require a high level of skilled nursing care may be eligible for MA’s Community HealthChoices (CHC) waiver, which covers services such as the following:
- Assistance with activities of daily living
- Cognitive rehabilitation therapy
- Transportation services
New Jersey residents may also be able to receive help from New Jersey’s Medicaid counterpart — NJ FamilyCare Aged, Blind, Disabled program — which can cover some medically essential long-term services under Medicaid Managed Long Term Services and Supports (also known as MLTSS).
You can learn more about what services are covered under local Medicaid programs by contacting the Philadelphia County Assistance Office (CAO) in your area. The New Jersey Medicaid office contact information is also provided below.
More Medicaid resources:
Health and Welfare Building, Room 631
625 Forster St.
Harrisburg, PA 17120
Phone: 717-783-7375
2 Riverside Drive, #401
Camden, NJ 08103
Phone: 856-614-2870
Though Medicare will not pay for the costs of living at an independent living community, like rent, it may pay for care services in the home. If a senior is in need of medically necessary long-term care, look into Medicare for in-home care services that support their medical needs. Some of the following medical and supportive services that may be covered under Medicare:
- Skilled nursing care and rehabilitative therapies
- Personal care services
- Hospice care
- Medical equipment
Many independent living communities offer access to in-home care services on-site, from assisted living and memory care to skilled nursing services. Understand what public resources are available to help pay for different types of medical care, so you and your family are prepared should the need for it ever arise.
The Pennsylvania Medicare Education and Decision Insight (PA MEDI) can help eligible seniors navigate through eligibility, different plans, and enrollment with free counseling services. Pennsylvania also has Medicare cost-savings programs to help with out-of-pocket insurance costs. For help with prescriptions, PACE and PACENET can provide assistance to qualified senior Pennsylvanians.
New Jersey also offers free Medicare counseling for seniors through its Medicare Information and Referral Service. You can contact or visit your local Social Security Administration office for help with questions about Medicare or reach out to one of the resources below.
More Medicare resources
1-800-783-7067
Wallace Building
642 N. Broad St.
Philadelphia, PA 19130-3049
Phone: 215-765-9000
Helpline: 215-765-9040
Helpline for the hearing impaired: 215-765-9041
Phone: 1-800-792-8820
Understand Pennsylvania laws and regulations for independent living communities
Since residents in independent living communities generally don’t need help with personal tasks or taking care of themselves, many of the on-site services don’t need to be regulated by the state. However, independent living communities that offer medical care and skilled nursing services on-site are more heavily regulated and are required to comply with state and federal regulations, such as:
- Having a distinct area of the facility dedicated to providing nursing services
- Treating each resident with dignity and promoting their personal well-being and quality of life
- Providing appropriate services to help maintain or improve a resident’s ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs)
- Having a discharge plan to make sure the resident has the necessary supports in place when they leave
All businesses in Philadelphia are required to obtain a Commercial Activity License (CAL), and long-term rental properties must have a rental license and meet the city’s zoning requirements. Additionally, the city has regulations in force to make sure these properties maintain a safe living environment. These regulations hold independent living community property owners accountable for the following:
- Having a bed bug control plan in force
- Verifying the building is lead free and providing inspection reports
- Keeping all heating and plumbing equipment in working order
- Performing all necessary maintenance services and building repairs
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Fair Housing Authority (FHA) have laws in place to prevent housing discrimination for individuals with disabilities. Under these regulations, a person with a disability can make reasonable modifications to their living areas that help them use and enjoy their home. Residents are also allowed to live with a service animal, as long as there is a disability-related need for the animal.
You can learn more about specific Pennsylvania senior living regulations by contacting the following state agencies listed below.
Additional resources
Pennsylvania Department of Aging
555 Walnut St., 5th.Floor
Harrisburg, PA 17101-1919
Phone: 717-783-1550
Pennsylvania Department of Health
Health and Welfare Building
625 Forster St., 8th Floor West
Harrisburg, PA 17120
Phone: 877-724-3258
New Jersey Department of Health
55 N. Willow St.
Trenton, NJ 08625
Phone: 1-800-367-6543
Camden County Senior Services Division
512 Lakeland Road, #4
Blackwood, NJ 08012
Phone: 856-858-3220
COVID-19 regulations for Philadelphia independent living communities
Philadelphia independent living communities are advised to follow the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) safety protocols for COVID-19. As of November 2022, there aren’t any COVID-19 restrictions or mandates in place for independent senior living settings.[04] However, private institutions, including independent living communities and other types of senior care settings, may have stricter procedures in place than the city does for masking and vaccine requirements.
You can get the most up-to-date information by contacting a community directly or by looking up your local Area Agency on Aging. The Department of Human Services also has a list of COVID-19 guidelines for senior facilities, which is revised upon any changes to policies.
Division of Disease Control
1101 Market St., 13th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 215-685-5488
New Jersey Department of Health
369 S. Warren St.
Trenton, NJ 08608
Phone: 800-367-6543
Since older adults are at a greater risk for COVID-19 complications, many Philadelphia independent living communities are continuing to take precautions to protect residents and prevent the spread, which may include:
Masking. Masks are recommended in public spaces and common areas in independent living communities.
Facility safety. Independent living communities should have visitor policies for hand hygiene and the use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
Vaccinations. Residents, staff, and visitors are encouraged to be up to date on all recommended COVID-19 vaccine doses, including boosters.
Cleanliness. Highly touched surfaces are regularly disinfected and sanitized to meet guidelines set by the CDC.
Types of independent living in Philadelphia
There are several options for independent living communities in Philadelphia. The key differences between communities lie in the on-site services and amenities available, as well as location. Whether you prefer the fast-paced nature of the Center City or something a little more low-key, Philadelphia’s metro area has ample independent living options to suit all lifestyles.
Urban independent living communities
Philadelphia’s Center City urban scene delivers a diverse selection of independent living communities to meet a variety of tastes, budgets, and care needs. Venture to the heart of Center City to find modern apartment environments with oversized windows, city views, and stainless-steel appliances. Independent living communities in this area offer urban retreats with historic charm, impeccable landscaping, and peaceful walking paths. These communities typically offer amenities like restaurant-style dining featuring international cuisines, on-site beauty salons, and enriching activity schedules — such as holiday parties, day trips, and stretching classes. Some independent living communities even give their residents access to on-site care services, like assisted living and memory care, so seniors can age in place without worry.
Suburban independent living communities
While the fast-paced lifestyle may be better suited for some, other seniors may opt for Philadelphia’s surrounding suburbs for a quieter lifestyle or to be closer to family. These suburban communities sit about 10 miles or further from Philadelphia’s bustling Center City district on the New Jersey side of the metro area. You’ll find many of these communities have cozy, homelike interior spaces with traditional furnishings and an abundance of natural light. They also typically offer an ample selection of amenities, like complimentary transportation, housekeeping, and concierge services. They also host engaging social activities like art classes, garden clubs, and live musical performances. While some of these independent living communities are exclusively for active independent seniors, you’ll find some that also provide care resources, like access to assisted living or memory care services on-site, for aging in place.
Philadelphia independent living services and amenities
Availability of select dietary accommodations in Philadelphia independent living
Availability of select dining options in Philadelphia independent living
Availability of select programs and activities in Philadelphia independent living
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New to Philadelphia? Highlights for seniors
Percentage of Philadelphian seniors age 65+ with retirement income, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Percentage of seniors in Philadelphia age 75+, per the U.S. Census Bureau
Number of seniors age 65+ living in Philadelphia, as reported by the U.S. Census Bureau
Health care for seniors in Philadelphia
While some Philadelphia independent living communities offer access to on-site health care professionals, others don’t. Either way, there are many acclaimed hospitals in the Philadelphia area that specialize in both complex and everyday procedures. This includes hospitals in nearby Wynnewood, Paoli, and Newark, Delaware.
Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania – Penn Presbyterian
The Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania is the No. 1 ranking hospital in both Philadelphia and Pennsylvania, as well as No. 13 on the U.S. News and World Report Best Hospitals Honor Roll. This highly regarded facility also ranks nationally in 12 adult specialties and as a high-performing hospital in two adult specialties and 19 procedures and conditions.
Thomas Jefferson University Hospital
Jefferson University Hospital is nationally ranked in nine adult specialties that include cancer, cardiology, heart surgery, and diabetes. It’s the No. 2 hospital in Philadelphia and No. 3 in Pennsylvania. The Center City campus offers free shuttle services, as well as interpreter services and hearing devices.
Main Line Health Lankenau Medical Center
Lankenau Medical Center is part of Main Line Health and is the No. 3 hospital in Philadelphia. It’s also Pennsylvania’s No. 6 hospital. The comprehensive medical facility is recognized as a high-performing hospital in specialties that range from cardiology, hip fractures, and lung cancer surgery to diabetes.
Christiana Hospital
Christiana Hospital is one of three hospitals under the renowned health care organization, ChristianaCare. It’s considered the No. 4 hospital in Philadelphia and is nationally ranked in Obstetrics and Gynecology (OB/GYN). Christiana Hospital’s Center for Heart and Vascular Health performs over 1,000 open-heart surgeries a year and offers access to cutting-edge technology, treatments, and therapies.
Transportation for seniors in Philadelphia
Although Philadelphia ranks among the country’s top walkable cities, reliable transportation is equally essential when it comes to maintaining an independent lifestyle in the city. This is why many independent living communities offer their residents shuttle services or private transportation options. And even when they do not, local public transportation provides the freedom to go where you need to go on your own time — whether to appointments, the grocery store, or sightseeing.
Philadelphia’s public transportation system is especially accommodating and accessible for the city’s seniors. Seniors ages 65 and older can apply for a Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority (SEPTA) senior fare card and enjoy free transit on the city’s bus, trolley, and rail lines. For those seeking adventure outside the city limits, the senior fare card permits free travel throughout Pennsylvania on SEPTA’s Regional Rail line, and also offers a 50% discount to and from Delaware and New Jersey stations.
Much like a city’s public transportation system, its walkability is an important factor to living independently. Philadelphia ranks among the most walkable cities in the country, with access to restaurants, stores, and bars within minutes.
You can discover even more available transportation services and discounts by contacting the Mayor’s Commission on Aging, included in the information below.
Transportation resources
Mayor’s Commission on Aging
100 S. Broad St., 4th Floor
Philadelphia, PA 19110
Phone: 215-686-8450
SEPTA
1234 Market St.
Philadelphia, PA 19107
Phone: 215-580-7800
NJ Transit
Customer Service: 973-275-5555
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Senior activities in Philadelphia
A city rich in history, Philadelphia is home to striking colonial architecture and famous sites, such as the Liberty Bell and Independence Hall. Among the many historic attractions, you’ll find an abundance of renowned art museums, including the Philadelphia Museum of Art, where you can also enjoy running up the famed “Rocky steps” and recreating the iconic scene.
Those who prefer a more low-impact approach to exploring the city will enjoy strolling through the numerous parks and walking trails. The sprawling Rittenhouse Square serves as an urban sanctuary with mature trees and downtown views, while Spruce Street Harbor Park features incomparable waterfront views of the Delaware River.
Culture flows like electricity throughout Philadelphia’s vibrant neighborhoods, and it’s especially apparent among the city’s passionate sports fan base and food scene. Cheering on Philly’s teams is a time-honored tradition, whether you’re enjoying a game at a community watch party or at one of Philadelphia’s famed sports bars. An equally important ritual of the city’s culture is indulging in an almost endless selection of Philadelphia dining options — ranging from classic Philly staples and genuine Italian cuisine to British pub-style fare.
Frequently Asked Questions
Arbour Square, Azalea at Cinnaminson and Merrill Gardens at West Chester are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Philadelphia, PA. 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 Philadelphia is $4,589 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
References
A Place for Mom. (2022). A Place for Mom proprietary data.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101): Philadelphia City [Data set]. American Community Survey.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population estimates (S0103): Philadelphia City.
Philadelphia Department of Public Health Division of COVID-19 Containment. (2022, November 8). Personal communication [Personal email].
Walk Score. (2021). Living in Philadelphia.
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