10 Best Independent Living Communities in Houston, TX
Houston is home to the largest senior population in Texas, making it a hotspot for health care, outdoor activities, and senior living options. Independent living senior communities are designed for 55+ adults, so seniors can reside alongside individuals in their same stage of life. A Place for Mom partners with 11 independent living communities within a 10-mile radius of downtown Houston. These communities enable aging adults to enjoy a carefree retirement with convenient services, like on-site maintenance, housekeeping, and meal plans, that make daily life easier.
In this guide, we’ve put together a wealth of information on Houston’s independent living facilities, so prospective residents can find their ideal community. We use our 20+ years of senior living experience, proprietary data on local communities, and feedback from seniors and their families to inform you on local independent living costs, services and amenities, state regulations, and even payment tips. Each section also includes valuable senior-specific, local resources and demographics.
Houston Independent Living Facilities | 1230 Reviews
We are very happy with Atria Westchase. I would rate them a five in all categories. The Atria is always spotless. The nursing staff is responsive and very kind. The administration is professional and keeps...
They have been real good to me here and I get taken care of very good too. They do a lot of activities every week here too. The activity guy [name removed] keeps everyone busy. We eat very well and they do a...
The staff at Solana Vintage Park have been amazing partners in our journey to provide care for my Father-in-law after he had multiple mini strokes. They have gone above and beyond in helping us with...
The staff has gone out of there way to help me come to Elison Park. The staff has a good understanding of what a Sr. goes through in downsizing from a home. I like the community that offers a open feeling...
I know that it is difficult to balance activities that are basic that everyone can do with one's that would interest more capable residents. Staff have been very friendly. Overall I would recommend...
I encourage those who are looking for opportunities to sample Houston dining, local sites of attractions and overnight trips offered. Brookdale is the place for these experiences. There are also many...
The facility is well kept and the staff is extremely helpful and very nice. My mother in law likes the community atmosphere and the socialization is wonderful.
Tarrytowne Estates is a hidden gem for retirement living. The small complex caters to your needs with chef inspired meals 7 days a week. Varied activities keep the residents entertained. A pool for swimming...
The facility is very pleasant and dad loves it! I think the most outstanding thing is the delicious food and lovely dining room. The staff are very friendly. Dad's apartment is quite large and comfortable....
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I give a 5 for all now but in the beginning it was quite confusing regarding medication administration. They kept messing up and could have potentially caused a medical emergency. We visit each week and the...
I would highly recommend Brookdale. The care my mother in law receives is outstanding. The staff really know her and treat her extremely well. We filled out a long questionnaire about her past, the staff...
I have lived here since [date removed]. The Director and her staff strive to make residents feel at home and are sensitive to needed changes and adjustments. During COVID the staff went out of their way to...
Everybody was so caring there. My dad had struggled so long with his disabilities as he refused any help at all in his old assisted living facility as it unfortunately was not run very well. The care staff...
Lower score for cleanliness, but they changed staff and the cleaning situation with her room is improved. The food is bland but they are feeding a lot of old people so there is not much seasoning.
My mother broke her hip and was kicked out the hospital very quickly. A neighbor moved to independent living at The Buckingham, but we didn't know they have rehab after injury. She went in weak never...
It (nor any similar business) is not perfect, but they do appear to genuinely care about the residents. Based off of our experience, I would recommend them to others looking.
My loved one is currently a resident at Brookdale Champions and her experience has been great so far. The staff and care services are great. The cleanliness and friendliness are also great. Anytime that we...
The facility in the memory care wing is a little dated but the level of care from the staff makes up for it. I feel like they truly love my Mom. It’s a great value and Mom enjoys the food. The nurses and...
It is apparent they genuinely care about their residents. They strive to meet all of their needs: physical, emotional, and social. Offering options for most meals would be helpful.
We had to move Mom from another facility! It was a difficult decision because she loved her caregivers & had made good friends with some of the residents.The new owners gave us no choice because of some of...
The Abbey at Westminster is such a welcoming community. Every one from the front desk restaurant personel and sales/office staff have a very caring attitude. They have cultivated a caring environment.
The staff has been amazing Only thing is that memory care could use more staff. The Oaks needs to have more engaging activities for those that are mobile. Again this appears to be a staffing issue. It is...
Overall, we have been very pleased with the care of my brother. He has been taken care of better than the hospital and skilled nursing facility where he had temporary stays. Braeswood Estates has proven to...
Rooms are nicely sized. It's not a very big place, but this means that the staff to resident ratio is excellent. I visit my mom every week and she is always clean, fed, and seems to generally be very well...
Our methodology
How we rank order the Houston community options above
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Houston 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 Houston area
- What families are saying about independent living in Houston
- How people pay for independent living in Houston
- Understand Texas laws and regulations for independent living communities
- Unique features of independent living communities in Houston
- Houston independent living services and amenities
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Houston? Highlights for seniors
Costs of independent living in the Houston area
The median rent cost of independent senior living in Houston is $2,820 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s 2022-2023 proprietary data of partner communities. This figure excludes any additional fees for amenities and care services. You’ll find that independent living facilities in Houston have a lot to offer at an affordable price. These costs can include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Meal plans
- Utilities, maintenance, and landscaping
- Housekeeping and laundry services
- Transportation services
- Access to shared spaces, such as fitness centers, game rooms, and movie theaters
- Security systems
The below costs give an area comparison of average senior independent living costs and don’t necessarily account for any additional fees, such as meal plans or extra services.
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Houston, TX vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Houston, TX vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Independent Living in Houston vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Independent Living in Houston, TX by room type
What families are saying about independent living in Houston
Recent reviews for independent living in Houston
The Terraces at Kingwood Town Center
Good Living Community Care in Houston, TX
Optimum Personal Care - Sugar Land
Reviews mention these favorite features of communities
How people pay for independent living in Houston
Medicaid and Medicare don’t cover independent living senior community costs, as these are not considered long-term care communities. So, Houston seniors typically combine their personal resources to pay for independent senior living. Houston veterans may also use their veteran benefits to offset some costs for independent living in Houston, Texas.
It’s important to note that if you’re planning for care needs that may arise in the future, Medicaid and Medicare may be used to cover some in-home care services or care expenses in assisted living or memory care communities.
Private pay methods include a senior’s savings accounts, Social Security benefits, retirement pensions, investment returns, and more.
Note: Long-term care insurance doesn’t typically apply to independent living communities, as these policies usually only cover medical care costs in senior care communities. However, learning about long-term care insurance can be useful for future planning, in case a transfer to an assisted living care facility ever becomes necessary.
Also note: Texas is one of the few states in the nation without personal income tax, saving you from paying additional taxes on Social Security benefits or other retirement income.[02,03]
Read on for some insights into other ways you might pay for independent senior living costs:
Houston is a popular destination for Texas veterans as it belongs to Harris County — home to the highest number of veterans in Texas. Veterans in Houston can receive advice and assistance from benefits advisors employed by the Harris County Veterans Services Department. These advisors can help you or your loved one apply for pensions and benefits, process VA claims, file appeals, and more.
If a senior veteran qualifies for a VA pension, they can use those funds to cover independent living expenses. Veterans requiring assistance with activities of daily living may also be entitled to the Aid and Attendance benefit in addition to their pension, which can also be used to cover costs of senior living. Do keep in mind that senior veterans must be enrolled in VA health care and meet eligibility requirements to qualify for the Aid and Attendance benefit. The resources below can help Houston’s seniors access their eligible VA pensions and benefits.
Number of veterans who live in Houston, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
About 45% of Houston veterans are 65+, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Resources for Houston veterans
The Harris County Veterans Services Department helps veterans obtain their VA benefits, process their VA claims, file appeals, and more.
2929 McKinney St.
Houston, TX 77003
Phone: 281-876-6600
Email: vsdinfo@harriscountytx.gov
Veterans Affairs Houston Regional Office website
6900 Almeda Road
Houston, TX 77030
Hours: Monday through Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Amazing Soldiers, Inc. is a nonprofit program dedicated to providing resources and reliable services to veterans in need of support or assistance.
3880 Greenhouse Road, Suite 409
Houston, TX 77084
Phone: 346-900-4551
Email: amazingsoldiers16@gmail.com
TVC advocates for veterans and their families in Texas. They offer eight programs dedicated to helping veterans obtain benefits, file claims, and more.
Read or download the A Place for Mom Veterans Benefits Guide.
Medicaid programs typically cannot be used to pay for independent living; however, they can help offset some associated senior care costs. Most seniors receiving Medicaid in Texas receive their coverage through the state’s Medicaid managed care program — STAR+PLUS. This program is run by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (or HHSC) and is specifically for 65+ adults and/or adults with disabilities. This program can be used to cover the cost of some long-term health care services.
If you or a senior loved one are planning for future care needs at home, it might prove useful to learn about the STAR+PLUS Home and Community Based Services waiver program. This waiver program can help cover the costs of care services within a senior’s home or at a senior living facility. The HHSC also offers a number of programs that help seniors with Medicaid through their local area agencies on aging (commonly known as AAAs) for seniors 60+, as well as other long-term care programs for low-income seniors and seniors with a disability.
Houston resident Medicaid resources
This search tool can help you find a Medicaid benefits office near you.
The Texas Health and Human Services website offers a services search page to help you find Medicaid services.
You can apply for Medicaid online through the Your Texas Benefits website.
Find answers to questions about your Medicaid benefits.
Read A Place for Mom’s public payment guide.
Medicare is a federal health insurance program. Anyone who is over the age of 65 and/or has a disability is eligible for Medicare in Texas. Even though it cannot be used to cover rent or living costs in independent living communities, it can help cover some medical services. Medicare will cover things like hospital stays, hospice care, certain doctors’ services, outpatient care, medical supplies, and preventative services.
Houston seniors can reach out to Texas’ Health Information, Counseling, and Advocacy Program (or HICAP) to receive assistance with Medicare benefits, legal advice, and referrals. The program may direct financially eligible seniors to the Texas Medicare Savings Program, which aids seniors with their Medicare premiums, deductibles, copayments, and/or coinsurance.
Houston resident Medicare resources
You can apply for Medicare benefits through the Social Security Administration website.
This Medicare Savings Program PDF includes the application as well as directions on how to apply. You can print the PDF or request a paper form by mail.
Use this Social Security Office Locator to find your local Social Security office in Houston.
As part of a nationwide Aging Network headed by the U.S. Administration on Aging, the Harris County Area Agency on Aging provides support services for local seniors and their caregivers.
8000 N Stadium Drive
Houston, TX 77054
Phone: 832-393-4301
Email: aging@houstontx.gov
Because Medicaid and Medicare do not cover independent living costs, seniors often turn to housing assistance programs or Social Security benefits. These assistance programs can offset some costs of living, like rent, at an independent senior living community. Check out some more information on both below:
Housing assistance programs
Some independent living communities accept housing vouchers from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, also known as HUD. The most common voucher program is the Housing Choice Voucher, formerly known as Section 8. Low-income seniors or individuals with disabilities may qualify for the voucher and receive rent assistance in an independent living community. The owner of the independent living community must agree to rent under the Housing Choice Voucher program, so make sure to check with the prospective community before moving in.
Additional resources:
Social Security benefits
Many seniors use their Social Security benefits to offset their living costs. There are many types of Social Security benefits and the ones available to a senior will depend on their work history and current situation. Here’s a breakdown of the types:
- Social Security Retirement (or SSR) benefit: SSR is a monthly check received during retirement after an individual has reduced their working hours or retired. Eligibility is dependent on the senior’s prior work.
- Social Security Disability Insurance (or SSDI): The SSDI program pays monthly benefits to individuals with qualifying disabilities who’ve worked long enough.
- Supplemental Security Income (or SSI): The SSI program provides monthly payments to qualifying individuals with a disability or seniors 65+ regardless of work history. These payments may be received in addition to SSR and SSDI payments. Eligibility requirements include having limited income and resources.
- Social Security survivors benefits: The survivors benefits plan pays a monthly benefit to provide financial support for military widows, widowers, and dependents. This monthly payment is known as an annuity and is meant to ensure a reliable income stream for the survivors of a deceased military member or veteran who worked and paid Social Security taxes.
Understand Texas laws and regulations for independent living communities
Independent living communities in Houston are not regulated by a state agency. However, most of our partner Houston communities share their campus with an assisted living facility. This means they are required to comply with assisted living licensing and regulation requirements set forth by the Texas Health and Human Services, also known as the HHS. Texas independent living facilities with an assisted living facility on the same campus are required to regulate the following in order to pass inspections and stay licensed:
- Sufficient staffing
- Employee background checks
- Management of the facility
- Construction of the facility
- Implementation of safety and emergency features
- Protection from hazardous areas
- Document reports of fire drills, system checks, etc.[05]
Tenant rights
Stand-alone independent living facilities aren’t regulated by the Texas Health and Human Services, but they are still required to comply with Texas’ general housing and apartment standards for landlords and tenants. It’s important for seniors and their families to understand their tenant rights to ensure a safe, satisfactory living situation while renting. Below, you’ll find a brief summary of tenants’ rights in Texas:
- Residents have the right to ask their landlord to repair problems that risk their health and safety. Landlords are required to make a diligent effort in repairing the problems at hand.
- Residents may terminate a lease if a problem that affects their health hasn’t been resolved after multiple notices and within a reasonable timeframe.
- If a landlord fails to resolve issues that affect a resident’s health after multiple notices within a reasonable timeframe, the tenant may hire an external contractor to fix the problem. The tenant can then submit the expenses to the landlord to deduct the expense from their rent.[06]
Before making any major decisions in a tenant-landlord dispute, it’s strongly recommended that a tenant consults with an attorney or tenants association. Consulting a housing expert is the best way to ensure that you don’t breach any lease agreements and will ultimately help you get the outcome you want.
If you’d like more information on your rights as a tenant in a Texas independent living facility, see this Tenants’ Rights Handbook.
Americans with Disabilities Act (also known as ADA) compliance
Tenants with disabilities also have the right to request reasonable accommodations and modifications when they rent from any property owner. Reasonable accommodations are changes to community policies, and modifications are structural changes to common areas or individual units. These accommodations or modifications could include the following scenarios:
- Smoke detectors need to be installed by the property owner within each room of a unit. If a tenant has a hearing impairment, a specialized smoke detector must be installed.
- Owners must provide common area accommodations for tenants with disabilities, so tenants can easily access shared spaces and participate in resident activities.
- Property owners must pay for modifications to units or common areas to make them more accessible to individuals with disabilities, or they must provide a sufficient alternative. Modifications can include adding a wheelchair ramp, installing grab bars in the bathroom, or removing carpet for easy wheelchair use.[06]
For detailed examples and information on reasonable accommodations and modifications, see the Texas Department of Housing and Human Affairs’ infographic. Also note that property owners may lawfully deny a request if the modification poses an undue financial and administrative burden.
COVID-19 regulations for Houston independent living communities
Neither Houston nor Texas have specific COVID-19 regulations for independent living communities. However, independent living communities with an assisted living unit on-site must comply with any guidelines set forth by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (also known as the HHSC). The HHSC retired its COVID-19 response plan for assisted living facilities in January of 2023, but facilities are still required to develop their own infection prevention and control measures regarding masks, physical distancing, and additional protocols for personal protective equipment (PPE) during an active infection or outbreak.[07]
Unique features of independent living communities in Houston
Houston is home to the highest population of seniors in Texas. So, naturally, the city’s independent living communities check every box when it comes to helping seniors find their home — because the market is competitive. To learn exactly how Houston communities work to keep seniors healthy and happy, check out the following Houston independent living features:
Multiple care types under one roof
It’s common practice for independent living to be provided in assisted living facilities or continuing care retirement communities. In fact, almost all of our partner independent living communities in Houston are on a campus that provides multiple care types, namely assisted living and memory care. Many communities even partner with third-party home care agencies on-site for seniors seeking advanced care services.
To further accommodate senior residents, many of these communities take extra security measures to make sure residents and their belongings remain safe. For example, most of our partnered communities have 24-hour staffing and a secured, gated campus with video-monitored entrances and exits.
Services that make life easier
Many of our independent living communities help seniors lead active lifestyles, free of daily stresses and chores. While residents are off enjoying their beloved hobbies and pastimes, staff members take care of the cleaning, maintenance, and landscaping. Most of our partner communities offer in-unit housekeeping and laundry services. Staff will also happily coordinate transportation, ensuring residents get from place to place safely. Plus, residents don’t have to worry about leaving the community for a haircut, as some partner communities offer on-site beauticians to provide new styles, colors, beard trimmings, and more.
Shared spaces and on-site activities encourage friendship
Independent living residents are often looking to form new friendships and connections. That is precisely why many of our in-network Houston communities provide shared amenities, gathering spaces, and a myriad of on-site activities. Residents are free to gather in on-site arts and crafts centers, libraries, movie theaters, lounges, pubs, and more. They can also choose to attend events and activities hosted by the community. Many communities have a rotating calendar filled with interest-centered club meetings, fitness classes, off-site trips, holiday parties, birthday celebrations, and more.
Independent living in the surrounding Houston suburbs
Many seniors find themselves wary of Houston’s traffic as they age, so they tend to gravitate toward the city’s suburbs for retirement. Some of the most popular Houston suburbs for retirement include Sugar Land and Katy. These cities offer master-planned communities filled with community parks, pools, and courts. Residents in both cities also benefit from a range of amenities, enjoy cuisines from all around the world, shop local boutiques and name-brand stores, and explore niche museums. Plus, the spacious nature of the suburbs enables independent living communities to maximize their on-site amenities.
Houston independent living services and amenities
Availability of select dietary accommodations in Houston independent living
Availability of select dining options in Houston independent living
Availability of select programs and activities in Houston independent living
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Unfamiliar with Houston? Highlights for seniors
Number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Houston, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Percentage of Houston seniors 65+ that are retired from the workforce, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Median annual Social Security income for Houston seniors 65 and older, according to the U.S. Census Bureau
Health care for seniors in Houston
Aging adults have access to many health care facilities in Houston — some of which are nationally ranked in geriatrics. Below, you’ll learn more about what Houston’s top-rated hospitals have to offer.
Houston Methodist Hospital
Houston Methodist Hospital is the No. 1 hospital in Texas and Houston, according to U.S. News and World Report. It’s nationally ranked in 10 specialties, including No. 22 in geriatrics, No. 15 in neurology, and No. 11 in orthopedics.
Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center
Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center is the No. 2 hospital in Houston and is nationally ranked in six specialties, including No. 43 in geriatrics, according to U.S. News and World Report.
Memorial Hermann Hospital
Memorial Hermann Hospital is No. 3 in Houston and is high performing in seven specialties, including diabetes, orthopedics, and cardiology, according to U.S. News and World Report.
MD Anderson Cancer Center
MD Anderson is the No. 1 cancer center in the nation, according to U.S. News and World Report. It’s the largest cancer center in the U.S. and is also nationally ranked in geriatrics, diabetes, and urology. It’s world-renowned for its evolving research and high level of care.
Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center
Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center is a popular veteran hospital in Texas. It’s known for providing a wide array of services, including a range of health, legal, and even caregiver resources.
Transportation for seniors in Houston
There are several ways to get around in Houston, but due to the city’s urban sprawl, most residents own cars. Luckily, many of our in-network independent living facilities enable residents to travel safely by providing complimentary or at-cost transportation services.
However, some communities only offer rides to a limited number of events, such as strictly to appointments, errands, etc., so knowing your public transportation options will come in handy. Houston’s most popular public transportation method is METRO. It offers buses, rails, and paratransit services throughout Harris County. Houston residents who are 65+ or have a disability may also qualify for RIDES.
Additionally, active seniors may benefit from checking out the following scores from WalkScore. Each score is out of 100 and based on hyperlocal data on Houston’s public density, walking routes, public transit options, biking trails, and more: [09]
Walk Score
Transit Score
Bike Score
Dynamic senior activities in Houston
As Texas’ largest city, the saying “everything’s bigger in Texas” rings true in Houston. The diverse city proclaims itself as the cultural capital of the South. To live up to this claim, the city works to accommodate the interests of all ages — most importantly, seniors. Aging adults can enjoy the city’s robust shopping and dining options, participate in senior programs at local community centers, or explore the following types of attractions:
Arts and culture
- Space Center Houston: This is Houston’s most popular museum and enables seniors to view space artifacts and learn about space travel.
- The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston: Art lovers can view stunning exhibitions and world-renowned artworks at this famous Houston art museum.
- Theater District: Houston’s theater district spans 17 blocks and hosts a range of plays, ballets, symphonies, and more.
Nature and wildlife
- Houston Zoo: Animal lovers can enjoy afternoons strolling the zoo’s exhibits and interacting with some of its animals.
- Downtown Aquarium: This unique aquarium offers several activities, including a restaurant, various rides, and of course, aquatic exhibits.
- Houston Botanic Garden: Seniors with an affinity for nature can surround themselves with flowers and plants for an afternoon at this expansive botanical garden.
Parks and recreation
- Houston parks and recreation: Seniors can choose to stroll and relax in one of the many parks across the city. Or, they can use their well-maintained tennis courts and pickleball courts to break a sweat.
- River Oaks Country Club: Seniors can take part in indoor and outdoor activities or socialize and relax in facilities at the city’s most popular country club.
Note that many of these attractions provide accommodations for individuals with disabilities, and some even offer senior discounts. To confirm the exact accommodations and specials available, be sure to inquire about each respective location prior to your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Watercrest at Shadow Creek Ranch, Paradise Springs and Atria Westchase are the top-rated Independent Living facilities near Houston, TX. 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 Houston is $4,052 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.
TurboTax. (2022, September 7). States with the lowest taxes and the highest taxes.
Fritts, J. (2020, August 9). Does your state tax social security benefits? Tax Foundation.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
Assisted Living Facility Licensing Act, Health Facilities § 247.001 (2021).
Texas Young Lawyers Association & State Bar of Texas. (2019). Tenants’ Rights Handbook.
Texas Health and Human Services. (2023, January 11). HHSC retires ALF COVID-19 response plan and COVID-19 FAQs.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
WalkScore. (2023). Living in Houston.
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