About Assisted LivingAssisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.Complete guide to assisted livingBest of 2026 Assisted Living Winners
About Memory CareMemory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering. Complete guide to memory careBest of 2026 Memory Care Winners
About Independent LivingIndependent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to independent livingBest of 2026 Independent Living Winners
About Senior LivingSenior living is a term used to describe various housing and care options for older adults from maintenance-free, 55+ facilities for active seniors, to secure, fully staffed facilities for seniors with Alzheimer's or dementia. Complete guide to senior livingFind senior living facilities near you
About Nursing HomesNursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.Complete guide to Nursing Homes
About Senior ApartmentsSenior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.Complete guide to Senior Apartments
About Care HomesResidential care homes are shared neighborhood homes for seniors who need a live-in caregiver to assist with activities of daily living, like dressing and bathing.Complete guide to care homes
Veteran ResourcesVA benefits for long-term care, such as Aid and Attendance benefits, can help eligible veterans and their surviving spouses pay for senior care.Guide to VA benefits for long-term care
Senior Living Awards
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10 Best Independent Living Facilities in Seattle, WA

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The average starting cost of independent living in Seattle, Washington, is $4,548 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data. The top-rated independent living communities in Seattle are Truewood By Merrill, First Hill, Murano Senior Living and Cogir of Queen Anne, based on our ranking methodology. Independent living in Seattle is ideal for retirees who are looking for a community feeling with amenities such as dining services, housekeeping and maintenance, and social and recreational activities.

Using our exclusive local data, we’ve developed this comprehensive guide to independent living in Seattle, Washington. You’ll find firsthand reviews from residents, average senior living costs, and local resources tailored to help retirees and their families make confident, well-informed decisions about senior living in this vibrant Pacific Northwest city.

Seattle Independent Living Facilities | 1532 Reviews

Showing 123 communities
Last Updated: 5/9/26
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Best of Senior Living

The highest-rated senior living communities stand out for their exceptional care and support of seniors in independent living, assisted living, and memory care. Our Best of Senior Living Award winners represent the top reviewed senior care providers nationwide based on reviews submitted by residents and families.

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Providers
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Covenant Living at the Shores
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of Park Place
5 star
79%
4 star
17%
3 star
4%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
staff and residents were very welcoming. very smooth transition with move in process. staff are very friendly and very helpful.
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Park Place is a very special retirement and assisted living community located 3 miles east of Boeing Field in Seattle. The doors are scheduled to open the end of April providing 154 luxurious studio and one bedroom apartments for seniors. All the apartments come equipped with microwaves,...
See details
Photo of Northaven II Retirement Apartment
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Row on Third Apartments
Provides: Assisted Living, Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Aegis of Kirkland Waterfront
1111 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
•Aegis Living has been in business for over 28 years. We pride ourselves by offering the best care for seniors, but also taking excellent care of our staff so that it can reflect on the services we provide for you and your family. It truly is our culture that makes us different. •Our care team is...
See details
Photo of Village Manor of Bellevue
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Photo of The Park at Belle Harbour
11 Photo available
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Welcome to The Park at Belle Harbour, where modern luxury meets urban sophistication. Belle Harbour is the pinnacle of independent and assisted living in the city of Bellevue and its surrounding region, delivering world-class service & care, community craftsmanship, and unprecedented...
Photo of Arrowhead Gardens
5 star
33%
4 star
0%
3 star
67%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
West Seattle — Highland Park Neighborhood Urban Senior Living Village Campus Adjacent to King County Metro Park & Ride Transit Center Convenient Access to Freeways Major Retail Centers Community Building with Lounge, Media Center, Exercise Room, and Activity Rooms with Planned Activities...
Photo of Arrowhead Gardens
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
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Photo of Cedar Park Apartments
5 star
33%
4 star
67%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
I do live in these apartments, located at this address listed. It is a SHAG apartment building. I like living here very much. They are nice apartments. However, I disagree with the description that is on...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
A selection of one- and two-bedroom apartments with a variety of floor plans, including some fully handicap-accessible apartments. Town home-style flats. Select apartments feature patios, terraces or balconies. Professionally designed kitchens with full-size appliances, including dishwashers,...
Photo of New Haven
5 star
33%
4 star
67%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
Overall I would say they do a good job at New Haven. It is a nice looking, clean, well kept community, and they take good care of the people who live here. Some of the staff could be a little friendlier, but...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
many restaurants, grocery stores, specialty shops, medical and dental offices, banks, coffee shops and bakeries located in walking distance Just across the street, Bitter Lake Park, with its great view of Bitter Lake, community center: four tennis courts, two ball fields, walking paths, and a...
Photo of Sanford Hildebrandt Towers I
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Park 3025
5 star
0%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Remington Place Retirement Inn is uniquely different from any other retirement residence you've ever experienced. Carefully planned, it offers a special combination of cozy warmth and private spaciousness. With only sixty suites you will quickly get to know everybody at Remington Place. In that...
Photo of Victoria Park
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of The Savoy at Lake City
1111 Photos available
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Choice and flexibility…it’s engrained in usA wonderful new possibility for those in the 62+ crowd of Seattle. We’re host to a unique age-restricted apartment setting; a great variation from others you may have considered before. Now is the time to take advantage of the healthy Seattle Senior...
Photo of Interurban Senior Living
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Woodlands At Forbes Lake Senior Affordable Apartments
Provides: Independent Living
Care types provided by this community
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of The Village at Broadview
1818 Photos available
Provides: Assisted Living
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
You feel it the moment you walk in—a certain warmth and friendliness. That’s the heart of The Broadview Center: our incredible team.Many have been with us for years, building lasting relationships and providing consistent, compassionate support. Here, we know our residents, greet families with...
5 star
0%
4 star
0%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
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0%
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Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care, Nursing Homes
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
Nursing Homes: Nursing homes provide short-and long-term care for seniors who have physical or mental health conditions that require 24-hour nursing and personal care.
Photo of Silver Glen-Co-Op
Provides: Independent Living, Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Independent Living: Independent living facilities offer convenient, hassle-free living in a social environment for seniors who are active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Photo of Boulevard Park Place Active Retirement Living
5 star
50%
4 star
50%
3 star
0%
2 star
0%
1 star
0%
See all reviews
These apartments are located in Burien. They are independent senior living apartments. They do not serve food or clean your apartment. Amazing owners, lots of activities, safe building, clean, roomy...
Provides: Senior Apartments
Care types provided by this community
Senior Apartments: Senior apartments offer accessible, no-frills living for seniors who are generally active, healthy, and able to live on their own.
Boulevard park Place! A 55+ Active Seniors community, You'll enjoy Freedom, security, friendship & peace of mind! Our independent apartments are located on ten acres with views of the Cascade Mountains and just minutes to golf, shopping, theatres, medical facilities and easy access to Sea-Tac...
Photo of Madrona Assisted Living, LLC
5 star
66%
4 star
10%
3 star
5%
2 star
0%
1 star
19%
See all reviews
My mother was a resident with Bainbridge Senior Living for nearly 10 years, 7 at Madison Avenue and 3 years in the Memory Care unit at Madrona House. The staff are wonderful and caring individuals at both...
Provides: Assisted Living, Memory Care
Care types provided by this community
Assisted Living: Assisted living facilities offer housing and care for active seniors who may need support with activities of daily living, like bathing, dressing, and medication management.
Memory Care: Memory care facilities provide housing, care, and therapies for seniors who have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia in an environment designed to reduce confusion and prevent wandering.
The Madrona House is an assisted living community located in the beautiful city of Bainbridge Island, Kitsap County, Washington. Our community offers many cozy comforts of home. Dubbed as one of the Best Places to Live in the United States, Bainbridge offers scenic coastal views and plenty of...

Our methodology

How we rank order the Seattle community options above

We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Seattle 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

Read our full methodology

How much does independent living cost in Seattle, WA?

In Seattle, Washington, the average cost of independent living is $4,548 per month, according to A Place for Mom’s proprietary data.[01] This amount reflects the starting base rent for independent living communities and can vary depending on the amenities and services included. Factors such as apartment size and layout, community type, and location within Seattle may also affect the overall monthly cost.

The average monthly cost of independent living in Seattle is higher than the national average of $4,247 and higher than Washington’s statewide average of $4,203 per month.[01] According to the Economic Research Institute, Seattle’s overall cost of living is about 51% higher than the national average, which contributes to increased expenses for housing, staffing, and other services within independent living communities.[02]

In Seattle, independent living is less expensive than assisted living ($5,386 per month), and less expensive than memory care ($5,584 per month).

The charts below are also based on average starting costs and do not include fees for care services or any other additional expenses.

Independent living costs in Seattle, WA, vs. nearby cities

Seattle, WA
$4,548/mo
$4,554/mo

Independent living costs in Seattle, WA, vs. state and national averages

Seattle, WA
$4,548/mo
U.S. national average
$4,247/mo

Independent living costs in Seattle, WA, vs. other senior living options

$5,617/mo
Independent Living
$4,548/mo

Independent living costs in Seattle, WA, by floor plan type

Semi-Private
$7,945/mo
Studio
$4,270/mo
1 Bedroom
$5,521/mo
2 Bedroom
$7,568/mo

Senior living costs in Seattle vs. state and national costs

Cost comparison table showing community type costs by location. This table contains 3 rows of data across 4 columns.
Column communityType: Community type
Column destination: Seattle, WA
Column state: Washington
Column national: U.S.
Community typeSeattle, WAWashingtonU.S.
Independent Living$4,548/mo$4,203/mo$4,247/mo
Assisted Living$5,410/mo$5,301/mo$4,784/mo
Memory Care$5,617/mo$5,218/mo$5,056/mo
Independent Living
Seattle, WA:$4,548/mo
Washington:$4,203/mo
U.S.:$4,247/mo
Assisted Living
Seattle, WA:$5,410/mo
Washington:$5,301/mo
U.S.:$4,784/mo
Memory Care
Seattle, WA:$5,617/mo
Washington:$5,218/mo
U.S.:$5,056/mo
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.

Independent living costs in Seattle, WA, over time

The line graph below shows how monthly independent living costs have shifted over the past five years in Seattle and how those changes compare with state and national trends. The figures represent quarterly averages of what seniors actually paid after moving into A Place for Mom partner communities.

Seattle, WAWA stateNational

Independent living cost trends in Seattle, WA

The table below shows how monthly independent living costs in Seattle have changed in the last two years and how those changes compare with state and national trends. The figures represent averages of actual costs paid by seniors who moved into A Place for Mom partner communities in 2023 and 2024.

Cost comparison table showing 2023 and 2024 median costs by location. This table contains 3 rows of data across 4 columns.
Column location: Location
Column cost2024: 2024 average cost
Column cost2023: 2023 average cost
Column percentChange: Percent change
Location2024 average cost2023 average costPercent change
Seattle, WA$4,021/mo$4,252/mo-5.4%
Washington$3,641/mo$3,442/mo+5.8%
National$3,257/mo$3,166/mo+2.9%
Seattle, WA
2024 average cost:$4,021/mo
2023 average cost:$4,252/mo
Percent change:-5.4%
Washington
2024 average cost:$3,641/mo
2023 average cost:$3,442/mo
Percent change:+5.8%
National
2024 average cost:$3,257/mo
2023 average cost:$3,166/mo
Percent change:+2.9%
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.
Table showing 5 of 3 items. Click to show less.

How to pay for independent living in Seattle

Most people use a combination of Social Security benefits, personal savings, retirement accounts, pensions, or proceeds from the sale of assets to cover monthly costs and maintain their independent lifestyle. Since independent living communities don’t include personal or medical care services, residents typically pay out of pocket for their living expenses.

Private pay options

Personal income and assets that families often use to pay for independent living include:

VA benefits

The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) offers several programs designed to support eligible seniors who have served in the military and their families. Common benefits that may be used to help pay for independent living include:

If you or your spouse ever need extra support while living independently, in-home care services can often be arranged right in your community. You may also qualify for the VA Aid and Attendance benefit, which can help cover the cost of these additional care services.

Because the VA application process can be complex, it’s best to start early and work with a VA-accredited benefits counselor. They can help ensure your paperwork is complete, guide you through eligibility requirements, and make sure you receive the benefits you’ve earned.

Resources for veterans in Seattle

Over 20,000 veterans live in Seattle, and many are age 65 or older.[03] To help these veterans and their families access the benefits and care they’ve earned, several local organizations and agencies offer personalized guidance and support. Consider reaching out to:

Medicaid

Medicaid is a joint federal and state program that helps people with limited income and assets afford essential health and long-term care services. In Washington, it’s known as Apple Health. While Medicaid won’t cover room and board in independent living, eligible residents can use it to help pay for personal and health care services.

Apple Health offers long-term care support through several programs, including:

Read more: Medicaid Long-Term Care: What Is It and What’s Covered?

Medicaid resources in Seattle, WA

Washington provides several ways for residents to apply for Apple Health:

For more detailed information or assistance applying for Medicaid, consider these resources, both of which are about 30 minutes from Seattle by car:

Medicare

Medicare is a federal health insurance program for adults age 65 and older, as well as younger individuals with certain disabilities or medical conditions such as end-stage renal disease (ESRD) or ALS.[08] While Medicare won’t cover the cost of independent living, it can help pay for medically necessary care and services a resident may need — including prescription medications, durable medical equipment, and other approved treatments received while living in an independent living community.

Medicare resources in Seattle, WA

Elderly residents of Seattle, and their families, can contact the state’s health insurance assistance program for free and unbiased information about Medicare:

What families are saying about independent living in Seattle

Recent reviews for independent living in Seattle

Highlander Apartments in Seattle, WA

4.9
What we really saw that was positive is the staff, from the front end staff, to the director, who is excellent to work with. They have excellent communication. We get emails all the time with any updates. They're close by to medical facilities, so that's been a Godsend. The shuttle service ...
Read more

GenCare Lifestyles at Scriber Gardens in Lynnwood, WA

3.2
Be cautious of what they tell you when you're moving in. They told me they would evaluate me to make sure I could be at the rate I was paying. They never did that. I was in much worse shape when I first got there and thought I would be getting more care. Nobody really came in to talk to me ...
Read more

South Pointe Assisted Living in Everett, WA

5.0
My mom was here for several years and really enjoyed the other residents and the staff. It's a really small community, the smallest I've ever seen, and it's all on one level so it was easy for her to get around with her walker. Great for someone looking for a warm, family-like environment.

Reviews mention these favorite features of communities

Friendly and accommodating staff. Several reviews for communities like Pacific Regent Bellevue by Cogir, Revel Issaquah, and Holiday Bridge Park mention the warm and welcoming nature of the staff. They go the extra mile to make residents feel at home, and are always available to help with any needs.
Variety of engaging activities. Residents across communities such as Pacific Regent Bellevue by Cogir, Cogir of Queen Anne, and MorningStar of Kirkland express enjoyment from the wide range of activities offered. From social gatherings to fitness classes, there's something for everyone.
Clean and well-maintained facilities. Throughout the reviews, cleanliness and upkeep are mentioned as important factors in overall satisfaction. Communities like MorningStar of Kirkland, The Lakeshore, and Revel Issaquah pride themselves on keeping their facilities in excellent condition.
Supportive and caring community. Numerous reviews for communities like Madison House, Revel Issaquah, and Brookdale West Seattle speak to the sense of community and friendship among residents. Many mention feeling welcomed and encouraged by their neighbors and the staff.
Delicious and accommodating meals. Reviews from communities such as Pacific Regent Bellevue by Cogir, Cogir of Queen Anne, and MorningStar of Kirkland highlight the importance of quality meals in daily life. Many mention the accommodating nature of the chefs, who cater to individual preferences and dietary needs.
Accessible transportation and outings. For residents at communities like Cogir of Queen Anne, Merrill Gardens at The University, and Murano Senior Living, transportation and outings are essential. Many reviews mention the convenience of having buses and cars available for trips to museums, parks, and other destinations.
AI generated from the text of family reviews

What is independent living like in Seattle?

Seattle is a walkable city that offers the perfect balance of convenience, community, and adventure for older adults who want to stay active and connected. You can spend your days browsing fresh produce at Pike Place Market, joining local clubs or volunteer groups, or taking a scenic trip to Mount Rainier — all while living in a city that values accessibility, culture, and quality of life. Whether you prefer a vibrant urban experience or quiet time surrounded by nature, Seattle makes it easy to live life on your own terms.

Different senior living options

Many independent living communities in Seattle offer multiple levels of care. That’s because most of them aren’t standalone independent living communities. Most of A Place for Mom’s partner communities offer a combination of independent living and assisted living, and many also include memory care.[01]

These facilities make it easy to go from an independent lifestyle to one that requires more support. As residents’ health needs change, so do their care options. If you know you want to stay in one place rather than move to different locations as your needs evolve, look for a community that offers multiple levels of care.

Amenities

Residents of independent living communities in Seattle can expect several amenities, most of which center around remaining active and keeping up with hobbies. Of our partner communities:[01]

  • 100% have libraries
  • 81% have game rooms
  • 81% have raised garden beds
  • 77% have movie or theater rooms
  • 46% have a billiards lounge
  • 19% have swimming pools

For people who like to spend time outside, all our partner communities feature outside patios.[01]

Seattle independent living services and amenities

These charts highlight some of the many care, dining, and entertainment offerings available in Seattle independent living communities. They don’t represent all possible services and amenities available at assisted living communities in Seattle, but support comparisons against nationwide offerings. Our Senior Living Advisors can help you find communities that fit your preferences.

Availability of select dietary accommodations in Seattle independent living

Independent living communities help seniors maintain a balanced diet by accommodating their health needs, allergies, and other restrictions. Below you’ll find the percentage of Seattle partners making specific dietary accommodations for seniors compared to the percentage of assisted living partners making those accommodations nationally.
Seattle, WANational
Nutritionist / dietician
Nutritionist / dietician
36.4%
20.9%
Low / no sodium
Low / no sodium
57.9%
35.2%
No sugar
No sugar
52.1%
31.6%
Vegetarian
Vegetarian
62%
34.3%
Pureed meals
Pureed meals
22.3%
11.1%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select dining options in Seattle independent living

Our independent living communities know that seniors want top-quality meals and options for how they dine. The chart below indicates the percentage of Seattle communities that offer dining options to their discerning residents compared to our partners nationally.
Seattle, WANational
Professional chef
Professional chef
57.9%
37.1%
Restaurant style dining
Restaurant style dining
57.9%
44.3%
Room service
Room service
55.4%
37.7%
Anytime dining
Anytime dining
42.1%
17.5%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

Availability of select programs and activities in Seattle independent living

Senior living communities offer a variety of programming to keep seniors socially, mentally, and physically vibrant. The chart below shows what percentage of partnered independent living communities in Seattle offer the selected activities, amenities, and programs compared to the percentage of partners nationwide.
Seattle, WANational
Activity director
Activity director
61.2%
46%
Pet-focused programs
Pet-focused programs
43%
28.9%
Community service programs
Community service programs
43.8%
33.8%
Devotional activities on-site
Devotional activities on-site
58.7%
48.1%
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
Parties / BBQs / happy hour
62%
49.6%
Outings / off-site activities
Outings / off-site activities
75.2%
54.7%
Piano or organ
Piano or organ
58.7%
43.8%
Arts and crafts center
Arts and crafts center
53.7%
39.2%
Educational speakers / life long learning
Educational speakers / life long learning
59.5%
42.6%
Clubs / games / karaoke
Clubs / games / karaoke
60.3%
47.9%
Live performances
Live performances
61.2%
47.5%
Dances
Dances
46.3%
33.8%
Fitness center
Fitness center
51.2%
40.3%
Fitness classes
Fitness classes
60.3%
47.2%
0.0%20.0%40.0%60.0%80.0%100%

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Unfamiliar with Seattle? Highlights for seniors

A haven for outdoor enthusiasts, art aficionados, and music lovers, Seattle is an ideal option for people looking for independent living options with activities and amenities close by while still supporting their newest phase of life. Of Seattle’s nearly 800,000 residents, 13% are adults over age 65.[09]

Top hospitals for seniors in Seattle

Seattle, Washington, is home to several top-rated hospitals known for their innovation, specialized care, and commitment to patient well-being. With access to world-class physicians, cutting-edge research, and comprehensive health programs, Seattle offers exceptional medical care for residents at every stage of life.

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University of Washington Medical Center
A renowned teaching and research hospital, the University of Washington Medical Center offers many adult specialties, including cancer care, nephrology, and urology, and is known for combining medical innovation with compassionate, patient-focused care.

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Virginia Mason Franciscan Health
Virginia Mason Franciscan Health is known for its patient-centered approach and dedication to clinical excellence. The hospital stands out for its leading programs in orthopedics, cancer treatment, and digestive health, delivering high-quality, coordinated care to patients across the Seattle area.

Transportation for seniors in Seattle

All of A Place for Mom’s partner independent living communities in Seattle offer on-site parking for residents and transportation services.[01]

There are also several modes of public transit in Seattle, including streetcarsbusesferries, and rail options. Additionally, Seattle offers a variety of local programs that help seniors get around, such as:

Seattle is a very walkable city, and you can even map out a route for walking with the help of Seattle Department of Transportation’s Seattle Walking Map website. Seattle’s walkability, public transportation, and bike friendliness are graded from 0 to 100 by WalkScore, with 100 being the best. Seattle received the following scores:[10]

Transportation card image
74

Walk Score

Transportation card image
60

Transit Score

Transportation card image
71

Bike Score

Things to do in Seattle for seniors and their families

Nestled between the Puget Sound and the immense Mount Rainier, Seattle is ideal for people who love the outdoors. It has some of the best parks and trails in the state of Washington, and the Seattle Parks and Recreation Department offers a full calendar of events, including senior-specific activities for those who want to meet new people or have fun with friends and family.

Sporting events

Seattle is home to a few professional sports teams, so it’s easy to go to a game almost any time of year. For example:

Casinos

A short drive out of the city you will find two casinos, each offering something a little different. North of Seattle is Suquamish Clearwater Casino Resort, which also has golf and spa services, making it a great destination for a weekend away for groups with multiple interests. South of the city, you’ll find Muckleshoot Casino, which has live entertainment, a relaxing spa, and outdoor dining.

Arts and entertainment

The arts, theater, and music communities are also thriving in Seattle — from Chihuly Garden and Glass to Fifth Avenue Theatre and beyond. The online event guide EverOut lists dozens of theater, music, film, and dining recommendations if you have an evening to fill. There are also several fun museums to visit. The Museum of FlightMuseum of Pop Culture, and the Seattle Art Museum all have high ratings and offer senior discounts and accommodations for accessibility needs.

Independent living laws and regulations in Washington

Independent living communities aren’t typically licensed or regulated in the same way as assisted living and memory care communities. However, these communities must often meet state and city requirements, including building codes, fire safety regulations, and tenant rights laws that protect residents and renters. Learning about how independent living is regulated can help you make informed senior living decisions.

Read more: Independent living regulations in Washington

Frequently Asked Questions

The average cost of independent living in Seattle, Washington, is $4,548 per month.
No, Medicare won’t pay for independent living in Seattle.
Yes, seniors in Seattle can use their Social Security benefits however they see fit, including paying for independent living.
Apple Health, the Washington Medicaid program, may cover some health care costs for residents of independent living communities. Medicaid won’t cover the cost of room and board, though.

References

  1. A Place for Mom. (2026). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

  2. Economic Research Institute. (2026, February 6). Cost of living data in Seattle, Washington, United States.

  3. United States Census Bureau. (2024, July 1). QuickFacts Seattle city, Washington.

  4. Washington State Health Care Authority. (2021, November 3). HCS waivers, room and board, ETRs, and bed holds.

  5. Washington State Health Care Authority. Community First Choice (CFC) Option.

  6. Washington State Health Care Authority. (2021, April 23). Medicaid Personal Care.

  7. Washington State Health Care Authority. (2019, July 16). Tailored supports for older adults (TSOA).

  8. U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Get started with Medicare. Medicare.gov.

  9. Census Reporter. (2024). Seattle, Washington.

  10. Walk Score. (2026). Living in Seattle.

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The information contained on this page is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical, legal or financial advice or create a professional relationship between A Place for Mom and the reader. Always seek the advice of your health care provider, attorney or financial advisor with respect to any particular matter, and do not act or refrain from acting on the basis of anything you have read on this site. Links to third-party websites are only for the convenience of the reader; A Place for Mom does not endorse the contents of the third-party sites.
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1.

A Place for Mom. (2026). A Place for Mom proprietary data.

2.

Economic Research Institute. (2026, February 6). Cost of living data in Seattle, Washington, United States.

3.

United States Census Bureau. (2024, July 1). QuickFacts Seattle city, Washington.

4.

Washington State Health Care Authority. (2021, November 3). HCS waivers, room and board, ETRs, and bed holds.

5.

Washington State Health Care Authority. Community First Choice (CFC) Option.

6.

Washington State Health Care Authority. (2021, April 23). Medicaid Personal Care.

7.

Washington State Health Care Authority. (2019, July 16). Tailored supports for older adults (TSOA).

8.

U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Get started with Medicare. Medicare.gov.

9.

Census Reporter. (2024). Seattle, Washington.

10.

Walk Score. (2026). Living in Seattle.