Senior Living Apartments in Ronkonkoma, NY
Surrounded by water, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Long Island Sound on the other, Long Island, New York is a vibrant and unique place to live. From metropolitan New York to suburban areas with a rural character, Long Island has something to entice everyone. Long Island is made up of a number of cities and towns.
If you are an active, budget-conscious adult considering senior housing on Long Island, New York, senior apartments can take maintenance off of your plate. The Long Island area, home to several nationally renowned health care facilities, also offers numerous activities and entertainment options in the glow of a major metropolitan area.
This guide will discuss the senior apartment market on Long Island and what you can expect from these communities. It outlines options to pay for senior apartments and explores laws and regulations that protect seniors in these areas. It also highlights the benefits of Long Island to seniors — the excellent transportation options, medical care, and activities that help make Long Island an attractive senior apartment market. The area covered in this guide includes a 10-mile radius of Long Island with the hamlet of Ronkonkoma at the center.
How do we rank Long Island senior apartments?
Our goal is to help you find high-quality apartments that fit your needs. Using our 20+ years of experience in senior living, we developed a proprietary rating system based on the following:
- Recent, high-quality reviews. We take into account reviews from the past two years. Then, we look for the apartments people prefer. Senior apartments that have mostly positive ratings in the past two years are prioritized over facilities that have had low or no reviews in the past two years. Reviews also help us understand what matters most to families like yours, such as how pet-friendly and clean the apartments are.
- Facility transparency. Apartments that have robust information are prioritized over those that don’t offer the same level of transparency.
- Location. Options vary based on proximity to your desired location.
Senior Apartments Facilities near Ronkonkoma, NY
Arbors Hauppauge is an exceptional assisted living facility. I gave a 4 out of 5 rating for activity ONLY bc there is no gym/exercise equipment on site, of which my brother and probably other residents would...
My loved one is currently a resident at Lake Shore Assisted Living Residence. The facility was just recently mostly remodeled, so it's in very nice shape. It's very clean. The staff that I have met is...
as a matter fo fact tis wonderful, were moving in first week in september its a beautiful palce and theyre one of the few places we found that were in our budget when we were looking for apartments. we were...
I have lived here for about 20 years (basically since the complex opened) and I have never experienced better service. The landscape has looked absolutely incredible, the people that live here are extremely...
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Our methodology
How we rank order the Ronkonkoma community options above
We developed a proprietary recommendation system that orders Ronkonkoma 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 senior apartments in the Long Island area
- What families are saying about senior apartments in Ronkonkoma
- How people pay for senior apartments on Long Island
- Understand New York laws and regulations for senior apartments
- What to expect from senior apartments on Long Island
- Explore senior care with confidence
- Unfamiliar with Long Island? Highlights for seniors
Costs of senior apartments in the Long Island area
The cost for a Long Island senior apartment ranges, varying widely in the hamlet of Ronkonkoma and surrounding areas. Typically, costs can range from $1,940 to $2,820.[01] Long Island offers a diversity of layout choices, ensuring many within the area can find a home that complements their budget.
Prices of senior apartments vary depending on location, floor plan, amenities, and other factors. The following figures represent the average baseline costs for the greater area and don’t include additional fees for services. These figures can help you compare baseline prices across the area.
Average monthly cost of Senior Apartments in Ronkonkoma, NY vs. nearby cities
Average monthly cost of Senior Apartments in Ronkonkoma, NY vs. the state and national average
Average monthly cost of Senior Apartments in Ronkonkoma vs. other types of senior living
Median monthly costs of Senior Apartments in Ronkonkoma, NY by room type
What families are saying about senior apartments in Ronkonkoma
Recent reviews for senior apartments in Ronkonkoma
The Arbors at Hauppauge
Riverhead Landing
Lake Shore Assisted Living Residence in Lake Ronkonkoma, NY
How people pay for senior apartments on Long Island
Senior apartments are typically paid for using assets accumulated throughout one’s life and retirement income. The sources mirror what typical funding sources would look like for paying rent at a traditional apartment.
Medicare and Medicaid don’t cover rent in senior apartments, as they’re not considered senior care facilities. However, if you plan on needing in-home care or are moving to an assisted living facility later, care services may be covered through those programs.
Many seniors turn to personal income and assets they’ve accumulated when planning to pay for rent at a senior apartment. These include 401(k)s, Roth and traditional IRAs, taxable brokerage accounts, Social Security benefits, pensions, and traditional savings accounts, among other sources.
New York has some friendly retirement tax laws that may help stretch seniors’ incomes when considering senior apartments. The following can also provide sources of income for residents pursuing private pay methods:
Number of veterans who live in Ronkonkoma
Approximately 80.5% of Ronkonkoma veterans are 65+
Long Island has a robust veteran population. If you’re a senior veteran or their surviving spouse, be sure to research potential benefits in the area for help with your costs of living. VA Pension and VA Aid and Attendance benefits are the most significant potential funding source and should be explored.
Veterans should find an advocate that can carefully examine these benefits to see which may be potentially helpful or applicable to your situation. You may be able to qualify for monthly income benefits that can support costs of living and in-home care at a senior apartment.
The VA application process is difficult and time-consuming. Approval is dependent on many complex factors, so working with qualified veteran service officer at your local veterans services organization (VSO) can dramatically improve application success rates and acceptance times. Veterans services officers at these VSOs will help you with determine your eligibility and assist with the claims process itself.
Depending on where a senior veteran or surviving spouse lives on Long Island, they should reach out to the nearest resource listed below. We provide contacts to the Suffolk County Veterans Service Agency and the New York State Department of Veterans’ Services, as well as local chapters of the Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW), American Legion, and the Disabled American Veterans.
Resources for Long Island veterans
Suffolk County Veterans Service Agency
H. Lee Dennison Building
100 Veterans Memorial Highway
Hauppauge, NY 11788-0099
Phone: 631-853-8387
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
New York State Department of Veterans’ Services
Suffolk County Center
300 Center Drive, 2nd Floor, Room N207
Riverhead, NY 11901
Phone: 631-852-1413
Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
Northport VA Medical Center
79 Middleville Road, Building 200, Room B1-36
Northport, NY 11768
Phone: 631-754-7980
Suffolk County Vietnam Veterans of America (VVA)
Long Island Chapter 11
286 Hawkins Road
Centereach, NY 11730
William Francis Taylor VFW Post 9486
570 4th St.
Ronkonkoma, NY 11779
Phone: 631-219-5678
Col. Francis S. Midura VFW Post 12144
1218 Old Nicholas Road
Islandia, NY 11749
Phone: 631-285-2379
New York State Medicaid’s goal is to provide low-income individuals with health care access. Medicaid doesn’t cover costs of living, like rent at a senior apartment, but it will provide essential health care services. Coverage includes hospital visits, rehabilitation care, and standard medical appointments. Suffolk County Department of Social Services (DSS) can provide home-based health care services if you are a senior living with a medical disability. Care can be provided wherever the senior calls home through Medicaid’s home and community based waiver programs.
Most Long Island residents can apply for Medicaid online through NY State of Health or by calling the helpline at 855-355-5777. You can apply for Medicaid services in-person at one of two Suffolk County Department of Social Services (DSS) locations. It’s important to note that Long Island seniors in Suffolk County who are 65 and older can’t apply online. Seniors 65+ must either mail in an application or bring it to one of the two DSS offices.
Seniors concerned that they’re not being treated fairly or are having their rights violated can contact the long-term care ombudsman in order to file a complaint or be connected with the appropriate resources. This program is provided through the Office of the Aging. Find more resources below.
Long Island Medicaid resources
New York State Medicaid
Phone: 855-355-5777
TTY: 1-800-662-1220
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Suffolk County Department of Social Services (West)
200 Wireless Blvd.
Hauppauge, NY 11788
Phone: 631-853-8408
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Suffolk County Department of Social Services (East)
300 Center Drive
Riverhead, NY 11901
Phone: 631-852-3570
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Medicaid application mailing address
PO Box 18100
Hauppauge, NY 11788
Nassau/Suffolk Hospital Council
Phone: 631-656-9783
Community Health Advocates
Phone: 888-614-5400
Public Health Solutions
Phone: 646-632-5986
Ombudsman coordinator — Yvette Boisnier
Family Service League
1444 Fifth Ave.
Bay Shore, NY 11706
Phone: 631-470-6755
Email: yvette.boisnier@fsl.li.org
Medicare does not cover costs of living, like rent at a senior apartment. But it can cover at-home care costs for medically necessary care services. Medicare is a federal health insurance program for individuals 65 years of age or older, as well as those with certain disabilities. It covers items such as standard doctor office visits, medical equipment, and hospital stays.
Seniors can apply for coverage at Medicare.gov and learn more about what Medicare covers. Long Island residents can seek out additional resource information from New York’s Health Insurance Information, Counseling, and Assistance Programs, which provide accurate and objective counseling about Medicare and related programs.
Ways to save with Medicare
On the financial side, there may be additional savings available for those who qualify under the Medicare Savings Program. On a fixed income, this savings program can provide valuable room in the budget. Seniors concerned about rising drug costs can also look into New York’s Elderly Pharmaceutical Insurance Coverage (EPIC) Program, which helps pay for Medicare Part D (drug costs) for seniors.
The Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) offers a comprehensive system of health care services for members 55 and older who would otherwise be living in a nursing home. Medicare and Medicaid both pay for PACE care services on a limited basis. PACE members must use PACE physicians. The program provides and arranges all inpatient hospital stays and long-term care services required by a PACE member.
The Suffolk County Office for the Aging has 50 senior advocate locations across Long Island to help seniors with their questions about Medicare and other services. You can check this Suffolk County Office for the Aging calendar to see when the senior advocates will be available.
If at any point during the Medicare process, you suspect that your rights or interests are being harmed, you should reach out to your local ombudsman. Ombudsman can advocate on your behalf and will help you contact the appropriate governmental entities to resolve the issue.
Long Island Medicare resources
Social Security Administration
75 Oak St.
Patchogue, NY 11772
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Social Security Administration
730 Federal Plaza, No. 7
Central Islip, NY 11722
Phone: 866-931-4494
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Suffolk County Ombudsman
Yvette Boisnier
1444 Fifth Ave.
Bay Shore, NY 11706
Phone: 631-470-6755
Email: yvette.boisnier@fsl-li.org
Suffolk County Office for the Aging
100 Veterans Memorial Highway
Hauppauge, NY 11788
Phone: 631-853-8200
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Public housing assistance may be available, depending on income eligibility, from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). You should inquire with apartment management to determine whether they accept HUD vouchers; the HUD Regional Office can also offer assistance.
Social Security Administration (SSA) benefits can be another valuable resource for seniors in need and a way to help pay for senior apartments. The amount a person can get monthly from Social Security benefits is dependent on which program they qualify for and what they’re eligible for. There are several different types of Social Security benefit programs:
- Social Security in retirement (also known as Social Security Retirement benefit/SSR): This is the benefit that people pay taxes for and accumulate work credits with over their lives. It does not require a disability.
- Social Security Disability Insurance (or SSDI): This benefit assists people with work credits who have a disability that keeps them from continuing to work.
- Supplemental Security Income (or SSI): This benefit requires a disability and no work credits. It’s specifically for people who have never worked. There is a hard ceiling for how much can be earned each month.
- Social Security survivor’s pension: This benefit does not require disability. It’s for widows and widowers of workers with work credits.
Like all other benefit programs, seniors should actively explore their ability to receive coverage and what monthly benefits can look like for them. The resources below — including the Long Beach Housing Authority and Suffolk County Department of Social Services — can provide valuable information on the housing and Social Security benefits mentioned above.
Long Island resident public assistance resources
Jacob K. Javits Federal Building
26 Federal Plaza
Suite 3541
New York, NY 10278
Phone: 212-264-8000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m – 5 p.m.
500 Center St.
Long Beach, NY 11561
Phone: 516 -431-2444
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Suffolk County Department of Social Services
MacArthur Building
3085 Veterans Memorial Highway
Ronkonkoma, NY 11779
Phone: 631-854-9930
Social Security Administration
75 Oak St.
Patchogue, NY 11772
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Social Security Administration — Central Islip
730 Federal Plaza, No. 7
Central Islip, NY 11722
Phone: 866-931-4494
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Understand New York laws and regulations for senior apartments
At a foundational level, New York does not have explicit licensing requirements for senior apartments, because they are rental properties for public use, not care facilities. However, there is an overlay of federal, state, and local laws that mandate a certain level of accessibility and standards that all rentals must follow across the state and country.
Federal protections for seniors: There are specific protections for seniors informed by the Fair Housing Act and the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). While an exhaustive review here is impossible, there are certain key protections that seniors should be aware of.
Accessibility requirements for multi-unit housing: All multi-unit (4 or higher) buildings must meet certain minimum design requirements, if built after March 13, 1991. This requires features like an accessible building entrance and reinforced walls in bathrooms for grab bars.[03] Under the ADA, public common spaces must be accessible to those with disabilities.
Reasonable accommodations: Landlords are required to provide reasonable accommodations to tenants. This standard means that, provided the request does not pose undue financial burden on a housing provider, they must provide the accommodation.
Further, even if the request is not reasonable, the landlord must then offer other accommodations that are reasonable. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) provides an informative Section 404 FAQ that outlines more of what disability accommodations look like in rental housing. Its reasonable accommodation section of the FAQ is especially helpful.
Reasonable modifications: Similar to reasonable accommodations, landlords are required to make modifications for tenants, provided it does not create an undue financial burden. Additionally, the landlord has an obligation to provide a solution up to the point that it does not constitute a burden.
These housing laws are complex, and those needing help with this issue, who feel their rights are being violated, should seek out qualified legal help or advocacy through the local housing authority. It’s also good to continue to check for updates in the ever-changing field of renter laws and regulations.
Before a property can be rented in Suffolk County, it must meet these pre-rental inspection guidelines. For comprehensive information on your rights, read this New York Residential Tenants’ Rights Guide.
New York Department of Health contact information
New York State Department of Health
Corning Tower
Empire State Plaza
Albany, NY 12237
Phone: 518-402-0836
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m – 5 p.m.
COVID-19 regulations for Long Island senior apartments communities
Senior apartments on Long Island may still have specific COVID-19 regulations. It’s important to ask about policies when looking at prospective apartments. However, the below guidelines are general recommendations from the New York State Department of Health.[04]
What to expect from senior apartments on Long Island
Senior apartments are great options meant to provide accessible and affordable housing for seniors. When searching for Long Island senior apartments, there will likely be an emphasis on function over amenities. But that’s not always the case. Because Long Island has an economically diverse and large population, there are also options at the top of the market that may contain high-end amenities and finishes.
Senior apartments help residents age seamlessly
Most senior apartments on Long Island are designed to minimize the challenges of daily life for seniors experiencing the natural effects of aging. For example, senior apartment layouts often feature the following:
- Ramps in high-traffic areas
- Grab bars in the bathrooms
- Elevators
- Railings
Sometimes, housekeeping and other convenient services like door-to-door trash pickup are built into the rental costs. Maintenance is always provided.
Luxury options
Long Island senior apartments often feature an array of convenient and enticing amenities. At the higher end of the price point, residents can typically expect the following:
- Kitchens with quartz or granite countertops
- Stainless steel appliances
- In-unit washers and dryers
- Spacious walk-in closets
- Private parking
As for the neighborhoods, you’ll generally find yourself situated conveniently close to golf courses, shopping, and dining options. Private balconies can also afford you gorgeous waterfront views in some locations.
Amenities for every budget
No matter which senior apartment complex you choose, you’ll have access to baseline amenities. It’s fairly standard for all complexes to have common areas for residents to socialize, a fitness center, and outdoor grills. Many apartment complexes also offer a swimming pool. The higher the price tag, the more amenities you can generally expect. Some of the higher end communities may even have features like the following:
- Putting greens
- Zen gardens
- Dog parks
- Walking trails
Some of these more upscale apartments will even have activity coordinators on staff to plan a variety of on-site and off-site activities for residents.
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Unfamiliar with Long Island? Highlights for seniors
Approximate number of seniors over the age of 65 currently living in Ronkonkoma on Long Island
Percentage of seniors 65 and older within the Ronkonkoma population
Median annual income for Ronkonkoma residents
Health care for seniors on Long Island
Long Island maintains an excellent health care system relative to its population density. Several hospitals rank among the top in the nation for care services that are important to seniors. We’ve highlighted a few below.
Long Island Jewish Medical Center
Long Island Jewish Medical Center is ranked seventh in New York. Nationally, it comes in at 40th in geriatrics. It’s a Northwell Health hospital.
Stony Brook University Hospital
Stony Brook has been placed in the nation’s top 1% by HealthGrades, which gave the facility its highest award in 2023 by naming it one of America’s 50 Best Hospitals.
South Shore University Hospital
U.S. News and World Report ranks South Shore University Hospital, another Northwell Health hospital, as 15th in the state. It also considers it high performing in 1 adult specialty and 13 procedures and conditions.
Transportation for seniors on Long Island
When transportation is needed, there are several local transportation options available in Long Island.
- The Nassau Intercounty Express(NICE bus) provides transportation throughout Nassau County and the western portions of Suffolk County for seniors.
- Suffolk County Transit provides transportation within the Suffolk County area of Long Island.
There are several services that cater specifically to seniors:
- Essential Transportation for seniors: This is a service that provides seniors with door-to-door transportation for essential services such as medical appointments and shopping.
- Able-Ride/Paratransit program: Those with needs that prevent them from using public transportation can use this service.
- Long Island rail road: Seniors age 65 and over may use their Medicare cards, driver’s license, or birth certificate to receive half-price fares for trains not arriving in New York City.
Long Island also has two ferry services that operate year-round. One crosses the Long Island Sound from Port Jefferson to Bridgeport, Connecticut. The other takes passengers to Fire Island and is operated by several different ferry companies.
The area is not considered highly walkable or bike-friendly, according to Walk Score. It ranks very low on a scale of 0 to 100.
Walk Score
Bike Score
Senior activities on Long Island
With its miles and miles of waterfront, there’s certainly plenty of natural beauty to take in on Long Island. But that’s not all there is to do. From attractions to shopping to dining, there’s plenty of entertainment for everyone.
Outdoor activities
For those looking for active outdoor options, there are more than 57 parks and reserves in the area to explore, bike, and hike. We highlight a few here:
- Jones Beach State Park
- Montauk Point State Park
- Robert Moses State Park
- Orient Beach State Park
- Bayard Cutting Arboretum State Park
Historical activities
With a long and rich history, seniors can explore the architecture of the area they live in and discover the past at the Montauk Historical Society. Explore their Second House, a house that dates back to 1746.
If a grander style is the preference, seniors can book a tour at the magnificent and accessible Oheka Castle and learn about its history and explore its gardens.
Food and drink activities
Those more interested in the here and now can find plenty of opportunities as well. Those looking for casual and relaxing venues with friends can explore places like the popular Jamesport Brewery. Or take a Long Island winery tour and enjoy all the scenic and serene areas Long Island has to offer. Winery tours are offered by a slew of private local companies.
For farm fresh goods, check out the Long Island Farmers Market.
Senior centers
Nassau County offers several senior centers for seniors who enjoy living independently in apartments but would like more community engagement. These senior centers often provide the following:
- Lunch programs
- Piano playing
- Pools
- Games like ping-pong
- Lending libraries
Long Island has millions of people and more senior centers than we can list! Seniors will find no shortage of activities to enjoy living on Long Island.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Arbors at Hauppauge, Amber Court of Smithtown and Lake Shore Assisted Living Residence are the top-rated Senior Apartments facilities near Ronkonkoma, NY. These Senior Apartments facilities received the highest rankings based on verified family reviews. See full list of communities.
The average cost of Senior Apartments in Ronkonkoma is $2,573 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.
United States Census Bureau. Ronkonkoma CDP, New York [Data set].
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Reasonable accommodations and modifications.
New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. COVID-19: data, maps, and reports.
U.S. News and World Report. (2022). Long Island Jewish Medical Center at Northwell Health.
U.S. News and World Report. (2022). South Shore University Hospital at Northwell Health.
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