Greenville, South Carolina, senior apartments are surrounded by the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains in a city steeped in history. The city is anchored around Falls Park, which has beautiful green space, a waterfall, trails, and the breathtaking Liberty Bridge. This locale is an ideal choice for seniors.
Senior apartments in Greenville offer a comfortable housing option for active, independent seniors. These units are designed with senior-friendly accessibility features, including wide doorways and elevators. Because they’re not care facilities, senior apartments do not provide health care services or assistance with daily living tasks. This guide provides in-depth information on associated costs, laws and regulations, local health care options, transportation, and things to do in and around Greenville.
These women take such good care of my grandmother. They are to her generally within 4 minutes of her clicking her call button. They're nurse [name removed] who is on staff is in constant communication with...
What we like the most about Viva Senior Living is definitely the people the employees there are very caring very considerate. I had also a lot of fun. None of the residents say they like the food, though...
It is wonderful they are absolutely fantastic all around and have been very helpful to my husband. He is now in hospice and that portion is also absolutely outstanding.
Pre COVID they had daily activities the residents could participate in. The activities director was wonderful and always encouraged our loved one to get engaged. Her communication with us was excellent. The...
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The average monthly cost for senior apartments in Greenville is about $1,405.[01] This cost can vary quite a bit depending on the size of the floor plan and what amenities the apartment offers. The monthly cost of a senior apartment typically includes rent, utilities, and access to any amenities or services the apartment offers. However, some senior apartment communities may have additional fees.
The following costs represent the average costs of senior apartments across the greater Greenville area, not including any additional fees or extras.
Because senior apartment communities aren’t covered by programs like Medicare, Medicaid, or long-term care insurance, most seniors use their private resources to pay for rent at senior apartments in Greenville. However, Medicaid, Medicare, or long-term care insurance may help seniors pay for medically necessary in-home care services.
In this section, we’ve gathered information on private pay options, housing assistance, VA benefits, Medicare, and Medicaid resources.
Like any other apartment rent, most seniors pay out of their own pockets to live in senior apartments. Sources of income are varied, including Social Security benefits, pensions, savings accounts, investment returns, and the following:
While veterans don’t get specific compensation for senior apartments, Veterans’ Pensions can certainly be used to help pay for rent at a senior apartment. The VA has additional benefits that can help alleviate financial hardship for people who need in-home care. The most generous is the Aid and Attendance benefit, which is paid in addition to the Veteran’s Pension and can be used to help eligible senior veterans or their surviving spouses cover the costs of anything that improves their life, including a senior apartment.[03]
If senior veterans in Greenville need help applying for VA benefits, the local Greenville County Office of Veterans Affairs is the first place to go. Walk-ins are only allowed on certain days, so an appointment is recommended. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has a regional benefit office in nearby Columbia that offers claims assistance as well.
The Greenville Housing Authority administers a Veterans Affairs supportive housing program. Known as HUD-VASH, this voucher program is aimed specifically at homeless vets. But, if a senior meets the eligibility requirements, the assistance can be used for rent.
Non-profit organizations can help veterans navigate the complex world of veterans’ benefits. We recommend working with Veterans Service Organizations (VSOs) since these organizations have been vetted and approved by the VA.
In Greenville, Upstate Warrior Solution provides advocates to help with benefits coordination. They’re connected to the Upstate Veterans Alliance Network (UVAN), a collaboration of more than 200 community resources and organizations across several counties, including Greenville County. The Greenville American Legion is another valuable resource, with VSO representatives who can provide free assistance with VA benefits claims.
Number of veterans who live in Greenville as of 2021
About 45% of Greenville veterans are 65+
Resources for Greenville veterans
Greenville County VA Office
301 University Ridge
Suite N-T300
Greenville County Square
Greenville, SC 29601
Phone: 864-467-7230
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Regional Benefit Office of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
6437 Garners Ferry Road
Columbia, SC 29209
Phone: 800-827-1000
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. (opens at 8:30 a.m. on Wednesdays)
The Greenville Housing Authority
122 Edinburgh Court
Greenville, SC 29607
Phone: 864-467-4250
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Upstate Warrior Solution
PO Box 27232
Greenville, SC 29615
Phone: 864-520-2073
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Friday, 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
American Legion Post #3
430 N Main St.
Greenville, SC 29601
Phone: 864-271-2000
Fax: 864-271-8793
Email: talp3sc@outlook.com
South Carolina’s Medicaid program for seniors, called Healthy Connections, does not pay for senior apartments. However, if a senior needs care while living in the apartment, various needs are covered for qualified seniors through home and community based services (HCBS) waivers. The Community Choices waiver, for those qualifying as frail elderly, can be used for the following kinds of assistance and products:[04]
Before seniors can apply for the Community Choices waiver, they’ll first need to apply for Medicaid. They can apply online for Healthy Connections (Medicaid) or in person at the local Medicaid eligibility office in Greenville.
Some organizations help seniors navigate the application process and find services, such as SC Thrive and the Appalachian Council of Governments, which acts as the Greenville Area Agency on Aging. The Medicaid handbook is also a helpful reference.
South Carolina is one of 15 states to offer coordinated care for seniors who are eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare. This dual program for people 65 and older is called Healthy Connections Prime. The ombudsman can help seniors who are enrolled in Healthy Connections Prime navigate the dual program.
Greenville resident Medicaid resources
Greenville’s Healthy Connections Eligibility Office
352 Halton Road
Greenville, SC 29607
Phone: 864-467-7926
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
120 Research Drive
Columbia, SC 29203
Phone: 800-726-8774
Email: contact@scthrive.org
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
The Appalachian Council of Governments
30 Century Circle
Greenville, SC 29207
Phone: 864-242-9733
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Healthy Connections Prime Advocate (Ombudsman)
1301 Gervais St.
Suite 350
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 844-477-4632
Email: primeadvocate@aging.sc.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Medicare, which is the 65+ federal health insurance program, doesn’t cover rent for a senior apartment. However, it does help with in-home care a senior might need while living in a senior apartment.[05]
For help navigating Medicare, South Carolina State Health Insurance Program (SHIP) counselors can lend a hand. This free service operated by the Appalachian Area Agency on Aging can help seniors and their families or loved ones understand Medicare plans. They can explain additional coverage options and even help seniors enroll in low-income assistance programs if they meet the requirements. The South Carolina Department on Aging operates GetCareSC to help residents connect with local resources. Seniors can sign up for Medicare through the Social Security Administration.
South Carolina offers an AIDS Drug Assistance Program through Medicare for seniors living with AIDS or who are HIV positive to help them get necessary medications. However, the program is limited to select pharmacies.
South Carolina is one of just a few states to offer coordinated care for seniors who are eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare. This dual program for people 65 and older is called Healthy Connections Prime. The ombudsman can help seniors who are enrolled in Healthy Connections Prime navigate the dual program.
Greenville resident Medicare resources
Social Security Administration — Greenville
319 Pelham Road
Greenville, SC 29615
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Appalachia Area Agency on Aging
30 Century Circle
Greenville, SC 29607
Phone: 864-242-9733
Email: adrc@scacog.org
South Carolina Department on Aging
1301 Gervais St.
Suite 350
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-734-9900
Fax: 803-734-9886
Healthy Connections Prime Advocate (Ombudsman)
1301 Gervais St.
Suite 350
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 844-477-4632
Email: primeadvocate@aging.sc.gov
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.
For seniors who meet certain income requirements, public assistance is an option to help pay for senior apartment expenses. The Greenville Housing Authority can help seniors through the Housing Choice Voucher (HCV) program. Low-income seniors who qualify for this federal program can use this subsidy to pay for rent at their senior apartment, provided the landlord is willing to accept the vouchers. This rental assistance program is popular and often requires being on a waitlist.
Seniors can contact the South Carolina field office of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) with questions about HUD rental programs, including the HCV program.
Social Security benefits are another way seniors can pay for senior apartment rent. There are several types of Social Security benefits. Which one you might be entitled to depends on your current situation and work history. Here’s a breakdown of each Social Security benefit:
The Social Security Administration has a Greenville office near the intersection of Pelham and Haywood. For help from senior or disability advocacy organizations, Greenville seniors can call the Disability Rights South Carolina state helpline or reach out to the Appalachian Council of Governments.
Greenville resident public assistance resources
The Greenville Housing Authority
122 Edinburgh Court
Greenville, SC 29607
Phone: 864-467-4250
Hours: Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Columbia Field Office of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development
1835 Assembly St.
13th Floor
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 803-765-5925
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 4:45 p.m.
Greenville County Human Relations Commission
301 University Ridge
Suite 1600
Greenville, SC 29601
Phone: 864-467-7095
Social Security Administration – Greenville
319 Pelham Road
Greenville, SC 29615
Phone: 800-772-1213
Hours: Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Disability Rights South Carolina
3710 Landmark Drive
Suite 208
Columbia, SC 29204
Phone: 866-275-7273
The Appalachian Council of Governments
30 Century Circle
Columbia, SC 29207
Phone: 864-242-9733
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Senior apartments typically rent units to adults who are 55 and older, and they may offer services such as housekeeping, transportation, and social activities. These communities don’t provide any medical or nursing care to residents. They also don’t have the same regulatory requirements as assisted living facilities or nursing homes.
The laws and regulations for senior apartments in Greenville are generally the same as those for rentals throughout the state. Some of the key regulations that apply to senior apartments in Greenville include the following:
Rental properties in Greenville are subject to inspections by the city or county. Inspections may be conducted by various agencies, including the following:
These inspections may be conducted regularly or in response to complaints from tenants or other members of the public. It’s possible to request inspection reports for rental properties in Greenville. The specific process for requesting these reports may vary depending on the agency responsible for conducting the inspections.
It is important to note that there may be a fee associated with obtaining inspection reports, and the available information may vary depending on the agency and the circumstances of the inspection.
Senior apartments in Greenville are available for adults ages 55 and up. Some complexes have income requirements, especially those that offer affordable housing or participate in the Housing Choice Voucher program. It’s important to note that the requirements for senior apartments may vary depending on the specific apartment complex or community.
South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control
2600 Bull St.
Columbia, SC 29201
Phone: 855-472-3432
Hours: Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.
There are no specific COVID-19 regulations for senior apartment communities in Greenville. However, individual senior apartments may have their own guidelines, so it’s best to check with the specific complex you’re interested in.
View the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)’s latest COVID-19 guidelines for the most up-to-date recommendations. For local information and the latest guidance, refer to the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control.
Senior apartments are a great option for active and independent Greenville seniors. They offer more accessibility options than regular apartments, with features such as hallway handrails and wider doorways. In general, senior apartments don’t provide health care services or assistance with tasks of daily living. What they do provide, though, is access to a lot of great amenities and services.
Senior apartments typically offer residents access to amenities such as a pool, fitness center, or clubhouse. Some complexes may offer picnic areas, grills, and fire pits for residents to use. Though more common in independent living communities, some senior apartments may also offer planned activities and even access to a concierge.
Many senior apartments are pet friendly, making it easier for those with dogs or cats to find an apartment they like. Keep in mind, though, that some require you to pay a fee for having your pet with you, and some have breed restrictions.
Greenville’s senior apartment scene features updated apartment units, with modern touches like stainless steel appliances, granite countertops, and brushed nickel hardware. Patio and balcony units are also available at many of Greenville’s senior apartment complexes. Additionally, seniors can have peace of mind knowing they have access to on-site maintenance services, too.
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Greenville is the largest city in South Carolina’s region known as the Upstate. The area has a lot to offer in the health care landscape. In fact, Prisma Health and Bon Secours are two of the area’s largest employers.[07]
Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital
This facility boasts the area’s only certified comprehensive stroke center. It has also been recognized as a high performer in heart failure and colon cancer surgery.
This facility is built on a foundation of Catholic values and social justice with a focus on contributing to the health of the community. The providers have consistently scored in the top 1% in the nation for providing the highest clinical quality year over year.
Driving is Greenville’s primary mode of transportation, while public transportation is fairly limited. Greenlink, the city’s public transit, has 11 fixed routes across Greenville County. The buses have bike racks if you want to use a combination of biking and public transportation. All buses are wheelchair-accessible. There’s also a free trolley in the downtown area.
Senior-specific transportation is provided by Senior Solutions to all of Upstate South Carolina, which includes Greenville County. More than 60 vans are available to take you to appointments or daily errands.
While the most common mode of transportation throughout Greenville is driving, the downtown area is very walkable and bikeable. The following transportation scores are based on public density, walking routes, public transportation options, biking trails, and other factors.[10]
Greenville is a beautiful, historic city with opportunities for enjoying everything from the great outdoors to culinary delights. Surrounded by lakes and the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Greenville is known for several must-see waterfalls. Visit Greenville’s guide for help finding them.
Interested in checking out downtown or the other beautiful outdoor spaces? Book a tour on an electric bike at Pedego Greenville or Reedy Rides, or try a Greenville Glides Segway tour. You can also go at your own pace and check out the Mice on Main scavenger hunt.
Downtown Greenville hosts several events and celebrations throughout the year.
Museum & Gallery has been called one of America’s largest and most interesting collections of European Old Master paintings, according to the Greenville Visitor Center.
The Greenville County Parks and Recreation Department hosts a wide variety of senior activities, including pickleball tournaments, gardening classes, and an annual Harvest Ball, complete with dinner and dancing.
Greenville seniors looking to connect with the community and their peers should look into the city’s senior centers and programs, including:
Manning Square, Viva Senior Living at Easley and Windsor House Greenville are the top-rated Senior Apartments facilities near Greenville, SC. 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 Greenville is $3,970 per month. This cost may vary based on location, amenities, floorplan, level of care and other factors.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom internal research.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2023). VA Aid and Attendance Benefits and Housebound Allowance.
South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. (2021, July 1). Application for 1915(c) HCBS Waiver: SC.0405.R04.02.
U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. (2023). Home health services.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
Upstate SC Alliance. (2022). Data resources: Major employers.
US News & World Report. (2023). Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital.
Healthgrades. (2023). St. Francis Downtown.
Walk Score. (2023). Living in Greenville.
Ask an A Place for Mom local advisor at no cost.
A Place for Mom. (2023). A Place for Mom internal research.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Veteran status (S2101) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. (2023). VA Aid and Attendance Benefits and Housebound Allowance.
South Carolina Department of Health and Human Services. (2021, July 1). Application for 1915(c) HCBS Waiver: SC.0405.R04.02.
U.S. Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. (2023). Home health services.
United States Census Bureau. (2021). Population 65 years and over in the United States (S0103) [Data Set]. American Community Survey.
Upstate SC Alliance. (2022). Data resources: Major employers.
US News & World Report. (2023). Prisma Health Greenville Memorial Hospital.
Healthgrades. (2023). St. Francis Downtown.
Walk Score. (2023). Living in Greenville.