The supportive environment of an assisted living community provides 24-hour caregivers who help with everyday tasks, and it fosters a maintenance-free lifestyle that enables seniors to stay active and engaged. In Chicago, the monthly cost of assisted living averages $5,941. Compared with the Illinois median of $4,742 and the national average of $4,459, Chicago is a costly city for older adults seeking long-term care options.
AssistedLiving.org spent dozens of hours researching the top assisted living communities in the Chicago area to allow seniors and their families to find the community that’s right for them. Click through the facilities listed below to read in-depth reviews, what residents are saying, and details such as base pricing, room types, and more.
Glen St. Andrew is a Catholic facility that offers assisted living and other types of aging care,…
4.5
Average of 51 reviews
Reviews gathered from around the web
Arbour Health Care Center
1512 West Fargo, Chicago, IL 32809
Assisted Living
Skilled Nursing
Memory Care
Located a few short blocks from Lake Michigan, the Arbour Health Care Center has been serving Chicago’s…
2.25
Average of 17 reviews
Reviews gathered from around the web
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COVID-19 Rules for Assisted Living in Chicago, Illinois
For assisted living communities, COVID-19 rules and regulations are typically set at the state level. You can view specific rules on our guide to assisted living in Illinois. These rules change often, and many communities have policies in place that go above and beyond what’s required by the state, so you should contact your local community for more information. Additionally, you can contact your local Area Agency on Aging to learn more.
How to Pay for Assisted Living in Chicago, Illinois
According to Genworth’s reporting, seniors can expect to pay roughly $4,825 per month for assisted living care in the Chicago area. This figure also covers data from nearby cities Naperville and Elgin, which comprise part of Chicago’s western suburbs.
Assisted Living in Chicago vs. Nearby Cities
While Chicago’s monthly assisted living cost of $4,825 is higher than the Illinois average of $4,488 and the U.S. average of $4,500, it’s not the most expensive location in the state. State capital Springfield carries average assisted living costs of $5,110, and Rockford’s costs are slightly higher ($5,250). Prices are significantly lower in Decatur, coming in at $4,382. The least expensive options are located in the Carbondale area, where Genworth reports relatively low assisted living prices of just $3,525 per month.
Chicago: $4,825
Illinois: $4,488
U.S.: $4,500
Decatur: $4,382
Springfield: $5,110
Carbondale: $3,525
Rockford: $5,250
Assisted Living vs. Other Types of Care in Chicago, Illinois
At $1,842 a month, adult day care is far the least expensive option for long-term care in Chicago, but it doesn’t cover evening, overnight and weekend care. Seniors can also opt to receive care at home through homemaker or home health aide care. Home health aide care is generally more robust than homemaker care, and that’s reflected in the $48 more per month seniors pay. At $6,996 a month, a semiprivate room in a nursing home is nearly $2,200 more expensive than assisted living.
Homemaker: $5,672
Home Health Aide: $5,720
Adult Day Care: $1,842
Assisted Living: $4,825
Nursing Home (semiprivate room): $6,996
Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Chicago, Illinois.
Other Ways to Pay for Assisted Living in Chicago, Illinois
Since not everyone can afford to pay for assisted living out-of-pocket, it’s important to find alternative methods to help make assisted living more affordable. Some of these options include:
Located just across the street from Millennium Park, this senior center functions as a social hub for Chicago adults age 60 and up. In addition to offering fitness programs, art classes and music performances, Renaissance Court participates in the city’s Golden Diners program and serves congregate meals every weekday.
Offered by the State of Illinois, this free health insurance counseling service helps the state’s older adults navigate policies regarding Medicare. The program’s counselors can assist seniors or their caregivers in the process of filing Medicare-related claims and can also explain the benefits and drawbacks of private and other types of insurance.
The SLP is designed to help low-income seniors afford some costs of assisted living and nursing home care by using a waiver to pay for elements that fall outside Medicaid’s normal coverage potential. Such elements include laundry service, personal care, medication assistance and some recreational and social activities.
This state-established program ensures that older adults who are looking into entering a long-term care facility are properly educated about their options. The program’s Care Coordinators usually conduct assessments of needs right before patients are released from area hospitals, but assessments can also take place in community or long-term care facility environments.
The CARPLS hotline is based in Cook County and connects Chicago residents with pro bono legal advice directly from attorneys. In addition to offering help with legal issues relevant to seniors, such as guardianship and estate matters, CARPLS attorneys can refer callers to legal organizations for courtroom representation.
Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Chicago, Illinois
Assisted Living Communities in Chicago are required to follow a set of rules and regulations that are determined by the state. For more specific information, talk with your local community or Area Agency on Aging.
The Top Assisted Living Communities in the Chicago Area
In order to find the top assisted living communities in the Chicago area, our team of researchers:
Sorted through 114 communities using our unique methodology
Spent over 43 hours researching assisted living communities in Chicago
Read more than 912 reviews left by residents and their family members
After filtering out facilities that didn’t meet our high standards, we were left with 29 assisted living communities that earned our seal of approval. Through this process we discovered that the average cost of assisted living in the city of Chicago is $4,825, which is higher than the state average of $4,488 and also higher than the national average of $4,500.
Christina Drumm-Boyd
Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) and Geriatric Care Manager (GCM)
Christina Drumm-Boyd
Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) and Geriatric Care Manager (GCM)
Christina is a Certified Senior Advisor (CSA) and Geriatric Care Manager (GCM) who is passionate about seniors and their families. Along with her staff, Christina works hands-on with each client to find the best solutions for the challenges that often come with aging.
Read on for in-depth information about the top assisted living facilities in Chicago, a brief dive into our methodology for determining the best assisted living communities, and a searchable directory of 114 communities in the Chicago area.
How to Pay for Assisted Living in Chicago, IL
Determining how to finance assisted living often starts with the question, “What’s the cost?” In today’s economy, where inflation plays a significant role, having current data is crucial for senior living financial planning. AssistedLiving.org has gathered cost information from its expansive network of over 75,000 senior living providers. This data offers a glimpse into the average expenses for assisted living in Chicago and 110 additional cities within Illinois.
How Inflation Has Impacted the Cost of Assisted Living in Chicago, IL
Across the county, assisted living costs continue to fluctuate, prompting the need for retirement planning earlier than ever. In Chicago, prices rose 10% between 2022 and 2023, climbing to $5,941. Nearby suburban cities of Elgin, Aurora and Naperville also experienced cost increases on par with the 10% rise nationwide but have lower monthly prices. Across Illinois, however, rates have dropped over 4% to an average of $4,742 per month.
Looking forward, costs are projected to continue rising at a similar rate. Assisted living expenses are anticipated to reach $6,398 in Chicago, while the national average will climb to $4,802 monthly.
Location
2022 Cost (Historical)
2023 Cost (Current)
2024 Cost (Estimated)
Chicago
$5,423
$5,941
$6,398
U.S. Average
$4,070
$4,459
$4,802
Illinois
$4,959
$4,742
$5,313
Elgin
$4,716
$5,167
$5,564
Aurora
$4,364
$4,781
$5,149
Naperville
$3,410
$3,736
$4,023
Assisted Living vs. Other Types of Care in Chicago, IL
The cost of senior living varies based on the type of care and services it provides. In Chicago, assisted living communities charge $5,941 monthly and provide 24/7 staff, daily support and wellness activities. As cognitive needs change, older adults may require memory care, which offers specialized support at a higher rate of $6,582. However, active seniors can save significantly in choosing independent living communities, which cost just $2,692 monthly for private accommodations and campus amenities.
Care Type
Cost
Assisted Living
$5,941
Memory Care
$6,582
Independent Living
$2,692
Free and Low-Cost Assisted Living Resources for Seniors in
Numerous resources are available in Chicago, Illinois to support seniors during their retirement. AssistedLiving.org has gathered data on local groups, initiatives, and agencies, and organized them according to care categories for convenient access.
For details about resources across the state and in neighboring cities, please visit the Illinois state page on assistedliving.org.
Area Agency on Aging
Your local Chicago Area Agency on Aging is a valuable resource for retirees, offering guidance on financial aid, in-home care, and long-term care planning. They also link seniors and caregivers to community resources.
Illinois’ Area Agencies on Aging play a crucial role in providing essential services and support to older adults and their caregivers. These agencies offer a diverse range of programs aimed at promoting independent living, overall well-being, and optimal health. AAAs conduct thorough assessments to identify individual needs, develop personalized care plans, and facilitate connections to vital services such as transportation, meal programs, and in-home assistance. Additionally, they offer valuable counseling on Medicare, Medicaid, and other benefits, ensuring seniors have access to the resources they need to age gracefully and maintain their dignity. These agencies also serve as advocates for seniors, ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met.
Financial Assistance for Senior Care
Financial aid is available for seniors in Chicago who prefer to age in place. Various local entities provide support for expenses like home care, home adjustments, and utility bills.
The Illinois Emergency Homeowner Assistance Fund offers financial support to low-income individuals who are experiencing financial difficulties. Eligible residents can receive grants of up to $30,000 to help them catch up on overdue mortgage and property tax payments, homeowners insurance payments, mobile home lot rent, or homeowner association fees.
Financial Assistance for Senior Care and Senior Living
Seniors in Chicago, whether residing independently or in a senior living facility, have access to various local financial aid options. These entities assist in offsetting certain in-home or long-term care expenses and link them to beneficial community resources.
The Elderly Waiver is a program designed to provide Home and Community-Based (HCBS) services to seniors who need nursing-level care. Its primary goal is to enable elderly individuals to receive the necessary support and assistance in their own homes, thereby preventing the need for institutionalization. The program covers various services, including homemaker assistance, adult day care, and the provision of essential devices like automated medication dispensers and personal emergency response systems.
The Supportive Living Facilities waiver is available to seniors who are covered by Medicaid. This program offers personal care services to individuals who live independently in their own communities. It is a self-directed program that allows participants to customize it according to their specific needs.
Food Assistance Programs
In Chicago, various local initiatives are dedicated to promoting senior health through balanced nutrition. They offer services like meal delivery, communal dining, and food banks, ensuring elderly residents have access to affordable, nutritious food.
Food pantries and banks provide assistance to low-income households by offering a variety of non-perishable food items, including canned foods, pasta, and cereals. These pantries are managed by independent organizations, each with their own specific eligibility criteria for individuals seeking support.
Meals on Wheels is a non-profit organization that operates multiple branches throughout Illinois, dedicated to delivering nutritious and well-balanced meals to senior citizens. In addition to providing nourishing food, our dedicated volunteers also conduct regular wellness checks to ensure the well-being of our recipients. During the delivery process, we offer brief opportunities for socialization and companionship, fostering a sense of community and connection for our senior citizens.
Free Used Medical Equipment
In Chicago, numerous groups are addressing the steep expense of new medical equipment. They gather gently used items like wheelchairs, ramps, and walkers, providing them to local seniors and individuals in need.
Devices 4 the Disabled is a non-profit organization that gathers donated equipment and redistributes it to individuals in need. Our inventory typically consists of essential supplies such as wheelchairs, hospital beds, and walkers.
Home Repair and Modifications
In Chicago, numerous programs are available to aid seniors and individuals with disabilities in financing home modifications and repairs. These programs, offering grants or loans, have diverse eligibility requirements specifically designed for retirees.
This program offers older adults the opportunity to seek help for enhancing the weather resistance of their homes. Eligible upgrades include air sealing, insulation, HVAC repair or replacement, water heater repair or replacement, and ventilation services.
Legal Resources
In Chicago, numerous agencies provide affordable or complimentary legal assistance to the elderly. They offer counsel on matters like estate management, living wills, and power of attorney. Some even serve as advocates for seniors’ rights in long-term care facilities.
Chicago attorneys have joined forces with the city and CARPLS to offer valuable legal support to seniors. Through this partnership, they provide complimentary assistance on a range of senior-specific legal matters, including Power of Attorney, Living Wills, and Guardianship. Seniors and their caregivers can easily access this support by calling the free legal hotline. Take the first step towards resolving your legal concerns by reaching out today.
The Illinois Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program provides a valuable connection between seniors residing in assisted living and other long-term care facilities and advocates who are dedicated to ensuring their well-being. Through this program, representatives from the Ombudsman Program offer assistance to seniors and their families in resolving concerns or investigating allegations of abuse and neglect within long-term care facilities. This essential service is available to all residents at no cost.
This nonprofit organization provides free legal assistance to low-income seniors. They specialize in handling a range of civil matters, such as debt collection, tax disputes, and consumer fraud cases. Additionally, they offer support to clients in accessing government benefits like Medicare and SSI. It’s important to note that they are unable to provide assistance in criminal cases.
Senior Centers
In Chicago, senior centers serve as a hub for older adults, providing recreational activities, events, and valuable resources. These centers also offer wellness programs, nutritional guidance, and assistance with senior-related concerns.
Catholic Charities, a local nonprofit organization in Skokie, offers a variety of services and programs tailored for individuals aged 60 and over. With a team of dedicated attorneys, they provide complimentary basic legal advice and referral services. Additionally, Catholic Charities conducts eligibility screenings for public benefits, including Medicaid coverage, Medicare cost sharing, and prescription drug assistance programs.
Central West Center in Chicago, IL, is part of a network of senior centers in the city that offer a wide range of resources for older adults. Seniors, whether they are active or fragile, or reside in care facilities, can benefit from various services provided by the center. These services include assistance in accessing potential state and federal benefits for individuals over the age of 60, provision of daily nutritious meals, access to satellite senior centers for engaging activities, and much more.
The Copernicus Senior Center in Chicago, IL, is a dedicated hub for individuals aged 60 and above seeking assistance and resources. Operating from Monday to Friday, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., the center offers a range of services to support older adults in the Greater Chicago area. Seniors can access valuable information on over 70 federal, state, and local benefits programs, as well as receive guidance in navigating assisted living options. Additionally, the center provides opportunities for social interaction through congregate meals, where seniors can enjoy nutritious dining in a welcoming atmosphere. Other services include hosting senior flu shot clinics, offering care coordination referrals, and providing caregiving assistance.
The Levy Senior Center, located in the Lincoln Square neighborhood of Chicago, IL, provides a welcoming space for individuals aged 60+ and their spouses to engage in social activities, enjoy nutritious meals, and participate in recreational programs throughout the week. Additionally, it serves as the designated Northeast Regional Center for the Chicago Department of Family and Support Services, enabling our dedicated staff to offer direct access to a wide range of assistance programs. These include home-delivered meals, eligibility tests for benefits, housekeeping services, and transportation options.
Senior Engagement
In Chicago, a variety of programs and resources are available for seniors to stay engaged and active. These include wellness initiatives, volunteering options, and support networks, all aimed at fostering community involvement and enhancing life quality.
The Cincinnati chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association offers a range of resources, programs, and information to support individuals with dementia and their families. These services encompass a helpline, educational programs, counseling, care consultation services, and a network of family support groups.
The Rush Alzheimer’s Disease Center is a nationally funded center, supported by the National Institute on Aging, that provides a range of services for individuals affected by Alzheimer’s disease. These services include comprehensive psychological and neurological evaluations, as well as consultations with experienced physicians who specialize in the treatment of Alzheimer’s patients. Additionally, the center conducts research aimed at advancing our understanding of dementia-related diseases, with a particular focus on developing innovative approaches for diagnosis and treatment.
Social Security Offices
In Chicago, Social Security offices provide essential services to seniors and individuals with disabilities. They offer guidance on retirement benefits, disability allowances, and Supplemental Security Income.
Social Security serves as a financial resource for individuals who have reached retirement age or are unable to work due to a disability. The funding for Social Security is derived from a payroll tax imposed on employers, employees, and self-employed individuals. Upon retirement, beneficiaries are entitled to receive monthly payments based on their previous earnings.
Tax Assistance
Numerous tax aid resources are available in Chicago for senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. These include potential exemptions on medical costs, property tax reductions, and other tax relief initiatives.
Illinois provides a range of tax exemptions and exceptions for seniors, individuals with disabilities, and Veterans. The criteria for these exemptions differ, but for seniors, most necessitate applicants to be at least 65 years old and belong to a low-to-moderate-income household.
Transportation Assistance
For seniors in Chicago struggling with private transportation, help is at hand. Community services are available to aid the elderly and disabled in their local travels, facilitating errands and appointments within the city.
Skokie’s ADA Paratransit service provides convenient transportation options for seniors with limited mobility. This service offers shared rides and personalized transportation services to help seniors navigate the area for their personal trips. Seniors can easily sign up for Paratransit and schedule advance-notice rides for any purpose within the Skokie service radius.
The Chicago Senior Transportation Program offers seniors the convenience of emergency medical transportation and door-to-door service. This program serves as a reliable transportation option for seniors residing in assisted living facilities that do not provide transportation services. With minimal costs involved, seniors can easily navigate the city and access the transportation they need.
Utility & Energy Bill Assistance
Organizations are available to aid low-income seniors in Chicago struggling with home maintenance costs, including utility and energy bills. Emergency funding may also be accessible for those at risk of utility service termination due to unpaid bills.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is designed to assist low-income households in maintaining essential utilities, even in times of financial hardship. It offers financial support for heating expenses during the winter season and occasionally extends assistance for other home energy services throughout the year. In certain cases, LIHEAP may also provide funding for water and wastewater bills.
Veteran’s Services
Veteran services in Chicago offer invaluable assistance to retired military personnel. These local entities guide veterans in utilizing their rightful benefits and provide counsel on diverse matters.
In Illinois, there are multiple Veterans Administration centers that serve as valuable resources for veterans and their spouses. These centers assist in connecting them to senior care and residential options that they qualify for, along with other benefits earned through their military service.
The Chicago Vet Center offers free counseling services to veterans in the local community. Our services include couples and family therapy to address a range of issues, such as communication, partner distress, problem-solving, domestic abuse, child behavioral challenges, and expectations after deployment. We also provide individual and group counseling to help individuals dealing with depression, anxiety, anger, and PTSD. Additionally, we offer minority veteran care to assist minority veterans in accessing resources and building community connections. For added convenience, we offer remote appointments for easy access to care.
The Jesse Brown Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Chicago, IL, provides a wide range of specialized healthcare services for veterans and returning service members. Our medical center offers various programs and services, including alternative medicine, mental health care, vision care, prescription fulfillment, physical therapy, and post-surgical follow-up care. Our dedicated counselors are available to assist veterans with a range of issues, such as financial concerns, suicide prevention, cognitive impairments, homelessness, and recovery from military sexual trauma.
Our Methodology
It’s not what we research, but the way we research that makes AssistedLiving.org stand out. We start by identifying problems and challenges in the senior care industry by gaining insight from conversations with industry professionals, older adults, and those that care for them. Next, our research team led by industry experts apply our data-driven research techniques to understand the magnitude of the challenge and how to overcome it. Finally, we present our findings in easy-to-understand guides and studies and share our actionable results with influencers and caregivers, as well as the general public.
Facility Features (40%)
Facility Health Services Graded on health services provided on the facility including, but not limited to, on-site nursing, pharmacy, skilled nursing, medicine administration, etc
Facility Amenities Graded on the available amenities.
Affordability Financial assistance acceptance and overall costs and value.
Residential Quality (40%)
Resident Satisfaction Polling & survey of overall facility satisfaction.
Facility Complaint and Violations Number of complaints and violations the facility had. Taking into account improvement over time.
Location-Based Benefits Including, but not limited to, proximity to hospitals, ambulance response times, senior resources available, and state and city financial assistance.
Location Quality Local crime rates, incidents against older adults, air quality, climate.
