Assisted living communities serve seniors who need help with daily tasks such as bathing, grooming and taking medication. They also offer holistic wellness programs, convenient amenities and engaging events to help older adults stay active and socialize. In Columbus, assisted living facilities cost $4,409 monthly on average. This figure is slightly lower than Ohio's statewide mean of $4,478 and national average of $4,459, making Columbus a relatively affordable place to shop for senior care.
The Assisted Living Research Institute spent dozens of hours researching the top assisted living communities in the Columbus 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.
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In order to find the top assisted living communities in the Columbus area, our team of researchers:
Sorted through 44 communities using our unique methodology
Spent over 66 hours researching assisted living communities in Columbus
Read more than 352 reviews left by residents and their family members
After filtering out facilities that didn’t meet our high standards, we were left with 26 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 Columbus is $4,085, which is lower than the state average of $4,635 and also lower than the national average of $4,500.
Jonathan Frank
Licensed Social Worker and Certified Dementia Practitioner
Jonathan Frank
Licensed Social Worker and Certified Dementia Practitioner
Jonathan Frank is a Licensed Social Worker with over 10 years experience working with the geriatric population in a variety of different settings. He received his Masters degree from Rutgers University with a certificate in Aging and Gerontological Services. Additionally, he is a Certified Dementia Practitioner accredited by the National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners. Jonathan also has Bachelors degree in psychology and worked as an Emergency Medical Technician for 14 years. His passion lies with the elderly and ensuring they age with dignity.
Read on for in-depth information about the top assisted living facilities in Columbus, a brief dive into our methodology for determining the best assisted living communities, and a searchable directory of 30 communities in the Columbus area.
How to Pay for Assisted Living in Columbus, OH
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 Columbus and 102 additional cities within Ohio.
How Inflation Has Impacted the Cost of Assisted Living in Columbus, OH
From 2022 to 2023, inflation drove up the cost of assisted living in Columbus by 10%. Data analysis shows that the city’s prices are expected to rise further, reaching an estimated $4,748 monthly in 2024. Inflation had a similar impact statewide and nationwide. Ohio’s average cost of assisted living rose 9% between 2022 and 2023, closely behind the U.S. increase of 10%.
The Ohio cities of Cleveland and Cincinnati also experienced a 10% uptick, as did Dayton, where rates will likely reach $4,567 by 2024. Given these trends, the importance of financial planning for senior living can’t be overstated.
Location
2022 Cost (Historical)
2023 Cost (Current)
2024 Cost (Estimated)
Columbus
$4,024
$4,409
$4,748
U.S. Average
$4,070
$4,459
$4,802
Ohio
$4,110
$4,478
$5,268
Cleveland
$2,659
$2,913
$3,137
Cincinnati
$3,686
$4,038
$4,349
Dayton
$3,871
$4,241
$4,567
Assisted Living vs. Other Types of Care in Columbus, OH
Senior care prices can fluctuate significantly based on available services and amenities. In Columbus, independent living is generally the most affordable option at $2,945 per month because it provides minimal support for self-reliant older adults. On the other hand, assisted living includes daily help with personal tasks for $4,409 monthly. Offering programming and monitoring tailored to support seniors coping with dementia, memory care in Columbus costs $4,190 on average.
Care Type
Cost
Assisted Living
$4,409
Memory Care
$4,190
Independent Living
$2,945
Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Columbus, OH
Other Ways to Pay for Assisted Living in Columbus, OH
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:
Veterans Benefits
Life Insurance Policy
Long-Term Care Insurance
Reverse Mortgage
For more information about your options for making assisted living more affordable, visit our guide to Assisted Living in Ohio.
Free and Low-Cost Assisted Living Resources for Seniors in Columbus, OH
Numerous resources are available in Columbus, Ohio 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 Ohio state page on assistedliving.org.
Area Agency on Aging
Your local Columbus 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.
Ohio’s Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) offer a variety of services to support the independence of older adults. These include delivering nutritious meals to seniors’ homes, arranging transportation for shopping and healthcare appointments, and providing opportunities for socialization and engagement through volunteer work and social events. AAAs are committed to helping seniors live well and stay connected to their communities.
Cash Assistance Programs
In Columbus, financial aid programs are available to support low-income seniors in maintaining their home-based living. These programs offer tax relief, essential service discounts, and assistance with home heating and cooling expenses.
The Homeowner Assistance Fund in Ohio offers temporary financial support to homeowners facing COVID-19 or economic-related hardships. It covers property taxes, utilities, homeowner association fees, and mortgage payments.
Financial Assistance for Senior Care
Financial aid is available for seniors in Columbus who prefer to age in place. Various local entities provide support for expenses like home care, home adjustments, and utility bills.
The Homeowner Assistance Fund in Ohio offers temporary financial support to homeowners facing COVID-19 or economic-related hardships. It covers property taxes, utilities, homeowner association fees, and mortgage payments.
Financial Assistance for Senior Living
Financial aid is available for low-income seniors in Columbus living communities through local programs. These resources provide valuable assistance, helping older adults afford long-term care services.
The Assisted Living Waiver offers seniors and disabled individuals personal care, remote support, money management assistance, transportation, specialized medical equipment, and meals.
Food Assistance Programs
In Columbus, 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.
Local food pantries may provide nonperishable food items like dry cereals, oats, pasta, and canned foods to seniors in need. They may also offer healthy options such as fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Eligibility requirements and availability may vary, so it’s advisable to call ahead for more information.
Hope Food Pantry, situated in Columbus, OH, offers complimentary food to individuals facing hardship in the nearby vicinity. As a collaborator of the Mid-Ohio Foodbank, the pantry supplies prepackaged grocery bundles to seniors and other community members experiencing food insecurity. Distribution occurs every Thursday from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
Meals on Wheels is a nonprofit organization that relies on the generosity of volunteers and donations from local vendors. Their dedicated team prepares and delivers hot meals to seniors in their homes, usually five days a week. During deliveries, volunteers also offer companionship and ensure the safety of seniors.
Local food pantries may provide nonperishable food items like dry cereals, oats, pasta, and canned foods to seniors in need. They may also offer healthy options such as fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Eligibility requirements and availability may vary, so it’s advisable to call ahead for more information.
Local food pantries may provide nonperishable food items like dry cereals, oats, pasta, and canned foods to seniors in need. They may also offer healthy options such as fruits, vegetables, and dairy products. Eligibility requirements and availability may vary, so it’s advisable to call ahead for more information.
The Worthington Resource Pantry provides food to residents in northern Franklin and southern Delaware Counties. It is open to all residents with income below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. The pantry is open on Saturdays and Mondays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., Wednesdays from 3 to 7 p.m., and Thursdays from 3 to 5 p.m. Homebound seniors can designate a proxy shopper or request Thursday home delivery services.
Legal Resources
In Columbus, 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.
Low- and moderate-income seniors can receive free assistance with civil legal matters like powers of attorney, advance directives, and guardianship issues through the Legal Aid Society of Columbus. The organization offers in-office meetings and can also arrange visits for clients who are unable to attend due to disability or advanced age.
Senior Engagement
In Columbus, 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 Central Ohio Chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association provides free support programs, information, and referrals for seniors living with Alzheimer’s and dementia. If you or a family member are seeking knowledge about memory loss conditions or need local resource referrals, our toll-free help line is available. We also offer free educational classes on memory loss, resources for long-term care planning, and connections to support groups.
Social Security Offices
In Columbus, 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 provides income for retirees and individuals unable to work due to disability. Funding is generated through payroll taxes paid by employers, employees, and self-employed individuals. Upon retirement, monthly payments are determined by previous earnings.
Tax Assistance
Numerous tax aid resources are available in Columbus for senior citizens and individuals with disabilities. These include potential exemptions on medical costs, property tax reductions, and other tax relief initiatives.
The Homestead Exemption offers property tax credits to low-income seniors and individuals with permanent disabilities. It enables homeowners to exclude up to $25,000 of their home’s value from local taxes.
Transportation Assistance
For seniors in Columbus 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.
COTA, the regional public transit provider for Central Ohio, serves Columbus and Westerville. It offers ADA-compliant services and discounted fares for seniors on all routes. Riders with an ADA card can enjoy free travel.
Utility & Energy Bill Assistance
Organizations are available to aid low-income seniors in Columbus 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 Home Energy Assistance Program provides a single payment to assist low-income households in paying their energy bills. It aims to prevent disconnection or eviction due to nonpayment.
Veteran’s Services
Veteran services in Columbus offer invaluable assistance to retired military personnel. These local entities guide veterans in utilizing their rightful benefits and provide counsel on diverse matters.
The Columbus, OH Vet Center offers free and confidential counseling and support services to veterans. They provide various groups and workshops to help veterans connect and learn about VA benefits. They also offer mental health therapy for those struggling with depression, anxiety, stress, anger, and trauma. Family and couples counseling, as well as grief and bereavement counseling, are available for those who have experienced recent loss.
The Franklin County Veterans Service Commission assists elderly veterans and their dependents in accessing state and federal benefits and services. Although it is not directly associated with the federal Veterans Administration, its team can provide support in submitting and monitoring applications for veterans’ and survivors’ pensions, as well as Aid and Attendance benefits.
Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Columbus, OH
Assisted Living Communities in Columbus are required to follow a set of rules and regulations that are determined by the state. For an overview of those rules and regulations, see the information below. For more specific information, talk with your local community or Area Agency on Aging.
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.
