Best Assisted Living Facilities in Chicago, IL
Find local assisted living and retirement communities in the Chicago, IL area.
When it comes to senior living in Chicago, you're looking at a vibrant community where 30.4% of the population enjoys their golden years. With 92 senior living facilities in the city, Chicago offers a variety of living arrangements, including assisted living, independent living, and specialized memory care. The average cost of assisted living in Chicago is $5,666 per month, reflecting the city's robust amenities and quality of care. Choosing the right fit for you or your senior loved one can be overwhelming, so we've compiled a list of some of the top assisted living communities in Chicago to make this important decision a bit more manageable.
- Naperville, IL
- Aurora, IL
- Arlington Heights, IL
- Evanston, IL
- Glenview, IL
- Northbrook, IL
- Crystal Lake, IL
- Orland Park, IL
- St. Charles, IL
- Schaumburg, IL
- Valparaiso, IL
- Merrillville, IL
- Oak Park, IL
- Gurnee, IL
- Des Plaines, IL
- Lombard, IL
- Park Ridge, IL
- Crown Point, IL
- Adult Day Services
- Assisted Living
- Home Care
- Independent Living
- Memory Care
- Nursing Home
- Residential Care Home
- Senior Apartments
- Distance from City Center
- Highest Rating
- Name: A - Z
- Name: Z - A
Ravenswood Supportive Living
1922 W Sunnyside Ave, Chicago, IL 60640 (9.4 mi from city center)
Heart Of Wisdom - Chicago, IL
6859 W Addsion Ste 6, Chicago, IL 60634 (9.4 mi from city center)
Plymouth Place, a CCRC
315 N La Grange Rd, La Grange Park, IL 60526 (9.4 mi from city center)
Aspired Living of La Grange
35 Shawmut Ave, La Grange, IL 60525 (9.5 mi from city center)
Top Priority Home Care - Chicago, IL
2515 W Winona Street, Chicago, IL 60625 (9.5 mi from city center)
La Grange Pointe
51 East Cossitt, La Grange, IL 60525 (9.5 mi from city center)
The Selfhelp Home
908 W. Argyle Street, Chicago, IL 60640 (9.6 mi from city center)
Covenant Home of Chicago
2720 W Foster Ave, Chicago, IL 60625 (9.6 mi from city center)
Wesley Place
1415 W Foster Ave, Chicago, IL 60640 (9.6 mi from city center)
Wesley Place Rehabilitation
1415 W Foster Ave, Chicago, IL 60640 (9.6 mi from city center)
Fairmont Care
5061 N Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60630 (9.7 mi from city center)
Harmony Nursing & Rehabilitation
3919 W Foster Ave, Chicago, IL 60625 (9.7 mi from city center)
Windsor Place
42 S Ashland Ave, La Grange, IL 60525 (9.7 mi from city center)
Grace Point Place Memory Care
5701 W 101st St, Oak Lawn, IL 60453 (9.7 mi from city center)
The Admiral at the Lake, a CCRC
929 W Foster Ave, Chicago, IL 60640 (9.7 mi from city center)
Victory Centre of Roseland
10450 S. Michigan Ave, Chicago, IL 60628 (9.8 mi from city center)
The Breakers at Edgewater Beach
5333 North Sheridan Road, Chicago, IL 60640 (9.9 mi from city center)Map of Assisted Living in Chicago
Find the right senior living community by location- Ravenswood Supportive Living
- Heart Of Wisdom - Chicago, IL
- Plymouth Place, a CCRC
- Aspired Living of La Grange
- Top Priority Home Care - Chicago, IL
- La Grange Pointe
- The Selfhelp Home
- Covenant Home of Chicago
- Wesley Place
- Wesley Place Rehabilitation
- Fairmont Care
- Harmony Nursing & Rehabilitation
- Windsor Place
- Grace Point Place Memory Care
- The Admiral at the Lake, a CCRC
- Victory Centre of Roseland
- The Breakers at Edgewater Beach
Chicago is known for having one of the largest senior populations in the nation. The Windy City currently has 2.66 million people, 12.8 percent of whom are 65 or That means there are approximately 340,000 older adults in Chicago. According to the Administration for Community Living, about 37 percent of adults age 65 and over will require facility care — including assisted living — during their There could be well over 100,000 people in need of assisted living in Chicago right now.
Fortunately, there are dozens of assisted living and retirement communities throughout the greater Chicago area. To make care even more accessible, Illinois developed the Supportive Living Program (SLP), which helps low-income seniors and people with eligible disabilities get Medicaid coverage for supportive That can make the language a bit different for senior communities in Chicago and the rest of Illinois, however, since the terms “assisted living” and “supportive living” are often used interchangeably, although the latter often includes certain types of care that would be available only at a nursing home.
In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of the best assisted living communities in Chicago, Illinois. Continue reading to see which community may be the best fit for you or someone important in your life.
How We Chose the Best Assisted Living in Chicago
Choosing an assisted living community is a big decision. It’s not something you should take lightly, since it could affect your happiness and well-being for the foreseeable future. We also take it very seriously, and we believe in researching assisted living communities thoroughly to provide you with the best options. Here are some of the criteria we used while researching the best assisted living communities in Chicago:
- Cost: The cost of assisted living is not the only factor we consider, but it’s one of the most important. Assisted living is usually more expensive than independent living because trained professionals are providing direct assistance to residents. We focus our attention on communities that keep prices low but still provide good value.
- Available care: Many — but not all — assisted living communities offer multiple types of care and housing. You may find a combination of independent and assisted living, or an assisted living facility that also offers memory care or short-term rehabilitation. We try to include as many communities as possible that have the capacity to adapt to the changing needs of adults in retirement.
- Reviews: We comb through hundreds of online reviews to see what people have to say about each community. We cannot include information from every single review in our analysis, but we take common complaints and commendations into consideration.
- Amenities: Amenities are a big part of what makes assisted living communities so much more than mere facilities. Quality amenities help improve the resident experience and make you feel as though you’re staying at a high-end resort or five-star hotel. If a community offers great amenities, it has a much better chance of making our list.
- Location: Location is very important since most seniors want to go out and enjoy the city from time to time. If a community is near shopping, restaurants, or popular attractions, it may be more appealing to older adults who want to partake in regular excursions.
- Staff size: We focus on assisted living communities that offer high staff-to-resident ratios, often with a maximum of eight residents per caregiver.
How to Find the Right Assisted Living Community for You
When it comes time to find the right assisted living community, you can make the process much easier by following a few simple tips:
- Identify your needs: Do you have a family history of dementia? Are you currently struggling to prepare food on your own? Do you anticipate mobility issues in the near future? These are all questions you should ask yourself before deciding which community is right for you. Understanding your current needs and anticipating your future needs will help you find a community that can cater to your specific requirements.
- Review your budget: Some assisted living communities may not be a good fit for your budget. Prices vary from one community to another, so you’ll want to know how much you can comfortably spend before you make a decision. Medicare usually doesn’t cover assisted living, but Medicaid may be an option in Illinois if you qualify. Most seniors depend on Social Security benefits, retirement savings, long-term care insurance, or a combination of the three to pay for assisted living.
- Read reviews: Reading reviews from residents or family members who have firsthand experience is one of the best ways to understand the benefits and drawbacks of each community. Even though we consult reviews during our research, you’ll almost certainly find that reading the reviews yourself can provide additional insight.
- Visit communities: Always visit a community before moving in. Just because a community looks great on paper (or on its website) doesn’t mean it will be a great experience in real life. Whether you schedule a tour in advance or show up unannounced, try to get a feel for the day-to-day operations of the community by speaking to residents and staff.
- Check licensing and certifications: While researching a community, check that it has up-to-date licensing and certifications to operate in Illinois.
- Trust your gut: When all else fails, don’t be afraid to trust your gut! It can be nerve-wracking to decide between two or more assisted living communities you like, especially if they offer similar services. In the end, you’ll have to make a decision, and you may have to rely on your intuition to figure out which one is right for you.
What Is Living in Chicago Like for Seniors?
Chicago is a great city for seniors since it offers many interesting cultural attractions and the natural beauty of Lake Michigan. There are several factors to consider, however, especially if you’re relocating from another city. Below are a few important things to know about living in Chicago, Illinois:
- Climate: Chicago has a continental climate with warm summers and cold winters. The city is known for being very windy, and winter temperatures regularly dip below freezing. Some seniors may not mind the cold temperatures and strong winds, but the city may be a bit too chilly for others.
- Health care: Chicago generally has good health care, with several hospitals that rank among the best in the
- Cost of living: Life in Chicago is pretty expensive compared to many other places in the United States. The cost of living is approximately 20 percent higher than the national average, and housing is one of the biggest expenses. Since a large portion of assisted living fees go directly to room and board, high housing costs can make it more expensive for seniors to access supportive services in Chicago.
- Walkability: Many neighborhoods in Chicago are very walkable — weather permitting. Chicago is also known for its public transit system, which makes it easier for older adults to explore the city.
- Activities: Chicago has a lot for older adults to enjoy, including professional sports, public parks, museums, boating, and historical sites.
- Safety: Sadly, Chicago has a reputation for being unsafe, largely because the crime rate has been on the rise in recent Nonetheless, there are dozens of perfectly safe neighborhoods throughout the city.
How Much Does Assisted Living Cost in Chicago, Illinois?
According to Genworth, the 2024 estimated median cost of an assisted living community in Chicago is $5,272 per month. That’s around 7.2 percent more expensive than the national median of
The price of assisted living can vary substantially based on the community you choose and the level of care you require. Costs associated with specific types of care can significantly impact the price. Memory care, for example, typically costs far more than traditional assisted living care. That said, you can find communities that offer customizable plans and starting rates that are well below the average in Chicago.
Senior Living Statistics for Chicago, Illinois
Average Senior Living Costs by Housing Type
In Chicago, Illinois, independent living comes with an average monthly cost of $6,065, making it the least expensive housing option for seniors in the area. For those seeking a bit more support, assisted living is available at an average of $5,666 per month, with memory care closely following at $5,673. Nursing homes offer a variety of living arrangements, with a private room priced at about $6,000 and a semi-private room at $5,727. Exploring further options, a studio in a nursing home stands at $6,103, while opting for a one-bedroom unit comes in at $6,561. Topping the list as the priciest choice is a spacious two-bedroom nursing home arrangement, averaging $7,436 monthly. With this spectrum of senior housing options, Chicago aims to cater to a range of needs and preferences for older adults.
| Housing Type | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Assisted Living | $5,666 |
| Memory Care | $5,673 |
| Independent Living | $6,065 |
| Nursing Home: Private Room | $6,000 |
| Nursing Home: Semi-Private Room | $5,727 |
| Nursing Home: Studio | $6,103 |
| Nursing Home: One Bedroom | $6,561 |
| Nursing Home: Two Bedroom | $7,436 |
Average Cost of Assisted Living in Chicago
Assisted living in Chicago comes with a monthly average cost of $5,666. While costs will vary based on the level of care and community you select, living here tends to be pricier than in nearby areas. For instance, Oak Lawn offers assisted living at an average of $5,381 per month, and Evergreen Park is slightly more affordable at $5,430 monthly. With Chicago surpassing the state average of $5,101 and the national average of $4,546, it's crucial to weigh both the amenities offered and the costs if you’re considering settling in the Windy City.
| City | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Chicago | $5,666 |
Here is how the average cost of assisted living in Chicago compares to Illinois and the national average:
| Area | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Chicago | $5,666 |
| Illinois | $5,101 |
| United States | $4,546 |
Senior Living Availability in Chicago
In Chicago, you can find 92 senior living communities that could possibly meet your needs. If you're open to exploring beyond the city, the surrounding area offers a significant 557 facilities to choose from. Moreover, the entire state of Illinois provides 810 options, ensuring a variety of choices to suit anyone's needs.
Chicago
Surrounding Area
Illinois
Chicago Senior Demographics
In Chicago, seniors are a lively part of the city, representing 30.4% of its residents. Gender-wise, there's a bit more female presence at 51.2%, while males make up 48.8%. Within the social ties, 35.6% of Chicago's seniors are married, and 10.5% have experienced divorce. Meanwhile, a notable 48.9% have never taken the matrimonial plunge, and 5% are living with widowhood. The city showcases its cultural tapestry with 42.4% White and a prominent 28.8% Black community. Seniors of Asian descent add up to 7%, and 0.7% are Native American, with a small 0.1% comprising Pacific Islanders. Others make 11.3% of the mix, along with a 9.7% share of mixed race, and a substantial 29% Hispanic population enhances Chicago's flavorful diversity. Regarding age, 11.6% of seniors buzz with energy in their 50s, 9.8% take on life's joys in their 60s, 5.8% are in their engaging 70s, while a vibrant 3.2% bring wisdom in their 80s and beyond.
Population
Chicago has a population of 2,721,914.- 48.8% Male
- 51.2% Female
Marital Status
- 35.6% Married
- 10.5% Divorced
- 48.9% Never Married
- 5% Widowed
Age
Seniors make up about 30.4% of the population.- 11.6% in their 50s
- 9.8% in their 60s
- 5.8% in their 70s
- 3.2% in their 80s
Diversity
- 42.4% White
- 28.8% Black
- 7% Asian
- 0.7% Native
- 0.1% Pacific
- 11.3% Identifying as Other
- 9.7% Mixed Race
- 29% Hispanic
Additional Cities with Assisted Living Near Chicago
There are numerous senior living options near Chicago, with cities like Valparaiso offering lower costs, starting at $3,970 per month. Crown Point is slightly higher at $4,036 per month. For those looking at the more upscale end, Arlington Heights and Crystal Lake both reach costs above $6,000 per month. Other options include Naperville, Orland Park, Evanston, and Schaumburg, each offering unique amenities and community features to match a variety of lifestyles.
| City | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|
| City | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Naperville | $5,598 |
| Aurora | $5,646 |
| Arlington Heights | $6,056 |
| Evanston | $5,908 |
| Glenview | $5,963 |
| Northbrook | $5,983 |
| Crystal Lake | $6,067 |
| Orland Park | $5,294 |
| St. Charles | $5,832 |
| City | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Schaumburg | $5,982 |
| Valparaiso | $3,970 |
| Merrillville | $4,026 |
| Oak Park | $5,718 |
| Gurnee | $5,726 |
| Des Plaines | $5,961 |
| Lombard | $5,805 |
| Park Ridge | $5,887 |
| Crown Point | $4,036 |
Senior Living Ratings Methodology
Our experts spent over 50 hours researching the best communities in each city, focusing on these key factors.
Available Care
We value communities that offer more than standard living services, such as memory care and independent living. We think this is beneficial for older adults, as it allows a community to meet your changing needs over time.
Amenities
Amenities can help an assisted living community feel like a luxury resort or a home away from home. Our research focuses on communities that offer extra perks and benefits for seniors to enjoy.
Location
Location can be important. Since many seniors like to have certain comforts nearby, we look at communities close to parks, shopping areas, hospitals, museums, and other practical or entertaining points of interest.
Reviews
We read through dozens of reviews for every single contender and include a summary of our findings. In most cases, we see common themes regarding positive and negative feedback about each community. Just remember not to take individual reviews at face value.
Cost
Assisted living costs vary greatly based on the facility and level of care. We considered communities that are suitable for various budgets and offer solid value. All prices listed are from community websites.