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Find independent living communities

Compare communities, amenities, and living options designed for a more active, lower-maintenance lifestyle.
Or call us for help connecting to care at (855) 885-6612.

What is independent living?

Independent living is a type of senior living community for older adults who can manage well on their own, but want fewer household responsibilities and more opportunities to connect with others.

Within an independent living community, residents can choose from private apartments or cottages. Most communities have a robust activity calendar, and residents enjoy the social lifestyle.

What independent living often includes:

  • Home and grounds maintenance services
  • Social activities and community events, like live music, game nights and art classes
  • Fitness centers that offer classes like water aerobics or chair yoga
  • Shared dining options with rotating menus
  • Housekeeping services to help manage laundry and cleaning
  • Transportation services to and from appointments
  • Community rooms to host guests and family members
Independent living is typically less expensive than assisted living, but doesn't offer the same level of services and support.

Browse independent living by location

Featured independent living communities

When might independent living be the right choice?

Independent living may be a good fit for an older adult who manages daily life without regular personal care but wants a more convenient, connected lifestyle. These communities offer a more convenient, connected lifestyle for older adults who don't need personal care support.

Signs independent living may be a good fit

  • Home maintenance feels burdensome
  • More social connection would be helpful
  • A simpler daily routine is appealing
  • Personal care is not regularly needed

How much does independent living cost?

Independent living costs vary based on location, housing type, community amenities, and the services included. Residents may rent or purchase their residence, depending on the community. Some communities also charge entrance, membership, association, or monthly service fees.

Meals, laundry, transportation, and additional housekeeping may be included, offered through a service package, or charged separately.

Factors that affect cost

  • Location
  • Apartment or home type
  • Community amenities
  • Included services
  • Entrance or community fees
  • Optional dining or housekeeping
  • Transportation and activities

Tip: Ask each community for a detailed breakdown of housing costs, recurring fees, included services, optional charges, and how frequently rates may change.

Compare senior care options

Care types differ on how much support they provide. Getting an understanding of each can help you decide which one is best for your health needs and budget.

Home care: How it differs from independent living communities

Brings support into the person’s home or independent living residence. A caregiver may help with personal care, meals, household tasks, transportation, or companionship.

Active adult community: How it differs from independent living communities

Often centers on age-restricted housing, recreation, and shared amenities. Services such as meals, housekeeping, and transportation may be more limited than in an independent living community.

Assisted living: How it differs from independent living communities

Provides housing and community amenities along with regular help with daily activities, such as bathing, dressing, mobility, or medication management.
Independent vs assisted living: what's the difference?

Continuing care retirement community (CCRC): How it differs from independent living communities

Offers multiple levels of living and care within one community, which may allow residents to access additional support as their needs change.

Why families use CareScout

When care needs change, it's helpful to have trusted guidance on your best next steps. The CareScout Quality Network offers a trusted source for finding in-home care, assisted living and memory care providers.

  • Explore Quality Network providers

    Find independent living communities that meet CareScout’s quality standards and are committed to person-centered care.

  • Compare care options in one place

    Learn about independent living communities, compare different types of support, and prepare questions to ask potential providers.

  • Plan for the cost of care

    Explore local cost information and better understand the factors that may affect what you pay.

  • Get support along the way

    Connect with an advisor who can answer questions and help you navigate your search.
CareScout applies quality standards to help you compare care options with greater confidence. Learn more about the CareScout Quality Network.

Helpful resources for families

Choosing an independent living community can bring up questions about lifestyle, costs, amenities, and future support. These resources can help families understand their options, compare communities, prepare for tours, and plan for changing needs.
Explore resources

FAQs

Residents in an independent living community do receive some help that makes life a little easier, but these are generally confined to areas like maintenance, yard care, and maybe housekeeping. Residents in assisted living facilities typically receive some assistance with the activities of daily living (ADLs), including medication management and often including meal preparation. Assisted living residents, however, usually don't need significant skilled medical care daily.
There are thousands of independent living facilities in the U.S. They range from large campuses to smaller, home-like settings. You can search CareScout.com for the independent living communities near you.
Most independent living communities have a minimum age requirement of 55. These are known as age-restricted communities. As detailed above, there are many other types of independent living and their age requirements vary but never go below 55.
Most independent living communities welcome pets, understanding how therapeutic they can be for older adults. Because some communities have restrictions on the type, breed, or size of pets allowed, make sure you ask about the policy if you want to bring a pet with you. Also, ask about any deposits or fees required.
Many independent living communities also offer assisted living options. If you choose a location that offers both, you may be able to stay in the same community as care needs change.