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The 10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Seattle, WA for 2024

Seattle’s downtown area is dense and busy, but the city is surrounded by beautiful Pacific Northwest neighborhoods. For seniors who enjoy outdoor scenery, the Emerald City’s diverse landscape offers easy access to beautiful ocean shores and views of snow-capped mountains. The City of Seattle is home to 737,015 residents, with 17% age 60 and over. However, the Seattle Metro area includes a population of 4,069,180 residents.

Assisted living facilities provide personal care assistance in a homelike community for seniors who can no longer reside at home alone. Staff members help residents with daily living needs, and housekeeping and transportation are included. The average cost per month for assisted living in Seattle is $6,750, higher than Washington state at $6,000 and much higher than the national average of $4,500.

This informative guide provides information about assisted living in Seattle and the costs. Also provided are the pros and cons of retiring in the city and a list of free resources for seniors living in the Seattle area.

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Assisted Living Facilities in Seattle, Washington

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What To Consider About Assisted Living in Seattle

The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services regulates and licenses assisted living facilities, performing regularly scheduled and unannounced inspections to ensure all state rules are followed. The Washington State Assisted Living Licensing Rules outline standards of care and residents’ rights.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Assisted Living in Seattle

  • Seattle is part of the AARP Network of Age-Friendly Communities, a program developed by AARP with older adults in mind to create livable communities with safe, walkable streets, transportation options and access to services needed to live life well. The city’s action plan outlines strategies to address livability and promote the health of older adults.
  • Although Seattle often receives criticism for the amount of rain the city gets, it averages 38 inches of rain each year, the same as the U.S. average. There’s a chance of a few inches of snow in the winter, but it typically doesn’t stay around very long, and the summer temperature average is a pleasant 76 degrees. The one drawback is 226 gray days per year, which make Seattle the cloudiest city in the United States. Still, the area’s natural beauty outshines the clouds.
  • Seniors may find their hard-earned income goes further in Seattle, as Washington is a senior retiree tax-friendly state. Social Security income, withdrawals from retirement accounts and pension income aren’t taxed, and Washington doesn’t have a state income tax.
  • The cost of living in Seattle may present a hardship to some seniors overall, being 172.3 out of a national average of 100. The highest costs driving this number are housing at 309 out of 100 and groceries at 108.7. The lower cost-of-living numbers are utilities at 68.8 and health care at 85.2.
  • Seattle does have higher crime rates, with a violent crime rate of 32.3 versus the U.S. average of 22.7 and a much higher property crime rate of 76.9 compared to the U.S. average of 35.4. These rates are for the Seattle downtown city area. Other communities in the Seattle Metro area have lower crime rates.

Paying for Assisted Living in Seattle, WA

When trying to decide how to pay for assisted living, one of the first questions that comes up is "How much does it cost?" With the impact of inflation, it's more important than ever to have up-to-date information when making a financial plan for senior living. To help shed light on real senior living prices, Caring.com has compiled proprietary cost data from its network of more than 75,000 senior living providers to provide insight into the average cost of assisted living in Seattle and 60 other cities in Washington.

Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Assisted Living in Seattle, WA

Seattle, WA, assisted living charges rose by 9.55%, in line with the national average between 2022 and 2023. In contrast, assisted living costs rose by 14.12% in Washington State over the same period, prompted by inflation. Fortunately, the prices for assisted living in Spokane (9.54%) ($4,912 -$5,381), Everett (9.54%) ($3,663 - $4,013), and Auburn (9.57%) ($2,580 - $2,827) compare well with Seattle and the national average. Against this background, seniors can make relatively well-informed decisions regarding their futures and compare types of care in Seattle, WA, or other cities in this state.

Location2022 Cost (Historical)2023 Cost (Current)2024 Cost (Estimated)
Seattle$4,300$4,711$5,073
U.S. Average$4,070$4,459 $4,802
Washington$4,156$4,743$5,051
Spokane$4,912$5,381$5,795
Everett$3,663$4,013$4,322
Auburn$2,580$2,827$3,044

The Cost of Assisted Living in Nearby Cities

The cost of assisted living in Seattle is one of the most expensive in Washington, at $6,750. Just across the bay from Seattle, Bremerton averages less at $5,750. South of Seattle, the state capital of Olympia averages $4,805 monthly, and further south, Longview’s monthly average is $5,300.

Seattle

$6,750

Washington

$6,000

The United States

$4,500

Bremerton

$5,750

Olympia

$4,805

Longview

$5,300

The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living

Independent living in Seattle, WA, is the most affordable at $3,939. In contrast, seniors needing some help with activities of daily living will pay more at $4,711 for assisted living. Because memory care offers more specialized care and can include 24/7 medical or other aid, this price is the highest at $10,830.

Assisted Living

$4,711

Memory Care

$10,830

Independent Living

$3,939

Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Seattle

There are Medicaid programs offered by the state of Washington to pay for the cost of ALF services in Mountlake Terrace. Eligible seniors may qualify for the Community First Choice (CFC) State Plan or one of the Home and Community-Based Service 1915(c) waivers which are the Community Options Program Entry System (COPES), New Freedom and Residential Support waivers.

Learn more about these programs, plus who’s eligible, on our Assisted Living in Washington page.

Paying for Assisted Living in Washington

More Ways to Pay for Assisted Living

While many families use their own funds or personal assets to pay for assisted living, there are plenty of additional options to cover these costs. Some additional ways to finance assisted living costs include:

  • Veterans Benefits
  • Life Insurance Policy
  • Long-Term Care Insurance
  • Reverse Mortgage

For more information about different ways to finance assisted living, visit our Assisted Living in Washington page.

Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Seattle,WA

There are many resources in Seattle,WA that assist seniors in their retirement. caring.com has compiled information on local organizations, programs and agencies and categorized them into care types for easy reference.

For information about statewide resources and those in nearby cities, go to Caring’s Washington state page.

Area Agency on Aging

Retirees can find support and advice on various senior-related issues from their local Area Agency on Aging. The agency provides advice on topics such as financial assistance programs, in-home care and long-term care planning. It also connects seniors and caregivers with community-based resources.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Aging & Disability Services - Seattle844-348-5464Area Agencies on Aging in Washington work with state, federal and local agencies to support the needs of older adults and their caregivers. Seniors can receive short-term and long-term in-home care for medical and nonmedical needs, such as hygiene, memory support, meal delivery, light housekeeping and mobility assistance. Other services include nonemergency medical and nonmedical transportation, adult day service programs, medication monitoring and community involvement options. These programs are designed to help older adults maintain their independence.

Financial Assistance for Senior Care

Seattle seniors wishing to remain in their own homes can find financial assistance from several local resources. These programs and organizations help retirees cover the cost of services such as home care, property modifications and utilities.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Catholic Community Services of Western Washington - Home Care877-870-1582Another offering from Catholic Community Services is a home care program available to individuals of all income levels. The program's workers assist with grocery shopping, laundry and personal care tasks such as bathing. Their services are limited to nonmedical care, though they can perform transfers and remind clients to take medication.

Food Assistance Programs

Local organizations help ensure elderly citizens have a balanced diet and receive essential vitamins and minerals to remain healthy. Through nutrition programs, congregate meals, home-delivered meals and food pantries, these programs help Seattle seniors afford the nutritious food they need.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Ballard Farmer's MarketThe Ballard Farmers Market in Seattle, WA, is open every Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and participates in the Farmers Market Nutrition Program (FMNP). Enrolled seniors can use the credits on their FMNP card to buy fresh local produce, including fruits, vegetables, honey and herbs. Another money-saving program offered by the Ballard Farmers Market includes the SNAP Market Watch program, a dollar-for-dollar matching program that helps extend SNAP funds for seniors with EBT cards.
Ballard Food Bank206-789-7800Open at 10 a.m. Monday through Thursday, Ballard Food Bank serves seniors and families in Seattle, WA. It functions as a grocery store, where seniors can shop for vegetables, meat or hygiene products. No-cook bags are available for those without access to cooking facilities. The food bank also delivers groceries to homebound seniors.
Catholic Community Services - Home Delivered Meals253-474-1300Catholic Community Services - Home Delivered Meals is based in Seattle, WA. Friendly volunteers deliver tasty and nutritious frozen meals to needy seniors, over the age of 60, weekly or twice a month throughout Pierce County. Meals are free of charge, although a small donation is appreciated. Eligible recipients must be homebound and not drive or live with someone who drives. They also mustn't have a full time caregiver who is paid to shop and cook.
Greenwood Food Bank206-647-1225FamilyWorks, in partnership with the Salvation Army, operates Greenwood Food Bank, which serves seniors and families in the area. Open on Tuesdays from 4 to 6 p.m. and Wednesdays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., the food bank offers fresh produce, vegetarian food, dairy products and meat. No-Cook food bags filled with meals and snacks are also available for seniors who can't cook. Those who can't visit the food bank can sign up for Text-to-Go grocery boxes once a week.
Madrona Famers MarketMadrona Farmers Market runs every Friday from 3-7 p.m. from May thru October. The market offers a range of locally sourced fresh fruits, vegetables and proteins. It's part of the Farmers Market Nutrition Program. This program gives eligible seniors a card that is preloaded with money that can be used to purchase fresh produce from participating stores at the market.
Meals on Wheels Kings County888-308-6325The Meals on Wheels food program for Kings County, WA, serves seniors aged 60 and over, who can't cook or shop for themselves. The suggested donation per meal is $6, and low-sodium or vegetarian is available upon request. Volunteer drivers deliver frozen and packaged meals once per week. Homebound seniors can also purchase low-cost liquid supplements and groceries for free delivery through the Meals on Wheels Mobile Market.
Phinney Ridge Lutheran Church Food Bank206-783-2350Seniors needing food assistance can request free food from the Phinney Ridge Lutheran Church Food Bank. This faith-based food pantry in Seattle, WA, serves people in need without regard to ZIP code. In addition to traditional food items, the food bank offers foods for sodium-restricted diets, ready-to-eat foods, toiletry supplies and pet food. Patrons must present identification, and the organization's hours of operation are from 1:15 to 3 p.m. on Tuesdays and 6:15 to 8 p.m. on Wednesdays.
SLU Food Bank at ICS206-622-1930The SLU Food Bank at ICS offers food assistance for seniors and other members of the community in need. The food bank is located in Seattle, WA, and Immanuel Community Services operates it. Everyone qualifies for needed food, regardless of income. Distribution of healthy food occurs on Mondays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The organization also offers a grocery rescue program, which is a mobile food distribution program that delivers food to homebound patrons.
Wallingford Food Bank206-647-1780Located in Seattle, WA, the Wallingford Food Bank assists food-insecure individuals, including seniors. Distributions include produce, dairy products, meats, low-salt products and diabetic items, with vegan/vegetarian foods sometimes available. Anyone who needs food can access it, regardless of ZIP code or income. No identification or verification is required to receive food. Hours of operation are Tuesdays from noon to 2 p.m., Thursdays from 3 to 6 p.m. and Fridays from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Washington Food Lifeline877-404-7543Washington Food Lifeline manages senior food assistance programs from its Seattle-based Hunger Solutions Center. It stocks local food banks and supplies food for seniors meal programs, aiming to alleviate hunger and correct nutritional and dietary deficits experienced by many older adults. The organization has established connections with a wide variety of partner agencies, including senior housing providers and rural mobile food pantries. Seniors can locate their nearest food bank online or by calling the toll-free hotline.

Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Seattle seniors. Older adults can access advice on issues such as estate planning, living wills and power of attorney. Some firms also act as long-term care ombudsmen, advocating for the rights of seniors in senior living communities.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
CLEAR Hotline 211Adults ages 60+ in Washington state can access legal support by calling the CLEAR (Coordinated Legal Education, Advice and Referral) hotline. Operated by the Northwest Justice Project, this legal aid program helps with issues related to housing, medical care, income, family safety and other basic needs. Lawyers may offer advice, provide forms and referrals, and help with negotiation. In most cases, seniors can receive assistance regardless of income.
Legal Help for People of Moderate Means855-741-6930Washington State Bar Association runs a Moderate Means program that provides reduced-fee legal support to those who cannot afford legal assistance. The program covers civil legal issues including family law, housing and benefits. The association can also recommend sources for pro bono support.
Northwest Justice Office Main Office888-201-1012Serving a nine-county area that includes Tacoma, the Northwest Justice Project is a nonprofit organization that assists low-income seniors with civil legal affairs. Staffed by more than 125 public attorneys, NJP handles complex legal problems such as disputing housing eviction, fighting home mortgage foreclosure and challenging government benefit denial. The 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization helps seniors with consumer issues, seeking justice for victims of predatory lending and abusive debt collection.

Home Repair and Modifications

Seniors and those with disabilities can access a variety of local resources to help them pay for home repairs and modifications. Programs in Seattle have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
HomeWise Weatherization Program (HWP) - Seattle206-684-0244Washington's Weatherization Assistance Program relies on state and federal funding, as well as matching payments from utility companies. It helps with energyefficient upgrades that can lower your utility bills and improve your health and safety, such as installing insulation and sealing air leaks.
Rebuilding Together Seattle206-682-1231Washington offers numerous home repair programs, including grants and deferred-payment loans. Funds are administered by Area Agencies on Aging and various county offices. Nonprofits, such as Habitat for Humanity and Rebuilding Together, can also help you complete necessary home repairs and modifications.

Senior Centers

Senior centers in Seattle bring together residents through recreational activities and events. Many also offer advice and support on senior issues, run wellness and nutrition programs, and connect older adults with other resources in the local area.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
King's County Senior Hubs206-263-9105King County offers several Senior Hubs where seniors and their families can get information and assistance to help them find services within their local community. Senior Hubs also provide health promotion programs, support for isolated seniors and wellness checks. These organizations host cultural and social activities throughout the year.
Sunshine Garden Chinese Senior Community CenterThe Sunshine Garden Chinese Senior Community Center in Seattle, WA, brings its free wellness and social programming to older adults living in the North End. Once a month, seniors in the Chinese community are invited to connect with each other and participate in creative and fun educational activities. Events are held at Lamb of God Lutheran Church in Lake City on the first Friday of each month from 10 a.m. to 11 a.m.

Senior Engagement

Senior engagement resources and programs in Seattle help older adults remain active and ensure they contribute to the community. Resources include wellness programs, volunteer opportunities, support groups and organizations that help residents connect with the community to live fulfilling lives.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Catholic Community Services - Retired & Seniors Volunteer Program (RSVP)888-240-8572RSVP offers over 400 volunteering opportunities within over 100 nonprofits across Snohomish County. Senior participants aged 55 and older are matched with local volunteering roles based on their availability, skills and interests.
Retired & Seniors Volunteer Program (RSVP) - Seattle206-694-6786Solid Ground's Retired and Senior Volunteer Program allows older adults to gain a deeper sense of connection and purpose within their community by providing them with opportunities to use their skills and talents in meaningful ways. Open to anyone 55 and older, RSVP has a wide variety of opportunities. RSVP staff work with individuals to find the right volunteer position for them, and members are honored at yearly recognition ceremonies.
The Memory Hub206-616-6035People with memory loss are invited to participate in community-building activities with this organization. It hosts a range of events throughout the year, such as day trips, physical activities, movies and art classes. This organization has a memory garden and regular memory cafés, where people with dementia and their families can socialize with others.
UW Medicine Memory & Brain Wellness Center 206-520-5000Situated at Harborview Medical Center in Seattle, UW Medicine Memory & Brain Wellness Center promotes the well-being of seniors living with memory loss and their loved ones. Specialists in neurodegenerative conditions, cognitive and memory disorders and other types of geriatric medicine can be consulted at the center's clinic. A range of educational programs, including community open days, lectures and workshops, take place regularly. Organizations such as the Alzheimer's Association (Washington State Chapter) and Elderwise are also conveniently located on-site.

Social Security Offices

Social Security offices in Seattle help seniors and disabled people access the benefits they're entitled to. Older adults can contact their local office for information about receiving retirement benefits, disability allowance and Supplemental Security Income.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Seattle Social Security Offices800-722-1213Social Security is a source of income available to retirees and people who can no longer work because of a disability. The money for Social Security comes from a payroll tax levied on employers, employees and self-employed individuals. When you retire, you'll receive monthly payments based on how much you earned when you were working

Tax Assistance

Seniors can apply for tax assistance from several Seattle resources. Elderly residents and those with disabilities could be eligible for tax exemptions on medical expenses, reductions on property tax and other tax assistance programs.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Property Tax Exemption - King County Assessor's Office206-296-3920The Washington State Department of Revenue offers a property tax exemption, as well as a deferment program, to seniors and disabled adults. This program can reduce your school taxes and freeze your property's assessed value starting the first year that you qualify.

Transportation Assistance

Assistance is available for seniors unable to access or use private transportation. These community resources help elderly and disabled residents make journeys in and around Seattle, allowing them to run errands and attend appointments in the local area.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Hyde Shuttle206-727-6262Hyde Shuttles provides door-to-door transportation services for the 55 and older community in Auburn, including seniors living in assisted living communities who need transportation outside of what their community offers. Through Hyde Shuttles, seniors can travel anywhere within the city limits. Seniors can schedule transportation by phone within 30 days of their desired travel.
Regional Reduced Fare Permit - King County800-325-6165The Regional Reduced Fare Permit in Seattle, WA, is a great way for seniors to save money on their transportation costs and make their commutes more affordable. To apply, seniors must provide proof that they are aged 65 or older and reside in King County. The permit allows riders to pay reduced fares on participating transit agencies in the Puget Sound area. It's an easy and efficient way for seniors to save money while maintaining their independence and getting around.
Volunteer Transportation - Seattle800-282-5815The Volunteer Transportation program is one of the services offered by Sound Generations, a nonprofit organization based in Seattle, WA. The program provides free transportation to King County residents aged 60 years and older who have limited access to transportation. Seniors must be able to board the vehicle with minimal assistance. Volunteers drive clients to medical and nonmedical appointments, and companions are allowed with prior notice. Riders may book their appointments on weekdays, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Utility & Energy Bill Assistance

Low-income seniors who are struggling to meet the costs of maintaining their homes can find support from organizations that offer assistance with utility and energy bills. Seattle retirees could also qualify for emergency funding programs if they're in danger of losing utility services due to unpaid invoices.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Byrd Barr Place - Energy Assistance206-812-4940LIHEAP is a federal program that provides one-time payments to help low-income households pay their utility bills and prevent disconnection. It can even help with the cost of heating or cooling repairs, as well as new equipment, in some cases.

Veteran's Services

Seattle retirees who have served in the U.S. military can find support from local veteran services. These offices and organizations help vets access the benefits they're eligible for and provide advice and information on a variety of issues.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Seattle Vet Center206-764-5130The Seattle Vet Center offers local veterans and their families an assortment of confidential counseling services, including support for those suffering from conditions such as PTSD and military sexual trauma. Veterans can visit the center for complimentary counseling held in individual, group, family or couples sessions for issues such as grief and bereavement, trauma, relationship issues, depression, anger and stress. Those facing addiction or homelessness can receive referrals to community resources, and intimate partner violence support is available.

Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Seattle

Seattle-area assisted living communities must adhere to the comprehensive set of state laws and regulations that all assisted living communities in Washington are required to follow. Visit our Assisted Living in Washington page for more information about these laws.

Washington Laws and Regulations

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The material on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal, financial, professional, or medical advice or diagnosis or treatment. By using our website, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

Caring.com

Caring.com is a leading online destination for caregivers seeking information and support as they care for aging parents, spouses, and other loved ones. We offer thousands of original articles, helpful tools, advice from more than 50 leading experts, a community of caregivers, and a comprehensive directory of caregiving services.

 

The material on this site is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for legal, financial, professional, or medical advice or diagnosis or treatment. By using our website, you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy

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