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The 10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Tucson, AZ for 2024

Tucson, Arizona, is a midsize city located just north of the border with Mexico. It has over 542,000 residents, 14.3% of which are aged 65 or older. The city’s warm climate and relatively low cost of living make it an appealing retirement destination for older adults, especially given the state’s reasonably senior-friendly tax policies.

Assisted living facilities help seniors who are in generally good health but require some support with the activities of daily living. Many seniors move to assisted living facilities when they find they need help with cooking, cleaning or personal care. These services can help them remain independent and avoid nursing home placement. The average cost of assisted living in Tucson is $4,050 per month, just $50 higher than the statewide average.

This guide explains the options seniors have when it comes to assisted living in Tucson. It covers the cost of assisted living and other types of care as well as the benefits and drawbacks of living in the city. Finally, it provides some information about free local resources to help those who are considering making the transition to long-term care.

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Assisted Living Facilities in Tucson, Arizona

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What To Consider About Assisted Living in Tucson

Tucson-based assisted living facilities are licensed and regulated by the Arizona Department of Health Services. Facilities are required to abide by an extensive list of rules and regulations relating to health and safety, staffing, medication administration, food service and other aspects of long-term care. Regular inspections are carried out to ensure facilities are meeting these requirements.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Assisted Living in Tucson

 

  • Tucson is a beautiful city surrounded by scenic, forested mountains and golf courses that make it a desirable setting for active seniors. The pleasant climate means there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities throughout the year.
  • The cost of living in Tucson is around 6% lower than the national average. Some other Arizona cities have an even lower cost of living; however, the wealth of amenities available in Tucson means many seniors feel it’s a good choice for their retirement.
  • Property crime is common in Tucson compared to other parts of the United States. Assisted living facilities are usually gated communities with video surveillance and 24-hour staffing, so seniors can feel safe and secure when they’re on the assisted living campus.
  • There are several hospitals in or close to the city, including El Dorado Hospital, the University Medical Center and Tucson Medical Center. Tucson has a high number of Medicare-registered physicians and numerous pharmacies to ensure seniors can easily access the care they need when they need it.
  • The city is home to several senior centers, including the El Pueblo Senior Center and the Armory Senior Citizen Center, that cater specifically to older adults. The Fred Archer Center is a recreation facility offering programs and activities for people of all ages.

 

Paying for Assisted Living in Tucson, AZ

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 Tucson and 22 other cities in Arizona.

Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Assisted Living in Tucson, AZ

Due to inflation, monthly assisted living costs in Tucson have increased by nearly 9.6%, from $3,891 to $4,263, over the 2022 to 2023 period. However, these prices remain competitive compared to the state average, which increased nearly 10.3%, from $4,008 to $4,420, and the national average, which jumped approximately 9.6%, from a higher initial cost of $4,070 to $4,420. Phoenix, located nearby, also increased nearly 9.6%, as did the city of Mesa. Scottsdale remains an affordable location for assisted living, despite prices rising approximately 9.6%, from $3,884 to $4,255.

Location2022 Cost (Historical)2023 Cost (Current)2024 Cost (Estimated)
Tucson$3,891$4,263$4,591
U.S. Average$4,070$4,459$4,802
Arizona$4,008$4,420$4,962
Phoenix$4,630$5,073$5,463
Mesa$3,763$4,123$4,440
Scottsdale$3,884$4,255$4,582

The Cost of Assisted Living in Nearby Cities

With average monthly fees of $4,050, Tucson’s assisted living facilities are reasonably priced compared to others in the state. Fees are slightly lower in nearby Phoenix at $3,975 per month. Meanwhile, to the east in Sierra Vista, seniors pay an average of $4,150 per month. Cities to the north tend to have higher fees, with seniors paying $4,500 per month in Prescott Valley and $5,000 in Flagstaff.

Tucson

$4,050

Arizona

$4,000

The United States

$4,500

Phoenix

$3,975

Sierra Vista

$4,150

Prescott Valley

$4,500

Flagstaff

$5,000

The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living

Assisted living expenses average $4,263 per month in Tucson. Prices vary depending on the level of care and amenities provided, but independent living is typically more affordable, averaging $3,591. Despite the need for specialized staff training and greater supervision, memory care is surprisingly affordable in Tucson at $4,181 per month.

Assisted Living

$4,263

Memory Care

$4,181

Independent Living

$3,591

Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Tucson

Eligible seniors who require financial assistance to help pay for assisted living may apply to the Arizona Long-Term Care System (ALTCS) program, which operates under a Medicaid 1115 demonstration waiver.

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

Paying for Assisted Living Facilities in Arizona

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 Arizona page.

Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Tucson,AZ

There are many resources in Tucson,AZ 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 Arizona 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
Pima Council on Aging520-790-7262Arizona's Area Agencies on Aging provide support and advocacy for older residents, empowering them to remain in their homes where desirable. Accessible remotely and at a selection of statewide locations, they connect senior Arizonans, along with families and caregivers, to a range of support services. These include home-delivered meals and assistance with self-managing chronic health conditions. A 24-hour accessible senior helpline is also available at (888)-783-7500.

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 Tucson seniors afford the nutritious food they need.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Community Food Bank and Food Pantry - Tucson520-296-6149The Community Food Bank and Food Pantry is part of St. Paul's United Methodist Church in Tucson, Arizona. It's associated with the Community Food Bank of Southern Arizona as a way to ensure seniors and other community members in need get the best possible food assistance. The food bank/food pantry is open on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m.
Community Food Banks of Southern Arizona - TucsonThe Tucson branch of Community Food Banks of Southern Arizona is based out of the Gabrielle Giffords Resource Center, which provides various community services and serves as one of the many CFBSA food distribution points in Tucson. Seniors can access the GGRC food bank on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m., Thursdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and the 4th Saturday of every month from 9:00 a.m. to noon.
Impact of Southern Arizona Catalina Food Bank520-825-0009Impact of Southern Arizona Catalina Food Bank distributes groceries and toiletries monthly to seniors and low-income residents of Tucson, AZ. Participants can visit the food bank to get a USDA food parcel anytime during the month, and they can also obtain daily supplies of bread and recently expired items on an as-available basis. Seniors can apply for access online, and acceptance is determined by income and assets. Food bank staff assesses the entire household income to determine eligibility.
Mobile Meals of Southern Arizona520-622-1600Mobile Meals of Southern Arizona delivers meals to housebound and disabled seniors in the Tucson, AZ, area. The organization bases meal prices on participants' income, with free meals available for low-income and indigent seniors. Kosher meals and special dietary menus are available on request. Seniors can sign up online or by calling the program office. Applicants must give their contact information and address, with voluntary submission of medical and personal needs as well as income to set pricing.
Pima Meals on Wheels520-790-7262Tucson, Arizona-based Pima Meals on Wheels, associated with the Pima Council on Aging, ensures Pima County residents with disabilities and homebound seniors aged 60+ receive the delicious, nutritious meals they need. Seniors must undergo an in-home evaluation to confirm their eligibility for the program, and they must be unable to participate in the Senior Center Congregate Meal Program. The Catholic Community Services or Lutheran Social Services of the Southwest delivers the meals.
ReSources Vail Food Bank520-879-1242ReSources Vail Food Bank serves Vail, Corona de Tucson, Rita Ranch and Southeast Tucson residents who need help with food. Available to residents of all ages, the food bank provides families with emergency food bags and homebound residents with meals, making it an option for low-income seniors who need food assistance. Food distribution takes place Tuesdays through Fridays and on some select Saturdays throughout the year. Registered families receive basic food staples in one monthly allotment and supplemental food when available.
Salvation Army - Amphi Corp (Prince) Food Pantry520-888-1299The Salvation Army runs the Amphi Corp (Prince) Food Pantry in Tucson, AZ, to help reduce food insecurity for seniors and low-income individuals and families. Volunteers operate the food assistance program Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. It closes from noon to 1 p.m. to provide staff with a lunch break. Seniors and others in need can access fresh produce, canned goods and other nonperishables.
Senior Farmers Markets Nutrition Program (SFMNP) - TucsonThe Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program is available at multiple participating locations throughout Tucson, AZ. It provides older adults with ten $5 vouchers for use at specific farmers' markets near them. The food assistance program is open to individuals aged 60 and older with an income at or below 185% of the annual poverty income guidelines. Eligible seniors can access fresh, locally grown fruits, vegetables and herbs to help maintain a healthy diet.
Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation Community Food Bank800-771-9054The Southern Arizona AIDS Foundation Community Food Bank provides food assistance to seniors and others experiencing food insecurity in Tucson, AZ. The program offers a food bag once per month, free of charge, to seniors in the community. Volunteers operate the food pantry Monday thru Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tucson Indian Center Food Boxes520-884-7131Tucson Indian Center Food Boxes is an assistance program for seniors in partnership with Community Food Bank and Midwest Food Bank and regulated by the State of Arizona. Eligible individuals must provide proof of residency with a current utility bill and state-issued ID card. The food program is open Monday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Tuesday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

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 Tucson have different eligibility criteria and often assist retirees by providing grants or loans.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Home Repair Assistance - Tucson520-243-6777Pima County's Home Repair program helps low-income residents make their homes safer and more livable. Seniors may receive no-cost improvements to their primary residences, including accessibility upgrades, roofing repairs, septic replacement and weatherization. To qualify, a homeowner must have owned the residence for at least 1 year and maintain ownership for a year after work is completed. This program is open to residents of Pima County, AZ, outside the City of Tucson, who meet income limit guidelines.

Senior Centers

Senior centers in Tucson 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
Armory Park Senior Center520-791-4865Tucson's Armory Park Senior Center provides plenty of social and fitness opportunities for older Tucson residents. The venue includes bocce and shuffleboard courts as well as billiards tables and horseshoe pits. Seniors can participate in weekly tai chi, chair yoga and ballroom dance classes, and the center organizes monthly group field trips to local points of interest. The center operates on weekdays from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Primavera Foundation Emergency Services520-623-5111Primavera Foundation Emergency Services provides shelter for individuals, families and seniors in Tucson, AZ. Its Rent and Utility Assistance is subject to funding availability, and seniors must meet eligibility requirements to qualify for the program. Seniors who are homeless can also join the Rapid Re-Housing program to acquire housing. Other programs offered include temporary financial assistance for veterans, emergency shelter programs and the Men's Shelter.

Social Security Offices

Social Security offices in Tucson 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
Tucson Social Security Offices800-772-1213Social 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 Tucson 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
Senior Property Valuation Protection - Tucson520-724-8630The Pima County Assessor's Office allows residents to temporarily freeze their property value to better manage their tax debt and save money. To participate in the program, seniors must be at least 65 years old and submit a birth certificate with their application. The property must be in the seniors' name, have been the primary residence for at least two years and meet size limits. Household income limits apply to new applicants.

Veteran's Services

Tucson 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
Tucson Vet Center520-882-0333The Tucson Vet Center supports Arizonan vets, their caregivers and families with holistic mental and social well-being initiatives. Services include individual and group counseling, alcohol and drug referral and rehabilitation and suicide prevention support. The center's staff help vets focus on quality of life via community engagement and workshops, as an alternative to counseling. It also offers transitional job and career training programs through its Arizona@work partnership. The center provides flexibility with telehealth and remote appointments.
Esperanza en Escalante Supportive Housing for Veterans520-571-8294Esperanza en Escalante Supportive Housing for Veterans, which sits on about 19 acres, provides transitional and permanent supportive housing for veterans and their families. Senior veterans may be eligible for housing support if they meet the income requirements. The community includes separate areas for men, women, families and disabled residents. It offers social rehabilitation to help residents become self-sufficient and provides clothes and household goods to help with the transition out of the facility.

Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Tucson

Tucson Assisted Living Communities must adhere to the comprehensive set of state laws and regulations that all Assisted Living Facilities in Arizona are required to follow. Visit our Assisted Living in Arizona page for more information about these laws.



Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Arizona

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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

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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