Situated at the foot of Northern California’s Sierra range, Chico is home to 103,000 residents. Individuals ages 65 and older make up 13% of the population, and they have access to comprehensive health care services at high-ranking Enloe Medical Center. Adventist Health Feather River in Paradise serves seniors here as well. Chico’s average nursing home costs exceed the national average, but prices here are lower than in neighboring cities in the state. According to the Genworth Financial 2020 Cost of Care Survey, a semiprivate room carries an average cost of $8,973 compared to the national average of $7,756 and the statewide median of $9,247.
Nursing homes offer the highest level of care for seniors outside of a hospital. These facilities feature 24/7 skilled nursing, custodial care, personal assistance and therapies. Such extensive services make nursing homes cost more than other senior living arrangements. If such support is not necessary, home health care or assisted living can offer suitable and more affordable care.
This guide discusses the types and costs of care options available in Chico and Butte County. It also lists local resources for the city’s seniors and their families.