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The 10 Best Assisted Living Facilities in Birmingham, AL for 2024

Birmingham is located 90 miles north of the state capital of Montgomery. It’s a mid-sized city with an estimated 200,733 inhabitants, 14.9% of whom are seniors aged 65 years and older. Thanks to its low cost of living and excellent health care facilities, the city is an attractive retirement location for seniors who enjoy a rich culture and lots of entertainment options.

Assisted living facilities offer support with daily living tasks such as grooming, laundry and housekeeping. Assisted living may be an appropriate option for seniors who are no longer able to live on their own but don’t require 24/7 care at a nursing home. Seniors in Birmingham spend an average of $4,028 per month for assisted living care, which is higher than the Alabama average of $3,503.

This guide offers an introduction to assisted living in Birmingham. If you want to learn more about free local support resources, the benefits and drawbacks of retiring in Birmingham and the average cost of care per month, read on.

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Assisted Living Facilities in Birmingham, Alabama

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What to Consider About Assisted Living in Birmingham

Birmingham assisted living facilities are overseen by the Bureau of Health Provider Standards, which is a division of the Department of Public Health. It’s responsible for conducting surveys and ensuring that all assisted living facilities are licensed appropriately and are compliant with federal and state regulations

Benefits and Drawbacks of Assisted Living in Birmingham

 

  • Alabama is ranked as one of the 10 most affordable states in the U.S. to live, and the cost of living in Birmingham is even lower than the state average. Overall, Birmingham is around 9% lower than the national average. Groceries are on average 4% lower, transportation is 9% lower and healthcare is 16% lower, however, the cost of utilities is 1% higher. 
  • Birmingham has public transport options available for seniors. Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority (BJCTA) is the public transportation operator in the city and it runs 109 buses on 38 routes. Seniors aged 62 and over can purchase a reduced-rate bus pass that costs $0.75 for one way or $2 for an all-day pass. Although the public transportation system in Birmingham is robust, there are areas in the city it may be hard for seniors to get around. Fortunately, Travelers Aid Birmingham provides free transportation to medical appointments for seniors.
  • With a crime rate of 66 per 1,000 residents, Birmingham has one of the highest crime rates in all of the U.S. Both violent and property crimes are much higher than the state and national averages. However, it’s important to note that not all neighborhoods have high crime rates, and assisted living facilities have a number of measures in place to increase security, including 24-hour surveillance. 
  • Alabama is a tax-friendly state for retirees, with social security benefits from income taxes being exempt from taxes. Additionally, for seniors who own properties, Alabama has some of the lowest property taxes in the U.S. However, sales tax is the fifth-highest in the nation.
  • Birmingham boasts one of the largest hospitals in the nation. The University of Alabama at Birmingham Hospital is the eighth-largest in the U.S. and is considered the best hospital in Alabama. It has a leading cancer unit and the first accredited Level 1 Geriatric Emergency Department in the Southeast.

 

Paying for Assisted Living in Birmingham, AL

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 Birmingham and 15 other cities in Alabama.

Inflation's Impact on the Cost of Assisted Living in Birmingham, AL

Like many cities, Birmingham has experienced notable increases in the cost of assisted living. Just from 2022 to 2024, there has been a nearly 18% jump in prices, from $5,500 to just over $6,500. Plus, the prices in Birmingham are over 30% higher than the national average. Other cities in Alabama have seen near identical inflationary impacts. For example, Cullman prices have risen 18% in the past 2 years, from $3,286 to $3,877. Jasper costs also rose 18%, from $4,012 to $4,733. Even Decatur experienced an 18% increase, from $3,060 to $3,611.

Location2022 Cost (Historical)2023 Cost (Current)2024 Cost (Estimated)
Birmingham$5,513$6,040$6,505
U.S. Average$4,070$4,459$4,802
Alabama$3,316$3,798$4,045
Cullman$3,286$3,600$3,877
Jasper$4,012$4,395$4,733
Decatur$3,060$3,353$3,611

The Cost of Assisted Living in Nearby Cities

With a median cost of $4,028 per month, Birmingham is one of the most expensive cities for assisted living in Alabama. The state capital, Montgomery, costs $3,500 per month on average, and the neighboring city of Tuscaloosa costs $3,150. At $2,150 per month, Dothan is the cheapest city in the state for assisted living care.

Birmingham

$4,028

Alabama

$3,503

The United States

$4,500

Montgomery

$3,500

Tuscaloosa

$3,150

Dothan

$2,150

The Costs of Other Types of Senior Living

The cost of senior living can vary dramatically, depending on the type of care. Assisted living in Birmingham has an average price of $6,040, while memory care sits higher at $6,638. Independent living, which provides fewer services, is more affordable at $3,262. Specialized services, unique amenities and the level of assistance at each facility dramatically alter the costs. Consider personal needs, preferences and budget when making a decision.

Assisted Living

$6,040

Memory Care

$6,638

Independent Living

$3,262

Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Birmingham

Alabama offers several different Medicaid waiver programs to enable seniors to remain either at home or living in community settings like assisted living communities. These include the Elderly & Disabled (E&D) waiver, the State of Alabama Independent Living (SAIL) waiver, or the Alabama Community Transition (ACT) waiver. Seniors must qualify both medically and financially to be covered by these waivers, some of which accept very limited numbers of applicants each year. 

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

Financial Assistance for Assisted Living in Alabama

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 Alabama page.

Free and Low-Cost Resources for Seniors in Birmingham,AL

There are many resources in Birmingham,AL 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 Alabama 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
United Way Area Agency on Aging of Jefferson County (UWAAA)800-243-5463Alabama's Area Agencies on Aging (AAA) serve as critical access points to numerous resources designed to meet the needs of older adults. Seniors contacting the AAA may receive access to benefits such as senior nutrition programs, transportation assistance and referrals to local assistance programs. It can also connect seniors to services for home-delivered meals, discounted prescriptions and assistance with household chores. Seniors can also be empowered through legal and insurance counseling services or be provided advocates through long-term care ombudsmen.

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 Birmingham seniors afford the nutritious food they need.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Birmingham Meals on Wheels800-243-5463Meals on Wheels operates in multiple communities throughout Alabama to address isolation and hunger in older adults. The program delivers meals five days a week to individuals incapable of preparing their own food, accessing food sites that offer food or those unable to afford meals.
Adventist Community Services - Ephesus Food Pantry205-252-7912Food pantries distribute free food to hungry families and adults. Each site provides bags or boxes of donated items to needy individuals who live within a specified area.
Church of the Highlands Dream Center Food Pantry205-591-1700Food pantries distribute free food to hungry families and adults. Each site provides bags or boxes of donated items to needy individuals who live within a specified area.
Greater Birmingham Ministries Food Pantry205-326-6821Food pantries distribute free food to hungry families and adults. Each site provides bags or boxes of donated items to needy individuals who live within a specified area.
Holy Rosary Food Pantry205-595-0652Food pantries distribute free food to hungry families and adults. Each site provides bags or boxes of donated items to needy individuals who live within a specified area.
Homewood Church of Christ Food Pantry205-942-5683Food pantries distribute free food to hungry families and adults. Each site provides bags or boxes of donated items to needy individuals who live within a specified area.
Jesus is Lord Ministry Food Pantry205-703-8388Food pantries distribute free food to hungry families and adults. Each site provides bags or boxes of donated items to needy individuals who live within a specified area.
South Highland Presbyterian Church Food Pantry205-933-0790Food pantries distribute free food to hungry families and adults. Each site provides bags or boxes of donated items to needy individuals who live within a specified area.
The Community Kitchens Food Pantry205-251-3569Food pantries distribute free food to hungry families and adults. Each site provides bags or boxes of donated items to needy individuals who live within a specified area.
Woodlawn Community Table Food Pantry205-595-3776Food pantries distribute free food to hungry families and adults. Each site provides bags or boxes of donated items to needy individuals who live within a specified area.

Free Used Medical Equipment

Due to the high cost of purchasing new medical equipment, several organizations in Birmingham collect lightly used medical devices such as wheelchairs, ramps and walkers and distribute them to local seniors and residents in need.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Alabama's Assistive Technology Resource (STAR) - Birmingham800-441-7609STAR is a program administered by the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services. It connects disabled adults with assistive technologies, including specialized computer software, communication devices, adaptive switches, auditory trainers, Braille readers, scooters, wheelchairs, adaptive vehicles and lifts and ramps.

Many organizations offer free or low-cost legal services to Birmingham 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
Alabama Legal Assistance Program - Birmingham800-243-5463The Alabama Legal Assistance Program is a free service open to those aged 60 and older who are facing civil legal issues. The service assists with benefits appeals, elder abuse and financial exploitation, wills and end-of-life decision making, housing issues and access to health care. The program connects eligible seniors with legal experts who provide counseling, advice and representation.

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

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Weatherization Assistance Program - Birmingham205-502-2108This program provides weatherization assistance to help households reduce their energy costs. Assistance typically includes installing attic, wall and floor insulation, sealing ductwork, HVAC repairs and replacements, repairing leaky faucets, upgrading windows and doors and replacing incandescent lighting with energy efficient bulbs.

Senior Engagement

Senior engagement resources and programs in Birmingham 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
The YMCA of Greater Birmingham – Trussville YMCA205-655-2224Open 7 days a week (but closed on some holidays), the Trussville YMCA has much for seniors to do, including swimming, in-person classes such as Zumba, personal training sessions and outdoor tennis courts. Seniors can choose from a variety of membership options.

Social Security Offices

Social Security offices in Birmingham 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
Birmingham 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.

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 Birmingham, allowing them to run errands and attend appointments in the local area.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Birmingham-Jefferson County Transit Authority – Paratransit Services205-521-9048MAX is the regional paratransit service for transit riders who are unable to use the regular, fixed-route bus service due to disability. This shared-ride, curb-to-curb service can be used to travel throughout Jefferson County, and personal care attendants ride free.

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. Birmingham retirees could also qualify for emergency funding programs if they're in danger of losing utility services due to unpaid invoices.

Program NamePhone NumberDescription
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) - Birmingham205-502-2108LIHEAP helps families on limited budgets pay their heating and cooling bills, especially those who are under threat of disconnection. The program makes a one-time payment directly to the utility company for one season based on past energy usage.

Veteran's Services

Birmingham 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
Birmingham VA Medical Center205-933-8101The Birmingham VA Medical Center delivers around-the-clock primary and specialist health services designated for military veterans and their families, survivors and caregivers. Its experienced medical team covers a wide range of screening and treatment areas, including cardiology, oncology, neurology and mental health assistance. The center also provides hospice and palliative care and offers transportation to and from appointments as required. All VA-enrolled health care recipients are eligible to register for Birmingham VA Medical Center access.

Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Birmingham

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

Assisted Living Laws and Regulations in Alabama

Reviews of Communities Nearby

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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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